The Dangerous Lie That You Don’t Need to Repent

[Garee]

Not all who asked for last rights are trying to escape from their judgment. Both my parents for instance, very holy people. Both asked for last rights. It wasn't because they had lived a life full of sin and we're looking for some escapee route. It was because that they wanted the last blessing possible to sleep receive the last Grace before death

Believers receive the end of their new born again faith (Christ in us) from the beginning.

1 Peter 1:7-11That the trial of your (born again) faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:;Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:Receiving the end of your( born again)faith, even the salvation of your souls.;Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:;Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

When discussing last rights or purgatory keep in mind the other side of the coin. Those who continue to crucify Christ over and over to public shame as if one demonstration of the lamb slain form the six days the Father did the "Let there be" good work

Hebrew 6:4For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,;If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

 

[Kermos]

The Christ of us Christians says

And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:​

- Luke 6:46-47 KJV

Please elaborate on your purpose for posting that Word of God in response to the following:

The Christ of us Christians says
“This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Paul wrote to the Ephesians “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work” (Ephesians 2:8-10).

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Peter declared “God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith” (Acts 15:8-9).

So, clearly, Jesus’ words in John 6:29 state for us believers to believe in Jesus whom the Father has sent is exclusively by/of/through God.

All glory and honor and adoration to Jesus the Lord, now and forevermore!
​

 

[Kermos]

Well I gotta say, that's a first.

(We'll see how this pans out....)

Agape,
Rhema

You sound like you disagree with Lord Jesus Christ's loving saying of “he who practices the Truth comes to the Light, that his works may be revealed, that they are having been worked in God” (John 3:21).

And, in turn, you also appear to disagree with the Apostle Paul who is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for he wrote to the Philippians “being filled with the fruit of righteousness that [is] by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:11).

God is Love, and the Light lovingly peirced the darkness of me to convert me from one under the wrath of God into one of the Kingdom of God under my King Jesus Christ.

 

[Rhema]

Please elaborate on your purpose for posting that Word of God in response to the following:

I think the verse rather speaks for itself and needs no elaboration from me.

Unlike Modern English, though, in modern French (as with Koine Greek) one cannot say they know something without being able to do that something. One does not know Chemistry unless one can do Chemistry. It literally isn't in the language. Americans tend to say they know something even when they cannot do that thing. In essence, Americans know about things without being able to do them.

In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing. It's locked into the language. One cannot say they believe without the doing of that which they believe. The American (or English language) mindset separates the two, and hence cannot understand the implications of "John" 6:29 as it was initially written.

So, clearly, Jesus’ words in John 6:29 state for us believers to believe in Jesus whom the Father has sent is exclusively by/of/through God.

No.

It's not clear. Not clear at all. The Gospel named John was not written in English. Now I cannot recall if it was the third or fourth year of Greek where this is explained, but to "Believe in Jesus" means to DO that which Jesus taught. There's no conceptual separation between "believing" and "doing."

To derive doctrine from English translations is just plain dangerous.

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Paul wrote to the Ephesians “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work” (Ephesians 2:8-10).

I wonder why your translation leaves out a word. (I would hope you see the difference here.)

(TR) τη γαρ χαριτι εστε σεσωσμενοι δια της πιστεως ​

For by Grace ye have been saved by THE faith.​

It's unfortunate that most Americans think that their translation is inspired, when it is not.

All glory and honor and adoration to Jesus the Lord, now and forevermore!

Sure. But don't actions speak louder than words?

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.​

(Matthew 15:8 KJV)

(Not to mean you, of course.)

You sound like you disagree with Lord Jesus Christ's ....

No, most people here have no clue what Garee tries to say most of the time. I've never seen Garee given praise for his erudition before. And as I said, yours was the first. We'll see how it goes after you read, what, say fifty of Garee's posts. (Personally, he gives me a headache.)

Check again. I made no comment on what anybody else said.

God is Love, and the Light lovingly peirced the darkness of me to convert me from one under the wrath of God into one of the Kingdom of God under my King Jesus Christ.

Bully for you. Glad it happened friend. Keep up the good WORK.

Agape,
Rhema

 

[Kermos]

I think the verse rather speaks for itself and needs no elaboration from me.

Lord Jesus Christ is very clear with His sayings "Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like" (Luke 6:46-47), but your application of Luke 6:46-47 was ambiguous regarding the post:

​

The Christ of us Christians says​

“This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Paul wrote to the Ephesians “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work” (Ephesians 2:8-10).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Peter declared “God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith” (Acts 15:8-9).​

​

So, clearly, Jesus’ words in John 6:29 state for us believers to believe in Jesus whom the Father has sent is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

All glory and honor and adoration to Jesus the Lord, now and forevermore!​

​

Since you do elaborate on your application of Luke 6:46-47 throughout your post, then this helps tremendously with the continuation of this dialog.

Unlike Modern English, though, in modern French (as with Koine Greek) one cannot say they know something without being able to do that something. One does not know Chemistry unless one can do Chemistry. It literally isn't in the language. Americans tend to say they know something even when they cannot do that thing. In essence, Americans know about things without being able to do them.

I know chemistry. I know that mixing bleach and ammonia produces chloramine gas (toxic) and potentially liquid hydrazine (exothermic reaction (spraying hot toxic droplets)), and I don't have to do this chemistry to know this chemistry about mixing bleach and ammonia.

