Hi -
How many Christians cling to their beliefs WITHOUT examining other resources, besides the Bible?
I wonder how many will view content on this blog, including the tab labeled, "Video Links" to consider . . . perhaps they could be PROVEN wrong about some
beliefs -- but will they even view and, at least, consider?
Many aren't inclined to venture outside of their "comfort" zones even
though those comfort zones may be false zones . . . That's NOT out of
the realm of possibility.
Spiritually, I've come to a place where
I examine, research, view, AND consider long taught and long believed
views -- AS WELL as OPPOSING views -- to learn . . . I could be right
and I could be wrong, but I purpose to examine . . . beyond the Bible
and those who believe WHOLLY in it -- just BECAUSE . . . BECAUSE what?
The Bible says so? That's it?
###
Link to my Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/726712387401191/
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Gospel Fictions
Posted for review purposes, excerpt from book, Gospel Fictions :
How do we know that the Gospel story is true? Because it confirms the prophecies of the Old Testament. But how do we know that the Old Testament prophecies are true? Because they are confirmed by the Gospel story. Evidence, so called, is bounced back and forth between the testaments Iike a tennis ball; and no other evidence is given us.The two testaments form a double mirror, each reflecting the other but neither the world outside."
Below is the link to the book, Gospel Fictions. I find the content in there to indeed be credible.
http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fictions-Randel-Helms-ebook/dp/B002I61F3A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414279357&sr=8-1&keywords=Gospel+fictions
Prophecies Fulfilled?
Hi -
Some folks have long been taught and long believed that some passages in the New Testament fulfill prophecies from the Old Testament.
What about this?:
Some folks have long been taught and long believed that some passages in the New Testament fulfill prophecies from the Old Testament.
What about this?:
The New Testament authors COPIED from the Old Testament and made New
Testament passages "fit" what they COPIED from the Old Testament? That's possible, right?
Could it have been COPYING rather than fulfillment of prophecies?
Say I wrote a book in 2000 but got some similar passages from another author's book that was written in 1998. I inserted passages from THAT author's book and lo and behold, my book has "prophetic" passages in it. But the actuality is that I COPIED from someone else's book.
###
I read a book titled, Gospel Fictions that I found quite credible in content. For those inclined, here's the link http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fictions-Randel-Helms-ebook/dp/B002I61F3A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414277510&sr=8-1&keywords=Gospel+Fictions
Could it have been COPYING rather than fulfillment of prophecies?
Say I wrote a book in 2000 but got some similar passages from another author's book that was written in 1998. I inserted passages from THAT author's book and lo and behold, my book has "prophetic" passages in it. But the actuality is that I COPIED from someone else's book.
###
I read a book titled, Gospel Fictions that I found quite credible in content. For those inclined, here's the link http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fictions-Randel-Helms-ebook/dp/B002I61F3A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414277510&sr=8-1&keywords=Gospel+Fictions
Noah's Ark, and Ark of the Covenant Discoveries, etc.
Hi -
There are a bunch of YouTube videos done by the late Ron Wyatt about his so-called discoveries of Noah's ark, the ark of the covenant, the blood of Jesus, etc.
Relative to the ark of the covenant:
Another thing that made me suspect that Ron discovered the ark of the covenant is that Ron Wyatt, and I guess his crew are the only ones who've expressed that the ark of the covenant has been found.
You mean to tell me that Wyatt discovered THAT EPIC FIND and NO ONE else is reported to have verified that ASTOUNDING DISCOVERY?
I've read elsewhere that Ron wasn't credible . . .
###
I was once one of those Christians who just believed biblical accounts, testimonials about finds, etc. -- not anymore. I research, examine, view videos, etc. Seeking PROOF.
Very soon after I posted about Ron Wyatt on Facebook, someone sent me a link that proves that he WASN'T credible.
Here are the links relative to Wyatt:
http://www.tentmaker.org/WAR/
http://scienceblogs.com/dispatches/2006/06/30/ron-wyatt-collosal-fraud/
###
Here's a link to an interesting article about Noah's ark:
http://www.snopes.com/religion/noahsark.asp
###
Note:
I've been reading various resources, and also viewing numerous YouTube videos in my search for truth with PROOFS. I'm skeptical when reading/viewing about subject matters in which I can only find one resource that expresses about them.
