Reading Your Bible Through in a Year - continued for those who want to stay 'on topic' :)
This is a continuation of the topic Reading Your Bible Through in a Year - continued.
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1fuzzi
I'm continuing this thread in a third topic, for those who want to talk about their Bible reading and don't want to have to wade through debate and contention.
Please feel free to go back to the second "Reading Your Bible Through in a Year" thread if your aim is to debate the veracity of God's word, or harangue people who believe that way. There are other places to debate, like Pro and Con.
Thank you for your courtesy to keep this 3rd topic ON topic.
And if anyone does have a sincere question, "I'm your huckleberry". I don't claim to know all about God's word, nor am I a scholar, but I am a student who only wants to understand God and His word, the Bible, more than I currently do. I will be more than glad to discuss what I believe to anyone who wants to know, but am not interested in debate. There's enough debate on the internet to fill the universe!
I hope we can enjoy discussing our Bible reading together. :)
Please feel free to go back to the second "Reading Your Bible Through in a Year" thread if your aim is to debate the veracity of God's word, or harangue people who believe that way. There are other places to debate, like Pro and Con.
Thank you for your courtesy to keep this 3rd topic ON topic.
And if anyone does have a sincere question, "I'm your huckleberry". I don't claim to know all about God's word, nor am I a scholar, but I am a student who only wants to understand God and His word, the Bible, more than I currently do. I will be more than glad to discuss what I believe to anyone who wants to know, but am not interested in debate. There's enough debate on the internet to fill the universe!
I hope we can enjoy discussing our Bible reading together. :)
2fuzzi
From the other thread:
Last night our pastor preached from Isaiah 6, and made some excellent points that I had not considered before:
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts." Isaiah 6:5
Isaiah recognized God for what He was, and suddenly realized how sinful he (Isaiah) was, living among people who were also sinful.
"Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged." Isaiah 6:6-7
Once he realized how he was sinful, and repented in the presence of the LORD, his sin was taken away and purged.
"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me." Isaiah 6:8
Once Isaiah repented and was forgiven, and his sins were removed, he understood what God wanted of him, and was willing to serve the LORD by telling others about Him.
"And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.
Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.
Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate," Isaiah 6:9-11
God told Isaiah to tell the people how they were rejecting God, and how, because they refused to hear God's words, that the option of being healed was being removed.
And Isaiah was told to keep telling the people about God's message until no more people were left.
Last night our pastor preached from Isaiah 6, and made some excellent points that I had not considered before:
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts." Isaiah 6:5
Isaiah recognized God for what He was, and suddenly realized how sinful he (Isaiah) was, living among people who were also sinful.
"Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged." Isaiah 6:6-7
Once he realized how he was sinful, and repented in the presence of the LORD, his sin was taken away and purged.
"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me." Isaiah 6:8
Once Isaiah repented and was forgiven, and his sins were removed, he understood what God wanted of him, and was willing to serve the LORD by telling others about Him.
"And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.
Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.
Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate," Isaiah 6:9-11
God told Isaiah to tell the people how they were rejecting God, and how, because they refused to hear God's words, that the option of being healed was being removed.
And Isaiah was told to keep telling the people about God's message until no more people were left.
4lawecon
~1
In other words, only those who agree with your narrow doctrinal position need post here. No post that cannot be "Amen!"ed by jnt is acceptable.
Never have got down that notion of a "public forum," have you?
In other words, only those who agree with your narrow doctrinal position need post here. No post that cannot be "Amen!"ed by jnt is acceptable.
Never have got down that notion of a "public forum," have you?
5fuzzi
(4) lawecon, you are on 'block', and I tell you this because I am not going to respond to your posts in the future.
In the past you have responded to me and others in what I consider to be a rude and inconsiderate way, and it appears you do not care if people politely ask you to not participate in a thread based upon your past behavior.
Peace.
In the past you have responded to me and others in what I consider to be a rude and inconsiderate way, and it appears you do not care if people politely ask you to not participate in a thread based upon your past behavior.
Peace.
6fuzzi
You are welcome, thomas, glad to have you.
I'm in 2 Chronicles right now, close to the end, and will post some of my thoughts later. I'm proctoring an exam at work, and have nothing to do except watch the student take a test, so I can spend most of the day on the internet...I'll have time to do so today!
I'm in 2 Chronicles right now, close to the end, and will post some of my thoughts later. I'm proctoring an exam at work, and have nothing to do except watch the student take a test, so I can spend most of the day on the internet...I'll have time to do so today!
7steve.clason
Fuzzi, I'm late into this thread/topic and haven't tried to read old postings (who would?), so I apologize if you've already answered this: Obviously you're very familiar with the Bible, but is this the first time you've read it through, end to end?
8fuzzi
Welcome, steve, glad to have you. Better late than never. :)
I first read it through back in 2000, right after I was born again. I had an incredible thirst/appetite for learning more about God, and decided to give it a whirl. It wasn't as hard as I imagined.
Every time I reread my Bible 'through', I see things that I did not see before, and learn more about the Lord.
I think I've read it through about 9 or 10 times, not totally sure.
How about you?
I first read it through back in 2000, right after I was born again. I had an incredible thirst/appetite for learning more about God, and decided to give it a whirl. It wasn't as hard as I imagined.
Every time I reread my Bible 'through', I see things that I did not see before, and learn more about the Lord.
I think I've read it through about 9 or 10 times, not totally sure.
How about you?
9steve.clason
8> "Every time I reread my Bible 'through', I see things that I did not see before, and learn more about the Lord."
That was going to be my follow-up question. I don't read the Bible as a devotional practice, rather as literature (an approach that enables my wider devotional practices), and I find that reading the whole thing, or at least large chunks, greatly informs my reading of favorite parts. Also, I find that reading non-canonical texts (for instance, the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Thomas) provides a similar amplifier for appreciating the canon.
Do you think there is an element of your faith that has derived from your knowledge of the entire Book rather than from particularly resonant passages?
That was going to be my follow-up question. I don't read the Bible as a devotional practice, rather as literature (an approach that enables my wider devotional practices), and I find that reading the whole thing, or at least large chunks, greatly informs my reading of favorite parts. Also, I find that reading non-canonical texts (for instance, the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Thomas) provides a similar amplifier for appreciating the canon.
Do you think there is an element of your faith that has derived from your knowledge of the entire Book rather than from particularly resonant passages?
10jburlinson
> 1. I'm continuing this thread in a third topic, for those who want to talk about their Bible reading and don't want to have to wade through debate and contention.
I recognize that I'm probably one of the people who you would prefer not contribute to this thread. For that reason, this will probably be the only post I make. It's an extract from post # 617 of the 2nd installment of the thread.
I ask you to consider carefully the following quotation from Jesus Christ Himself:
When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Mark 2:17.
Christians are not called to wall themselves off into little sealed conclaves of only the righteous. They are called to engage with the unrighteous.
I would also urge you to consider also one of the most famous pronouncements of all time:
And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. Luke 6:31.
If we want other people to listen to us and take our words seriously, Jesus tells us to do the same to them.