Your explanation is faulty.

In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing. It's locked into the language. One cannot say they believe without the doing of that which they believe. The American (or English language) mindset separates the two, and hence cannot understand the implications of "John" 6:29 as it was initially written.

In Koine Greek, the noun πίστις (Strong's Greek: 4102, link to Biblehub.com) translates to the English noun "belief" ("faith"). The concept of "belief" is "state of being" for a person, and, on to the definition, "belief" is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

A noun is not a verb, but your "In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing" exposes the grammatical error of you converting the noun (person, place, or thing) into a verb (action).

This demonstrates that you cannot understand the implications of "John" 6:29 as it was initially written.

To derive doctrine from English translations is just plain dangerous.

I enjoy reading Greek!

Accurate translations from one language to another language occur every day. For example, the United Nations is replete with language translations on a daily basis.

A single word conveys a concept, but an intelligent composition of words conveys a symphony of context.

The beauty of solid translation is that concepts and context can be accurately translated from one language to another language.

To not derive doctrine from English translations is just plain dangerous.

No.

It's not clear. Not clear at all. The Gospel named John was not written in English. Now I cannot recall if it was the third or fourth year of Greek where this is explained, but to "Believe in Jesus" means to DO that which Jesus taught. There's no conceptual separation between "believing" and "doing."

Christ clear statement of, in Greek, "Τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἵνα πιστεύητε εἰς ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος" translates accurately into the same clear statement in English “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).

The Greek verb "πιστεύητε" translates accurately into the English verb "believe", so all of “that you believe in Him whom He has sent” “is the work of God” (John 6:29), or, written in Greek, "ἵνα πιστεύητε εἰς ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος" "ἐστιν τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ".

Your "It's not clear. Not clear at all" reveals linguistic confusion on your part, @Rhema.

I wonder why your translation leaves out a word. (I would hope you see the difference here.)

(TR) τη γαρ χαριτι εστε σεσωσμενοι δια της πιστεως ​

For by Grace ye have been saved by THE faith.​

It's unfortunate that most Americans think that their translation is inspired, when it is not.

As a Christian, I believe the original manuscript is inspired.

I also question your version because you have an extrafluous definite article while my Greek does not "τῇ γὰρ χάριτί ἐστε σεσῳσμένοι διὰ πίστεως· καὶ τοῦτο οὐκ ἐξ ὑμῶν, Θεοῦ τὸ δῶρον so in English "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8, Greek available at this link).

The end result is that faith (belief) inside of us Christians is the gift of God also known as the work of God (John 6:29),

No, most people here have no clue what Garee tries to say most of the time. I've never seen Garee given praise for his erudition before. And as I said, yours was the first. We'll see how it goes after you read, what, say fifty of Garee's posts. (Personally, he gives me a headache.)

Check again. I made no comment on what anybody else said.

You are the person who slashed off the Word of God from your reply's quote, so you disagreed that Christ's love controls us Christians (2 Corinthians 5:14) by your own delete action of the following:

​

Fruit of the Spirit/righteous actions/good works are God working in us Christians for the Christ of us Christians says​

“he who practices the Truth comes to the Light, that his works may be revealed, that they are having been worked in God” (John 3:21).​

​

And, Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for he wrote to the Philippians “being filled with the fruit of righteousness that [is] by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:11).​

​

So, clearly, Christ’s words in John 3:21 state fruit in we believers is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

Sure. But don't actions speak louder than words?

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.​

(Matthew 15:8 KJV)

(Not to mean you, of course.)


Bully for you. Glad it happened friend. Keep up the good WORK.

Agape,
Rhema

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21).

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kind, good, faith, gentle, self-control; against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).

Behold, true love is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, so one cannot righteously agape without having the indwelling Holy Spirit.

See, true faith (belief) is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, so one cannot righteously believe in the Son whom the Father has sent (John 6:29) without having the indwelling Holy Spirit.

A person's actions are evidence of either being in the self-willed flesh or in God's control.

Love,
Kermos

 

[Rhema]

this helps tremendously with the continuation of this dialog.

???
What dialect of "American" do you speak? Nobody talks or writes that way. I'd ask if English was your first language, but you seem so quick to take offense with everything.

Your explanation is faulty.

No. It's just that you don't speak French or Koine Greek. It's a different mindset. All you did was confirm that you know a few facts about Chemistry. Only a Chemist knows Chemistry from the perspective of a native speaker of French and one who has learned Koine Greek. Are you a Chemist? If not, then you proved my point. You just know a few things ABOUT Chemistry.

My apologies if my explanation was too hard for you. Not many people actually study language.

A noun is not a verb, but your "In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing" exposes the grammatical error of you converting the noun (person, place, or thing) into a verb (action).

Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.​

- John 6:29 KJV

In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing.

My apologies for the typo. Allow me to rephrase.

In Koine Greek, to believe means to do (believing means doing). One cannot believe on the Lord Jesus Christ without doing the commands found in His Teachings.

... exposes the grammatical error of you converting the noun (person, place, or thing) into a verb (action).

I enjoy reading Greek!

From the prior quote, it doesn't seem that you can (read Greek). If you've had any education in Greek, you'd surely be aware that Koine Greek loves verb/noun pairs such as PISTIS and PISTEUW. What one does shows what one believes. What you do shows your belief.