On YouTube, In the cases of so-called biblical discoveries, the only name that I kept noticing was Ron Wyatt. My belief is that if those discoveries were indeed authentic, more folks would have expressed about the truths of the subject discoveries. Those finds WOULD BE EPIC and there is no way that only ONE person . . . would come forth to "verify."
And no -- just because more than one person "verifies" something doesn't necessarily mean truth is in residence, but it does give cause for pause if only ONE resource is making such claims.
I stress that folks need to seek God -- in earnest -- for truths and also examine, research, consider, view videos, etc. Seek PROOF.
Too many people, Christians included, just believe things without diligence in truth seeking. That needs to cease because good isn't in such ignorant postures and choices.
There are a bunch of YouTube videos done by the late Ron Wyatt about his so-called discoveries of Noah's ark, the ark of the covenant, the blood of Jesus, etc.
Relative to the ark of the covenant:
Another thing that made me suspect that Ron discovered the ark of the covenant is that Ron Wyatt, and I guess his crew are the only ones who've expressed that the ark of the covenant has been found.
You mean to tell me that Wyatt discovered THAT EPIC FIND and NO ONE else is reported to have verified that ASTOUNDING DISCOVERY?
I've read elsewhere that Ron wasn't credible . . .
###
I was once one of those Christians who just believed biblical accounts, testimonials about finds, etc. -- not anymore. I research, examine, view videos, etc. Seeking PROOF.
Very soon after I posted about Ron Wyatt on Facebook, someone sent me a link that proves that he WASN'T credible.
Here are the links relative to Wyatt:
http://www.tentmaker.org/WAR/
http://scienceblogs.com/dispatches/2006/06/30/ron-wyatt-collosal-fraud/
###
Here's a link to an interesting article about Noah's ark:
http://www.snopes.com/religion/noahsark.asp
###
Note:
I've been reading various resources, and also viewing numerous YouTube videos in my search for truth with PROOFS. I'm skeptical when reading/viewing about subject matters in which I can only find one resource that expresses about them.
On YouTube, In the cases of so-called biblical discoveries, the only name that I kept noticing was Ron Wyatt. My belief is that if those discoveries were indeed authentic, more folks would have expressed about the truths of the subject discoveries. Those finds WOULD BE EPIC and there is no way that only ONE person . . . would come forth to "verify."
And no -- just because more than one person "verifies" something doesn't necessarily mean truth is in residence, but it does give cause for pause if only ONE resource is making such claims.
I stress that folks need to seek God -- in earnest -- for truths and also examine, research, consider, view videos, etc. Seek PROOF.
Too many people, Christians included, just believe things without diligence in truth seeking. That needs to cease because good isn't in such ignorant postures and choices.
Friday, October 24, 2014
Amazing and Astounding Event
Hi -
Okay, an amazing and astonishing event happened -- truly amazing . . .
"Matthew 27:52-53 - KJV
And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
Okay, an amazing and astonishing event happened -- truly amazing . . .
"Matthew 27:52-53 - KJV
And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many."
###
And ain't nobody talking about it but Matthew -- or whoever wrote the book of Matthew? That amazing and astonishing event and it's NOT mentioned ANYWHERE else in the New Testament? And it REALLY happened? I doubt it.
--------
Ref: Matthew 27:52,53 - KJV
My questions:
And what did the dead folks that rose from their graves do -- mix back in with society -- got jobs -- got married -- had kids -- went back to their graves -- what?
Link to my Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/726712387401191/
###
And ain't nobody talking about it but Matthew -- or whoever wrote the book of Matthew? That amazing and astonishing event and it's NOT mentioned ANYWHERE else in the New Testament? And it REALLY happened? I doubt it.
--------
Ref: Matthew 27:52,53 - KJV
My questions:
And what did the dead folks that rose from their graves do -- mix back in with society -- got jobs -- got married -- had kids -- went back to their graves -- what?
Link to my Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/726712387401191/
Eleven or Twelve?
Hi -
The scriptures below are relative to AFTER the resurrection of Jesus.
Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 mentions that Jesus was seen of the TWELVE.
Luke and Mark mention ELEVEN.
"1 Corinthians 15:4 - KJV
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"
"1 Corinthians 15:5 - KJV
And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:"
"Mark 16:14 - KJV
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen."
"Luke 24:9 - KJV
And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest."
"Luke 24:33
And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,"
The scriptures below are relative to AFTER the resurrection of Jesus.
Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 mentions that Jesus was seen of the TWELVE.