Best wishes to you and all who continue on in this more exclusive version of the thread.
I recognize that I'm probably one of the people who you would prefer not contribute to this thread. For that reason, this will probably be the only post I make. It's an extract from post # 617 of the 2nd installment of the thread.
I ask you to consider carefully the following quotation from Jesus Christ Himself:
When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Mark 2:17.
Christians are not called to wall themselves off into little sealed conclaves of only the righteous. They are called to engage with the unrighteous.
I would also urge you to consider also one of the most famous pronouncements of all time:
And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. Luke 6:31.
If we want other people to listen to us and take our words seriously, Jesus tells us to do the same to them.
Best wishes to you and all who continue on in this more exclusive version of the thread.
11fuzzi
(9) "Do you think there is an element of your faith that has derived from your knowledge of the entire Book rather than from particularly resonant passages?"
Well, it helps me to understand how the New Testament and the Old Testament fit together. Some people think the God of the OT is not the same as the NT, but a closer reading shows this to be false.
And it gives me a better understanding of the progression of history from the Creation until the last book was written, about 90AD.
Well, it helps me to understand how the New Testament and the Old Testament fit together. Some people think the God of the OT is not the same as the NT, but a closer reading shows this to be false.
And it gives me a better understanding of the progression of history from the Creation until the last book was written, about 90AD.
12fuzzi
(10) Thank you, jburlinson.
As I have said before, if people are sincere in their queries, then I am sincere in my answers and explanations.
But most of that thread was nothing like that, and it inhibited people who had honest questions, and were not there with an agenda.
As I have said before, if people are sincere in their queries, then I am sincere in my answers and explanations.
But most of that thread was nothing like that, and it inhibited people who had honest questions, and were not there with an agenda.
13lawecon
~5
fuzzi, I could care less whether or not you block me. You and jnt and Thomas have repeatedly shown yourself to be unwilling to consider any view that is in the slightest degree different from your own, even the majority Christian view. Do you think such an attitude makes you a desirable reader? Think again.
fuzzi, I could care less whether or not you block me. You and jnt and Thomas have repeatedly shown yourself to be unwilling to consider any view that is in the slightest degree different from your own, even the majority Christian view. Do you think such an attitude makes you a desirable reader? Think again.
15jntjesussaves
13: I really enjoy your posts and insight, fuzzi. God's blessings.
16ambrithill
Hi fuzzi. I have not been on here in a while (since the first thread actually) but I just wanted to encourage you to keep this thread the way that you have started it. Yes, jburlinson is correct that we as Christians cannot wall ourselves in, but at the same time we do need time for encouragement from each other. Even Jesus and the disciples went away from the crowds at times, and I believe this was to refresh and revive. Keep up the good and encouraging work.
17lawecon
~12
"As I have said before, if people are sincere in their queries, then I am sincere in my answers and explanations."
Otherwise,............
"As I have said before, if people are sincere in their queries, then I am sincere in my answers and explanations."
Otherwise,............
18fuzzi
@ambrithill, glad you've joined us here!
And thank you for the encouragement, it's good to hear from like-minded believers.
Don't let the world get you down... :)
And thank you for the encouragement, it's good to hear from like-minded believers.
Don't let the world get you down... :)
19jntjesussaves
16: Very thoughtful post, ambrithill.
20fuzzi
I've been reading Ezra, and am on chapter five.
I don't have my notes here with me at work, so I'll have to add them later. :)
I don't have my notes here with me at work, so I'll have to add them later. :)
22fuzzi
Thank you, Thomas. I appreciate that.
I just try to keep doing what I believe the Lord wants me to do. :)
I just try to keep doing what I believe the Lord wants me to do. :)
24steve.clason
23> Good for you, fuzzi. I enjoy the prophets and read them over and over.
25fuzzi
Thank you, steve. :)
Here's some notes on Ezra:
Ezra 1:1
God can stir up the spirit of an unbeliever king, not just born again believers, see also Ezra 1:5
Ezra 1:2
Cyrus recognizes God for who He is, and acknowledges that all his (Cyrus') kingdoms come from God. He also realizes what God wants him to do.
Note: in a number of verses in Ezra, the "house of God" is identified as being in Jerusalem, see 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 6:3, 6:5, 6:12, 8:29, 8:30
Ezra 1:3
Cyrus says "He is the God" referring to the God of the Jews. Compare that to the confession made in 1 Kings 18:39, when the people watching the competition between Elijah and the worshippers of Baal see the difference between an idol and a real God: "And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God. " :)
Ezra 2:13
The number of Adonikam's children is "666", verse "13", and "Adonikam" means "Lord of the rebellion". Interesting from a numerology standpoint.
Ezra 2:65
Both men and women were singers at the temple. No gender discrimination here, no "all boys" choir.
Ezra 3:11
God's mercy endures forever.........toward Israel
Ezra 4
Here is opposition to the rebuilding of the temple:
verse 2
Those that oppose first try to "join" the work, probably to sabotage it!
verse 4
Then they start harassing those doing the rebuilding
verse 6
Then they make false accusations against the Jews to the current king
And in verse 21, the king believes the lies, and orders the Jews to stop
So in verse 23, the adversaries use force and power to stop the rebuilding of the temple
Ezra 5:1
Haggai and Zechariah (authors of books in the Bible) are mentioned here. Both of these prophets begin to prophesy to the Jews, and since the prophets are speaking what God wants them to speak, to continue rebuilding the temple, the work starts up again. Compare to Acts 5:29, we should obey God rather than men.
Ezra 5:3
Opposition arises again
Ezra 5:7
Another letter is sent to the king, this time it is Darius
Ezra 6:3-5
A record of the decree to help the Jews rebuild their temple is located, and those who oppose the work are told to "lay off", stop harassing the Jews.
Ezra 6:7
All the needs will be supplied by the king (see Philippians 4:19!)
Ezra 6:11
Don't alter the king's word
Ezra 6:12
And don't alter or destroy the temple being built at Jerusalem, the House of God!
Ezra 7
The author of the book enters
All for now, I'll try to continue tomorrow!
Here's some notes on Ezra:
Ezra 1:1
God can stir up the spirit of an unbeliever king, not just born again believers, see also Ezra 1:5
Ezra 1:2
Cyrus recognizes God for who He is, and acknowledges that all his (Cyrus') kingdoms come from God. He also realizes what God wants him to do.
Note: in a number of verses in Ezra, the "house of God" is identified as being in Jerusalem, see 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 6:3, 6:5, 6:12, 8:29, 8:30
Ezra 1:3
Cyrus says "He is the God" referring to the God of the Jews. Compare that to the confession made in 1 Kings 18:39, when the people watching the competition between Elijah and the worshippers of Baal see the difference between an idol and a real God: "And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God. " :)
Ezra 2:13
The number of Adonikam's children is "666", verse "13", and "Adonikam" means "Lord of the rebellion". Interesting from a numerology standpoint.
Ezra 2:65
Both men and women were singers at the temple. No gender discrimination here, no "all boys" choir.