Could you be so kind as to describe the education in Greek that you've had? I rather dislike asking such a question, but you did belittle my education, so my CV includes the Moravian Seminary and Princeton Theological. You?

That said, PISTIS should never be translated into 'Faith' today. The Kierkegaardian definition of the "Leap of Faith" has supplanted any definition or understanding that a first century reader would have had. In my discussions with hundreds of people over the years, I have found that there are Five different operative definitions of the word Faith, and most people have no clue which of these five they use.

The beauty of solid translation is that concepts and context can be accurately translated from one language to another language.

To not derive doctrine from English translations is just plain dangerous.

There isn't a SINGLE English translation that is solid. I dread to hear which one you would put forward.

And would I be wrong to think that by the phrase "The Word of God" you would mean "The Bible"?
(Let me know, I'd hate be mistaken about that.)

Accurate translations from one language to another language occur every day. For example, the United Nations is replete with language translations on a daily basis.

And the UN is fraught with misunderstandings.

In Koine Greek, the noun πίστις (Strong's Greek: 4102, link to Biblehub.com) translates to the English noun "belief" ("faith"). The concept of "belief" is "state of being" for a person, and, on to the definition, "belief" is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Yeah..., Thought so. You don't know Greek. Son, don't teach your grandmother to suck eggs. And to quote Strong's at me? Not even a decent lexicon? More fool you to put yourself forward as an expert. BUT, ... at least you didn't quote Thayer's. (That would have been embarrassing for both of us.)

I took a look at your website a couple of days ago. I couldn't begin to list the mistakes. Now is that yours personally? Or just one you like?

And if you think what you quoted is Hebrews 11:1, you'd better read it again:

εστιν δε πιστις ελπιζομενων υποστασις πραγματων ελεγχος ου βλεπομενων​

This in nowise defines PISTIS, but rather describes what PISTIS can accomplish. I'd suggest a deep dive into the word G5287 ὑπόστασις hupostasis

And for your first steps, I provide a LINK to the Liddell Scott Lexicon for G5287.

I'd also quote the Cambridge Greek Lexicon, and even the entry from Kittle's, but as a scholar, surely you have that in your library. But please don't do me the insult of throwing Strong's in my face.

Dr. Marshall's gloss is "reality."

I enjoy reading Greek!

Even the Papyri? Okay. Which Greek NT manuscripts (or edition) do you use?

To not derive doctrine from English translations is just plain dangerous.

While I have read quite a number of bizarre statements on TalkJesus, I think you've made it into the top ten with this one.

Tell me then, which English translation below is right for Matthew 3:2?

Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.​

Do penance: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.​

Your "It's not clear. Not clear at all" reveals linguistic confusion on your part, @Rhema.

No, it reveals that you don't understand the underpinnings of the concept of PISTEUW 2,000 years ago. That's why I quoted Luke. Modern Evangelicals just don't get that to BELIEVE means to DO. The English language allows them to separate one concept into two, so it's a fool's quest to derive doctrine from English translations.

Christ clear statement of, in Greek, "Τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἵνα πιστεύητε εἰς ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος" translates accurately into the same clear statement in English “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).

Nope. I'm sure you're utterly 1,000 percent convinced of this... but....

τουτο (THIS) εστιν (IS) το (THE) εργον (WORK) του (OF THE) θεου (GOD) ινα (IN ORDER THAT) πιστευσητε (Y'ALL MIGHT BELIEVE) εις (INTO) ον (WHOM) απεστειλεν (HE SENT) εκεινος (THAT ONE)​

And accounting for word order, "This is the work of God in order that y'all might believe into that one whom He sent.

εις does not mean ἐν, and πιστευσητε is in the subjunctive mood, but you should know that right?

And just to mention, forum rules require that one posts the version of scripture from which on is quoting. I couldn't tell if you were using the NKJV or the NRSV. Clarification in the future would be most appreciated.

But my point from the beginning, is that to believe IS to do. This is hardwired into the language of Koine.

The Greek verb "πιστεύητε" translates accurately into the English verb "believe",

No it doesn't. Not if it's in the Subjunctive Mood.

Greek, "ἵνα πιστεύητε εἰς ὃν ἀπέστειλεν ἐκεῖνος" "ἐστιν τὸ ἔργον τοῦ Θεοῦ".

Oh Good Lord, even to swap the two phrases around would need the whole thing to be rewritten. One can't just cut and paste like that in Greek. FLUP, go ask a Greek Orthodox priest about that one. (There should be one near you, and they might even give free lessons.)

As a Christian, I believe the original manuscript is inspired.

Okay then... Congratulations, you now hold two spots in the top ten absurd things I've heard on this forum.

You do realize that you don't have ANY original manuscripts, right? (One would dearly hope so.) So then what's inspired? That which you DON'T have. So NOTHING. You have nothing that is inspired. It's a completely meaningless claim. One should not be deluded by meaningless claims.

(I weep for Christianity.)

I also question your version because you have an extrafluous definite article while my Greek does not

I present to you the TEXTUS RECEPTUS:

τη γαρ χαριτι εστε σεσωσμενοι δια της πιστεως και τουτο ουκ εξ υμων θεου το δωρον​

- Ephesians 2:8 Greek NT TR

Are you going to question that? (It's a NON-rhetorical question.)