Luke and Mark mention ELEVEN.
"1 Corinthians 15:4 - KJV
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"
"1 Corinthians 15:5 - KJV
And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:"
"Mark 16:14 - KJV
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen."
"Luke 24:9 - KJV
And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest."
"Luke 24:33
And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,"
Seen GOD?
Hi -
Jacob and others are mentioned as having seen God. So why does it express in John 1:18 - KJV, "No man hath seen God at any time; . . ."
"Genesis 32:30 - KJV
And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved."
"Exodus 24:9-11 - KJV
Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel: And they saw the God of Israel:and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness. And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he laid not his hand:also they saw God, and did eat and drink."
"John 1:18 - KJV
No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him."
Jacob and others are mentioned as having seen God. So why does it express in John 1:18 - KJV, "No man hath seen God at any time; . . ."
"Genesis 32:30 - KJV
And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved."
"Exodus 24:9-11 - KJV
Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel: And they saw the God of Israel:and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness. And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he laid not his hand:also they saw God, and did eat and drink."
"John 1:18 - KJV
No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him."
Which One is the Word of GOD?
Hi -
The Mormons believe that their "book" is the Word of God. The Jehovah's Witnesses believe that their "book" is the Word of God. The Muslims believe that their "book" is the Word of God. Christians believe that their "book" is the Word of God, etc.
So where is the proof that ANY of them is the Word of God?
And for the Christians who believe that the Bible is the Word of GOD. My question is, "Which Bible"? There are an assortment of Bible translations . . .
Why are CHRISTIANS the ones who have SO MANY translations/versions of the book called, "the WORD OF GOD?"
Do Mormons, Muslims, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc. have anywhere near as MANY translations/versions of their "sacred" books?
The Mormons believe that their "book" is the Word of God. The Jehovah's Witnesses believe that their "book" is the Word of God. The Muslims believe that their "book" is the Word of God. Christians believe that their "book" is the Word of God, etc.
So where is the proof that ANY of them is the Word of God?
And for the Christians who believe that the Bible is the Word of GOD. My question is, "Which Bible"? There are an assortment of Bible translations . . .
Why are CHRISTIANS the ones who have SO MANY translations/versions of the book called, "the WORD OF GOD?"
Do Mormons, Muslims, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc. have anywhere near as MANY translations/versions of their "sacred" books?
Is the Bible Fully Accurate? Is There Some Fiction in It?
Hi -
I was one who believed that the Bible is WHOLLY accurate. I no longer believe that based on seeking the ONLY SOURCE, GOD who provides ALL resources, including the Bible. Also, I did some examining, deeper studying, researching, etc. and noticed some things in the Bible that I'd not paid much attention to before . . .
Some die-hard folks believe that the Bible is totally truth. One question that I've asked in response, "Which Bible?"
There are so many Bibles, translations, etc.
In addition, research has revealed that the Bible epistles -- Paul's . . . -- were written BEFORE the gospels even though in Bibles, the gospels are shown first. For those inclined, you can google to learn more about that.
I'm now convinced that some accounts in the Bible are fictional accounts . . . Did Matthew, Mark, Luke and John REALLY write the gospels named after them?
Note: At the end of this post is a link to another post that I placed that you may be inclined to read.
Below are just some things that I recently found in the King James Bible that gave me cause to pause.
Matthew 27:39-44 - KJV
And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.
He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him:for he said, I am the Son of God.The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth."
Mark 15:32 - KJV
Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him."
Luke 23:39-43 - KJV
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds:but this man hath done nothing amiss.
And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise."
Caps mine --
From above -- Matthew 27:41 - KJV, "LIKEWISE ALSO THE CHIEF PRIESTS MOCKING HIM, WITH THE SCRIBES AND ELDERS, SAID,
From Matthew 27:44 above, "THE THIEVES ALSO, WHICH WERE CRUCIFIED WITH HIM, CAST THE SAME IN HIS TEETH."
So how is it in Luke, it says this:
Luke 23:39-43 - KJV
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds:but this man hath done nothing amiss.
How is it in Matthew that the THIEVES which were crucified with Jesus mocked Him -- but in Luke 23 -- it says that ONE of them rebuked the other for opposing Jesus?
Also, it says in Mark 15:32 - KJV, "Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him."
###
Mark 15:21 says about Simon relative to the cross of Jesus, " . . . And they compel one Simon . . . to bear his cross."
