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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/6/2007 4:39:50 AM |
Regarding being re-born......I know I have been around before in past lives.....as I remember them clearly.....and, I know things I have not had training for in this life.
Ahh, but you are not an isolated individual, but a member of a much larger continuum. As a verifiable scientific fact, there are parts of your overall being that have been around before you, but do not require your unique individuality to have existed before to have existed before itself.
I'm not saying that you haven't been around before, 'cause I don't know, only that our ancestors had alternative ways that such experiences in the here and now can be explained.
I now that when my son was first born he was the spitting image of my maternal grandfather, and even had a tendancy to arc his eyebrow like grandfather. Many of us resemble our past relatives, and share certain character traits and even interests with them... sometimes even to so great an extent that some who new the ancestor in question might swear that the living counterpart was the old soul reborn.
It is undoubtedly based on such observations as these that our ancestors developed their ideas of the soul-complex and reincarnation. As their soul lore was so complex, and accounted for inherited memory and the like, it is not always clear what was meant when "reincarnation" was mentioned.
Cheers! | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/6/2007 5:35:32 AM | --Really, whose to say say if they are the same or not? Whether there are one or many? Attempting to answer such questions for all men seems pretensious and even sacriligeous, and has always caused more strife, division and confusion than it ever has brought anyone closer to God.--
I don't know if I agree with this or not. Its not a matter of criticism on my behalf but for me, people choose what is in harmony with them on the inner, and when that happens the path is open.
Take for instance the Book of Enoch which was left out of the bible by the Jewish people. The reason for it is that, in this book, it deals with a hierachy of Gods and Goddesses. Its left out of the bible because it does not deal with a singular God. (Explained to me by a Kabbalistic Rabbi) But when you read the commandment of "Honour Thy Father and Mother", to me does not represent the parents but the duality of spiritual experience, and the God/Goddess hierachy. In one of the letters I recieved from a Kabbala site, it mentioned how mankind use to worship Aliens. You could have knocked me over with a feather. But this gives credence to the ancient Sumers, which is to lengthy to get into here.
--Attempting to answer such questions for all men seems pretensious and even sacriligeous, and has always caused more strife, division and confusion than it ever has brought anyone closer to God--
I think the reason for this is that so many of us are so conditioned not to explore the possiblitiy of connections. The conditioning is a roadblock. What make this thread a pleasure to read is the idea of the spiritual quest we all are experiencing and the foundations of your particular beliefs. It is so insightful that not to compare and understand, we miss the true essence of each post. I think a strong element of open mindedness is in this thread.
As a Gnostic, the quest for me is to understand all spiritaul paths, I for the life of me do not know why, it just is. So JMARS I hope you understand that, your statement is so valid and because so many who do not Try to understand each other, creates the confusion. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/7/2007 6:26:37 PM | I am a mystic. I am a member of the Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis (a.k.a. Rosicrucians). I do now or have followed, believed in, and/or practiced many things, including astrology, reiki, Taoism, Zen Buddhism, my heart, and a bunch more, some of which I regret, others of which I am very proud of.
As far as Gnosticism, I have a little experience with it, and I find it a very beautiful mystic tradition. I am progressively turning back to a more Eastern feeling about the universe, but I always have my own take on the bigger picture, which I treasure like my soul and my ability to love.
I was raised Catholic, whose tenets are memorable, but not my style.
I attend Unitarian Universalist church now, and I especially enjoy it because I can work with the religious education group during services, meaning I get to have fun with the kids.
As much as is comfortable with you, the reader, you have my blessing and, if you wish, my camaraderial love.
If I sound like a pontificator, I can only say one thing: I sure hope not! ;P | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/12/2007 8:31:26 PM | Guess this thread puts us on the spot!
First of all, I consider my religion as Christian, sure though that some will try to point the error of my ways, lol.
Saved by grace, not by my good works, only by the sacrifice made at Calvarly by my Lord, Jesus of Nazereth.
I do believe in separaition of state and religion. I do believe that I have an obligation to protect my nehibours right to their beliefs, even if it is opposed to my own. While I am to turn the other cheek, when my own beliefs are attacked, or my self, I believe I have a responsibilty to protect the beliefs of others, regardless of what they are. (Even when those beliefs oppsose my own).
The trinity is important to me, I believe that Jesus was God, and sacrificed himself for me. Only started to believe this about 4 years ago, and it was praying to Jesus that I first felt his healing. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/12/2007 8:55:27 PM | I am a Libertine.
I believe that there is one God, and he is the embodiment of all truth and knowledge.
I believe that He set man upon the earth to study His ways, so they could become like Him.
I believe that he spoke his truth through Jesus Christ, and that no man has ever lived without telling a lie since Jesus died on the cross.
I believe that God will forgive such transgressions, and make us better people if we ask for that forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ, and forgive our neighbors as Jesus has asked us to do by the will of his Father.
I believe that no man has the right to speak in the name of God unless God writes the same words upon my heart; for I have prayed, and the same was related to me.
I believe in personal revelation.
I believe in the Liberty of men, regardless of whether they have the same beliefs as I. Your actions shall not affect me until you perform evil against my brethren.
I believe in swift and relevant justice for transgression against another human being, but not for transgression against a silly law that some incompetent nincompoop wrote. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/12/2007 11:36:18 PM | Every religion has an exoteric and an esoteric tradition and reality.
The heartbreaking problems, both globally and individually (everything starts with the individual), in much of the world stem from emphasizing the former while diminishing, even outright decrying, the latter.
The esoteric revelations of Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and other religions and spiritual traditions differ in presentation, tone, and emphasis, but they are the same in essence. I won't condescend to expatiate on them at any length. I'm sure many can (and perhaps will) bring out some of the more fascinating direct parallels in different religions, showing they're more alike than different.
The trouble has always been that people are led to believe, by those who are either themselves mistaken, or who have a vested interest (i.e. power, money, political protection) in maintaining the exoteric status quo or rebelling against it with a "new and improved" update. And -- here's the important part, the crucial distinction in all religious beliefs and lives -- what happens with these leaders and followers is that they set up a code of rules, beliefs, practises, rituals, habits, behaviours, (and eventual draconian laws, at its worst), because they are led to think this is the way to "heaven", (however that concept is defined), while not realizing that it's all backwards: a spiritual life, or realization, however deep it is, comes first, through grace, accident, effort, contemplation, organic change (including spontaneous mistakes, and all sorts of suffering and wrong orientation), and from this individual, non-guaranteed, completely personal realization, comes forth the natural behaviour and action. Anything else is putting the cart before the horse, living your life to a prescribed notion of borrowed divinity. I know the outraged or offended response to this: "I believed, and my life is better!" But it's not about progressive character development, though that usually occurs with spiritual realization of whatever depth. Any description I can give would be off the mark, so I'll leave out the highfalutin, flowery words. The best I can do is to say that everybody has that essence, everybody is already enlightened only we don't realize it yet (from Buddhism), and it's not even that unusual or spiritually arrogant or impossible to "prove" since most people have reportedly (through many studies of all faith-based people as well as agnostics and atheists) described a few, or many, experiences where the harmonization of every element in the here and now successfully fell into place. These are what are called "foreshadowings" of our real nature, which haven't been completely integrated within us yet.
