The truth is that the bible is not open for interpretation. This idea is what has resulted in so many denominations. (this particular word always brings to mind demon nations) What separates one from another is what each group has decided they will accept from the word. If people would just accept and obey what is written concerning the rebirth experience in Acts 2:38, unity would burst forth because spiritual eyes would be opened. Consider the words recorded in John 3:3, Except a man be born again (come out of water) he cannot SEE (recognize) the Kingdom of God. The scripture goes on to say one must be born of both water and Spirit in order to ENTER (be given entrance) into the Kingdom of God. (John 3:5)
"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." 2 Peter 1:20-21
earlier on this thread I was talking with someone about "slaves obey your masters".
their position was that it actually meant respect those in authority.
(as I remember, that was yourself, but I could be wrong.)
anyways, that would be an example of interpretation, imo.
this example might be easier to talk about
36 He said to them, “But now if you have a purse, take it. And also take a bag. If you don’t have a sword, sell your coat and buy one.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+22&version=NIRV
the Bible says if you don't have a sword,
go buy one.
Without a gauge or set of rules in place a person's actions have nothing to be compared against for judgment purposes. If not the bible, what?
I would assume the law of God written on human hearts
15. They show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience testifying with them, and their thoughts among themselves accusing or else excusing them.
(Romans, 2)
ever since Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of Good and evil,
all humans capable of making a moral decision have known the difference between Good and evil, imo.
Your #32 - During the separation process what will be used to make the distinction between the sheep and the goats?
as I read it, Jesus tells us the standard that will be used
35. for I was hungry, and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me drink. I was a stranger, and you took me in.
40. `The King will answer them, `Most certainly I tell you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.`
(Matthew, 25)
See John 10, Sheep know the shepherds voice (word) and another they will not follow.
yes, I think that dovetails nicely with the Matthew passage.
the ones who hear Jesus' voice in John 10 are the ones who will do things like feed the hungry and take in the stranger.
As to the other verses you mention, What will be the determining factor between what actions of a person were good or bad? What will these actions be compared to? If not the bible, then what?
I think the idea of to whom much is given much is required would come into play.
certainly, if a person has received God's revelation through the scriptures, that would definitely be taken into account, imo.
17 Suppose you call yourself a Jew. You trust in the law. You brag that you know God. 18 You know what God wants. You agree with what is best because the law teaches you.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+2&version=NIRV
so, for example, a Jew who has been taught by the law will be judged by the things they know from the law.