It's obvious that you don't have the education or the mindset to be questioning me about anything. Brother, Step Up Your Game. Learn how to do research before you come of the gate swinging without a bat.

So just what Greek do you have? (Just to say, an honorable man would answer that question.) Ahh.. never mind. I see... Bible Hub. (My bad, I was thinking you had an actual book.)

But this is the link that you ought to have posted:

Ephesians 2:8 Parallel Greek Texts

So just what Greek do you use? (Obviously you didn't check the TR.)

You are the person who slashed off the Word of God from your reply's quote,

Since it should be obvious by now that you really don't know what you're talking about, I decline the quarrel that you would incite here. But know this, that your unfounded accusation just plain stinks. My off hand comment was about you complimenting Garee. I'm sorry that you didn't understand this.

So, clearly, Christ’s words in John 3:21 state fruit in we believers is exclusively by/of/through God.

If this is the case, then your God isn't doing too well with you from the looks of it.

A person's actions are evidence of either being in the self-willed flesh or in God's control.

And you think your accusations/mistakes here were caused by God? Or were those in your self-willed flesh?

Behold, true love is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, so one cannot righteously agape without having the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Indeed.

Agape,
Rhema

 

[Kermos]

???
What dialect of "American" do you speak? Nobody talks or writes that way. I'd ask if English was your first language, but you seem so quick to take offense with everything.

Dear @Rhema the schooled Theologian (see "my CV includes the Moravian Seminary and Princeton Theological. " much further down in your post),

You resorted to shooting at me your flaming missiles, be the missiles of insult or deception, Rhema, so you exhibit unfriendly combativness. Apparently, your "Nobody talks or writes that way" is a lie because I wrote that way. Your shifting sand shows.

Your profile indicates you are "from Pennsylvania", so, by extension, that makes you American - the very people you admonish. Your profile fails to indicate "visiting Pennsylvania".

I would prefer this remain congenial. You have demonstrated your nature within your opening paragraph, and my Lord and God Jesus Christ schooled me with this Word of God "be wise as the serpents, and pure as the doves" (Matthew 10:16).

No. It's just that you don't speak French or Koine Greek. It's a different mindset. All you did was confirm that you know a few facts about Chemistry. Only a Chemist knows Chemistry from the perspective of a native speaker of French and one who has learned Koine Greek. Are you a Chemist? If not, then you proved my point. You just know a few things ABOUT Chemistry.

My apologies if my explanation was too hard for you. Not many people actually study language.

Your explanation remains faulty. One can learn chemistry without the title of Chemist, and such a one can know just as well as a Chemist of the chemical reaction of mixing sodium hypochlorite in dilute aqueous solution (bleach) and ammonia emitting dangerously toxic chloramine gas and potentially caustic liquid hydrazine.

Koine Greek (link) is a command language developed by Alexander in order for military commands to be unambiguous according to historians, and koine means common (Strong's 2839 - κοινός). You theologians try to convolute the Greek language which leads to you thinking you exclusively possess the keys.

Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.​

- John 6:29 KJV

My apologies for the typo. Allow me to rephrase.

In Koine Greek, to believe means to do (believing means doing). One cannot believe on the Lord Jesus Christ without doing the commands found in His Teachings.



From the prior quote, it doesn't seem that you can (read Greek). If you've had any education in Greek, you'd surely be aware that Koine Greek loves verb/noun pairs such as PISTIS and PISTEUW. What one does shows what one believes. What you do shows your belief.

Could you be so kind as to describe the education in Greek that you've had? I rather dislike asking such a question, but you did belittle my education, so my CV includes the Moravian Seminary and Princeton Theological. You?

That said, PISTIS should never be translated into 'Faith' today. The Kierkegaardian definition of the "Leap of Faith" has supplanted any definition or understanding that a first century reader would have had. In my discussions with hundreds of people over the years, I have found that there are Five different operative definitions of the word Faith, and most people have no clue which of these five they use.


There isn't a SINGLE English translation that is solid. I dread to hear which one you would put forward.

And would I be wrong to think that by the phrase "The Word of God" you would mean "The Bible"?
(Let me know, I'd hate be mistaken about that.)

You wrote "you did belittle my education"; however, I illuminated your error of:

​

A noun is not a verb, but your "In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing" exposes the grammatical error of you converting the noun (person, place, or thing) into a verb (action).​

​

I did not "belittle" you, but I did quote your error back to you - which you subsequently excused as your mistake by calling it your "typo".

I am insignificant, but Christ is all in all. If you want to know more about my wisdom, then read the 3rd paragraph.

And the UN is fraught with misunderstandings.

Accurate translations occurs at the UN on a daily basis which is self-evident due to the UN's continued successful communications since the UN Charter of 26 June 1945, but you say that mistranslations are a greater occurrence with your word "fraught".

Yeah..., Thought so. You don't know Greek. Son, don't teach your grandmother to suck eggs. And to quote Strong's at me? Not even a decent lexicon? More fool you to put yourself forward as an expert. BUT, ... at least you didn't quote Thayer's. (That would have been embarrassing for both of us.)

I am not your son. You Illegitimately exalt yourself above me. God is my Father.