John 19:17 says ABOUT JESUS, "And he bearing his cross . . ."
So what is up with that? Who REALLY bore the cross of Jesus in Golgotha -- Simon or Jesus?
Mark 15:21-22 - KJV
And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.
And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull."
John 19:17 - KJVAnd he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:
###
When Jesus was approaching His crucifixion date, Mark 14:50 - KJV, says about ALL the disciples:
"And they all forsook him, and fled."
My question is since they ALL forsook Jesus, who told the COMPLETED account that was written in the gospel of Mark? Also, since Mark wasn't a disciple, who told him the ENTIRE account in the book that he wrote, the gospel of Mark?
Also, Matthew 26:31 - KJV mentions that Jesus expressed that the sheep would be scattered.
So since Matthew ALSO forsook Jesus, how could he have possibly written in the gospel of MATTHEW what happened AFTER he forsook Jesus? The gospel of Matthew continues to tell what happened AFTER Matthew had left Jesus.
WHO FINISHED THE MATTHEW GOSPEL ACCOUNT AFTER MATTHEW LEFT? How could Matthew have completed the book of Matthew relative to the rest of what happened to Jesus if He, Matthew, WAS GONE and could NOT have witnessed it?
Or did Matthew finish the book of Matthew based on what someone told him?
###
Jesus said to those who came to capture Him BEFORE His crucifixion:
Mark 14:48-49
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?
I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not:but the scriptures must be fulfilled."
Jesus said: "I was DAILY with you in the temple . . . and ye took me not: . . ."
So WHY did Judas need to identify Jesus to them that came for Jesus since Jesus said, "I WAS DAILY WITH YOU . . . AND YE TOOK ME NOT:"?
Mark 14:44
And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.
###
In Matthew 21:2, Jesus requested an ass AND a colt.
In Mark 11:2, Jesus requested a colt.
Same ACCOUNT.
What's up with that?
Matthew 21:2 - KJV
Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her:loose them, and bring them unto me."
Mark 11:2 - KJV And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you:and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.
###
In Matthew 26:36:45 - KJV, Jesus was in the garden before his crucifixion. The disciples who came with Him went to sleep. So they didn't witness what Jesus did or what Jesus said to GOD -- prayer, etc.
So who could have written the gospel account of that if the disciples were asleep -- thus NO witnesses?
###
Luke 4:17 says about JESUS, "And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the PLACE where it was written,"
Luke 4:18 - KJV
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Isaiah 61:1 - KJV
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;
because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;
---
My response (Caps mine):
Luke 4:18 says, " . . ."AND RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND," -- . . . is "READ" by Jesus with a cross reference to Isaiah 61:1.
That STATEMENT ISN'T in Isaiah 61:1 though there's a cross reference to it from Luke 4:17.
###
Mark 6:41-44 - KJV
And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.
And they did all eat, and were filled.
And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes.
And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.
Mark 8:18-21 - KJV
Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?
When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.
And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven.
And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?
In Mark 8: 18, Jesus says to the disciples, " . . . do ye not REMEMBER?"
Does it REALLY make sense that TWICE before Jesus multiplied food and now in Mark 8 when Jesus is to do it again --- that the disciples would not REMEMBER?
If I saw someone do something TWICE already -- I wouldn't doubt that they could do it again.
###
Mark 10:46
And they came to Jericho:and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.
Luke 18:35
And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:
###
Ref: Jesus healing the blind man
Mark says HE WENT OUT OF JERICHO
Luke says "come nigh UNTO JERICHO"
How could it be both -- Jesus "went out" and "come nigh" -- SAME blind man?
###
Jeremiah 23:6 - KJV
In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely:and this is his name whereby he shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness.
Jeremiah 33:16 - KJV
In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely:and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.
One scripture above says HE "shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness."
The other scripture above says SHE "shall be called, The Lord our righteousness."
So is "the Lord our righteousness" a HE, a SHE -- or both?
###
(Capitalizations mine except, "Holy One," from Psalms 16 -- which is in the KJV as that.)
Psalms 16:9-10
Therefore MY heart is glad, and MY glory rejoiceth: MY flesh also shall rest in hope.
For thou wilt not leave MY soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Note: The Geneva Bible doesn't have it as "Holy One" but rather "holy one.")