Ezra 3:11
God's mercy endures forever.........toward Israel
Ezra 4
Here is opposition to the rebuilding of the temple:
verse 2
Those that oppose first try to "join" the work, probably to sabotage it!
verse 4
Then they start harassing those doing the rebuilding
verse 6
Then they make false accusations against the Jews to the current king
And in verse 21, the king believes the lies, and orders the Jews to stop
So in verse 23, the adversaries use force and power to stop the rebuilding of the temple
Ezra 5:1
Haggai and Zechariah (authors of books in the Bible) are mentioned here. Both of these prophets begin to prophesy to the Jews, and since the prophets are speaking what God wants them to speak, to continue rebuilding the temple, the work starts up again. Compare to Acts 5:29, we should obey God rather than men.
Ezra 5:3
Opposition arises again
Ezra 5:7
Another letter is sent to the king, this time it is Darius
Ezra 6:3-5
A record of the decree to help the Jews rebuild their temple is located, and those who oppose the work are told to "lay off", stop harassing the Jews.
Ezra 6:7
All the needs will be supplied by the king (see Philippians 4:19!)
Ezra 6:11
Don't alter the king's word
Ezra 6:12
And don't alter or destroy the temple being built at Jerusalem, the House of God!
Ezra 7
The author of the book enters
All for now, I'll try to continue tomorrow!
26fuzzi
Sorry I'd not continued 'tomorrow': it's Spring and the outside (gardens) are competing for my online time!
Last night I finished Nehemiah.
On to Esther!
Last night I finished Nehemiah.
On to Esther!
28fuzzi
Job done, woo!
Job is an excellent book to read, partly because so many questions that man has are not only asked, but answered in Job.
Why do the righteous suffer?
Job is considered to be the oldest book in the Bible, its author Elihu predates Moses, the one who wrote down the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy).
Also there are many prophetic statements about the Messiah, and also of Jesus Christ's second coming, etc. It took me longer because I couldn't just read it, I kept seeing things I needed to write down.
On to Psalms, one of my most favorite books!
Job is an excellent book to read, partly because so many questions that man has are not only asked, but answered in Job.
Why do the righteous suffer?
Job is considered to be the oldest book in the Bible, its author Elihu predates Moses, the one who wrote down the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy).
Also there are many prophetic statements about the Messiah, and also of Jesus Christ's second coming, etc. It took me longer because I couldn't just read it, I kept seeing things I needed to write down.
On to Psalms, one of my most favorite books!
29ambrithill
Good job fuzzi. That is exactly why I have only managed to make it through the Bible in a year once, because I can't just read it without either writing notes or looking up references or thinking of some similar passage that I need to find.
30fuzzi
Working through Psalms. It took me three days to read Psalms 1-3 because I kept seeing things and making cross references in the margins of my Bible.
I think I'm up to chapter 15 as of yesterday.
I think I'm up to chapter 15 as of yesterday.
31fuzzi
I got busy, and have neglected Psalms, but I finished the last chapter yesterday.
One of my most favorite chapters in Psalms is 119, which is almost entirely about God's word. I think there are only a couple of verses that don't mention 'commandments', 'judgments', 'precepts', etc.
More thoughts on that later, if I can...life has been incredibly busy (no excuse, I know!).
One of my most favorite chapters in Psalms is 119, which is almost entirely about God's word. I think there are only a couple of verses that don't mention 'commandments', 'judgments', 'precepts', etc.
More thoughts on that later, if I can...life has been incredibly busy (no excuse, I know!).
32JaneAustenNut
I have been extremely busy with living & stuff; moving, surgery, new house, sickness in relatives etc. I'm starting over again using my copy of The Daily Message; through the Bible in one year, by Eugene H. Peterson. I think I will have more success now that the move is over and I have more time. I started with July 1st readings which was a reflective day and then on July 2nd I was into 2 Kings & Ecclesiastes 2. Todays reading is 2 Kings 19-21 and Ecclesiastes 3. Will let everyone know how I am progressing.
34lawecon
~32
"I have been extremely busy with living & stuff; moving, surgery, new house, sickness in relatives etc."
May the Holy One bless and heal you and yours.
"I have been extremely busy with living & stuff; moving, surgery, new house, sickness in relatives etc."
May the Holy One bless and heal you and yours.
36fuzzi
Today I finished up Proverbs, and have a few thoughts:
Hope & Expectation
Our expectations, as born-again believers, come from God:
My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. - Psalm 62:5
And we can hope and look forward to those expectations:
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off. - Proverbs 23:18
So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off. - Proverbs 24:14
The expectations of the wicked are different, not being from God:
The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish. - Proverbs 10:28
When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth. - Proverbs 11:7
The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath. - Proverbs 11:23
I am thankful that my expectation is from God, my hope is in what He has done for me, and not in what I have done or what I have!
Hope & Expectation
Our expectations, as born-again believers, come from God:
My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. - Psalm 62:5
And we can hope and look forward to those expectations:
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off. - Proverbs 23:18
So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off. - Proverbs 24:14
The expectations of the wicked are different, not being from God:
The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish. - Proverbs 10:28
When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth. - Proverbs 11:7
The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath. - Proverbs 11:23
I am thankful that my expectation is from God, my hope is in what He has done for me, and not in what I have done or what I have!
37fuzzi
I've slowed down some in the last month, as I've only read the following:
Ecclesiastes
Song of Solomon
Isaiah
Tomorrow I'll start Jeremiah, which will be book #24!
Ecclesiastes
Song of Solomon
Isaiah
Tomorrow I'll start Jeremiah, which will be book #24!
38JaneAustenNut
Gosh, Bible in a year group you guys are doing great! I'm sorry to say that I have let daily life issues get in the way of my one year Bible reading. I'm not giving up, does listening to the Bible on my ipod during morning walks count? I hope so, but, I get lost in my ipod listening some....still listening and reading at night. I truly love listening to the Bible in the mornings on my walks... I almost feel as though GOD is there with me! Please allow me to follow along with the reading in one year forum because I find the discussions extremely helpful. Thanks gang..........you are doing great!
39fuzzi
You are not 'allowed' to follow along, but instead are welcomed and greatly encouraged to do so.
I'd count the daily listening as Bible 'reading'.
Sometimes my mind wanders while reading and I have to backtrack to where I stopped paying attention...
I'd count the daily listening as Bible 'reading'.
Sometimes my mind wanders while reading and I have to backtrack to where I stopped paying attention...
40lawecon
~39
I still am mystified by what you think you are learning.
We've long ago established that the text doesn't matter - if it did, what it actually was and how it came about would also matter. All that matters is what the Holy Spirit says to you.
So why not just throw away the anthology and listen to the Holy Spirit, rather than reading it through in a year?
I still am mystified by what you think you are learning.
We've long ago established that the text doesn't matter - if it did, what it actually was and how it came about would also matter. All that matters is what the Holy Spirit says to you.
So why not just throw away the anthology and listen to the Holy Spirit, rather than reading it through in a year?
