At what point in our salvation is the blood of Christ applied?

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Genez

Junior Member
Oct 12, 2017
4,700
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<truthseekersfellowship.com>

Try R.B.Thieme again?

Now, at this time, you may be ready for him.
One has to be made ready.

1749077243932.png
R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries is a grace ministry and operates entirely on voluntary contributions.
There is no price list for any of our material. No money is requested. When gratitude for the Word of God
motivates a believer to give, he has the privilege of contributing to the dissemination of Bible doctrine.
About the pastor-teacher: https://www.rbthieme.org/index.html#tabs-3




grace and peace .................
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
4,073
1,123
113
That's dumb....

But it's effective against the insecure babe in Christ, or someone who never matures spiritually.
Go with it. You might make some money preaching such tripe to spiritual morons.

For I have come down from heaven not to do my will, but to do the will
of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall
lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day." John 6:38-39​

Note..

If anyone loses their salvation (as you claimed).
It would be Jesus (not the believer) failing to fulfill the Father's will!

Go back to sleep now....
I had a sleep but now I am awake.

I asked Chat GPT what the N.T. has to say on this topic.

That's a profound and important question, and it touches on some key issues of salvation, faith, and the nature of belief as described in the New Testament.

The first thing to note is that salvation, according to the New Testament, is indeed based on the atoning work of Jesus Christ and faith in Him (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9). This is foundational and non-negotiable. However, the New Testament also speaks to the reality that salvation involves a relationship with Jesus that is not merely about a one-time belief, but about continuing to follow Him and manifesting that belief through a changed life.
The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23)

One way to think about this is in terms of the Parable of the Sower, where Jesus speaks of different types of soil representing the conditions of people's hearts. Some people receive the word with joy, but when troubles or persecution come, they fall away (Matthew 13:20-21). Jesus indicates that a shallow belief that doesn't take root or withstand trials will ultimately fail to produce lasting fruit.

This shows that while initial faith can lead to salvation, it must be a sustained, enduring faith. In other words, belief in Jesus that turns into unbelief or falls away due to persecution, temptation, or other reasons may not lead to eternal life.
Denial of Christ (Matthew 10:33)

You specifically referenced Matthew 10:33, where Jesus says, "But whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven." This is a significant verse because it underscores the importance of standing firm in one's confession of faith, especially when faced with external pressures. The denial of Jesus can be an indication of a deeper problem with one's heart and faith. But how do we reconcile this with the New Testament teaching on salvation by grace?

The key here is that a true believer who genuinely has faith in Christ, even if they stumble or deny Him in certain moments, will ultimately be restored if their heart is truly repentant. Peter's denial of Jesus is an example of this. He denied Jesus three times, but after Jesus’ resurrection, He restored Peter (John 21:15-17). The restoration is key here—Peter’s denial was not the end of his relationship with Christ because Peter, unlike Judas, ultimately repented and returned to Christ.
The Role of Perseverance and Final Perseverance (1 John 2:19; Hebrews 3:14)

Several New Testament passages address the issue of perseverance in the faith. 1 John 2:19 speaks about those who leave the faith, saying they “went out from us, but they were not of us.” This implies that those who truly belong to Christ will continue in the faith. Hebrews 3:14 also says, "We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end."

So, while salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), the Bible suggests that true saving faith will manifest itself in perseverance. If someone abandons or rejects Jesus altogether, it raises a question about whether their original faith was genuine or not. In this sense, “falling away” could indicate that the person's belief was superficial or never fully rooted in Christ (Matthew 13:5-6).
The Danger of Apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6)

Hebrews 6:4-6 provides a sobering warning about those who once experienced the blessings of salvation but later fall away:

"It is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance..."​

This passage seems to indicate that there is a point of no return if someone completely rejects Christ after having fully known Him. This is commonly referred to as “apostasy” and is seen as a serious warning in the New Testament.
Conclusion

Can a Christian who once believed in Jesus later deny Him and still be saved when Christ returns? Based on the New Testament, the answer seems to be complicated. Here are the key points:

