Someone could be praying for YOU....

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[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (7 children)

I'm just curious about the theology here.

Evangelicals believe that you go to Heaven as long as you accept Jesus as your savior and repent your sins, right?

So what's the point of people praying for each other? It isn't one of the criteria for salvation.

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (6 children)

When you say "repent", you understand we have to let go of sins, right? Once a man surrenders to Jesus at the cross, he now has to battle against his own flesh to resist the temptations to sin.

On our own, we men do not stand a chance against the temptations, but through prayer to the Lord who died for us, he gives us the victory. If you ask the Lord to help you to stop sinning, he will.

And there are more things to pray about than only salvation. We all need healing and encouragement from God. Some pray for more truth and revelation. Some pray for protection from the enemy. Prayer is powerful.

[–]THE-SPAM-DOCTOR 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (5 children)

When you say "repent", you understand we have to let go of sins, right? Once a man surrenders to Jesus at the cross, he now has to battle against his own flesh to resist the temptations to sin.

On our own, we men do not stand a chance against the temptations, but through prayer to the Lord who died for us, he gives us the victory. If you ask the Lord to help you to stop sinning, he will.

And there are more things to pray about than only salvation. We all need healing and encouragement from God. Some pray for more truth and revelation. Some pray for protection from the enemy. Prayer is powerful.

WHAT HAPPENS TO PEOPLE THAT LIVED ON EARTH BEFORE THE OLD TESTAMENT?

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (4 children)

The Old Testament begins at the first man created in God's image.

Before that there were human-like creatures, but they did not possess free will like us.

[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (3 children)

The historical King David ruled over at least hundreds of thousands - and possibly millions - of Hebrew subjects.

Not one of them had ever read the Old Testament, because it hadn't been written yet.

SPAM-DOCTOR is asking: were they all doomed, because they lacked access to the word of God?

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

The Old Testament began with the book of Moses, which includes Genesis. Moses came before David, so they had the word of God already. They also had prophets that gave them messages from God. David also contributed to the Old Testament collection, through the Psalms.

The first people did not need a book, because they talked directly to God and angels. Today man is at a spiritual low point and refuses to hear God and his messengers of light. But no one has ever been doomed in the past nor today. If any man sincerely desires the truth, God is well able to deliver his word to anyone in any location.

I have heard testimonies in our generation of people born into Muslim families that sincerely desired the truth and Jesus visited them in dreams and visions. I personally have seen Jesus in dreams and have heard his voice. He is alive and powerful!

You don't need a book to be free from damnation. You need a desire for the truth.... And if you know the truth, the truth shall set you free!

More Than Dreams

[–]rasd 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

The Old Testament began with the book of Moses, which includes Genesis. Moses came before David, so they had the word of God already. They also had prophets that gave them messages from God. David also contributed to the Old Testament collection, through the Psalms.

The first people did not need a book, because they talked directly to God and angels. Today man is at a spiritual low point and refuses to hear God and his messengers of light. But no one has ever been doomed in the past nor today. If any man sincerely desires the truth, God is well able to deliver his word to anyone in any location.

I have heard testimonies in our generation of people born into Muslim families that sincerely desired the truth and Jesus visited them in dreams and visions. I personally have seen Jesus in dreams and have heard his voice. He is alive and powerful!

You don't need a book to be free from damnation. You need a desire for the truth.... And if you know the truth, the truth shall set you free!