41DubiousDisciple
Anybody listen to The Bible Experience? Highly recommended!!! Just the NIV text, but very professionally done with lots of different voices, really brings you into the story. Especially when the angels of Revelation sing their little be-bop version, ha!
42fuzzi
(41) Never heard of it before.
I don't consider reading my Bible and studying God's word to be 'entertainment'. While listening to dramatized stories might be fun on occasion, I would not make them a daily part of my Bible study and prayer time.
I don't consider reading my Bible and studying God's word to be 'entertainment'. While listening to dramatized stories might be fun on occasion, I would not make them a daily part of my Bible study and prayer time.
43DubiousDisciple
:) the Bible IS a dramatized story. The Bible Experience is the words of the Bible, read by a professional, star-studded cast.
44fuzzi
I beg to differ. Some of us do believe that the Bible is the word of God, not some dramatized story to entertain us when we're in the mood.
And so-called "star-studded" doesn't impress me much.
Do you read your Bible, @DubiousDisciple?
And so-called "star-studded" doesn't impress me much.
Do you read your Bible, @DubiousDisciple?
45John5918
>42 fuzzi:, 44 Why does it have to be either/or rather than both/and? The bible is a whole library of different genres of literature which can be read and interpreted at many different levels. It is indeed the word of God, worthy of serious study, prayer and discernment (although here on LT we have seen different interpretations of what "the word of God" implies and what constitutes "serious" study); but it is also an inspiring drama and much more.
I would add that dramatised films and audio recordings of the bible stories are a common tool used by evangelical missionaries, particularly in oral cultures and for people into whose language the bible has not yet been translated. In my experience the mainstream churches don't tend to go in for that type of evangelisation so much, but the liturgy and the sacraments are also a form of dramatisation.
I would add that dramatised films and audio recordings of the bible stories are a common tool used by evangelical missionaries, particularly in oral cultures and for people into whose language the bible has not yet been translated. In my experience the mainstream churches don't tend to go in for that type of evangelisation so much, but the liturgy and the sacraments are also a form of dramatisation.
46DubiousDisciple
fuzzi, I'm struggling to understand your perspective. Is listening instead of reading wrong? Are the sound effects or differing voices and the atmosphere they add to the audio wrong? I don't see how any of this effects what you believe about the actual words.
47fuzzi
There's nothing wrong with listening to or watching dramatized stories from the Bible. I just wouldn't make it a priority, instead of reading God's word.
After all, that is the topic here, isn't it: reading one's Bible, right?
After all, that is the topic here, isn't it: reading one's Bible, right?
48DubiousDisciple
you're still losing me. Adding sound affects to portray an ancient atmosphere makes it no longer God's word? Just trying to understand where you're coming from.
I do know some people who believe that the KJV is God's word and every other translation is to be ignored.
I do know some people who believe that the KJV is God's word and every other translation is to be ignored.
49fuzzi
Sorry if I was not clear, DD.
It is written that we are to study God's word, to meditate upon it, and my first priority is to do just that.
If someone does a musical interpretation of the Bible, I might listen to it, but I'm not going to use it in place of studying God's word.
Read whatever Bible you want, you have the freewill to do so. I'm sticking with the book that was part of the great awakening.
:)
It is written that we are to study God's word, to meditate upon it, and my first priority is to do just that.
If someone does a musical interpretation of the Bible, I might listen to it, but I'm not going to use it in place of studying God's word.
Read whatever Bible you want, you have the freewill to do so. I'm sticking with the book that was part of the great awakening.
:)
50jburlinson
> 49. Which is worse, reading a translation other than King James, or listening to a recording of the KJV?
52quicksiva
If the KJV was good enough for David, who danced before the Lord, its good enough for me ;)
53lawecon
Dang, I thought that David used the NIV. But no matter, if he was saved by believing on Jesus and prayed to the Holy Spirit for inspiration as to what the text of the New Testament meant, he'd get it right regardless of what the text seem to say.
54DubiousDisciple
lawecon, he's talking about David Koresh.
57DubiousDisciple
>55 lawecon:, my tongue-in-cheek guess; no one else makes much sense.
58quicksiva
>57 DubiousDisciple:
Sorry people, I really thought this was a quote from KJV, but I couldn't find it.
Sorry people, I really thought this was a quote from KJV, but I couldn't find it.
61omboy
I think that we should remember that for most of the past 2000 yrs hardly anyone read the Bible.
The art work on church walls was often in a narritive form that relayed the Bible stories to people because they were not able to read. God works in many ways.
In early and mid-American history about the only people who could read in most communities were the school teacher, lawyer, doctor and the preacher.
The preacher read the Bible to the congregation .
This is also why the songs were simple (as well as beautiful). The preacher lead with the song book and the people sang the words from memory.
If you see a person reading from a Bible he/she is silent. Their head will be bowed because they are looking down at a book. This all gives an appearence of the tenderness and reverence which we, especially me, enjoy seeing.
I prefer reading but remember that personal reading of the Bible has been only a short phase of the long Christian story. Today people are getting their information in many different ways.
To qoute Oliver Cromwell, "What care have I which path a man takes to get to heaven."
The art work on church walls was often in a narritive form that relayed the Bible stories to people because they were not able to read. God works in many ways.
In early and mid-American history about the only people who could read in most communities were the school teacher, lawyer, doctor and the preacher.
The preacher read the Bible to the congregation .
This is also why the songs were simple (as well as beautiful). The preacher lead with the song book and the people sang the words from memory.
If you see a person reading from a Bible he/she is silent. Their head will be bowed because they are looking down at a book. This all gives an appearence of the tenderness and reverence which we, especially me, enjoy seeing.
I prefer reading but remember that personal reading of the Bible has been only a short phase of the long Christian story. Today people are getting their information in many different ways.
To qoute Oliver Cromwell, "What care have I which path a man takes to get to heaven."
62John5918
I'm struck by these words in a modern commentary on the 12th century text Spiritual Friendship by Aelred of Rievaulx:
We also need to be conscious of the meditative approach to reading that was common in medieval monasteries... For them, depth of insight was more important than the amount read. They believed that beneath the literal meaning of a text, spiritual senses existed...
64fuzzi
@TRIPLEHHH, Psalms is a wonderful book. I like to read from Psalms when I am 'down' and need comfort and encouragement.
I'm about 13 chapters into Ezekiel, but I keep stopping to make notes and cross references. It's slow going, but good. :)
I'm about 13 chapters into Ezekiel, but I keep stopping to make notes and cross references. It's slow going, but good. :)
65DubiousDisciple
Ezekiel seemed like nonsense and pipe dreams to me until I began researching Revelation. Then, it came alive. Revelation is basically a Christian rewrite of Ezekiel.