  1. Salvation is based on faith in Christ and His atoning work (Ephesians 2:8-9).
  2. True faith in Christ will be accompanied by a transformed life, enduring through trials, and producing fruit (James 2:17; John 15:5).
  3. Denial of Jesus, especially if persistent and final (like apostasy), raises the question of whether the initial faith was genuine (Matthew 10:33; Hebrews 6:4-6).
  4. Repentance and restoration are possible if someone falls into sin or denies Christ temporarily, as seen in Peter’s example (John 21:15-17).
  5. Perseverance is important in the Christian life (Hebrews 3:14; 1 John 2:19).

So, if someone turns away from the faith in a way that represents a final rejection of Jesus, it would suggest that their original faith was not the genuine saving kind, and thus, they would not be saved. However, if a believer truly repents and returns to Christ, there is grace for restoration.

Ultimately, salvation and judgment are in God's hands, but the New Testament does seem to emphasize that enduring faith and perseverance in Christ are necessary for final salvation.
 

Genez

Junior Member
Oct 12, 2017
4,700
815
113
I had a sleep but now I am awake.

I asked Chat GPT what the N.T. has to say on this topic.

That's a profound and important question, and it touches on some key issues of salvation, faith, and the nature of belief as described in the New Testament.

The first thing to note is that salvation, according to the New Testament, is indeed based on the atoning work of Jesus Christ and faith in Him (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9). This is foundational and non-negotiable. However, the New Testament also speaks to the reality that salvation involves a relationship with Jesus that is not merely about a one-time belief, but about continuing to follow Him and manifesting that belief through a changed life.
The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23)

One way to think about this is in terms of the Parable of the Sower, where Jesus speaks of different types of soil representing the conditions of people's hearts. Some people receive the word with joy, but when troubles or persecution come, they fall away (Matthew 13:20-21). Jesus indicates that a shallow belief that doesn't take root or withstand trials will ultimately fail to produce lasting fruit.

This shows that while initial faith can lead to salvation, it must be a sustained, enduring faith. In other words, belief in Jesus that turns into unbelief or falls away due to persecution, temptation, or other reasons may not lead to eternal life.
Denial of Christ (Matthew 10:33)

You specifically referenced Matthew 10:33, where Jesus says, "But whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven." This is a significant verse because it underscores the importance of standing firm in one's confession of faith, especially when faced with external pressures. The denial of Jesus can be an indication of a deeper problem with one's heart and faith. But how do we reconcile this with the New Testament teaching on salvation by grace?

The key here is that a true believer who genuinely has faith in Christ, even if they stumble or deny Him in certain moments, will ultimately be restored if their heart is truly repentant. Peter's denial of Jesus is an example of this. He denied Jesus three times, but after Jesus’ resurrection, He restored Peter (John 21:15-17). The restoration is key here—Peter’s denial was not the end of his relationship with Christ because Peter, unlike Judas, ultimately repented and returned to Christ.
The Role of Perseverance and Final Perseverance (1 John 2:19; Hebrews 3:14)

Several New Testament passages address the issue of perseverance in the faith. 1 John 2:19 speaks about those who leave the faith, saying they “went out from us, but they were not of us.” This implies that those who truly belong to Christ will continue in the faith. Hebrews 3:14 also says, "We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end."

So, while salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), the Bible suggests that true saving faith will manifest itself in perseverance. If someone abandons or rejects Jesus altogether, it raises a question about whether their original faith was genuine or not. In this sense, “falling away” could indicate that the person's belief was superficial or never fully rooted in Christ (Matthew 13:5-6).
The Danger of Apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6)

Hebrews 6:4-6 provides a sobering warning about those who once experienced the blessings of salvation but later fall away:

"It is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance..."​

This passage seems to indicate that there is a point of no return if someone completely rejects Christ after having fully known Him. This is commonly referred to as “apostasy” and is seen as a serious warning in the New Testament.
Conclusion