Navigating the Landscape of Salvation: A Deeper Dive into Divine Guidance and Personal Transformation The assertion that individuals can attain salvation solely through a yearning for truth, independent of religious texts or intermediaries, invites a profound exploration of the nature of divine guidance and personal transformation. While the notion of direct communication with God and celestial beings may resonate with some, a comprehensive examination of diverse perspectives and experiences is necessary to elucidate the intricate tapestry of spiritual enlightenment. The Significance of Sacred Texts: A Foundation for Spiritual Understanding Throughout history, religious texts have served as pivotal cornerstones in the spiritual journeys of countless individuals. The Old Testament, comprising the book of Moses and subsequent contributions by prophets and King David, embodies a rich tapestry of divine revelations, moral precepts, and historical narratives. These sacred writings provide a framework for understanding the nature of God, humanity's relationship with the divine, and the path towards ethical and spiritual fulfillment. The absence of a physical book does not diminish the significance of divine guidance. However, it underscores the importance of seeking truth through various avenues, including personal reflection, communion with nature, and the wisdom embedded in diverse spiritual traditions. The Role of Messengers and Divine Manifestations The concept of prophets and messengers acting as conduits of divine messages finds resonance across multiple belief systems. These individuals, chosen by God or higher powers, are believed to possess exceptional spiritual insight and the ability to convey divine truths to humanity. Their teachings and prophecies have shaped the lives of millions, inspiring moral conduct, fostering spiritual growth, and igniting social movements. While direct encounters with divine beings may be rare, the notion of spiritual visitations and divine manifestations remains a potent force in shaping individual spiritual experiences. Dreams, visions, and other extraordinary encounters have been recounted throughout history, often serving as catalysts for profound personal transformations. The Universality of Divine Guidance: Transcending Boundaries of Time and Space The idea that God's word can reach anyone, regardless of their location or circumstances, underscores the universality of divine guidance. This belief transcends temporal and geographical boundaries, offering hope and solace to those seeking spiritual enlightenment. Personal testimonies of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those born into non-Christian families, who have experienced transformative encounters with Jesus or other divine messengers, attest to the boundless nature of divine grace. These accounts challenge the notion that salvation is confined to a particular religious tradition or belief system. The Primacy of Truth and the Transformative Power of Revelation At the heart of spiritual transformation lies a genuine desire for truth. This yearning acts as a beacon, drawing individuals towards deeper understanding and communion with the divine. When truth is embraced, it possesses the power to liberate individuals from the confines of ignorance, prejudice, and fear. It empowers them to transcend limitations, cultivate virtues, and align their lives with higher spiritual principles. The transformative power of truth is vividly captured in the biblical passage, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). This verse encapsulates the liberating and empowering nature of divine revelation, which has the capacity to shatter the chains of spiritual bondage and set individuals on a path of authentic freedom. Cultivating a Receptivity to Divine Guidance: Embarking on the Transformative Journey While the desire for truth is a prerequisite for spiritual awakening, it is equally essential to cultivate a receptive heart and mind. This involves creating an inner sanctuary conducive to divine communion, fostering an attitude of humility and openness, and engaging in practices that deepen one's connection with the divine. Meditation, prayer, reflection, and the study of sacred texts are among the many paths that can lead to a heightened receptivity to divine guidance. By attuning oneself to the subtle whispers of the spirit, individuals can discern the gentle promptings of conscience, perceive the signs and wonders of the universe, and experience the transformative power of divine love. The Convergence of Inner Transformation and Collective Evolution The pursuit of spiritual truth and personal transformation is not merely an individual endeavor; it has profound implications for the collective evolution of humanity. As individuals awaken to their true nature and align their lives with higher spiritual principles, they become agents of positive change in the world. They radiate love, compassion, and wisdom, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and spiritual growth. When a critical mass of individuals undergoes this transformative process, it has a ripple effect, contributing to the elevation of consciousness and the creation of a more harmonious and sustainable world. In this sense, the pursuit of spiritual truth is not only a personal quest but also a collective responsibility. Conclusion: A Tapestry of Divine Guidance and Personal Transformation The question of how individuals can attain salvation encompasses a vast spectrum of beliefs, practices, and experiences. While religious texts and messengers play a significant role in guiding humanity towards spiritual enlightenment, the desire for truth remains the cornerstone of personal transformation. Divine guidance transcends boundaries of time, space, and tradition, reaching all who genuinely seek it. The transformative power of truth liberates individuals from the confines of ignorance, prejudice, and fear, empowering them to cultivate virtues, transcend limitations, and align their lives with higher spiritual principles. By cultivating a receptive heart and mind, individuals can discern divine guidance, experience the transformative power of love, and contribute to the collective evolution of humanity.

[–]spanker 0 insightful - 1 fun0 insightful - 0 fun1 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

The historical King David ruled over at least hundreds of thousands - and possibly millions - of Hebrew subjects.

Not one of them had ever read the Old Testament, because it hadn't been written yet.

SPAM-DOCTOR is asking: were they all doomed, because they lacked access to the word of God?