I have a strong affinity for Advaita Vedanta, which originated as a small part of the massive and comprehensive ancient Vedic scriptures (that also incorporated philosophy, mathematics, medicine, the arts, astronomy, history, practical affairs and politics, and much else) and from which, eventually, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and the Mahayana Zen offshoots developed. Buddhism, like any religion that becomes encrusted and organized, became codified, watered down with exoteric and ritualistic practise and belief.
Advaita dispenses with all that. Belief means nothing. There is no crutch, nobody to tell us what to do or how to do it. Terrifying, what? Or perhaps liberating. I wouldn't know: I'm just as spiritually fukked-up as everybody else on this thread. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/14/2007 11:34:07 PM | I cannot say I follow any religion...I am on a spiritual journey and have been for years
Fundamentally here are my beliefs (at least for today...hehe):
We are all connected, to hurt one is to hurt us all, so I try hard to live my life loving and caring for all people.
We are all unique and have the absolute right to our beliefs, values and morals...it is not my place to convert anyone to anything. We all have the right to state our opinions.
We are all Gods, we create in our lives those things that we wish for....so we must be careful what we wish for because sooner or later....we get it.
Honesty with self is fundamental to happiness
Honesty with others is fundamental to their happiness
It feels better to give than to receive although never receiving doesn't feel very good
It is not my place to judge (that one is really hard to live up to)
If my heart and therefore my intentions are pure, my actions will do good
If my heart and therefore my intentions are not pure, my actions will cause harm
Those are so far the foundation of who I am, what I believe, how I try to live my life. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 1/16/2007 1:39:57 PM | I do not choose to use the word religion as I feel it pertains to something man made and I feel it divides people instead of bringing them together. It is like putting a mark on various groups of people that leads to expressions of disagreement and hatred through ignorance. We as believers in the same God must have peace with one another. I would rather use the word, "faith" in it's place.
In the Bible it is written that He will separate the sheep from the goats. I believe this a metaphor, the sheep on his right being those who believe in Him and are saved through that same faith, even if it is as small as a mustard seed. The goats on His left being those who do not believe and have no faith at all, those who will not allow the law of love and compassion to work in their hearts.
I am a believer in Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God and His Holy Spirit. I am his child by adoption through faith. It does not matter how one chooses to worship God as long as it is to His glory. It is written in the Bible, "For he that is not against us is on our part."
The fundamental tenets of my beliefs are wrapped up into one phase, "Love one another as I have loved you." To me, everything rests on that one point. He laid down His life that I might believe and be saved through His grace. That He gave so unselfishly despite suffering, torture, and ridicule that continues even unto this day and age. He knows our pain, our sadness, and yet He gives us joy that is unspeakable and the peace that passes understanding.
~Ssinjin~ | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/18/2007 10:38:21 PM | I am a Christian. I am a follower Jesus Christ.
I Believe the Bible to be given by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, infallible, and God's revealed word to man. (2 Timothy 3:16)
I Believe that Scripture teaches that there is only one true and living God who has chosen to reveal Himself as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10, 11; Matthew 28:19; Luke 3:22)
I Believe that man is a sinful being in need of redemption. (Genesis 1:26-31, 3:1-7; Psalm 51:5; Ecclesiastes 7:29; John 6:44; Romans 5:12-21; 1 Corinthians 2:14)
I Believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, that He is the Son of God and the son of man, that He came to save man from condemnation of sin by offering His blood as an atonement and making it available to all who exercise faith in Him. (Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:31, 35; John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
I Believe that for salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. (Luke 7:50, 24:47; Romans 10:13-15; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 2 Corinthians 2:15; Ephesians 2:8 & 9; 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 2:11, 3:5-7)
I Believe the Scriptures ascribe to the Holy Spirit the acts and attributes of an intelligent being, and that the works of God such as creation, inspiration, giving of life, and sanctification are also ascribed to the Holy Spirit. (Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4; Mark 3:29; John 16:8, 13; Acts 7:51, 10:19, 13:4, 16:6; 1 Corinthians 2:11, 6:11 & 12; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Peter 3:18; 2 Peter 1:21)
I Believe in the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a holy life. (Romans 8:5; Philippians 2:12 & 13; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 John 2:29)
I Believe that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is given to believers who ask for it. (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:4)
I Believe that all mankind is subject to the death of the body as a result of original sin. The soul and spirit do not die, but immediately after death enter into a conscious state of happiness or misery according to the character here possessed by rejection or acceptance of the Savior. (Ecclesiastes 12:7; Romans 5:12; Philippians 1:23)
I Believe in the bodily resurrection of both the saved and the lost; the saved to everlasting life and the lost without Christ to everlasting damnation. (Matthew 24:31-46; Acts 24:15; Revelation 22:11)
I Believe in the personal, imminent return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
I Believe the redemptive work of Christ on the Cross provides healing for the human body in answer to believing prayer. (Isaiah 53:4 & 5; James 5:14 & 15; 1 Peter 2:24)
I Believe in The Five Fold Ministry
Apostle - Prophet - PastoR - Evangelist - Teacher
Ephesians 4:11- "And He gave some, apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelist, and some pastors and teachers."
1. Does the ministry office of apostle still exist today?
2. If so, what is the ministry of the apostle?
3. What about prophets?
4. What is the difference between the gift of prophecy and the office of prophet?
5. What is the purpose of an evangelist?
6. What is the importance of the pastoral office?
7. What is a teacher from the scriptural point of view?
8. What is the difference between preaching and teaching?
Answering these questions and showing the reasons God provides these ministry offices to the Church will provide you with a deeper understanding of His Kingdom, His system of operating. I hope it demonstrates how much God desires to move powerfully in our midst.He truly has provided everything we need to live in victory and prosper in everything we do.