Can a Christian who once believed in Jesus later deny Him and still be saved when Christ returns? Based on the New Testament, the answer seems to be complicated. Here are the key points:

  1. Salvation is based on faith in Christ and His atoning work (Ephesians 2:8-9).
  2. True faith in Christ will be accompanied by a transformed life, enduring through trials, and producing fruit (James 2:17; John 15:5).
  3. Denial of Jesus, especially if persistent and final (like apostasy), raises the question of whether the initial faith was genuine (Matthew 10:33; Hebrews 6:4-6).
  4. Repentance and restoration are possible if someone falls into sin or denies Christ temporarily, as seen in Peter’s example (John 21:15-17).
  5. Perseverance is important in the Christian life (Hebrews 3:14; 1 John 2:19).

So, if someone turns away from the faith in a way that represents a final rejection of Jesus, it would suggest that their original faith was not the genuine saving kind, and thus, they would not be saved. However, if a believer truly repents and returns to Christ, there is grace for restoration.

Ultimately, salvation and judgment are in God's hands, but the New Testament does seem to emphasize that enduring faith and perseverance in Christ are necessary for final salvation.
See you later.
I am going to talk to Chat GPT.

Why should I waste my time with you?
You can't do your own thinking.

You are failing to mature in Christ.
Trap GTP will keep you there.

Some of the things Chat GPT said needs to be corrected.
But, you don't care unless Chat GPT tells you it made a mistake.

Can Chat GPT repent?

Remember... It will be an image of the Beast that Antichrist will rule the world with.
It will "speak."
 

studier

Well-known member
Apr 18, 2024
3,469
736
113
See you later.
I am going to talk to Chat GPT.

Why should I waste my time with you?
You can't do your own thinking.

You are failing to mature in Christ.
Trap GTP will keep you there.
It's just compiling from commentaries and sites which is not much different than being trained to interpret or pastor at this point. And it has access to translation instruction so it can do that also.

Q: what theology does r.b. thieme teach?

CoPilot AI:
  1. R.B. Thieme, Jr. was a dispensationalist theologian who emphasized biblical inerrancy and a structured approach to Christian doctrine. His teachings focused on grace, salvation, and spiritual growth, with a strong emphasis on procedures for living the Christian way of life.
  • Thieme’s ministry, Berachah Church, was known for its rigorous Bible teaching, often requiring academic discipline from its congregation. He taught that salvation is a grace gift received by faith alone in Jesus Christ, rejecting the idea that works contribute to salvation. His ministry also provided extensive resources, including books, audio recordings, and radio broadcasts, to spread his doctrinal teachings worldwide.
    Would you like to explore a specific aspect of his theology, such as his views on dispensationalism or spiritual growth?

Q: Yes.

CoPilot AI:

Thieme's theology was deeply rooted in dispensationalism, which is a framework for interpreting biblical history as a series of distinct periods, or dispensations, in which God interacts with humanity in different ways. His approach emphasized grace, doctrinal precision, and rigorous biblical study, focusing on spiritual growth through knowledge of Scripture rather than emotional experiences.

A few key aspects of his theology include:
  • The Doctrine of Grace: He emphasized that salvation is a free gift received by faith alone, without human works or merit. This aligns with Ephesians 2:8-9, which states that believers are saved by grace through faith.
  • Spiritual Growth & Bible Doctrine: Thieme taught that believers should engage in continuous doctrinal learning to develop spiritual maturity. He stressed the importance of Greek and Hebrew word studies for accurate biblical interpretation.
  • The Angelic Conflict: A unique aspect of his teaching, this doctrine explores the spiritual battle between God's plan and Satan's rebellion, impacting human history and individual believers.
  • Military & Discipleship Themes: He often used military terminology to describe the Christian life, referring to believers as "Christian soldiers" who must be equipped with Bible doctrine as their armor.
His ministry provided extensive resources—books, recordings, and structured teaching methods—to help believers systematically study Scripture. He also encouraged privacy in giving, meaning his ministry refused donations to ensure that teachings remained free from financial influence.