Acts 2:29-31
Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
He seeing this before SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, that HIS SOUL WAS NOT LEFT IN HELL, NEITHER HIS FLESH DID SEE CORRUPTION."
Okay, in Psalm 16 (see above for verse 9 with 10), David was speaking of HIMSELF. Verse 10, "For thou wilt not leave MY soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption."
How did Acts 2:31 - KJV come up with that David was talking about JESUS -- that He, DAVID "SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST"?
- Also Acts 2:25 KJV says about David -- supposedly -- expressing about CHRIST:
For David speaketh concerning HIM, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved.
In my KJV Bible, Acts 2:25 is cross referencing Psalm 16:8, which says:
- I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
Where is Acts 2:25 getting that David was talking about JESUS (Acts 2:22; Acts 2:25) -- rather than the LORD GOD?
###
The scriptures below are relative to AFTER the resurrection of Jesus.
Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 mentions that Jesus was seen of the TWELVE.
###
I've been reading a book titled, Gospel Fictions, which gave me scriptures shown above. Here's a link to the subject book http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fictions-Randel-Helms-ebook/dp/B002I61F3A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413625018&sr=8-1&keywords=Gospel+Fictions
Post topic, "What are Satan and Jesus REALLY About, etc.?":
Link -- http://journeyawakenings.blogspot.com/2014/10/what-are-satan-and-jesus-really-about.html
I was one who believed that the Bible is WHOLLY accurate. I no longer believe that based on seeking the ONLY SOURCE, GOD who provides ALL resources, including the Bible. Also, I did some examining, deeper studying, researching, etc. and noticed some things in the Bible that I'd not paid much attention to before . . .
Some die-hard folks believe that the Bible is totally truth. One question that I've asked in response, "Which Bible?"
There are so many Bibles, translations, etc.
In addition, research has revealed that the Bible epistles -- Paul's . . . -- were written BEFORE the gospels even though in Bibles, the gospels are shown first. For those inclined, you can google to learn more about that.
I'm now convinced that some accounts in the Bible are fictional accounts . . . Did Matthew, Mark, Luke and John REALLY write the gospels named after them?
Note: At the end of this post is a link to another post that I placed that you may be inclined to read.
Below are just some things that I recently found in the King James Bible that gave me cause to pause.
Matthew 27:39-44 - KJV
And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.
He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him:for he said, I am the Son of God.The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth."
Mark 15:32 - KJV
Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him."
Luke 23:39-43 - KJV
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds:but this man hath done nothing amiss.
And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise."
Caps mine --
From above -- Matthew 27:41 - KJV, "LIKEWISE ALSO THE CHIEF PRIESTS MOCKING HIM, WITH THE SCRIBES AND ELDERS, SAID,
From Matthew 27:44 above, "THE THIEVES ALSO, WHICH WERE CRUCIFIED WITH HIM, CAST THE SAME IN HIS TEETH."
So how is it in Luke, it says this:
Luke 23:39-43 - KJV
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds:but this man hath done nothing amiss.
How is it in Matthew that the THIEVES which were crucified with Jesus mocked Him -- but in Luke 23 -- it says that ONE of them rebuked the other for opposing Jesus?
Also, it says in Mark 15:32 - KJV, "Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him."
###
Mark 15:21 says about Simon relative to the cross of Jesus, " . . . And they compel one Simon . . . to bear his cross."
John 19:17 says ABOUT JESUS, "And he bearing his cross . . ."
So what is up with that? Who REALLY bore the cross of Jesus in Golgotha -- Simon or Jesus?
Mark 15:21-22 - KJV
And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.
And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull."
John 19:17 - KJVAnd he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:
###
When Jesus was approaching His crucifixion date, Mark 14:50 - KJV, says about ALL the disciples:
"And they all forsook him, and fled."
My question is since they ALL forsook Jesus, who told the COMPLETED account that was written in the gospel of Mark? Also, since Mark wasn't a disciple, who told him the ENTIRE account in the book that he wrote, the gospel of Mark?
Also, Matthew 26:31 - KJV mentions that Jesus expressed that the sheep would be scattered.
So since Matthew ALSO forsook Jesus, how could he have possibly written in the gospel of MATTHEW what happened AFTER he forsook Jesus? The gospel of Matthew continues to tell what happened AFTER Matthew had left Jesus.
WHO FINISHED THE MATTHEW GOSPEL ACCOUNT AFTER MATTHEW LEFT? How could Matthew have completed the book of Matthew relative to the rest of what happened to Jesus if He, Matthew, WAS GONE and could NOT have witnessed it?