The Call to Ministry:
The first thing to consider on the subject of the fivefold ministry is that the office to which we are is called by God. Every person in this world has a purpose the Lord's plan. God set these offices in the Church and it is He who calls those who are to serve. There is not a man in this entire creation who is authorized to call anyone into one of these offices, when that happens, the result is almost always tragic. You do not enter into the five fold ministry just because you like the idea of it. You enter when God takes anoints you and places that call on your life. You =can pray for this and I have never heard where he does not answer the call, but the question is still... Are you chosen? If it happens, you'll know it.
How do I know if I have the call of God on my life?
You will have the conviction in your spirit and the inward witness in your heart. You will become equipped with supernatural power for that office or those offices. Equipped by God with special gifts needed to carry that office you will show forth God's power in a special way for ministry.
The Ministry of Apostle:
The Word of God says in I Corinthians chapter twelve that He gave to the Church the ministry gift of the apostle. Many in the church today believe that that ministry is no longer a part of the Church today. The questions I will answer in this message today are:
1. Does the ministry office of apostle still exist today?
2. What is an apostle?
3. What are the gifts for the apostle's ministry?
Does the ministry of apostle exist today? Yes. Big surprise, right? The ministry gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11 stand or fall together. If the ministry of the apostle has passed away, then the ministry of pastor and evangelist has passed away too. If there are still evangelists and pastors out there, then there are still apostles, as well as prophets and teachers. Nowhere in the Word does it give any evidence that any one ministry office would pass away. There were apostles in the New Testament, and there are apostles today.
What is the ministry of the apostle? The Greek word for apostle, "apostolos" literally means"sent one". So, an apostle is one who is sent by God to either a specific group of people or with a specific message. So what is the difference between an apostle and an evangelist? An evangelist's main gifting is to travel and lead the lost to the Lord through powerful preaching and miraculous manifestations of God's power. An apostle is sent to establish a particular group of people, or to establish the body of Christ in authority with a specific message.
The two areas of an apostle's ministry:
1. The signs of an apostle.
2. The Characteristics of an apostle.
The Signs of an Apostle:
II Corinthians 12:12 "Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds." The signs of an apostle are:
1. Signs and wonders.
2. Mighty deeds
The Characteristics of an apostle.
1. An apostle is first and foremost a preacher and/or teacher of the Word.
2. An apostle has a relationship with the Lord that is extraordinarily strong; a uniquely deep and personal encounter with Him.
3. An apostle's ministry encompasses all other ministry gifts, resulting in an ability to establish spiritual authority in the Church. The apostle's ministry has workings of all the other ministry gifts, including the office of prophet and pastor (apostles can stand in the office of pastor). The apostle has a special gift for building a church.
4. An apostle has outstanding abilities to provide spiritual leadership in the church.
5. An apostle is powerful in spiritual gifts. Since an apostle's ministry is so broad, the gifts that are strong in the other ministry gifts (Revelation gifts in a prophet, healing and miracles in an evangelist, etc.) are strong in the ministry of an apostle.
A final Word:The ministry of apostle is indeed alive and well in the Body of Christ today. It is important in the complete operation of the church.
If you are a preacher or are called to ministry, and you feel like this might be the ministry to which you are called, don't worry too much about it. Prepare yourself in the Word, be faithful in the preaching and teaching of the Word, and God will set you in His timing.
The Office of Prophet:
The ministry of the prophet is probably one of the most misunderstood and therefore misused of the ministry offices within the church. There is much press about those who call themselves prophets, giving long sweeping prophecies that turn out to be less than inspirational in origin. The result of these "prophecies" at times have been disastrous. The climate of the church today is growing more and more hostile toward the ministry of the prophet, leading many to question the validity of the office itself. That is a shame because the ministry office of prophet is such a needed and necessary blessing to the church.
Does the office of prophet still exist?
There are many who categorically deny the existence of this office. In fact, I recently read an article on the web from a religious group that stated quite vehemently that the office of prophet, as well as apostle, "passed away as soon as the canon was completed" and anyone who teaches that they still exist is producing heresy. There is no scriptural evidence whatsoever to substantiate their claim. Simply put, all the ministries God instituted in the New Testament are still vital today. God still calls prophets today. None of the five fold ministry gifts have passed away.
What constitutes the office of prophet?
1. On the subject of what the NT Greek says about the prophet, a Greek scholar commented : "He speaks from the impulse of a sudden inspiration, from the light of a sudden revelation at the moment. The idea of speaking from sudden revelation seems here to be fundamental, as relating to future events or to the mind of the Spirit in general."
2. A prophet is a preacher or teacher of the Word foremost. (a minister separated and called to full time ministry.)
3. A prophet's ministry runs strong in the revelation gifts (word of knowledge, word of wisdom, discerning of spirits) working in conjunction with the gift of prophecy.
{Note: Any spirit filled believer may prophecy, as well as operate in any of the revelation gifts. There is something about how these gifts combine and work in cooperation with one another regularly that is the distinguishing indication of the ministry of the prophet.}
The difference between the gift of prophecy and the office of prophet:
Paul tells us that all believers are to covet prophecy. Any Spirit filled Christian can move in the gift of prophecy. Paul also gives us the definition of this gift: speaking the words of God "for edification, exhortation, and comfort." All Spirit filled believers operation in those parameters can feel free to prophecy. This is not the same as operating as a prophet. Not all Spirit filled believers are prophets. First of all, a prophet is one called to full time preaching or teaching ministry. Second of all, as I stated before, it is the way that this gift of prophecy coordinates with the revelation gifts steadily within the ministry that sets the office of prophet apart. So all believers my prophecy, but all are not prophets. The distinctions of operations should be clear now.
Judging prophecies:
Paul gives us a caution in I Corinthians 14 regarding prophecy. He tells us to judge prophecy. As believers, we all have the presence of God's Spirit within us. That presence brings with it the counsel of the Spirit. With that counsel comes the ability to discern when a prophecy is right or not. Prophecies should always be in line with God's Word, they should never contradict.
How can a prophecy be wrong if it is God's revealed word? Because revelation word takes on the flavor of the vessel it comes through. Prophets are human and can at time fall into error. That is why prophecies must be judged. Also, an error we see today is people seeking guidance on personal issues from prophets. That is not to be done. A prophet may indeed have a word regarding your personal life, but if it does not confirm what the Spirit is already leading or speaking in your life, then file it away until you hear from the Lord on the matter, confirming it.
The Office of Pastor
Ephesians 4:11- ...And some, Pastors...
This is the only time the word "pastor" is used in the New Testament King James translation. This is unusual, since this is the most widely recognized office in Christian ministry today.
The Greek word translated "pastor" literally means "Shepherd". The pastor is the shepherd of a local congregation; an under shepherd of the Great Shepherd, Jesus Christ. The pastor is the "overseer" of the local church.