Would you like a deeper dive into any specific doctrine he taught?

Q: Rebound

CoPilot AI:
  1. Thieme's Rebound Doctrine is a theological concept focused on restoring fellowship with God after committing personal sin. It is based on 1 John 1:9, which states, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
  • Thieme taught that rebound is the process of privately confessing sins to God, allowing believers to regain the filling of the Holy Spirit and continue their spiritual growth. He emphasized that rebound is not about emotional guilt, penance, or human effort—it is purely a grace-based recovery method. Without rebound, he argued, believers remain in a state of carnality, hindering their spiritual progress.
    Would you like to explore how this doctrine compares to other theological perspectives on confession and forgiveness?

As we can see, it picks up what's available from his teachings and offers a comparison of other views. It's a different age that's upon us. So far, it's not much different than reading books or articles and providing access to different interpretations, which are already readily available though some are not as easy to find via search engines.
 

sawdust

Well-known member
Feb 12, 2024
1,398
320
83
68
Australia
Thus, to say everyone NEEDS
to learn the original languages is not correct
He never said that. He said teachers of the word need to learn the languages and the history if they are to teach accurately and in depth. If we, as disciples, are to learn beyond the elemental principles then we need to learn from teachers who devote themselves to understanding the word through the various disciplines.

Yeah that’s why Ive spent my life studying it and asking in prayer
Then why did God appoint pastor/teachers if all we need is to read the book and pray? Ephesians 4:11
 

Mem

Senior Member
Sep 23, 2014
7,891
2,433
113
Angels and demons both can believe the same belief, God is, but only angels have faith. Saints and sinners both can work the same work, but only saints have faith. Sinners do work for the glory of men, and I don't think the opinions of men have much influence on the work of saints. In the same way that not believing is employing a lie, it's still 'putting a thing to work.' And similarly, faith employs a 'thing not seen' so, it would seem to me that, rather than it be insisted that we 'see a work' as proof of faith, it should be that a faith is seen as proof of work. I think that's what James' challenge to "Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works."
James precedes this challenge with, "But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Apparently, this is a dispute of "somebone's" so-called works.... that would be resolved by comparison alongside James' works of faith.
 
Apr 7, 2014
26,170
13,980
113
59
"says" and "that" does not mean that the faith is not sincere and in the correct object and this is what you are implying.
Are you kidding me? A claimed faith demonstrates that it's not sincere by producing no works. James' point. We show our faith by our works. (James 2:18) Show but not establish. You read James 2:14 as if it says, "what good is it if someone actually does have genuine faith but just has not yet produced works." You completely ignore "says/claims" and "that."

What you are labeling as a "bare profession of faith" is rather subjective and is not defined in the verse. It is simply called a faith void of works.
Which demonstrates that it's not genuine faith (because it remains void of works) but a bare profession of faith.

Regardless of what the works are, it is the lack of the works that is making the faith dead not the degree of the faith. Whether or not the faith is "bare", "empty" or "mere" it is the lack of obedience (works) that is making the faith dead.
Just as a breathless body exhibits no indication of life, so fruitless faith exhibits no indication of life. The source of the life in faith is not works; rather, life in faith is the source of works. (Ephesians 2:5-10) You have it backwards. Cart before the horse.

The word used in James is believe and the demons most certainly believe that Jesus is Lord and the Son of God, so I am not sure of what you are asserting here. The difference between saved believers and condemned demons is not belief but obedience.
Their lack of obedience is a manifestation of their lack of believing on the Lord Jesus Christ and being saved. (Acts 16:31) You seem to believe that ALL belief is the same "except for the lack of works" and cannot seem to grasp a deeper belief that trusts in Jesus Christ alone for salvation which also explains why you have so much faith in water and works.

It's one thing to believe "mental assent" that the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ "happened." The demons believe that. It's another thing to believe in/have faith in/trust in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the ALL-sufficient means of our salvation. (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4) The demons do not believe in/have faith in/trust in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the ALL-sufficient means of our salvation. In other words, they do not believe on/in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31) and are not saved.