I use the Strong's numbering system to help identify Greek words, not unlike the lexicons you specified later in your post.

I took a look at your website a couple of days ago. I couldn't begin to list the mistakes. Now is that yours personally? Or just one you like?

False witness is a sin, Rhema.

You need to examine yourself based on your errors and mistakes illuminated in this post.

And if you think what you quoted is Hebrews 11:1, you'd better read it again:

εστιν δε πιστις ελπιζομενων υποστασις πραγματων ελεγχος ου βλεπομενων​

This in nowise defines PISTIS, but rather describes what PISTIS can accomplish. I'd suggest a deep dive into the word G5287 ὑπόστασις hupostasis

And for your first steps, I provide a LINK to the Liddell Scott Lexicon for G5287.

I'd also quote the Cambridge Greek Lexicon, and even the entry from Kittle's, but as a scholar, surely you have that in your library. But please don't do me the insult of throwing Strong's in my face.

Dr. Marshall's gloss is "reality."


Even the Papyri? Okay. Which Greek NT manuscripts (or edition) do you use?

You commit syntactical error and grammatical confusion in that the Greek verb Ἔστιν (Strong's 1510) translates to the English verb is which sets an equivalence between faith (belief) and the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Therefore, belief is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1) which is the accurate translation of Ἔστιν δὲ πίστις ἐλπιζομένων ὑπόστασις, πραγμάτων ἔλεγχος οὐ βλεπομένων.

The Greek word ὑπόστασις (Strong's 5287) means the concept of assurance or confidence, and this assurance is delivered by God the Author and Perfecter of the Faith into us children of God as per outlined in Hebrews 11:1 and Hebrews 12:2.

While I have read quite a number of bizarre statements on TalkJesus, I think you've made it into the top ten with this one.

Tell me then, which English translation below is right for Matthew 3:2?

Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.​

Do penance: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.​

You have enough failure of understanding this:

​

The Christ of us Christians says​

“This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Paul wrote to the Ephesians “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work” (Ephesians 2:8-10).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Peter declared “God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith” (Acts 15:8-9).​

​

So, clearly, Jesus’ words in John 6:29 state for us believers to believe in Jesus whom the Father has sent is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

All glory and honor and adoration to Jesus the Lord, now and forevermore!​

​

So, no, I'm not going to explain Matthew 3:2 to you at this time.

No, it reveals that you don't understand the underpinnings of the concept of PISTEUW 2,000 years ago. That's why I quoted Luke. Modern Evangelicals just don't get that to BELIEVE means to DO. The English language allows them to separate one concept into two, so it's a fool's quest to derive doctrine from English translations.


Nope. I'm sure you're utterly 1,000 percent convinced of this... but....

τουτο (THIS) εστιν (IS) το (THE) εργον (WORK) του (OF THE) θεου (GOD) ινα (IN ORDER THAT) πιστευσητε (Y'ALL MIGHT BELIEVE) εις (INTO) ον (WHOM) απεστειλεν (HE SENT) εκεινος (THAT ONE)​

And accounting for word order, "This is the work of God in order that y'all might believe into that one whom He sent.

εις does not mean ἐν, and πιστευσητε is in the subjunctive mood, but you should know that right?

And just to mention, forum rules require that one posts the version of scripture from which on is quoting. I couldn't tell if you were using the NKJV or the NRSV. Clarification in the future would be most appreciated.

But my point from the beginning, is that to believe IS to do. This is hardwired into the language of Koine.


No it doesn't. Not if it's in the Subjunctive Mood.


Oh Good Lord, even to swap the two phrases around would need the whole thing to be rewritten. One can't just cut and paste like that in Greek. FLUP, go ask a Greek Orthodox priest about that one. (There should be one near you, and they might even give free lessons.)

You are confused because the Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural of "πιστεύητε" (Strong's 4100 means "believe".

Your "No it doesn't. Not if it's in the Subjunctive Mood" is squarely confusion for at least one reason that you neglected the present tense, you the theologian, and God is not a god of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33).

You want to talk about subjunctive mood.

You fail to understand the Word of God "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26) and the relation with this Word of God “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).

Okay then... Congratulations, you now hold two spots in the top ten absurd things I've heard on this forum.

You do realize that you don't have ANY original manuscripts, right? (One would dearly hope so.) So then what's inspired? That which you DON'T have. So NOTHING. You have nothing that is inspired. It's a completely meaningless claim. One should not be deluded by meaningless claims.

(I weep for Christianity.)

You have a terrible difficult time of understanding that which you read. You shoot your flaming missiles into a context where your thoughts are foreign.

God caused me to compose "As a Christian, I believe the original manuscript is inspired", and just look at your angry response with your shouting capitalization.

I present to you the TEXTUS RECEPTUS:

τη γαρ χαριτι εστε σεσωσμενοι δια της πιστεως και τουτο ουκ εξ υμων θεου το δωρον​

- Ephesians 2:8 Greek NT TR

Are you going to question that? (It's a NON-rhetorical question.)

It's obvious that you don't have the education or the mindset to be questioning me about anything. Brother, Step Up Your Game. Learn how to do research before you come of the gate swinging without a bat.

So just what Greek do you have? (Just to say, an honorable man would answer that question.) Ahh.. never mind. I see... Bible Hub. (My bad, I was thinking you had an actual book.)

