Originally posted by LordOfTheChessboardI've seen an encounter with God change peoples lives for the better when nothing else worked. I myself experienced such a revolution. I've seen people recieve prayer for cancer and other serious medical conditions, which, upon return to a doctor, no longer can be detected. I've had my own prayers answered in ways that defy all odds.
Could you give an example of your personal experience? (im just very currious)
Originally posted by yousersI believe you.
I've seen an encounter with God change peoples lives for the better when nothing else worked. I myself experienced such a revolution. I've seen people recieve prayer for cancer and other serious medical conditions, which, upon return to a doctor, no longer can be detected. I've had my own prayers answered in ways that defy all odds.
At the same time, people have cured themselves of cancer through visualisation exercises without reference to God, although some of them will invoke a "higher self". Then there is the case of Austin Osman Spare, the magician who used his nicotine addiction to work magic, rather than using magic to cure himself of nicotine addiction.
In my (exalted) opinion, these things work whether the results are ascribed to God, god, the Higher Self, or the sub-conscious. What's up with that?
Originally posted by Bosse de NageGood point. I agree that things like these happen without any connection to God or even religion. I think its an illustration of the existence of a spirtual world that is not exclusive to one being. God is all-powerful and omniscient, but he is not the only supernatural power. That might sound like a bunch of religious dogma, and it is.
I believe you.
At the same time, people have cured themselves of cancer through visualisation exercises without reference to God, although some of them will invoke a "higher self". Then there is the case of Austin Osman Spare, the magician who used his nicotine addiction to work magic, rather than using magic to cure himself of nicotine addiction. ...[text shortened]... e results are ascribed to God, god, the Higher Self, or the sub-conscious. What's up with that?
Your point is taken; I can't logically base faith on supernatural events when God is not the exclusive cause of them. These things are only faith-builders. My belief lies in my first-hand experience of such things within my own life, and ultimately on a personal relationship with God. I believe the only way to have real faith is to interact personally with a living God.
Originally posted by Bosse de NageAgreed, that there is much we do not know. I can only say that according to the bible there will be deception going on as well. The bible says there is demonic activity and much of that is used in a deceptive way to confuse people and leave them wondering about the authenticity of the bible.
I believe you.
At the same time, people have cured themselves of cancer through visualisation exercises without reference to God, although some of them will invoke a "higher self". Then there is the case of Austin Osman Spare, the magician who used his nicotine addiction to work magic, rather than using magic to cure himself of nicotine addiction. ...[text shortened]... e results are ascribed to God, god, the Higher Self, or the sub-conscious. What's up with that?
Originally posted by checkbaiterThis is self-perpetuating nonsense. "This book is THE WORD OF GOD. Any attempt to cast doubt on the truth of this statement is the WORK OF THE DEVIL and goes against THE WORD OF GOD". (Capitalized for the benefit of BF101). Do you see the circular reasoning inherent in this position?
Agreed, that there is much we do not know. I can only say that according to the bible there will be deception going on as well. The bible says there is demonic activity and much of that is used in a deceptive way to confuse people and leave them wondering about the authenticity of the bible.
Originally posted by David CAre you a demon?
This is self-perpetuating nonsense. "This book is THE WORD OF GOD. Any attempt to cast doubt on the truth of this statement is the WORK OF THE DEVIL and goes against THE WORD OF GOD". (Capitalized for the benefit of BF101). Do you see the circular reasoning inherent in this position?