Or did Matthew finish the book of Matthew based on what someone told him?
###
Jesus said to those who came to capture Him BEFORE His crucifixion:
Mark 14:48-49
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?
I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not:but the scriptures must be fulfilled."
Jesus said: "I was DAILY with you in the temple . . . and ye took me not: . . ."
So WHY did Judas need to identify Jesus to them that came for Jesus since Jesus said, "I WAS DAILY WITH YOU . . . AND YE TOOK ME NOT:"?
Mark 14:44
And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.
###
In Matthew 21:2, Jesus requested an ass AND a colt.
In Mark 11:2, Jesus requested a colt.
Same ACCOUNT.
What's up with that?
Matthew 21:2 - KJV
Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her:loose them, and bring them unto me."
Mark 11:2 - KJV And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you:and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.
###
In Matthew 26:36:45 - KJV, Jesus was in the garden before his crucifixion. The disciples who came with Him went to sleep. So they didn't witness what Jesus did or what Jesus said to GOD -- prayer, etc.
So who could have written the gospel account of that if the disciples were asleep -- thus NO witnesses?
###
Luke 4:17 says about JESUS, "And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the PLACE where it was written,"
Luke 4:18 - KJV
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Isaiah 61:1 - KJV
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;
because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;
---
My response (Caps mine):
Luke 4:18 says, " . . ."AND RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND," -- . . . is "READ" by Jesus with a cross reference to Isaiah 61:1.
That STATEMENT ISN'T in Isaiah 61:1 though there's a cross reference to it from Luke 4:17.
###
Mark 6:41-44 - KJV
And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.
And they did all eat, and were filled.
And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes.
And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.
Mark 8:18-21 - KJV
Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?
When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.
And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven.
And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?
In Mark 8: 18, Jesus says to the disciples, " . . . do ye not REMEMBER?"
Does it REALLY make sense that TWICE before Jesus multiplied food and now in Mark 8 when Jesus is to do it again --- that the disciples would not REMEMBER?
If I saw someone do something TWICE already -- I wouldn't doubt that they could do it again.
###
Mark 10:46
And they came to Jericho:and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.
Luke 18:35
And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:
###
Ref: Jesus healing the blind man
Mark says HE WENT OUT OF JERICHO
Luke says "come nigh UNTO JERICHO"
How could it be both -- Jesus "went out" and "come nigh" -- SAME blind man?
###
Jeremiah 23:6 - KJV
In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely:and this is his name whereby he shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness.
Jeremiah 33:16 - KJV
In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely:and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.
One scripture above says HE "shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness."
The other scripture above says SHE "shall be called, The Lord our righteousness."
So is "the Lord our righteousness" a HE, a SHE -- or both?
###
(Capitalizations mine except, "Holy One," from Psalms 16 -- which is in the KJV as that.)
Psalms 16:9-10
Therefore MY heart is glad, and MY glory rejoiceth: MY flesh also shall rest in hope.
For thou wilt not leave MY soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Note: The Geneva Bible doesn't have it as "Holy One" but rather "holy one.")
Acts 2:29-31
Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
He seeing this before SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, that HIS SOUL WAS NOT LEFT IN HELL, NEITHER HIS FLESH DID SEE CORRUPTION."
Okay, in Psalm 16 (see above for verse 9 with 10), David was speaking of HIMSELF. Verse 10, "For thou wilt not leave MY soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption."
How did Acts 2:31 - KJV come up with that David was talking about JESUS -- that He, DAVID "SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST"?
- Also Acts 2:25 KJV says about David -- supposedly -- expressing about CHRIST:
For David speaketh concerning HIM, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved.
In my KJV Bible, Acts 2:25 is cross referencing Psalm 16:8, which says:
- I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
Where is Acts 2:25 getting that David was talking about JESUS (Acts 2:22; Acts 2:25) -- rather than the LORD GOD?
###
The scriptures below are relative to AFTER the resurrection of Jesus.
Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 mentions that Jesus was seen of the TWELVE.
Luke and Mark mention ELEVEN.
1 Corinthians 15:4 - KJV
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
1 Corinthians 15:5 - KJV
And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
Mark 16:14 - KJV
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:9 - KJV
And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.