Unlike the evangelist, the office of pastor is more or less stationary. Some pastors serve in the same church for their entire ministry.
Both "overseer", and "Bishop" are translated from the same Greek word, "episkopos".In I Tim 3:1, The office of Bishop is mentioned. It refers to the office of pastor as it is the same Greek work for overseer used in other places of the NT.
A Pastor Characteristics
1. A pastor is primarily a teacher. In fact, some claim that the office of pastor and the office of teacher are actually the same. There are similarities, but also diversities between the two. Primarily, this difference is illustrated within the scope of a pastors burden of responsibility toward the local body. There are, however, anointed and strong preachers of the Word who stand as pastors.
2. The pastor is one of the most important offices. Without this vital ministry, all other offices are in vain. The pastor must be there to shepherd those who are won to the Lord. It is the most needed office.
3. The office of pastor is set and established by the Holy Spirit, and there are supernatural gifts that come into operation regularly within this office.
4. A pastor is a supernatural office, and a pastor must be able to operate in the spiritual realm. A pastor moves strongly in the gifts of a word of knowledge, a word of wisdom, and even tongues and interpretation. A pastor needs the supernatural equipment from the Holy Spirit in order to feed the congregation a fresh word every week. Also, the word of wisdom is important in counseling. A pastor must learn to counsel by the Spirit.
6. A pastor has a shepherd's heart. It is his most outstanding characteristic. It is a burden placed on the heart of a pastor to see his congregation grow in the Lord, and to protect them from harm. A pastor must be a warrior going to battle on behalf of his church.
7. An intense love for the people of God, coupled with an intense hatred for the enemy that attacks them, is the heart of a pastor.
The Evangelist:
Ephesians 4:11 "And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; AND SOME EVANGELISTS; and some, pastors and teachers..."
The word "Evangelist" occurs three times in the New Testament:
1. Ephesians 4:11- Listed as a ministry office.
2. Acts 21:8- Phillip is called an evangelist here.
3. II Timothy 4:5- Paul tells Timothy to "do the work of an evangelist".
The word "evangelist" literally means "one who brings the evangel (good news)". An evangelist brings a message of redemption and salvation.
Phillip is our New Testament example of an evangelist. He simply preached Christ everywhere he went.
Characteristics of an Evangelist
Most notably, an evangelist preaches the salvation of Christ no matter where they begin.That is the message. The supernatural gifts of miracles and healing operate regularly within the ministry of an evangelist. Healing and miracles were a major part of the work of Christ. Christ cannot be preached fully without miracles and healing. An evangelist must be a preacher of the Word. An evangelist is a preacher more than anything else. Sinners must be moved to salvation by strong and uncompromising preaching of the Word of God.
An evangelist depends on the other ministry gifts. Once an evangelist leads sinners to the Lord, who will establish them? Who will shepherd them and teach them? An evangelist needs the apostle, prophet, pastor and teacher to take over once his mission is accomplished.
An evangelist's ministry is a traveling ministry by nature. He travels about seeking the lost to bring them to the Lord.
Teachers
A teacher has an important place in the church today. The questions I will answer are:
What is the difference between teaching and the office of teacher?
What is the difference between teaching and preaching?
What are the similarities of the offices of pastor and teacher?
What is the difference between teaching and the office of teacher?
Teaching is a gift and a teacher is an office. There are those in other 5-fold offices as well as helps ministry that are anointed to teach, yet they do not stand in the ministry office of teacher. The office of teacher is applied to one who is separated and called to full time ministry. This ministry may be stationary (such as pastoral) or traveling ministry. But one thing is constant. This office carries with it the distinct anointing to take the mysteries of God's Word and make it clear to the understanding of those who hear.
A common response to the ministry of a teacher would be, "Ah, now I get it!" A teacher makes the prospect of living a powerful, authoritative life within reach through the expounding of God's Word; taking the unfathomable truths of God and making them reasonable. A good example of this teaching anointing is evident within the Word of Faith Movement.
What is the difference between teaching and preaching?
Preaching is proclamation, a message which is anointed to inspire and motivate the hearers. It is a message of proclamation that is intended to stir the people up and drive them into the supernatural purpose of God. Teaching is an anointing to expound the truth of God. It is an importation of divine truth. It is a deposit into the spirit of the hearers. Teaching is as anointed, as it is important, as preaching in the church. It is a divine gift from God.It is important to know that this type of teaching really has nothing to do with natural knowledge nor does it come from a natural ability to teach. Many think of teaching as dry and boring. But if it is an anointed teaching gift from God, it will not be boring. It will be divine impartation of living water. It will bless and bring increase.
What are the similarities and differences between a pastor and a teacher?
The offices of pastor and teacher are quite similar. A pastor will be required to be a teacher to his flock much of the time. Many times a teacher who has a stationary ministry will stand in a pastoral position.
The main distinction between the office of pastor and the office of teacher is that a pastor has a shepherd's heart for his local church. A strong love and compassion for his flock as well as a marked hatred for the devil who attacks the church is a characteristic of a pastor. A teacher has a desire to see people live up to their potential in Christ. A teacher's perspective is different from a pastor. Keep in mind, however, that one can occupy more than one ministry office.
The main characteristic of a teacher is that revelation marks his/her ministry. A teacher should be ready to receive fresh truth from God's Word.
Noted Cautions:
1. Be teachable yourself
2. Keep a humble spirit
3. Keep an open mind
4. Don't be a know it all
Many see the teacher as an inferior calling. After looking at it from the Word, we can clearly see that it is just as vitally important as any other ministry office.
Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. (Ps. 110:4). In this Psalm, King David prophecies that his Lord will change the Aaronic priesthood to the Melchizedek priesthood. So we now know why Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, for he was made like unto the Son of God. (Heb. 7:3b). The lesser was blessed of the greater and the symbol of the bread and the wine also are a type of the Lord’s table, which Jesus introduced the night he was betrayed. Melchizedek introduced this blessing to Abraham the father of our faith and we are his seed.
1Cor. 10:16, The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? So we see this priesthood was before the law was given to Moses. We know that to be a priest you must be from the tribe of Levi. To be a King you must be from the kingdom of Judah. However in Gen. 14:18, Melchizedek was both a priest and a king. And Jesus is King and Priest after the same order. Hallelujah! That’s why the rules have changed.
Heb 7:18,19, For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh to God.
Heb. 6:16-20, For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife, wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil: Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. The two immutable things are no less the Father and the Son:
Psalms. 2:7, the Father declares, “Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee”. And in Psalms. 89:26, Jesus cries, “Thou are my Father, my God, and the rock of my salvation.” And finally, Zech. 6:12,13, And speak unto him saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of Hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is the BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord: Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.