But this is the link that you ought to have posted:

Ephesians 2:8 Parallel Greek Texts

So just what Greek do you use? (Obviously you didn't check the TR.)

I didn't write that I oppose your version. Here is another instance of you shooting your flaming missiles into a context where your thoughts are foreign.

I like the TR's definite article because the faith inside of Ephesians 2:8 emphasizes that there is One Faith that is from God and this the faith is a common Faith, not an individually man generated faith, for Jude wrote Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the Faith which was once for all handed down to the saints (Jude 1:3).

Nonetheless, belief (faith) is not of ourselves as Christians because belief (faith) is the gift of God as declared by Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul:

​

by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work​

(Ephesians 2:8-10).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter conveyed that God puts Faith inside of Christians thus cleansing Christians:

​

God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by Faith​

(Acts 15:8-9).​

​

Since it should be obvious by now that you really don't know what you're talking about, I decline the quarrel that you would incite here. But know this, that your unfounded accusation just plain stinks. My off hand comment was about you complimenting Garee. I'm sorry that you didn't understand this.


If this is the case, then your God isn't doing too well with you from the looks of it.


And you think your accusations/mistakes here were caused by God? Or were those in your self-willed flesh?


Indeed.

Agape,
Rhema

A fact is a fact, and in Truth (John 14:6), the love of Christ controls me (2 Corinthians 5:14) to point out your fatal flaw of gashing out this Word of God and Holy Scripture (proof post #83:

​

Fruit of the Spirit/righteous actions/good works are God working in us Christians for the Christ of us Christians says​

“he who practices the Truth comes to the Light, that his works may be revealed, that they are having been worked in God” (John 3:21).​

​

And, Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for he wrote to the Philippians “being filled with the fruit of righteousness that [is] by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:11).​

​

So, clearly, Christ’s words in John 3:21 state fruit in we believers is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

So, you disagreed that Christ's love controls us Christians (2 Corinthians 5:14) by your own delete action of the above.

A person exhibits works of the flesh leading to damnation (Galatians 5:19-21), or a person has fruit of the Holy Spirit leading to everlasting joy in Christ (Galatians 5:22-23).

Your [b[outburst of anger[/b] is not good, Rhema.

Love,
Kermos

 

[Bill]

Dear @Rhema the schooled Theologian (see "my CV includes the Moravian Seminary and Princeton Theological. " much further down in your post),

You resorted to shooting at me your flaming missiles, be the missiles of insult or deception, Rhema, so you exhibit unfriendly combativness. Apparently, your "Nobody talks or writes that way" is a lie because I wrote that way. Your shifting sand shows.

Your profile indicates you are "from Pennsylvania", so, by extension, that makes you American - the very people you admonish. Your profile fails to indicate "visiting Pennsylvania".

I would prefer this remain congenial. You have demonstrated your nature within your opening paragraph, and my Lord and God Jesus Christ schooled me with this Word of God "be wise as the serpents, and pure as the doves" (Matthew 10:16).



Your explanation remains faulty. One can learn chemistry without the title of Chemist, and such a one can know just as well as a Chemist of the chemical reaction of mixing sodium hypochlorite in dilute aqueous solution (bleach) and ammonia emitting dangerously toxic chloramine gas and potentially caustic liquid hydrazine.

Koine Greek (link) is a command language developed by Alexander in order for military commands to be unambiguous according to historians, and koine means common (Strong's 2839 - κοινός). You theologians try to convolute the Greek language which leads to you thinking you exclusively possess the keys.



You wrote "you did belittle my education"; however, I illuminated your error of:

​

A noun is not a verb, but your "In Koine Greek, belief MEANS doing" exposes the grammatical error of you converting the noun (person, place, or thing) into a verb (action).​

​

I did not "belittle" you, but I did quote your error back to you - which you subsequently excused as your mistake by calling it your "typo".

I am insignificant, but Christ is all in all. If you want to know more about my wisdom, then read the 3rd paragraph.



Accurate translations occurs at the UN on a daily basis which is self-evident due to the UN's continued successful communications since the UN Charter of 26 June 1945, but you say that mistranslations are a greater occurrence with your word "fraught".



I am not your son. You Illegitimately exalt yourself above me. God is my Father.

I use the Strong's numbering system to help identify Greek words, not unlike the lexicons you specified later in your post.



False witness is a sin, Rhema.

You need to examine yourself based on your errors and mistakes illuminated in this post.



You commit syntactical error and grammatical confusion in that the Greek verb Ἔστιν (Strong's 1510) translates to the English verb is which sets an equivalence between faith (belief) and the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Therefore, belief is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1) which is the accurate translation of Ἔστιν δὲ πίστις ἐλπιζομένων ὑπόστασις, πραγμάτων ἔλεγχος οὐ βλεπομένων.

The Greek word ὑπόστασις (Strong's 5287) means the concept of assurance or confidence, and this assurance is delivered by God the Author and Perfecter of the Faith into us children of God as per outlined in Hebrews 11:1 and Hebrews 12:2.



You have enough failure of understanding this:

​

The Christ of us Christians says​

“This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Paul wrote to the Ephesians “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work” (Ephesians 2:8-10).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for Peter declared “God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith” (Acts 15:8-9).​

​

So, clearly, Jesus’ words in John 6:29 state for us believers to believe in Jesus whom the Father has sent is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

All glory and honor and adoration to Jesus the Lord, now and forevermore!​

​

So, no, I'm not going to explain Matthew 3:2 to you at this time.