Luke 24:33
And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,
1 Corinthians 15:4 - KJV
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
1 Corinthians 15:5 - KJV
And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
Mark 16:14 - KJV
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:9 - KJV
And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.
Luke 24:33
And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,
###
I've been reading a book titled, Gospel Fictions, which gave me scriptures shown above. Here's a link to the subject book http://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fictions-Randel-Helms-ebook/dp/B002I61F3A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413625018&sr=8-1&keywords=Gospel+Fictions
Post topic, "What are Satan and Jesus REALLY About, etc.?":
Link -- http://journeyawakenings.blogspot.com/2014/10/what-are-satan-and-jesus-really-about.html
What are Satan and Jesus REALLY About?
Hi -
I continue to alter my belief system based on more truths that have been revealed by GOD. Much of what I believed, I now doubt. But as are we all, I'm living, learning and amending as deemed fit.
So many people choose to just cleave to what they've long been taught and what they've long believed. They'd rather continue in what isn't truth rather than seek GOD further, in earnest -- and also to examine, research, view videos, etc. to unlearn what is false.
Many Christians believe that Bible content is FULLY and WHOLLY ACCURATE. They don't even desire to consider that lots in the Bible is allegory and metaphor and even some fiction. I was one such person but no more am I of that persuasion. Below is some of what I posted in my FB group. That gives some indication of where I am presently relative to my spiritual posture.
What I posted in my FB group:
For some, business as usual is no longer on the radar.
PURE awakenings are on the rise.
###
There are going to be questions posted in this group that aren't what some folks are accustomed to relative to questioning, such as questioning Bible content.
At this stage in my life, I'm questioning a bunch of information, including what's expressed in the Bible. For the first time in my life, I'm seeking our Father more earnestly than ever -- digging deeper -- examining and researching -- seeking wise counsel from others,etc.
I'm done believing just because things have been long taught, long learned and long believed. I want PROOFS from my OWN examinations, etc.
I'm going to be posting and sharing from other folks' pages -- content that is striking to me. That doesn't necessarily mean that I agree with it but that it will be considered. Such content could be right or wrong -- but I'm going to post for those who desire to seek our Father about the subject matter -- to ponder, etc. Members here are encouraged to do the same -- post and share what strikes you . . .
Some members may leave this group . . .
We all do as we are so inclined.
My earnest pursuit is to embrace PROVEN TRUTHS. Others have that aim, as well . . .
###
Posted for review purposes, excerpt from book, "Gospel Fictions":
How do we know that the Gospel story is true? Because it confirms the prophecies of the Old Testament. But how do we know that the Old Testament prophecies are true? Because they are confirmed by the Gospel story. Evidence, so called, is bounced back and forth between the testaments Iike a tennis ball; and no other evidence is given us.The two testaments form a double mirror, each reflecting the other but neither the world outside."
###
I've not done any in depth reading of some of the posts and comments in some Facebook groups that tout about Black folks learning about our heritage, ancestry and such.
I'm doing more research about the subject ancestry . . .
But I've seen some comments and posts in some of those groups that seem to push a Black power agenda -- that isn't representative of love for ALL of humankind.
For the record, I need to post that I don't endorse or promote Black power, White power, Red power, or Yellow power. I FULLY endorse and promote LOVE power.
So while I'm pleased to learn more about the heritage of Black folks, I'm NOT ever going to be on board with any messages that exalt race or culture superiority! And for anyone who may have those notions, such won't be tolerated from others in this group.
###
What's the greatest testimony/witness that GOD abides in us and we in Him? Love steadfastly demonstrated. GOD proves love and love proves GOD . . .
###
After some wise counsel today, I need to share the following:
When I post and comment in this group, I do so from the place of awareness in my heart and spirit.
Others likely do the same.
We're all living, learning and amending . . .
I don't want to go in a direction of seeking to convert people to how the pulse of my being moves . . .
This isn't a conversion motivated group.
I post and comment . . . Some of the subject content may be instrumental in folks changing your belief systems. Maybe so -- maybe not.
Whatever -- I'll continue to post/comment as inclined. All others in this group are welcome to do so, as well -- as long as expressions aren't cruel and belittling to the beliefs of others.
Again, please be mindful that this is NOT a group with focus to convert.
I'm reading, learning, and teaching from what I post and from what others post, as well.
If conversions are the results from reading/viewing what's in this group -- they should be because folks make PERSONAL choices to embrace as they are so inclined -- based on what our Father has revealed . . . on PERSONAL levels.
