Christianity and Beliefs

@jediwa72 (204)
United States
November 30, 2006 5:37pm CST
I was raised in a typical full gospel church...my husband is a Jehovahs Witness...what a difference between the two. JWS are very well taught and can pretty much give awesome biblical reference to each of their beliefs. I, however, raised in church, with a father and grandfather as preachers, struggle. I need help and would love to see other peoples reasoning for believing things they believe (biblical doctrine) such as the trinity, hell fire, and the rapture. Give biblical reference. Please only respond if you are going to keep this discussion polite.
1 person likes this
20 responses
@gifana (4833)
• Portugal
1 Dec 06
Religion is a very personal thing sometimes founded during childhood and later through searching and research. I was brought up as a conservative Baptist but refused to be baptized despite constant prodding by my mother. I had questions to which I couldnt find answers until I attended a Catholic Easter retreat for a week. The priest who led the retreat was very inspiring in his talks with us. I later talked to him personally and we discussed my questions. It was comforting and he was able to set aside most of my fears. Not long after I converted to Catholisism. I am still Catholic though not a practicing one. As I grew older I took another look at the way the Vatican seems not to have changed with the times. I am against many of the dogmas that do not pertain to today's world. As for biblical reference I none come to mind. My outlook now is that my body is my church. Jesus layed his hand on Peter and said Peter you are the rock and upon this rock I build my church. My interpretation is that Jesus was not thinking about churches, temples, mosques or any edifice....he was referring to the body. I have lived over 30 years with my philosophy and I am at peace with myself and with God with whom I converse directly.
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
1 Dec 06
Your words are very beautiful and comforting. I really want that peace of mind...I want biblical knowledge and understanding as well as the confidence that I have the truth.
1 person likes this
@gifana (4833)
• Portugal
1 Dec 06
I don't seek biblical knowledge per say. But every once in a while I read passages from the Book of Job and the Psalms. I oft times find peace after reading.
1 person likes this
• Philippines
1 Dec 06
Religion is a very serious matter. But the most important is your FAITH. I'm was born and grew up as catholic. Here in my country there's so many sects rooted from Catholic or Christianity. There's one that they don't believe in Jesus being the son of God and there's is another one that they believe that Jesus is only a messenger... So which is it? For me I believe there is one God. Who ever he is I believe on his good teachings and lessons. I can sa that I'm faithful to my religion and whatever things that I'll discover I'll not change it.
1 person likes this
• United States
1 Dec 06
I would love to join you in Biblical discussions. I am curious though how your marriage works with one of you being Full Gospel and the other being a Jehovah's Witness? I have only had a conversation with one Jehovah's Witness and she was trying to tell me that because when Jesus talked to the theif on the cross and said, "Today you will be with me in Heaven" that here on earth was Heaven. My response was "OH NO! There is much better in Heaven!" But that is all that I remember from my conversation with her. I was raised Baptist and my Dad and Grandfather are ministers. My grandfather is very knowledgable and respectable and believes in the Holy Spirit more as a Southern Baptist would, that was were the Lord called him. I study a lot on my own because I want to see it for myself. I would love to talk with other believers.
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
1 Dec 06
the marriage works only because we have a mutual respect for one anothers beliefs. i know his beliefs like the back of my hand and to be honest their beliefs and reasoning make good since. i just don't think they are correct. i need the biblical backing though...i know it is there i just need help finding the answer. yes, they believe that there are 144,000 anointed ones that will be on the judgement panel with christ and the rest will be on paradise earth.
• United States
5 Dec 06
the biggest problem I have with the JW's is that they cahnge the Scriptures to suit their positions rather than accepting the historically validated texts. I do not suggest that you not listen to heir positions, but be sure to weigh them against the Scriptures you grew up with rather than accepting their version.
@Krisss (1231)
• Australia
13 Dec 06
Use your own Bible when studying and you will soon see the differences. For example further back in the conversation someone talked about what Jesus said to the thief on the cross. Its a very sutble difference, but it is different. JW bible says (Im paraphrasing here) I promise you today, that you will be in Paradise with me. (making him the first of the 144,000) Most other Bibles (every other translation I have checked) says I promise you, today you will be with me in paradise. Can you see the difference? The JWs translation reads that today Jesus is promising the thief that one day (not today) he will be with him in Paradise, where as all other Bibles say he is promising that he will see him in paradise today.
• United States
22 Dec 06
bible translation is not a problem. they even encourage you to use your OWN bible when studying with them or when they're preaching to you. but i endorse that New World Translation is easy to understand and more accurate.
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
5 Dec 06
oh, don't worry...i'm no where near accepting their version...i understand it and would only appreciate if some people would give me assistance with biblical backing
@micheller (1365)
• United States
1 Dec 06
i thought JWS coudn't marry or anything like that?
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
5 Dec 06
no, no, they can marry. they are not supposed to marry outside of their beliefs...neither was i for that matter....but it happens.