You are confused because the Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural of "πιστεύητε" (Strong's 4100 means "believe".

Your "No it doesn't. Not if it's in the Subjunctive Mood" is squarely confusion for at least one reason that you neglected the present tense, you the theologian, and God is not a god of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33).

You want to talk about subjunctive mood.

You fail to understand the Word of God "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26) and the relation with this Word of God “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29).



You have a terrible difficult time of understanding that which you read. You shoot your flaming missiles into a context where your thoughts are foreign.

God caused me to compose "As a Christian, I believe the original manuscript is inspired", and just look at your angry response with your shouting capitalization.



I didn't write that I oppose your version. Here is another instance of you shooting your flaming missiles into a context where your thoughts are foreign.

I like the TR's definite article because the faith inside of Ephesians 2:8 emphasizes that there is One Faith that is from God and this the faith is a common Faith, not an individually man generated faith, for Jude wrote Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the Faith which was once for all handed down to the saints (Jude 1:3).

Nonetheless, belief (faith) is not of ourselves as Christians because belief (faith) is the gift of God as declared by Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul:

​

by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His work​

(Ephesians 2:8-10).​

​

And, Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter conveyed that God puts Faith inside of Christians thus cleansing Christians:

​

God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by Faith​

(Acts 15:8-9).​

​

A fact is a fact, and in Truth (John 14:6), the love of Christ controls me (2 Corinthians 5:14) to point out your fatal flaw of gashing out this Word of God and Holy Scripture (proof post #83:

​

Fruit of the Spirit/righteous actions/good works are God working in us Christians for the Christ of us Christians says​

“he who practices the Truth comes to the Light, that his works may be revealed, that they are having been worked in God” (John 3:21).​

​

And, Paul is in accord with Lord Jesus’ words for he wrote to the Philippians “being filled with the fruit of righteousness that [is] by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:11).​

​

So, clearly, Christ’s words in John 3:21 state fruit in we believers is exclusively by/of/through God.​

​

So, you disagreed that Christ's love controls us Christians (2 Corinthians 5:14) by your own delete action of the above.

A person exhibits works of the flesh leading to damnation (Galatians 5:19-21), or a person has fruit of the Holy Spirit leading to everlasting joy in Christ (Galatians 5:22-23).

Your [b[outburst of anger[/b] is not good, Rhema.

Love,
Kermos

Oddly enough there are people in the scripture that are more learned than either of you, people who never want to any University ever. People who are simple fishermen and knew more than either of you.

 

[Rhema]

I would prefer this remain congenial.

As would I, but from what I've read, it doesn't appear you really wish this to be the case.

Do you understand the implication of the phrase "we Christians" when you made your post to me? Of course you do. You're saying that I'm not one. (Which, btw is a violation of forum rules.)

Dear @Rhema the schooled Theologian

Even here, your snarky insult bleats loudly. And then you accuse me of being combative? To some extent, though, I am challenging your claims to have an education in Greek. The fact that you hadn't known that the direct article was written in the Textus Receptus rightly causes concerns.

Your profile indicates you are "from Pennsylvania", so, by extension, that makes you American - the very people you admonish. Your profile fails to indicate "visiting Pennsylvania".

See? Now you're calling me a liar.
Why do you see fit to call me a liar?

I was born in this state, not too far away. I live in and hang around Amish Pennsylvania land. Even the WalMart has a stall for horse and buggies.


I'll stop here and pray that the Lord adjusts your spirit. Then I'll see if He wants me to read and address the rest later.

 

[Rhema]

Oddly enough there are people in the scripture that are more learned than either of you, people who never want to any University ever. People who are simple fishermen and knew more than either of you.

So that's why God had to have the educated Pharisee write more than half of the New Testament.

Need I actually quote the many verses that say these simple fishermen just didn't "get it"?

Okay... when I have the time.

 

[Kermos]

Oddly enough there are people in the scripture that are more learned than either of you, people who never want to any University ever. People who are simple fishermen and knew more than either of you.

Dear Bill,

What harm have I done to you that you would respond as you did? For Christ is the Wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24), and I am taught by God (John 6:45). I am a simple fisherman in Christ.

Love,
Kermos

 

[Bill]

So that's why God had to have the educated Pharisee write more than half of the New Testament.

Need I actually quote the many verses that say these simple fishermen just didn't "get it"?

Okay... when I have the time.

The Learned Pharisee didn't go to the universities either LOL

 

[Kermos]

As would I, but from what I've read, it doesn't appear you really wish this to be the case.

Even here, your snarky insult bleats loudly. And then you accuse me of being combative? To some extent, though, I am challenging your claims to have an education in Greek. The fact that you hadn't known that the direct article was written in the Textus Receptus rightly causes concerns.

Dear Rhema,

You are the person who identified yourself as an educated theologian ([proof post #86) with an attitude of superiority in your attempt to bring me under the subjugation of you (you called me "son" ([proof post #86)).

The post to which you replied contains responses to your questions in your post, but, again, you slash out so much context to make a point of your choosing.

Do you understand the implication of the phrase "we Christians" when you made your post to me? Of course you do. You're saying that I'm not one. (Which, btw is a violation of forum rules.)