Now Joshua is a Hebrew name for Jesus, and here in this prophecy is clearly the foretelling of the priesthood of Melchisedec that Jesus would receive for ever. And it closes with the counsel of peace upon them both, meaning the Father and the Son.
This has been the intent and purpose of God from the beginning, that man would have dominion of his creation and everything in it and he would make sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto him.
In Genesis 1:28, God gave Adam and Eve complete dominion over everything above, in and under the earth.
In Exodus 19:6, God told Israel that they would be a special people unto him, a kingdom of priests and an holy nation.
And also, 1 Peter 2:5,9, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
And finally in Rom. 12:1,2, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Now, let us see that the Lord Jesus Christ has completed this purpose of God the Father, in Revelation 1:5,6, And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Revelation 5:9,10, And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Revelation 20:6, Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. Are you convinced? Jesus has made us kings and priests unto God and his Father. Amen. Let us now pursue this appointment a little bit further.
If we are to walk as he walked, and follow in his steps, we must be after the order of Melchisedec, as he is. For we know that when we see him we will be just like him, for we shall see him as he is. Now I suspect that righteousness and peace is the key to understanding this priesthood in our own lives. The Lord has made provision through his priesthood that we can reign in righteousness and peace in this life as he did when he was in the world. He has triumphed over the enemy and we no longer have to come under the power of evil in our lives. We now yield our bodies as instruments of righteousness unto God, for we are dead and thus freed from sin.
(Rom. 6:6,7), We are crucified with him and the body of sin is destroyed. It is no longer I that liveth but Christ that liveth in me. However we must make our sacrifices as a priest, if we are to reign as kings. We are free will offerings unto God, making spiritual sacrifices holy, and acceptable unto God. In the book of Revelation the scripture reveals our prayers go up to the throne of grace as incense and a sweet savour unto God, so our offerings come in the form of praying. We have 7 forms of prayer that you will recognize and you are probably already doing most of them.
1. Praise.
2. Worship.
3. Petition.
4. Supplication.
5. Thanksgiving.
6. Intercession.
7. Warfare; Commands.
If we are praying we are reigning, for with much prayer, we have much power. If we are not praying we are not reigning because no prayer means no power.
The next question is “Do we know how to pray?” I must be honest with you and say, I do not in every circumstance, but the Lord is revealing new and exciting ways of praying according to his will, purpose and word. We have always known that in most situations we do not know how to pray as we ought. However, what gift did the Lord give us to pray according to his will? Yes, our prayer language. We must always pray with all prayer and supplication in the Holy Ghost. For we know that if we ask anything according to his will, we know that he hears and grants the petition of our prayers. (1John 5:14,15).
We can be righteousness inspectors in our neighborhoods, workplaces, churches and families and pray out all unrighteousness and peace disturbing incidents in our area of habitation. Because we are kings and priests unto God and his Father, to the glory of him, Amen.
In closing this chapter in 2 Cor. 5:18-21; And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation: To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. We are ambassadors and an ambassador is the resident representative of his own sovereignty or government, or a diplomatic agent of the highest rank. Never would a country go to war with another country as long as their ambassador was still there. That is comforting isn’t it? We are ambassadors for King Jesus our faithful High Priest who liveth forever to make intercession for us and we make intercession for the problems in the area where we live, in righteousness and peace, by making sacrifices through prayer that are acceptable unto him. We no longer pray our desires but his into every situation and as a result we are praying God’s will into the earth, as it is in heaven, In Jesus’ Name.
1 John 4:17, Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
Psalm 110:4, The Lord has sworn, and will not repent, thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.
Psalm 2:7, I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
As Jesus is, so are we in this world and He is a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. I believe that we are to be after the same order. Why? Because as He is so are we in this world. Kings and Priests unto God and His Father. Finally, just as Melchizedek was made like unto the Son of God. Now we are the sons of God, being made like unto the Son of God. Begotten of God the Father, just like Jesus.
Multitudes are in the valley of decision. As they tether this way and that trying to make a decision with carnal minds, giving no mind to Me. They will their own wills which has enormous consequences. The world has much influence. They wish to be comfortable. Their feelings are uppermost. Control yourselves, My children, by My ways. Follow Me, by My Spirit. Seek Me that you do not lose your path that I have set before you. The enemy’s ways are clever. Your minds can be wrapped with ungodly desires and directions unawares. As technology increases so does the wiles of the devil. My ways are foreign and distasteful. Stay close to Me, tighten your armor, hold tight to My lifeline, I AM WITH YOU.
My children. Are you excited? Are you preparing? Are your wedding garments cleaned and pressed, without wrinkles? Is your house clean and tidy, the corners and dark places swept? Are the cobwebs removed from within and without? Is the pathway clean and made ready? Do you approach each new day in anticipation of My soon coming? Is your mind stayed on Me as Mine is on you? Do you tell everyone you know that they too, must prepare and ready themselves? Your houses should be shiny, polished and waiting with anticipation. Remove every dirty speck that might infiltrate your house. The invitations are ready, is excitement in your heart? I AM COMING SOON.
My faithful ones, be not saddened of the worldly ones, your beloved ones. Have I not given you My promises? Their hearts are being stirred by My Spirit. They watch, they listen, they will be open to the Gospel. I have not forgotten them. The world is confusing to those who don’t know Me. Evil is rampant, good is suppressed, people are without understanding. My word is true, stand on My principles, look to My direction, learn of Me. Even if you stumble, I will be there. You will not lose your way,
Before I Pray I Ask Myself...
1. What is it God really wants from me?
2. Am I doing my part?
3. What is our relationship now?
And I remember, Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
I Believe Jesus Is Lord
David | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/20/2007 4:54:11 PM | I'm curious as to why this thread isn't more actively participated in. Surely, a non-hostile environment to merely state one's views would be a welcome change of pace, yes?
Trippy,
Absolutely, I fully concur and agree. These beliefs systems are very interesting as well.
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/20/2007 9:53:49 PM | I guess I better weigh in too!
I am a Baha'i, which means that I recognize Baha'u'llah as the Manifestation of God for our time.
*Core Beliefs*
The principle of the oneness of mankind is the pivot around which all the teachings of Baha'u'llah revolve.
Baha'u'llah taught that humanity, after a long and turbulent adolescence, is at last reaching a stage of maturity in which unity in a global and just society finally can be established.
To this end, the Baha'i Faith prescribes laws of personal morality and behavior, as well as social laws and principles, to establish the oneness of humanity.
