Most cultures have a belief in one or more supreme beings. It's only in modern times that societies are content to let blind chance take the credit for both past and future. Of course, anyone having conversations about things that matter to God will have accepted some sort of diety, even if it turns out to be themselves. The focus of the debate will differ, depending on how objective the participants are.
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.
The existence of hell is a good example of something many people reject, even if they are okay with other tenets of Christianity. Those who want to think of the Lord as a loving creator may not accept His role as judge and condemner. The fact that this viewpoint dilutes the value of the crucifixion and weakens standards of right and wrong is not enough to make them acknowledge a loving spirit who also demands atonement before deserved punishment can be averted.
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.
For those who take the Bible as a reliable guide, helping the poor is a priority. Discussions about that can lead to the formation of plans, agencies, or crusades to accomplish this goal. Evangelists hope to win converts, so their discourse is aimed at explaining the relationship between the Lord and man. Leading a godly life is a topic of endless interest to anyone who wants to truly imitate Christ. Talk radio is a wonderful resource for those who are isolated.
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.
The existence of hell is a good example of something many people reject, even if they are okay with other tenets of Christianity. Those who want to think of the Lord as a loving creator may not accept His role as judge and condemner. The fact that this viewpoint dilutes the value of the crucifixion and weakens standards of right and wrong is not enough to make them acknowledge a loving spirit who also demands atonement before deserved punishment can be averted.
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.
For those who take the Bible as a reliable guide, helping the poor is a priority. Discussions about that can lead to the formation of plans, agencies, or crusades to accomplish this goal. Evangelists hope to win converts, so their discourse is aimed at explaining the relationship between the Lord and man. Leading a godly life is a topic of endless interest to anyone who wants to truly imitate Christ. Talk radio is a wonderful resource for those who are isolated.
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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