As a matter of fact I do understand the implication of "we Christians", and the implication is that a person who is a Christian will say things like Hallelujah and Amen (or the equivalent) when reading or hearing “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to babes” (Matthew 11:25). HALLELUJAH!

Notice that Christ causes me to write "we Christians" in relation to the Word of God, such as, we Christians believe that good fruit in us is caused the Christ of us Christians who says
“he who practices the Truth comes to the Light, that his works may be revealed, that they are having been worked in God” (John 3:21).

A person who is a Christian takes not offense to this statement:

​

Lord Jesus Christ says “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29), so we Christians believe that our believing in the Son whom the Father has sent is because the love of Christ controls us (2 Corinthians 5:14).​

​

Rhema, your heart's response to these declarations is between you and God.

See? Now you're calling me a liar.
Why do you see fit to call me a liar?

I was born in this state, not too far away. I live in and hang around Amish Pennsylvania land. Even the WalMart has a stall for horse and buggies.

If you were not so combative in nature, then, perhaps, you would have realized that "from Pennsylvania", as in born in Pennsylvania, is distinguished from "visiting Pennsylvania", as in born in France. Take a look at "that makes you American" in:

​

Your profile indicates you are "from Pennsylvania", so, by extension, that makes you American - the very people you admonish. Your profile fails to indicate "visiting Pennsylvania".​

​

So, I did not call you a liar.

God caused me to tell you once already that "False witness is a sin, Rhema" ([proof post #86).

I'll stop here and pray that the Lord adjusts your spirit. Then I'll see if He wants me to read and address the rest later.

Please, Rhema, reread the post to which you replied for it was written to you according to the Holy Spirit of God.

Love,
Kermos

 

[Rhema]

The Learned Pharisee didn't go to the universities either LOL

Sure they did.

Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;​

- Acts 5:34 KJV

I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.​

- Acts 22:3 KJV

Topical Bible: School of Gamaliel

 

[joestue]

It is literally impossible for you to go a day without sinning and that is by design.

Who designed it that way?

 

[Rhema]

Dear Rhema,

You are the person who identified yourself as an educated theologian ([proof post #86) with an attitude of superiority in your attempt to bring me under the subjugation of you (you called me "son" ([proof post #86)).

You are one of the saddest people I have ever met. Some kind of professional victim. Everything triggers you.
I've tried to address the topics at hand, but you seem to have some need to turn things personal. Even with Bill.

YOU claimed competence in Greek, and when shown to be a poser, what, oh right, claim the victim status.
If you're embarrassed about your level of education, then fix it. Improve your critical thinking skills. You'll find it to be greatly beneficial.

Please, Rhema, reread the post to which you replied for it was written to you according to the Holy Spirit of God.

No it wasn't. The amount of self-deluded people I run into here is sad.
I know when the Holy Spirit speaks. You're just posting your own thoughts (aka vain imaginings).

Forum rules require that this type of conflict be moved into PM.
Follow the rules, or don't. I will from this point.

Rhema

 

[Kermos]

Sure they did.

Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;​

- Acts 5:34 KJV

I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.​

- Acts 22:3 KJV

Topical Bible: School of Gamaliel

The Apostle Paul confessed "More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith" (Philippians 3:8-9), so Paul's "schooling" with Gamaliel, a non-christian, was loss according to Paul.

Rhema, please respond to post #87 while keeping post #93 in mind.

Love,
Kermos

 

[Rhema]

Paul's "schooling" with Gamaliel, a non-christian, was loss according to Paul.

And how would Paul know that if he hadn't studied or had the critical thinking skills necessary to understand what was being taught?

Paul never renounced being a Pharisee, you know....

But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.​

- Acts 23:6 KJV

AM a Pharisee. Was Paul lying?

And would you reject Paul's council here?

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.​

- 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

Perhaps you need to study more. How come the Holy Spirit hasn't told you that?
Rhema

 

[KingJ]

KingJ said:
It is literally impossible for you to go a day without sinning and that is by design.

Who designed it that way?

You know the who, the question should be the why and how.

Why = Free will.

God is good Psalm 136:1 and free will is a good thing. No free will is evil. God is not evil.

How = High intelligence and weak flesh.

Heb 2:7 - Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels.
Matt 26:41 - The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

 

[Kermos]

And how would Paul know that if he hadn't studied or had the critical thinking skills necessary to understand what was being taught?

Paul never renounced being a Pharisee, you know....

But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.​

- Acts 23:6 KJV

AM a Pharisee. Was Paul lying?

And would you reject Paul's council here?

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.​

- 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

Perhaps you need to study more. How come the Holy Spirit hasn't told you that?
Rhema

It is as if you imposed an imaginary paragraph into that which God caused me to compose which looks like:

God did not give Paul "the critical thinking skills necessary to understand what was being taught", and Paul "renounced being a Pharisee", and I "reject Paul's council here"

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
- 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
​

Far be your implications from me!

As God had me write to you previously, "You have a terrible difficult time of understanding that which you read" (proof post #87).

Notice, Paul mentioned nothing about going to a university to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15.

According to Holy Spirit inspired Paul, he counted his "schooling" with Gamaliel, a non-christian, as loss (Philippians 3:8-9).

Love,
Kermos