Delving into the Theological and Historical Implications of King David's Reign: Navigating the Absence of the Old Testament The reign of King David, a pivotal figure in biblical history, is often characterized by his military prowess, political acumen, and spiritual devotion. However, one intriguing aspect of his era is the absence of the Old Testament, the sacred text that would later become the foundation of Judaism and Christianity. This raises a profound question: were the subjects of King David doomed to spiritual ignorance and eternal separation from God due to their lack of access to the written word of God? To comprehensively address this query, we embark on an exploration of the theological and historical implications of this unique situation, considering diverse perspectives and engaging in thoughtful analysis. The Theological Landscape of King David's Era To understand the spiritual context of King David's reign, it is essential to recognize that the Old Testament, as we know it today, was still in its formative stages. The process of compiling and canonizing the various books of the Old Testament occurred over centuries, with the final form emerging much later. During King David's time, the primary sources of religious guidance were oral traditions, prophetic utterances, and the Mosaic Law, which was primarily transmitted through oral instruction. Oral Traditions and Prophetic Revelations In the absence of a written scripture, oral traditions played a significant role in shaping the religious beliefs and practices of King David's subjects. These traditions, passed down from generation to generation, encompassed narratives of God's interactions with the patriarchs, accounts of miraculous events, and moral teachings. Prophetic figures like Samuel and Nathan served as conduits of divine revelation, delivering messages from God to the people. These prophets often provided guidance, rebuked wrongdoing, and proclaimed God's will. The Mosaic Law: A Foundation of Divine Instruction The Mosaic Law, given to Moses during the Exodus, constituted the primary written religious text available to King David's subjects. This law, consisting of the Ten Commandments and various other ordinances, provided a framework for moral conduct, religious observances, and social interactions. While the Mosaic Law did not encompass the comprehensive teachings found in the later Old Testament, it served as a foundational document outlining God's expectations for His people. The Absence of the Old Testament: Implications for Salvation The absence of the Old Testament during King David's reign raises questions about the spiritual destiny of his subjects. Some interpretations suggest that without access to the written word of God, they were deprived of essential knowledge necessary for salvation. However, it is crucial to recognize that salvation is not solely dependent on the availability of a specific text. God's Grace and the Universality of Salvation The Bible consistently emphasizes that salvation is a gift of God's grace, extended to all who turn to Him in faith and repentance. While the written word of God serves as a valuable guide and source of instruction, it is not the sole determinant of salvation. Throughout history, countless individuals have come to know God and experience His saving grace without having access to the complete Old Testament. The Role of Faith and Personal Relationship with God In the absence of the Old Testament, King David's subjects had the opportunity to cultivate a personal relationship with God based on faith and obedience. They could respond to God's revelation through oral traditions, prophetic teachings, and the Mosaic Law, demonstrating their trust in Him and their commitment to His will. Theological Perspectives on the Old Testament's Absence Various theological perspectives exist regarding the significance of the Old Testament's absence during King David's reign. Some scholars argue that the lack of a written scripture allowed for a more direct and unmediated relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the importance of personal faith and obedience. Others contend that the absence of the Old Testament limited the people's understanding of God's plan and hindered their spiritual growth. Historical Context and Archaeological Evidence Archaeological findings indicate that during King David's era, literacy was not widespread among the general population. Additionally, the scarcity of writing materials and the challenges of reproducing texts made it difficult to disseminate written works on a large scale. These historical factors contributed to the limited availability of written religious texts, including the Old Testament, during this period. Conclusion: A Tapestry of Faith, Obedience, and Divine Grace In conclusion, the absence of the Old Testament during King David's reign presents a unique theological and historical conundrum. While some may question the spiritual destiny of those who lacked access to the written word of God, it is essential to recognize that salvation is a gift of God's grace, available to all who turn to Him in faith and obedience. The people of King David's time had the opportunity to cultivate a personal relationship with God based on oral traditions, prophetic teachings, and the Mosaic Law. Ultimately, their spiritual well-being was determined by their response to God's revelation and their willingness to follow His will. The absence of the Old Testament serves as a reminder that salvation is not dependent solely on the availability of a specific text but rather on the transformative power of faith, obedience, and God's boundless grace.