67DubiousDisciple
This analysis comes from David Chilton, of themes in Revelation that were copied from Ezekiel:
1. The throne vision (Ezekiel 1).
2. The scroll (Ezekiel 2-3).
3. The four plagues (Ezekiel 5).
4. The slain under the altar (Ezekiel 6).
5. The wrath of God (Ezekiel 7).
6. Seals in the foreheads (Ezekiel 9).
7. Coals from the altar (Ezekiel 10).
8. No more delay (Ezekiel 12).
9. Eating the book (Ezekiel 2).
10. Measuring the temple (Ezekiel 40-43).
11. Jerusalem and Sodom (Ezekiel 16).
12. The cup of wrath (Ezekiel 23).
13. The vine of the land (Ezekiel 15).
14. The great harlot (Ezekiel 26,23).
15. Lament over the city (Ezekiel 27).
16. The scavengers’ feast (Ezekiel 39).
17. The first resurrection (Ezekiel 37).
18. Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 38-39).
19. The New Jerusalem (Ezekiel 40-48).
20. The river of life (Ezekiel 47).
I found lots more. It's like, if you don't know what to make of something in Revelation, go read about it in Ezekiel.
1. The throne vision (Ezekiel 1).
2. The scroll (Ezekiel 2-3).
3. The four plagues (Ezekiel 5).
4. The slain under the altar (Ezekiel 6).
5. The wrath of God (Ezekiel 7).
6. Seals in the foreheads (Ezekiel 9).
7. Coals from the altar (Ezekiel 10).
8. No more delay (Ezekiel 12).
9. Eating the book (Ezekiel 2).
10. Measuring the temple (Ezekiel 40-43).
11. Jerusalem and Sodom (Ezekiel 16).
12. The cup of wrath (Ezekiel 23).
13. The vine of the land (Ezekiel 15).
14. The great harlot (Ezekiel 26,23).
15. Lament over the city (Ezekiel 27).
16. The scavengers’ feast (Ezekiel 39).
17. The first resurrection (Ezekiel 37).
18. Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 38-39).
19. The New Jerusalem (Ezekiel 40-48).
20. The river of life (Ezekiel 47).
I found lots more. It's like, if you don't know what to make of something in Revelation, go read about it in Ezekiel.
72jntjesussaves
69: Great job, TripleHHH; stay faithful. God's blessings.
76fuzzi
Read through through Ezekiel 40. I am overwhelmed at times at just how patient and longsuffering the Lord was with His people, the Jews.
And am very thankful that He is so very patient with me as well.
And am very thankful that He is so very patient with me as well.
79jntjesussaves
I know 2012 has come and gone and now we are in the year of our Lord 2013; I wanted to update my progress so far this year (2013) in reading God's Word.
So far I have skipped around since January 1st. I read a chapter a day (most every day)- I am actually keeping a daily log of what chapter I read in a database. I started in Matthew, then read Romans and Galatians; I am currently on chapter 48 of Genesis (which I have been reading for the last month and a half). I hope others chime in on their progress from 2012 and so far in 2013. God bless all.
So far I have skipped around since January 1st. I read a chapter a day (most every day)- I am actually keeping a daily log of what chapter I read in a database. I started in Matthew, then read Romans and Galatians; I am currently on chapter 48 of Genesis (which I have been reading for the last month and a half). I hope others chime in on their progress from 2012 and so far in 2013. God bless all.
80fuzzi
I'm in John. :)
I did not finish the NT in 2012, but read all the OT.
And of course, I did a lot of here and there 'spot' reading as I thought of cross references.
Nice to see you here, again. Don't be such a stranger. ;)
I did not finish the NT in 2012, but read all the OT.
And of course, I did a lot of here and there 'spot' reading as I thought of cross references.
Nice to see you here, again. Don't be such a stranger. ;)
81baron770
This year I'm using The One Year Chronological Bible. I'm enjoying it very much.
82jntjesussaves
80- Yeah, it has been a while; just haven't been on LT a lot for some time. Congrats on finishing the OT and part of the NT. My goal is to read through the entire Bible consecutively, but reading a chapter a day, it will take more than a year- but I am okay with that. I didn't really set any goal last year to read the Bible through, so this is a positive step.
83jntjesussaves
81- What Bible did you use last year, Baron770? What is the theme of The One Year Chronological Bible? I presume it takes you through the Bible in a Chronological order, rather than through the OT and then the NT? Sounds like an interesting Bible choice. God bless you for your faithfulness in reading God's Word.
84baron770
81- The bible's I used last year were KJV, NKJV, ESV, HCSB, AS 1901, The New Jerusalem Bible. But I mostly use the KJV, my wife and our church uses the ESV, which seems to me not much diffrent than the HCSB.
As for the order of book's, you start with Gen. and by January 19 you are starting Job. Then back to Exodus. I expect to start seeing the most diffrence starting in Samuel and beyond. Example for May 1, you start in 2 Sam. 22:1-51 and end the day with Psalm 18. Another example is in Psalm's after Psalm 41 the next is 53. The OT ends with Joel 3:17-21 and the NT starts with Mark 1:1a, Luke 1:1-4, John 1:1-18, Matt. 1:1-17,Luke 3:23b-38, Luke 1:5-25, thats the reading for Sept. 24.
Todays reading March 17 and it starts with Deut. 16:18 and ends with Deut. 21:9.
As for the order of book's, you start with Gen. and by January 19 you are starting Job. Then back to Exodus. I expect to start seeing the most diffrence starting in Samuel and beyond. Example for May 1, you start in 2 Sam. 22:1-51 and end the day with Psalm 18. Another example is in Psalm's after Psalm 41 the next is 53. The OT ends with Joel 3:17-21 and the NT starts with Mark 1:1a, Luke 1:1-4, John 1:1-18, Matt. 1:1-17,Luke 3:23b-38, Luke 1:5-25, thats the reading for Sept. 24.
Todays reading March 17 and it starts with Deut. 16:18 and ends with Deut. 21:9.
85jntjesussaves
84- That is very interesting; so it is supposedly taking you through the Bible chronologically (almost verse-by-verse), it would appear? I also use the KJV, but I also have several parallel versions, along with probably around ten other versions (which I, very occasionally, look at). Thanks for the input.
As I side note- I just finished up Genesis today; I need to decide my next book rather quickly.
God bless all.
As I side note- I just finished up Genesis today; I need to decide my next book rather quickly.
God bless all.
86jntjesussaves
I have started teaching an adult SS class at my church; I plan to teach on the book of James; I decided to read the book of James in my continuation through the Bible. I believe this will be an interesting study; I read chapter one, today.
God bless.
God bless.
87jntjesussaves
I read James 2, today. The book of James contains some wonderful verses.
God bless.
God bless.
89jntjesussaves
88- Yes it is, fuzzi. My daily devotional took me to the book of John, chapter 9 today. It touched upon the story of the young man who had been blind from birth. This story amazes me; not only the miracle that Jesus Christ performed- but also the reaction by the Pharisees (vv.14-16).
John 9:14
And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
John 9:15
Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
John 9:16
Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
(KJV)
"This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the Sabbath day." How sad to be right beside the Son of God, the Saviour of the world, and yet be so far (spiritually) from Him (as these Pharisees were). They certainly weren't going to praise God for this miracle- their only concern was to worry about Jesus healing this man on the Sabbath day- how sad.
God's blessings.