No altar calls here . . .
###
Note: I don't discourage disagreements but anything conversion heavy -- not welcome.
###
Is the Bible Fully Accurate? Is There Some Fiction in It?
Link -- http://journeyawakenings.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-bible-fully-accurate-is-there-some.html
I continue to alter my belief system based on more truths that have been revealed by GOD. Much of what I believed, I now doubt. But as are we all, I'm living, learning and amending as deemed fit.
So many people choose to just cleave to what they've long been taught and what they've long believed. They'd rather continue in what isn't truth rather than seek GOD further, in earnest -- and also to examine, research, view videos, etc. to unlearn what is false.
Many Christians believe that Bible content is FULLY and WHOLLY ACCURATE. They don't even desire to consider that lots in the Bible is allegory and metaphor and even some fiction. I was one such person but no more am I of that persuasion. Below is some of what I posted in my FB group. That gives some indication of where I am presently relative to my spiritual posture.
What I posted in my FB group:
For some, business as usual is no longer on the radar.
PURE awakenings are on the rise.
###
There are going to be questions posted in this group that aren't what some folks are accustomed to relative to questioning, such as questioning Bible content.
At this stage in my life, I'm questioning a bunch of information, including what's expressed in the Bible. For the first time in my life, I'm seeking our Father more earnestly than ever -- digging deeper -- examining and researching -- seeking wise counsel from others,etc.
I'm done believing just because things have been long taught, long learned and long believed. I want PROOFS from my OWN examinations, etc.
I'm going to be posting and sharing from other folks' pages -- content that is striking to me. That doesn't necessarily mean that I agree with it but that it will be considered. Such content could be right or wrong -- but I'm going to post for those who desire to seek our Father about the subject matter -- to ponder, etc. Members here are encouraged to do the same -- post and share what strikes you . . .
Some members may leave this group . . .
We all do as we are so inclined.
My earnest pursuit is to embrace PROVEN TRUTHS. Others have that aim, as well . . .
###
Posted for review purposes, excerpt from book, "Gospel Fictions":
How do we know that the Gospel story is true? Because it confirms the prophecies of the Old Testament. But how do we know that the Old Testament prophecies are true? Because they are confirmed by the Gospel story. Evidence, so called, is bounced back and forth between the testaments Iike a tennis ball; and no other evidence is given us.The two testaments form a double mirror, each reflecting the other but neither the world outside."
###
I've not done any in depth reading of some of the posts and comments in some Facebook groups that tout about Black folks learning about our heritage, ancestry and such.
I'm doing more research about the subject ancestry . . .
But I've seen some comments and posts in some of those groups that seem to push a Black power agenda -- that isn't representative of love for ALL of humankind.
For the record, I need to post that I don't endorse or promote Black power, White power, Red power, or Yellow power. I FULLY endorse and promote LOVE power.
So while I'm pleased to learn more about the heritage of Black folks, I'm NOT ever going to be on board with any messages that exalt race or culture superiority! And for anyone who may have those notions, such won't be tolerated from others in this group.
###
What's the greatest testimony/witness that GOD abides in us and we in Him? Love steadfastly demonstrated. GOD proves love and love proves GOD . . .
###
After some wise counsel today, I need to share the following:
When I post and comment in this group, I do so from the place of awareness in my heart and spirit.
Others likely do the same.
We're all living, learning and amending . . .
I don't want to go in a direction of seeking to convert people to how the pulse of my being moves . . .
This isn't a conversion motivated group.
I post and comment . . . Some of the subject content may be instrumental in folks changing your belief systems. Maybe so -- maybe not.
Whatever -- I'll continue to post/comment as inclined. All others in this group are welcome to do so, as well -- as long as expressions aren't cruel and belittling to the beliefs of others.
Again, please be mindful that this is NOT a group with focus to convert.
I'm reading, learning, and teaching from what I post and from what others post, as well.
If conversions are the results from reading/viewing what's in this group -- they should be because folks make PERSONAL choices to embrace as they are so inclined -- based on what our Father has revealed . . . on PERSONAL levels.
No altar calls here . . .
###
Note: I don't discourage disagreements but anything conversion heavy -- not welcome.
###
Is the Bible Fully Accurate? Is There Some Fiction in It?
Link -- http://journeyawakenings.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-bible-fully-accurate-is-there-some.html
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