Baha'is believe:
* the purpose of life is to know and worship God, to acquire virtues, to promote the oneness of mankind and to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization
* all humanity was created by one God and is part of one human race
* work performed in the spirit of service is a form of worship
* the soul, created at the moment of conception, is destined by God to reach the afterlife, where it will continue to progress until it attains the presence of God
Baha'is practice:
* daily prayer and communion with God
* high moral principles, including trustworthiness, chastity and honesty
* independent investigation of truth
* a life dedicated to the service of humanity
* fellowship with the followers of all religions
* avoidance of excessive materialism, partisan politics, backbiting, alcohol, drugs and gambling
Social principles include:
* equality of women and men
* the harmony of science and religion as two complementary systems of knowledge that must work together to advance the well being and progress of humanity
* the elimination of prejudice
* the establishment of a world commonwealth of nations
* recognition of the common origin and fundamental unity of purpose of all religions
* spiritual solutions to economic problems and the removal of economic barriers and restrictions
* the abolition of extremes of poverty and wealth
* the adoption of a world auxiliary language, a world script, and a uniform and universal system of currency and weights and measures
*Baha'u'llah*
Baha’u’llah announced in 1863 that He is God's Messenger for this age. His teachings and sacred writings are the basis of the Baha'i Faith.
Baha'u'llah claimed that His Divine Mission is to bring about the spiritual rebirth and the unity of mankind. He promised that this would lead to the establishment of permanent world peace and to the Kingdom of God on Earth. Baha'u'llah has attracted millions of adherents from every part of the globe; He has provided laws and teachings on how to realize His vision; and His followers are laboring everywhere to bring it about.
Baha'u'llah proclaimed that God, our loving Creator, sends Divine Messengers, known as Manifestations of God, with teachings that enable humanity to know and to worship God. These great Manifestations, which have appeared throughout history at intervals of about 500 to 1,000 years, bring human civilization to ever higher levels of spiritual and material advancement. Baha'u'llah is the latest in this long line of Divine Messengers, which has included Abraham, Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, Krishna, Buddha, Zoroaster and the Bab.
Baha'u'llah was born in 1817 to a prominent family in Persia, where His father was a minister in the court of the Shah. His given name was Mirza Husayn Ali, but He identified Himself as Baha'u'llah, a title that means “Glory of God.” Turning His back on the position at court which these advantages offered Him, Baha'u'llah became known for His generosity, kindliness and concern for the poor, which made Him deeply loved among his countrymen.
This privileged position did not last. In 1844, when Baha'u'llah was still in his twenties, a young merchant from the city of Shiraz, known to history as the Bab, announced that He was the Herald of a Messenger from God, much greater than Himself, who was destined to establish the universal peace foretold in all the world's sacred scriptures. Baha'u'llah announced His support for the Bab and was engulfed in a wave of persecution unleashed upon the Bab and His followers by Persia's government and clergy. After the Bab was executed in 1850, Baha'u'llah was stripped of all His worldly endowments and subjected to imprisonment, torture and a series of banishments. The first was to Baghdad where, in 1863, He announced himself as the One promised by the Bab. From Baghdad, Baha'u'llah was exiled to Constantinople, to Adrianople, and finally to the prison-city of Akka, in the Holy Land, where He arrived as a prisoner in 1868.
From Adrianople and later from Akka, Baha'u'llah addressed a series of letters to the rulers of His day that are among the most remarkable documents in religious history. They proclaimed the coming unification of humanity and the emergence of a world civilization. Baha'u'llah called on the kings, emperors and presidents of the nineteenth century to reconcile their differences, curtail their armaments, and devote their energies to the establishment of universal peace.
In 1892, Baha'u'llah passed away at Bahji, just north of Akka, and is buried there. His teachings had already begun to spread beyond the confines of the Middle East, and His Shrine is today the focal point of the world community which these teachings have brought into being.
*How Baha'is spread their Faith*
Although the Baha'i Faith forbids aggressive proselytizing -- including any form of psychological pressure or material inducements to effect conversion -- efforts to share the faith with the general public and attract receptive populations have been a focus of Baha'i activity from the faith's inception. Baha'is believe that Baha'u'llah's message offers specific and important answers to the diverse and grave problems facing humanity. Accordingly, Baha'is are eager to share this message with those who express interest.
Baha'is believe each person has the responsibility of investigating truth for himself or herself. Baha'is can best contribute to the process by making information available and providing opportunities for interested individuals to explore Baha'u'llah's message. Baha'i classes for children, which are open to those who aren't Baha'is, focus on moral development as expressed in the Baha'i teachings of the oneness of humankind and the unity of the world's religions. Devotional meetings aim to provide participants, whatever their religious backgrounds, with the opportunity to discover their inner nature and begin practicing the spiritual virtues latent in the human soul. Study circles, as the term implies, are small gatherings devoted to the exploration of Baha'u'llah's writings. Baha'is also host "firesides" -- informal gatherings in their homes, where short talks and discussions about the faith are shared in a warm and hospitable atmosphere.
Baha'is also endeavor to spread their faith by "pioneering" -- moving to areas where there are few Baha'is. This differs sharply from traditional missionary work, because those undertaking it are expected to pursue their own careers, be self-supporting and integrate themselves into their adopted communities.
All these activities reflect the Baha'i view that the traditional division between "believers" and "unbelievers" is a misunderstanding of the Divine purpose and an impediment to human progress. Whether a spiritual seeker is led to become a Baha'i is a matter of individual conscience and a decision to be respected by others. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/20/2007 10:30:30 PM | I can most relate to Zen Buddhism... I believe the 4 noble truths proposed by the Siddhartha Gautama Buddha:
1. All is suffering.
2. Cause of suffering is attachment to external "things"
3. There is a way to the cessation of suffering.
4. Awakening from the illusion of separation of all "things"
Those are the basics, but in the Awakening are varied paths many Buddhists disagree on, but the Dalai Lama says they all work... We don't search because we wish to be enlightened, we are enlightened because we wish to search...
A month and a bit ago, I had samonella poisoning and I never went to the doctor... I should have I guess, or at least my roommate was pleading with me to... She said I was olive green... I was puking for 34 hours pretty much on the hour, but it got a bit better day by day, so I just let it go... Problem was I couldn't eat or sleep for more than an hour at a time for 5 days... After it passed, I filled my belly and slept for 6 hours straight and felt awsome... When I woke up I kinda started hallucinating and had a notion of something like me but more than me was talking to me like it was self aware for the first time... I posted something on another thread while I was in that state(It WAS odd...) and tho I made an adjustment or 2, I guess it defines what I believe about it all...