John 9:14
And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
John 9:15
Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
John 9:16
Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
(KJV)
"This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the Sabbath day." How sad to be right beside the Son of God, the Saviour of the world, and yet be so far (spiritually) from Him (as these Pharisees were). They certainly weren't going to praise God for this miracle- their only concern was to worry about Jesus healing this man on the Sabbath day- how sad.
God's blessings.
90fuzzi
They rejected their Messiah because He was not what they wanted. They, indeed, were of their father the devil. :(
91lawecon
Ah yes, the ultimate result of fundamentalist Christianity: "Those who don't agree are 'of their father the devil.'"
Incidentally, jnt, the story is just a story. Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath. But you'd know
that if you did more than just "read my Bible."
Incidentally, jnt, the story is just a story. Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath. But you'd know
that if you did more than just "read my Bible."
92jntjesussaves
90- Amen, fuzzi!
91- Welcome, lawecon!
"Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath." The Bible claims they did; where does your information come from that they didn't?
Thanks for the input, lawecon.
By the way, what book of the Bible are you reading (studying), lawecon?
91- Welcome, lawecon!
"Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath." The Bible claims they did; where does your information come from that they didn't?
Thanks for the input, lawecon.
By the way, what book of the Bible are you reading (studying), lawecon?
93jntjesussaves
I read James 3, today. James gives some very inportant and timeley advice for the Christian in this chapter. As I stated several posts ago, I am teaching an adult SS class at my church. I taught on the two "Imputations" in Romans 5:12-21 this past Sunday, and will finish up this coming Sunday. One being, the imputation of sin upon all of mankind (v. 12) and the other, the imputation of righteousness upon all that trust in Christ to save them (v. 15). My plan is to start a study with my class on the book of James in the next few weeks. I have been studying this book the last few days, with much of my study on the introductory material right now. It has been very interesting.
May God bless you all.
May God bless you all.
94lawecon
~92
""Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath." The Bible claims they did; where does your information come from that they didn't? "
It comes from being a Jew familiar with Jewish Halackha. See, e.g., http://books.google.com/books?id=aaklGZAID08C&pg=PA882&lpg=PA882&dq=...
Where does you claim come from? Let's take a parable. Suppose, jnt, that a distinguished Jew of 20 centuries ago wrote a book claiming that Christians, a hundred and fifty years before he was writing, regularly engaged in cannibalism and pedophilia, that it was a part of their faith. And you, as someone a couple thousand years later, someone familiar with Christian doctrine and practice, said: "Hey wait, the first claim is due to a total misunderstanding or a standard Christian ritual and the second claim may have been something that some Christians once did, but was in no way a part of their faith or our faith as Christians."
My response: "But this book, written 2,000 years ago by a holy Jew, says that is what Christians do. That, therefore, must be what they did (and do) and what they believed (and believe). Nevermind what you, as a Christian says. It is in the book."
What would you think of my "study" of Christianity, and the care with which I looked into the plain meaning claims of my book?
It might be remarked, jnt, that even some of your fellow Christians know better than to interpret their scriptures through their "plain meaning" (but with no background concerning their context). See, e.g., http://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/logic_healing_sabbath/
""Jews have never condemned healing on the Sabbath." The Bible claims they did; where does your information come from that they didn't? "
It comes from being a Jew familiar with Jewish Halackha. See, e.g., http://books.google.com/books?id=aaklGZAID08C&pg=PA882&lpg=PA882&dq=...
Where does you claim come from? Let's take a parable. Suppose, jnt, that a distinguished Jew of 20 centuries ago wrote a book claiming that Christians, a hundred and fifty years before he was writing, regularly engaged in cannibalism and pedophilia, that it was a part of their faith. And you, as someone a couple thousand years later, someone familiar with Christian doctrine and practice, said: "Hey wait, the first claim is due to a total misunderstanding or a standard Christian ritual and the second claim may have been something that some Christians once did, but was in no way a part of their faith or our faith as Christians."
My response: "But this book, written 2,000 years ago by a holy Jew, says that is what Christians do. That, therefore, must be what they did (and do) and what they believed (and believe). Nevermind what you, as a Christian says. It is in the book."
What would you think of my "study" of Christianity, and the care with which I looked into the plain meaning claims of my book?
It might be remarked, jnt, that even some of your fellow Christians know better than to interpret their scriptures through their "plain meaning" (but with no background concerning their context). See, e.g., http://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/logic_healing_sabbath/
95fuzzi
From the OP:
Happy Bible reading, all! :)
I'm continuing this thread in a third topic, for those who want to talk about their Bible reading and don't want to have to wade through debate and contention.
Please feel free to go back to the second "Reading Your Bible Through in a Year" thread if your aim is to debate the veracity of God's word, or harangue people who believe that way. There are other places to debate, like Pro and Con.
Happy Bible reading, all! :)
96John5918
>95 fuzzi: Thanks, fuzzi. I would like to comment on the subject of the conversation between jnt and lawecon, in a way which I think is constructive, not a harangue or a debate on the veracity of God's word. I think it would be more user-friendly to do it here where the issue actually arises, but I respect your desire to keep this as a diary rather than a conversation. However I note that the other thread to which you refer is now over 700 posts long. Would you care to start a new parallel thread for a conversation on the bible-reading?
97lawecon
fuzzi and John,
I am still concerned about the distinction that both of you seem to endorse. Is the way you "read the bible" up to being recorded in a diary - particularly in a public diary? When I read a novel, I don't keep a diary of how far along I am. I certainly don't post. "Read chapter 1 today." and then stand back and wait for the praise. Yet somehow that seems to be the norm for reading the bible. Several hypotheses occur to me:
(1) Perhaps when you read a few verses you take reading the Bible so seriously that you then run to your bookcase, pull down your dozen or so commentaries (authored by all sorts of authors, of course) and read and make notes on the commentaries on those verses. Now that would be "study," and what you found and your conclusions about what you found would, I trust, be of interest to all of us.
(2) Perhaps when you read a few verses it sets off a whole chain of associations and reasoning in your mind. You think of questions that demand answers and are inspired to go out and act on what you have just read. That would also seem to be of interest to others, and at least something that might be worth reporting (whether it ultimately is of interest to all others or not).
Either of those would seem to be taking "G_d's Word" seriously, and a demonstration that you are reading the bible for more than just reporting to the assembly that you have engaged in a pious act and would like praise - you know, the kind of thing that Jesus condemned. Is one of these what you're doing? If so, I've missed the reports.
I am still concerned about the distinction that both of you seem to endorse. Is the way you "read the bible" up to being recorded in a diary - particularly in a public diary? When I read a novel, I don't keep a diary of how far along I am. I certainly don't post. "Read chapter 1 today." and then stand back and wait for the praise. Yet somehow that seems to be the norm for reading the bible. Several hypotheses occur to me:
(1) Perhaps when you read a few verses you take reading the Bible so seriously that you then run to your bookcase, pull down your dozen or so commentaries (authored by all sorts of authors, of course) and read and make notes on the commentaries on those verses. Now that would be "study," and what you found and your conclusions about what you found would, I trust, be of interest to all of us.