@Netsbridge (3253)
• United States
1 Dec 06
I am Full Gospel, and was raised in a country where Full Gospel is also the Assembly of God. By the time I was 16, I could at least accurately place almost any Bible text with the correct Bible book. I believe biblical knowledge has a lot to do with an individual's thirst and devotion to biblical knowledge. I personally know that several Jehovah witnesses (JW), like most church goers, often tend to quote the Bible out-of-context. I know, because I also have JW as relatives. Yes, JW can be very zealous, just like a newly born-again Christian: They can almost overwhelm one, at times, with scriptures that really do not support the point in quest. In conclusion, biblical knowledge and strength comes from sincerity of one's heart, devoted personal and group Bible studies and, most importantly, guidance from the spirit of the Almighty One, regardless of the environment one is raised in (although good influences are very helpful). The major problem with Christianity and the quest to seek the Almighty, Supreme One, is that finite humans attempt to box an infinite Being; similar to India's tale of several blinds attempting to define an elephant: The blind holding the tail alleges an elephant is like a snake; the blind holding the body alleges an elephant is like a wall; etc. Joshua chapter 1 admonishes all to always study the good book, while Timothy advises all to study to show one's self worthy and James challenges everyone to ask for wisdom.
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
2 Dec 06
I was raised in an Assembly of God church as a matter of fact. I read the bible all the time and I can quote it fine. I think the issue I am having is more being able to quote what I need to quote when I need to quote it...or just to find it in general. I think the issue is more that I don't have the brain capacity to hold on to the appropriate verse at the right time. I really need help finding new verses and the sort. So far, I have been given only one response that has a few verses. Oh well, thanks for your response though:)
• United States
22 Dec 06
jediwa i think you already know the answer. you have your husband (just ask him, or if you're shy you can always borrow their books such as REasoning from the Scriptures)i just can't imagine how you two got married though. anyway, you yourself admit it that their beliefs are well biblical referenced. so ask yourself: is your beliefs are really in the bible? are you willing to embrace the truth once you acquinted it? what will keep you to change your belief if you find it wrong? and What is more important to you: God's approval or men's? (Proverbs 29:25 "The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.") i believe that the bible is the word of god and any teachings that are not supported by it or has a pagan origin is false. perhaps you already read 2 timothy 3:16-17 ("All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works") and John 4:24 ("God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in TRUTH") you can always visit their website: www.watchtower.org
@tiagojf (216)
• Portugal
1 Dec 06
is very very cool
@boeyong (256)
• Malaysia
1 Dec 06
I am a Jehovah's Witness too. If you really appreciate true Bible knowledge, I suggest that you attend all the 5 meetings with your husband at the Kingdom Hall. Our circuit and district assemblies will be an eye opener for you, if you are not already attending them. You will not only increase your Bible knowledge but will also find true friends there. I am sure your husband will be very happy if you will consent to having a regular family Bible study with him :)
@jediwa72 (204)
• United States
1 Dec 06
i have attended meeting with my husband and i have been to all the above. i know witness beliefs better than i do my own....i just don't feel that they are right. i have a regular study with a friend from the kingdom hall as well. not to mention my husband and i study together nightly. i have no desire to become a witness but do keep my mind and heart open to hear whatever is said to me.
@vijayi3 (69)
• Singapore
1 Dec 06
God in Nature - God is everywhere.
i believe in god not religion...
• Philippines
1 Dec 06
Read the Bible all of your answers are there. when you read set aside all of beliefs and thoughts just let the word of God speak to you. little by little you will be enlightned. dont read the words, read the message.
@SharK07 (245)
• Romania
1 Dec 06
Religion is a very personal thing sometimes founded during childhood and later through searching and research. I was brought up as a conservative Baptist but refused to be baptized despite constant prodding by my mother. I had questions to which I couldnt find answers until I attended a Catholic Easter retreat for a week. The priest who led the retreat was very inspiring in his talks with us. I later talked to him personally and we discussed my questions. It was comforting and he was able to set aside most of my fears. Not long after I converted to Catholisism. I am still Catholic though not a practicing one. As I grew older I took another look at the way the Vatican seems not to have changed with the times. I am against many of the dogmas that do not pertain to today's world. As for biblical reference I none come to mind. My outlook now is that my body is my church. Jesus layed his hand on Peter and said Peter you are the rock and upon this rock I build my church. My interpretation is that Jesus was not thinking about churches, temples, mosques or any edifice....he was referring to the body.
@lucy02 (5016)
• United States
1 Dec 06
I am a southern Baptist but I don't put a whole lot of emphasis on that. I mostly just consider myself to be a Christian. I think you're relationship to God is the most important factor.
@nicklah (13)
• Panama
1 Dec 06
I am a Catholic and have been one all my life. I wouldnt consider me a really dedicated/practicing catholic but I do beleive in Jesus and even though some people might question the validity of my religion, or of religions entirely, they can not argue that religion, in general, teach how to life your life in a peaceful, joyful way.
@anne_143god (5387)
• Philippines
1 Dec 06
I was raised as a christian by my parents and really enjoy being a christian. I want a topic about religion. I post alot but only few responds to me.
@WJJ850906 (705)
• China
1 Dec 06
Beliefs
• India
1 Dec 06
yes good thing are there
@hazeter (670)
• Philippines
1 Dec 06
Well For me i grow up in church and my father is a pastor. I am a christian and i believe in God. I think christianity is based more on bible. And What u believe in life is the beliefs.
@bombeirao (733)
• Brazil
1 Dec 06
I am Christian and I am certain to be the unico way
@vikkyhyd (75)
• India
1 Dec 06
i am not a christian