Of course I would never presume to know this stuff, but this is how my moral code works... At least for now... I call it Infinity's Law.
**Sameness and difference must be observed in all things absolutely from a perspective neither subjective or objective. In other words, you have to feel it.**
There must be something everything has in common. (uniqueness or change)
There can not be two things exactly alike. (snowflakes, sand grains, universes)
One must be able to accomplish all.
All must accommodate the one.
Every(one)thing eventually must become the one. (sum of all things)
Every(one)thing eventually must become nothing. (no thing)
No thing can dictate to the one or the all.
No thing can be better than anything else.
When one thing is added, everything must change.
As soon as there is change, there must be difference.
No thing may stay the same forever.
For all to be enlightened, one must stay in the dark.
For one to be enlightened, all must have been in the dark.
There is always and will never be all paradoxes. (Everything is no-thing)
Paradox is the realization of absolute confusion or change of set patterns. (One is truly the loneliest number)
When confusion(chaos) is added, everything changes. (moves, grows, ect…)
A new cycle continues for the new change as all accommodate the one and one accomplishes all.
The many universes equals one multiverse. Conservational laws are saved in a multiverse and do not apply to universes one by one.
Multi multiverses are covered by the paradox.
Space + Time = Energy (the potential for energy being the constant)
“Have fun and don’t hurt anyone, but let no one hurt you.”
This is just my take on "everything"... By no means would I call it truth. | |
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Ender
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Joined: 2/1/2004
Msg: 94 | |
| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/21/2007 11:01:15 AM | I beleive the mind of whatever higher power is out there is absolutely impossible to understand.
I beleive that its the absolute peak of human arrogance to even assume that you have an idea of what the "master plan" is.
I beleive in the right of the individual to find their place in the world without having the viewpoints of others crammed down their throats.
I beleive that organization of any type stifles spiritual growth on an individual level. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/25/2007 2:31:08 AM | I’ve posted before on another thread to the effect that, as I understand it, religion tends to be a response to the cognitive-spiritual uncertainty inherent in mankind's relation to the world and our place therein. I’ll give you mine.
In analysing “religion”, I’ve found that all religions seem to contain answers to problems we find concerning these aspects of reality and our interactions therewith:
Metaphysics, or the “Nature of Reality”
Morality, and the Virtues and Tenets that derive from it
Mythology, for the symbolic understanding of history and culture and their origins
Mysticism, the system by which revelatory knowledge is sought, and spiritual insights and influence can be brought to bear
The “faith” of Feral is individual, possibly unique, although I wouldn’t presume to be original. I accept the Pagan label, for the most part, as it comes closer to defining my beliefs than anything else. I’ll give an overview, but my “religion” is technically evolutionary. It changes with everything I learn, and I learn with everything I see, read, hear, etc. So, I’ll try to give something, but I’ll advise folks not to hold me to it. 
Metaphysically, my conception of the nature of reality dispenses with hierarchical “levels”. I believe in the Divine, and in it’s immanence, the interconnectedness of all that is through all that is. For this reason, I believe in a spiritual “aspect” to everyone and everything, as well as distinct qualities that define spirits (or concepts) themselves. Effectively, this means that individual “objects” or people don’t merely partake of divinity, but are infused with it; we are not “children” of “God”, we are (in a sense) “God”.
Also, I reject the concept of divinity as “perfect”. I reject perfection as a possibility, but accept it as a necessarily unattainable ideal toward which to strive. Rather, I focus on the concept of “completeness”. All things, taken together, are complete. And, all things, within themselves, can become complete. Thus, is the Divine the ultimate in completeness.
My model for representing and categorizing my beliefs is elemental. The “states” of matter reflect the “aspects” of existence.
-Earth corresponds to the physical, the “Mask”: the body, matter, dimensions, and distances.
-Air corresponds to the mental, the “Genius”: the mind, reason, concepts, etc.
-Fire corresponds to the spiritual, the “Beast”: the emotions, impulses, intuition, and instincts.
-Water corresponds to the soul, the “Dance”: actions, relations, time, and causality itself.
I’ll use these to interpret my beliefs. Hopefully it helps, eh?
The nature of the soul is manifold. It’s the personality, perceptions of others (i.e. impressions we’ve made on them), and our “place” or “niche” in the world. Thus, I believe it has many aspects: the image, the reflection, the shadow, the effect (whether of actions taken, or of our very existence), the memories and opinions others hold of us, and many more. Hope I’m getting this across, but I can illustrate, if necessary.
If that’s the soul, what happens when we die, eh? We “continue” in a sense, our soul proving “immortal” in the sense that everything that follows is touched by it. The world continues its Dance, but it’s altered by the steps of ours. As to the other aspects of an individual, they follow the same progression. The body breaks down, but its components continue in what comes after. Likewise, the spirit and mind.
Morality is both complex and simple, paradoxically, but I’ll try to explain. My conception of morality corresponds best to the “Categorical Imperative”, but only as it applies in the individual sense. “There are no absolutes, including this one”, yes? It is my belief that all creatures act morally when they act in tune with their aspects. In this way, they “glorify” the gods, by being what they are. There are “good” and “evil”, though, and these proceed from the foundational aspect (in my opinion) of mortal existence: Hunger, or “Need”. The “moral” dichotomy derives from this and can be expressed as Desire/Avoidance, or Love/Fear. It is my belief that all human motivation derives from these. The virtues and associated tenets thus arrived at, for myself (and, consequently, in relation to myself), are extensive, but I won’t try to be exhaustive:
-Strength. “While we can lean on one another, ultimately everyone must stand or fall, according to his own merit.” Kind of the feed or teach thing, like the fish analogy mentioned earlier. I help a sibling to be strong, because, in the end, I cannot be strong for them.
-Justice. Not so much “eye for an eye”, this. More like recompensing that which is given. I do believe one can “pay forward”, though. “Refuse not that which is offered, and deny not that requested.” Generosity and sharing get covered by this one, as well.
-Temperance. “All things in moderation, including moderation.” One must keep oneself healthy (strength), but there is a time to cut loose, too.
-Love. Arguably the most important, or at least one of the most fundamental moral laws, is that of love. Jesus said it best: “Love thy neighbour as thyself.”
-Honour. Including honesty, dignity, and respect, this is also a lofty ideal for me. “Recognise in others dignity, until they also give you cause for respect.” And: “Never tell a lie, when the truth will do more damage.”
By this point, I’m sure it seems I’ve merely outlined a “philosophy of life” more than a “faith”, but the bases for my arrival at the conclusions I have are necessarily faith-based. What, though, characterizes my belief system as a “religious” one, right? Arguably, I’m certain, there’s plenty there to count, but I’ll drag the gods into it, as well. How are there “gods”, when I’ve said that all things are “God”, one might ask?