(2) Perhaps when you read a few verses it sets off a whole chain of associations and reasoning in your mind. You think of questions that demand answers and are inspired to go out and act on what you have just read. That would also seem to be of interest to others, and at least something that might be worth reporting (whether it ultimately is of interest to all others or not).
Either of those would seem to be taking "G_d's Word" seriously, and a demonstration that you are reading the bible for more than just reporting to the assembly that you have engaged in a pious act and would like praise - you know, the kind of thing that Jesus condemned. Is one of these what you're doing? If so, I've missed the reports.
98John5918
>97 lawecon: Well, that's precisely why I would like to comment on what is being reported in this thread. It does indeed set off a chain of associations and reasoning in my mind, and I often do turn to my commentaries for further insight. I am not reading the bible through in a year (or two years, as it appears to have turned out), but I have read and studied the entire bible, and use it almost daily in my work, and the comments made by those who are currently reading it are of interest to me. I would like to be able to make comments on what is posted in the same way that those who are currently reading it make comments to each other. The bible is the bible whether one is reading it through in a year or whether one reads it little by little in no fixed order. But at the same time I respect the owners of this thread and would like to find a way of commenting without upsetting their agenda.
100lawecon
~98
First of all, John, there is no "owner of this thread." The tread has a specified topic (which in most threads is ignored). Everything I have said or asked is within that topic. There are closed threads and groups on Librarything, to one of which most of the fundamentalist posting to this thread belong. Yet they still try to squash questions they don't like, questions that are posted to an open thread, by claiming that they are somehow being deprived of a right when such questions are posed. Pretty hypocritical and dishonest, wouldn't you say? They have their "own group" for discussions they don't want "disrupted," but they also try to close off other threads and groups to opinions that are different from theirs.
Second of all, I would love to hear more about how you apply specific bible verses to your life and the associations that motivate you to do so. That, in my view, is far different than "Read Mark 1: 4-6 today." which is, frankly useless for any purpose beyond "praying in public, like the publicans."
First of all, John, there is no "owner of this thread." The tread has a specified topic (which in most threads is ignored). Everything I have said or asked is within that topic. There are closed threads and groups on Librarything, to one of which most of the fundamentalist posting to this thread belong. Yet they still try to squash questions they don't like, questions that are posted to an open thread, by claiming that they are somehow being deprived of a right when such questions are posed. Pretty hypocritical and dishonest, wouldn't you say? They have their "own group" for discussions they don't want "disrupted," but they also try to close off other threads and groups to opinions that are different from theirs.
Second of all, I would love to hear more about how you apply specific bible verses to your life and the associations that motivate you to do so. That, in my view, is far different than "Read Mark 1: 4-6 today." which is, frankly useless for any purpose beyond "praying in public, like the publicans."
101jntjesussaves
94- First of all, lawecon, I have not been on any thread in probably six months (until several days ago when I posted). I posted March 14 (and the last post before that was on October 1 of last year). I just wonder why you hadn't been posting on this site. It just seems like the only time you show up is to respond to other posts (which I guess is your prerogative). This is the reason why I presume you only post to agitate.
You say you get your information from the Jewish Halackha; how are you sure that this particular writing is trustworthy?
Lawecon, the difference between The Holy Bible and every other book is that The Holy Bible claims to be inspired (of which no other book makes this claim). The Holy Bible has been time and time again, proven trustworthy. By the way, The Holy Bible is read by many different faiths today (not just Christians), which I believe is another great proof of its trustworthiness.
96- john, I don't know if fuzzi (or anyone else) has called this thread a diary. I don't believe fuzzi (or anyone else), I speak only for myself- mind conversation. It just seems that when lawecon gets involved with (every thread I have ever been a part of), this same path is taken. While I don't mind conversation (or even debate, at times), I don't necessarily want to always be defending every post that I make. Most posts that many on this thread and others like it, post with the motivation to encourage and edify, however, others always tend to divide (or seemingly try and cause tension). I don't believe lawecon has ever said a positive (or for that matter an encouraging thing) to most on this thread. While I don't claim to be a great mind, I would think every once and while, I may say something that he would agree with- but I don't think I have. While you and I haven't always agreed on everything- you respond in a agreeable manner- that is not always the case with others.
97- Lawecon, I am not sure why you are so concerned about how myself, fuzzi and others read (or study) our bibles, or how we comment on what we read. I realize you don't agree with how we read our bibles, or how we study our bibles, or how we respond with our comments to what we read- and that's fine. Again, that is your prerogative. I am just not sure why you spend so much time, effort, and thought in trying to prove we are wrong (or incorrect) in the way we share our faith.
Secondly, I don't remember anyone on this thread (or any of the other ones), ever requesting others to read this verse (or chapter) or that verse (or chapter). We might say- this book is a wonderful book for Christian living, but I don't believe anyone has ever directed someone else to read any verse or book.
As to your two hypothesis' (what is the plural form of hypothesis?): I believe you make some very good points. While I have made mention of what commentators have stated before, I will keep this in mind when I comment. I can't say that I will do this every time, because I don't always pull down commentaries when I read God's Word. Sometimes I desire to just read God's Word and meditate on what it says (on my own). To your second hypothesis, I will also try and mention how certain principles are being used to change my life and walk on a daily basis.
I would ask that you also respond in like manner, also. Share with us what part of the Bible you are reading and how you are allowing it to change your life. Good ideas, lawecon.
98- john, thanks for the helpful comments. I agree with your assessment and welcome your comments. As I shared with lawecon, I hope everyone on this thread will share with others what they are reading and how it is impacting their own lives. I am not sure what you mean by "agenda" (maybe, you meant nothing negative about it), but I don't believe fuzzi had an "agenda" when she started this thread- I believe she was motivated to encourage others to open God's Word and read it (which unfortunately many Christians fail to do). I believe a thread like this may cause (or encourage) some who wouldn't normally read God's Word- to read it. I believe that was her initial motivation, however, she can speak for herself.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and comments. I hope we can all just read God's Word and share with others how we are being helped and growing in knowledge by reading (and studying) God's precious Word. May we all stay on this path. As fuzzi mentioned, "Happy Bible reading, all"!
You say you get your information from the Jewish Halackha; how are you sure that this particular writing is trustworthy?
Lawecon, the difference between The Holy Bible and every other book is that The Holy Bible claims to be inspired (of which no other book makes this claim). The Holy Bible has been time and time again, proven trustworthy. By the way, The Holy Bible is read by many different faiths today (not just Christians), which I believe is another great proof of its trustworthiness.
96- john, I don't know if fuzzi (or anyone else) has called this thread a diary. I don't believe fuzzi (or anyone else), I speak only for myself- mind conversation. It just seems that when lawecon gets involved with (every thread I have ever been a part of), this same path is taken. While I don't mind conversation (or even debate, at times), I don't necessarily want to always be defending every post that I make. Most posts that many on this thread and others like it, post with the motivation to encourage and edify, however, others always tend to divide (or seemingly try and cause tension). I don't believe lawecon has ever said a positive (or for that matter an encouraging thing) to most on this thread. While I don't claim to be a great mind, I would think every once and while, I may say something that he would agree with- but I don't think I have. While you and I haven't always agreed on everything- you respond in a agreeable manner- that is not always the case with others.
