The nature of God is a vast topic. Most cultures have a belief system in otherworldly beings that are involved in human existence. Anyone engaging in conversations about things that matter to God will probably not share the modern philosophy that everything we see and are ourselves is a product of chance. For Christians, a discussion would have to build on a definition of the nature of the Lord, a consensus on how and if we can know it, and what is important to Him.
Many people create their own definition of God. Perhaps this is inevitable, since it's almost impossible for anyone to be totally objective. However, often this is a conscious choice, made to fit what they feel they need from a supreme being and what they cannot accept from ancient teachings.
A good example of this is the idea that there is a code of conduct and failure to comply result in punishment in some sort of hell. Many people like the idea of a loving spirit and can't accept that such a one could condemn its own creation to eternal torment. They therefore accept the love but deny the judgement. This in essence also denies the standards of right and wrong, or at least finds mitigating circumstances for wrongdoing.
You can see why some common ground is necessary before conversation can be meaningful. If sin matters to God as much as the Bible says it does, conduct will be an important topic. Those who choose to believe that the Lord of the Bible has defined Himself will base their arguments on scripture. Others may choose to believe what they are comfortable with, what makes sense to them, what makes them feel good.
There are many who point to archaeological proof for the Bible as history and it's preservation as witness to it's special character. Others are skeptical that anything made by man can meet this standard. There is a wide division between those who stand on scripture and those who find it irrelevant. This can spark great discussions if people can 'keep their cool'.
It is necessary to have two or more participants for true conversation. A certain amount of common ground is also needed. It is easier for two Christians to talk about things which are spiritually significant than it would be for a Christian and a New Age devotee who's seeking guidance and help in crystals.
Scripture is a way to let God speak for Himself, to see what He commands His followers to do, and to learn His will. Some things are easy, like feeding and clothing the poor or caring for widows. Some are harder, like how to show mercy, give forgiveness, and live a holy life. Discussing these precepts can help reinforce the rules of conduct and strengthen the resolve of those who want to honor the Lord. For those who have no fellowship, christian talk radio is a great resource.
The book of Ephesians is just one part of the bible which encourages believers to speak of godly things. Loose talk is to be avoided, as is cursing and evil speech. Instead, they are to speak of what is pure and good. They are directed to build up the body, which is the congregation of the followers of Christ.
Many people create their own definition of God. Perhaps this is inevitable, since it's almost impossible for anyone to be totally objective. However, often this is a conscious choice, made to fit what they feel they need from a supreme being and what they cannot accept from ancient teachings.
A good example of this is the idea that there is a code of conduct and failure to comply result in punishment in some sort of hell. Many people like the idea of a loving spirit and can't accept that such a one could condemn its own creation to eternal torment. They therefore accept the love but deny the judgement. This in essence also denies the standards of right and wrong, or at least finds mitigating circumstances for wrongdoing.
You can see why some common ground is necessary before conversation can be meaningful. If sin matters to God as much as the Bible says it does, conduct will be an important topic. Those who choose to believe that the Lord of the Bible has defined Himself will base their arguments on scripture. Others may choose to believe what they are comfortable with, what makes sense to them, what makes them feel good.
There are many who point to archaeological proof for the Bible as history and it's preservation as witness to it's special character. Others are skeptical that anything made by man can meet this standard. There is a wide division between those who stand on scripture and those who find it irrelevant. This can spark great discussions if people can 'keep their cool'.
It is necessary to have two or more participants for true conversation. A certain amount of common ground is also needed. It is easier for two Christians to talk about things which are spiritually significant than it would be for a Christian and a New Age devotee who's seeking guidance and help in crystals.
Scripture is a way to let God speak for Himself, to see what He commands His followers to do, and to learn His will. Some things are easy, like feeding and clothing the poor or caring for widows. Some are harder, like how to show mercy, give forgiveness, and live a holy life. Discussing these precepts can help reinforce the rules of conduct and strengthen the resolve of those who want to honor the Lord. For those who have no fellowship, christian talk radio is a great resource.
The book of Ephesians is just one part of the bible which encourages believers to speak of godly things. Loose talk is to be avoided, as is cursing and evil speech. Instead, they are to speak of what is pure and good. They are directed to build up the body, which is the congregation of the followers of Christ.
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