In answer, I give the necessity of mythology and mysticism. Mythology, to me, describes the symbolic stories that we allow ourselves as shorthand for how we perceive the world to be. It helps us “answer” the big “questions”. Where does it all come from? What is its ultimate purpose? Etc. Mythology also provides the symbolism necessary in my system of the Craft (call it spell-craft, magic, Majick, whatever), and relating to the gods on that score makes strength that much more effective as power (won’t go into the distinction and metaphysics of that, though). Therein lies the mysticism, the attempt to understand the mysteries of existence and relate to reality directly.
None of the established mythologies quite fit my conception of reality, my understanding of the progression of the universe, or the “places” of myself and others within it. So, I created my own. Derivative of Wicca and Western Paganism, the foundations recognize the gender dichotomy we as sexual beings impose on our understandings of the world. They also partially mimic the lunar/solar/seasonal aspects ascribed to Western Pagan deities, with one major difference. I recognise the three aspects of the Goddess/God: the Maiden/Youth, Mother/Father, and Crone/Lord (or Wizard, Patriarch, Ancient, Sage, whatever). However, I see also the dark of the moon, the eclipse of the sun which is midnight, the depth of Winter, and I recognize a further aspect to divinity: the Hag/Liche. That which is beyond the door of Death, outside the view of the waking eye, and unknowable to the living.
The Hag, Black Mother, that which is “beyond and within the mystery” which we can only glimpse, is the source of all, and its eventual destination. The Star King is her consort and the father of all that is. I won’t go in-depth, but their children created further offspring, eventually culminating in Red Mother and the Thorn King giving life to all mortal beings, ourselves included. It occurs to me that some might find this progression to hint at a hierarchical view, but I don’t see it that way.
In my view, the mythology gives me a foundation for understanding the world, and the mysticism bound up with it, provides means to address it.
Hope this counts as edifying. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/25/2007 5:15:46 AM |
-Earth corresponds to the physical, the “Mask”: the body, matter, dimensions, and distances.
-Air corresponds to the mental, the “Genius”: the mind, reason, concepts, etc.
-Fire corresponds to the spiritual, the “Beast”: the emotions, impulses, intuition, and instincts.
-Water corresponds to the soul, the “Dance”: actions, relations, time, and causality itself.
That was beautiful, Feral. Thanks for sharing. ^_^ | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/28/2007 11:08:17 PM | Greetings all!
I am a Maronite Christian, we are an ethnic branch of the catholic church but we still retain independance of our church while being loyal to Rome. Some of our traditions is speaking the lang of Christ, Preists in Lebanon where the faith is most common are allow the marry and we also have a culture and history that makes our faith pretty much differnt, because not only do we belive in God, we are a nation within a nation almost when one considers our history and culture.
Right now I am not attending a church because I am sick with most of the churches I have been too. There was a Maronite church there but it had closed down 2 years ago. So I read the bible and pray and keep a realtionship with God and that I think is most important because the Bible tells you how to improve and live a life the way christ. | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 5/29/2007 12:27:55 AM | I am my own personal Jesus.
Therefore, if everything has to be comparmentalized, described, detailed, explained, defined, cross referenced, italicized, spell checked and have a label slapped on it I am
Part Christian, part buddhist, part secular humanist, and part Objectivist.
I never have even when it was forced down my throat, believed in any religion nor will I ever, that subjigates their "faithful" based on if they have XX or XY as their human denotion.
I believe that true Christianity was hijacked, polluted and poisoned and that now, only a very small minority actually practice the teachings and many of the true teachings were hidden and/or destroyed.
The bible cannot be taken at face value and it literally takes years of careful interpretation to get what little truth is left in there into a useful form for use in daily life.
I will basically pull at, tug, tear, and rip through all of the B.S. to get at the truth.
I now what works for me and what doesn't and God had this great sense of humor, I mean after all she did invent the platypus to show even she liked a good joke. She decided that she would give me a high enough intellect to question everything but not so high that I would become arrogant in my ways and not learn to appreciate the pain and suffering it takes to get at the real truth.
There are no saints...only sinners to a lesser degree. Even Ghandi sinned but left us with great examples of how to live...in life I tend to try and follow his 7 deadly social sins (keeping them...not breaking them... )
1] politics without principle
2] wealth without work
3] commerce without morality
4] pleasure without conscience
5] education without character
6] science without humanity
7] worship without sacrifice
For like it was said in the movie...."I am a Muslim, and a Hindu and a Christian, and a Buddhist, and a Jew...and so are all of you...now go home...and for God's sake...stop fighting".
The reason sin is sin is not that it is inherently evil, its sin because it causes us to be distanced from God. Evil is something in the human heart.
For could it be? For I could be the Kwitsach haderach...then again...so could all of you...
Most major religions, and all Judeo Christian Muslim religions prey on us with fear...fear well...
I will not fear
Fear is the mindkiller,
Fear is the little death
That brings total Oblivion
I will permit my fear to pass
Over me and through me
And where it has gone
I will turn the inner eye
Nothing will be there
Only I will remain.
Cheers! | |
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 7/1/2007 8:34:22 PM |
OP asked , "What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
I consider myself a fundamental Christian based on the following definition:
The original formulation of American fundamentalist beliefs can be traced to the Niagara Bible Conference (1878–1897) and, in 1910, to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church which distilled these into what became known as the "five fundamentals":
* Inerrancy of the Scriptures
* The virgin birth and the deity of Jesus
* The doctrine of substitutionary atonement through God's grace and human faith
* The bodily resurrection of Jesus
* The authenticity of Christ's miracles (or, alternatively, his premillennial second coming).
KJV of Bible says ; Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name ( JESUS ) under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Fundamentalist Christianity, or Christian fundamentalism, is a movement that arose mainly within British and American Protestantism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by conservative evangelical Christians, who, in a reaction to modernism, actively affirmed a "fundamental" set of Christian beliefs: the inerrancy of the Bible, Sola Scriptura, the virgin birth of Christ, the doctrine of substitutionary atonement, the bodily resurrection of Jesus, and the imminent return of Jesus Christ.
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| What Religion Are You And What Are The Fundamental Tenets Of Your Beliefs?
Posted: 7/5/2007 3:03:29 PM | If I had to be categorized into an organized religion it would be some type of pagan religion or some New Age ideal. However i'm just spiritual I believe in a higher power which I classify as (Energy) nothing more really.
I'm not one to be a religious sheeple personally. | |
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