97- Lawecon, I am not sure why you are so concerned about how myself, fuzzi and others read (or study) our bibles, or how we comment on what we read. I realize you don't agree with how we read our bibles, or how we study our bibles, or how we respond with our comments to what we read- and that's fine. Again, that is your prerogative. I am just not sure why you spend so much time, effort, and thought in trying to prove we are wrong (or incorrect) in the way we share our faith.
Secondly, I don't remember anyone on this thread (or any of the other ones), ever requesting others to read this verse (or chapter) or that verse (or chapter). We might say- this book is a wonderful book for Christian living, but I don't believe anyone has ever directed someone else to read any verse or book.
As to your two hypothesis' (what is the plural form of hypothesis?): I believe you make some very good points. While I have made mention of what commentators have stated before, I will keep this in mind when I comment. I can't say that I will do this every time, because I don't always pull down commentaries when I read God's Word. Sometimes I desire to just read God's Word and meditate on what it says (on my own). To your second hypothesis, I will also try and mention how certain principles are being used to change my life and walk on a daily basis.
I would ask that you also respond in like manner, also. Share with us what part of the Bible you are reading and how you are allowing it to change your life. Good ideas, lawecon.
98- john, thanks for the helpful comments. I agree with your assessment and welcome your comments. As I shared with lawecon, I hope everyone on this thread will share with others what they are reading and how it is impacting their own lives. I am not sure what you mean by "agenda" (maybe, you meant nothing negative about it), but I don't believe fuzzi had an "agenda" when she started this thread- I believe she was motivated to encourage others to open God's Word and read it (which unfortunately many Christians fail to do). I believe a thread like this may cause (or encourage) some who wouldn't normally read God's Word- to read it. I believe that was her initial motivation, however, she can speak for herself.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and comments. I hope we can all just read God's Word and share with others how we are being helped and growing in knowledge by reading (and studying) God's precious Word. May we all stay on this path. As fuzzi mentioned, "Happy Bible reading, all"!
102John5918
>101 jntjesussaves: I am not sure what you mean by "agenda"
My apologies - that may not be the best word. I simply meant to say I want to respect the wishes of those who started this thread.
My apologies - that may not be the best word. I simply meant to say I want to respect the wishes of those who started this thread.
103quicksiva
Reading the Bible
"Real adult faith requires real reading. And you can do it. There are 775,630 words in the Bible (I counted them, each one), give or take, depending on the translation. If you read at the average rate of 200-250 words per minute, you can work through the entire Bible in about 60 hours. If you read for a measly ten to twelve minutes a day, or about one hour a week, you could go through it in a year. If you read for two hours a day— instead of playing Angry Birds— you could read it in a month."
Roncace, Mark (2012-11-23). Raw Revelation: The Bible They Never Tell You About (p. 11). CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. Kindle Edition.
"Real adult faith requires real reading. And you can do it. There are 775,630 words in the Bible (I counted them, each one), give or take, depending on the translation. If you read at the average rate of 200-250 words per minute, you can work through the entire Bible in about 60 hours. If you read for a measly ten to twelve minutes a day, or about one hour a week, you could go through it in a year. If you read for two hours a day— instead of playing Angry Birds— you could read it in a month."
Roncace, Mark (2012-11-23). Raw Revelation: The Bible They Never Tell You About (p. 11). CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. Kindle Edition.
104streamsong
Go for it, quicksiva! I hope you'll post your musings here as you do.
105jntjesussaves
102- john, I didn't suspect that you meant it negatively, but I wanted to make sure. God bless.
103- quicksiva, very interesting data. That, in a sense, makes it unnecessary to make any excuses for not reading the Bible through. Of course, according to your data- it doesn't take into account meditation, and as has been mentioned before, study- which will certainly require more time as one does so. Very interesting points, though. It certainly makes you realize how, really no one, has an excuse not to read God's Word.
104- Amen, streamsong!
I want to mention that I did read most of Revelation 21 (in relation to my devotion) and James 5, but I will not be commenting on these readings tonight.
God bless all.
103- quicksiva, very interesting data. That, in a sense, makes it unnecessary to make any excuses for not reading the Bible through. Of course, according to your data- it doesn't take into account meditation, and as has been mentioned before, study- which will certainly require more time as one does so. Very interesting points, though. It certainly makes you realize how, really no one, has an excuse not to read God's Word.
104- Amen, streamsong!
I want to mention that I did read most of Revelation 21 (in relation to my devotion) and James 5, but I will not be commenting on these readings tonight.
God bless all.
106jburlinson
> 105. really no one, has an excuse not to read God's Word.
The same is true of Anna Karennina, The Koran, On the Origin of Species and every other book ever written.
The same is true of Anna Karennina, The Koran, On the Origin of Species and every other book ever written.
107John5918
>105 jntjesussaves: Thanks, jtn. I wonder if you would care to take a look my post >3 thomashwalker2: on the new thread that fuzzi started as I have a question there for you.
108jntjesussaves
106- jburlinson: I was speaking about Christians ("really no one, has an excuse not to read God's Word"), not the general public. If you claim to be a Christian and you believe reading these other mentioned titles is equal to reading God's Word (The Holy Bible), all I can say is we will have to disagree.
Take care.
107- Your welcome. I will be glad to, john. I am going there now. Take care.
Take care.
107- Your welcome. I will be glad to, john. I am going there now. Take care.
109jburlinson
> 108. If you claim to be a Christian and you believe reading these other mentioned titles is equal to reading God's Word (The Holy Bible), all I can say is we will have to disagree.
I didn't say these other titles were "equal" -- I only said that, using your logic, there's no excuse for not reading them. They actually take less time and effort than the Bible, so there's even less excuse in their cases.
I didn't say these other titles were "equal" -- I only said that, using your logic, there's no excuse for not reading them. They actually take less time and effort than the Bible, so there's even less excuse in their cases.
110JGL53
> 106, 1099
I have read the bible twice and Origen of Species once mainly out of curiosity of why such books are considered so important by so many.
I glanced through the Koran for about five minutes once at a book store and decided it would be a really boring read - even with the attached commentary. So there's my excuse for that.
I read through the Cliff Notes version of Anna Karenina and I decided that was about all I could take - again, the story just did not grab me particularly. So that is my excuse for that.
So I would imagine everyone could come up with an excuse for not reading any particular book X. Such excuse might not satisfy others, but that comes under the heading of "So?".
I have read the bible twice and Origen of Species once mainly out of curiosity of why such books are considered so important by so many.
I glanced through the Koran for about five minutes once at a book store and decided it would be a really boring read - even with the attached commentary. So there's my excuse for that.
I read through the Cliff Notes version of Anna Karenina and I decided that was about all I could take - again, the story just did not grab me particularly. So that is my excuse for that.
So I would imagine everyone could come up with an excuse for not reading any particular book X. Such excuse might not satisfy others, but that comes under the heading of "So?".