You would rather die of dehydration then obey and have the remission of sins that comes at water baptism. (Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16, 1st Peter 3:21)
I was water baptized several years ago on a Sunday morning after receiving the remission of sins when I believed in Him/placed my faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation (Acts 10:43; 13:38-39; 26:18) on Saturday night. I already covered Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16 and 1 Peter 3:21 with you multiple times in the past but you prefer your cherry picked eisegesis which negates salvation through faith.

There is no rejection of grace by believing that water baptism is the moment of the remission of sins.
Yes, there is. Neither Romans 5:2 nor Ephesians 2:8 mention water baptism. And if by grace, then it is no longer of works. (Romans 11:6) Belief/faith is the moment of the remission of sins. (Acts 10:43; 13:38-39; 26:18) Adding water baptism to the gospel adds a work to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is not baptism, and faith precedes baptism, and we are saved through faith. It's just that simple.
 
Oct 12, 2017
4,700
815
113
It's just compiling from commentaries and sites which is not much different than being trained to interpret or pastor at this point. And it has access to translation instruction so it can do that also.

Q: what theology does r.b. thieme teach?

CoPilot AI:
  1. R.B. Thieme, Jr. was a dispensationalist theologian who emphasized biblical inerrancy and a structured approach to Christian doctrine. His teachings focused on grace, salvation, and spiritual growth, with a strong emphasis on procedures for living the Christian way of life.

  • Thieme’s ministry, Berachah Church, was known for its rigorous Bible teaching, often requiring academic discipline from its congregation. He taught that salvation is a grace gift received by faith alone in Jesus Christ, rejecting the idea that works contribute to salvation. His ministry also provided extensive resources, including books, audio recordings, and radio broadcasts, to spread his doctrinal teachings worldwide.
    Would you like to explore a specific aspect of his theology, such as his views on dispensationalism or spiritual growth?

Q: Yes.

CoPilot AI:

Thieme's theology was deeply rooted in dispensationalism, which is a framework for interpreting biblical history as a series of distinct periods, or dispensations, in which God interacts with humanity in different ways. His approach emphasized grace, doctrinal precision, and rigorous biblical study, focusing on spiritual growth through knowledge of Scripture rather than emotional experiences.

A few key aspects of his theology include:
  • The Doctrine of Grace: He emphasized that salvation is a free gift received by faith alone, without human works or merit. This aligns with Ephesians 2:8-9, which states that believers are saved by grace through faith.
  • Spiritual Growth & Bible Doctrine: Thieme taught that believers should engage in continuous doctrinal learning to develop spiritual maturity. He stressed the importance of Greek and Hebrew word studies for accurate biblical interpretation.
  • The Angelic Conflict: A unique aspect of his teaching, this doctrine explores the spiritual battle between God's plan and Satan's rebellion, impacting human history and individual believers.
  • Military & Discipleship Themes: He often used military terminology to describe the Christian life, referring to believers as "Christian soldiers" who must be equipped with Bible doctrine as their armor.
His ministry provided extensive resources—books, recordings, and structured teaching methods—to help believers systematically study Scripture. He also encouraged privacy in giving, meaning his ministry refused donations to ensure that teachings remained free from financial influence.

Would you like a deeper dive into any specific doctrine he taught?

Q: Rebound

CoPilot AI:
  1. Thieme's Rebound Doctrine is a theological concept focused on restoring fellowship with God after committing personal sin. It is based on 1 John 1:9, which states, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

  • Thieme taught that rebound is the process of privately confessing sins to God, allowing believers to regain the filling of the Holy Spirit and continue their spiritual growth. He emphasized that rebound is not about emotional guilt, penance, or human effort—it is purely a grace-based recovery method. Without rebound, he argued, believers remain in a state of carnality, hindering their spiritual progress.
    Would you like to explore how this doctrine compares to other theological perspectives on confession and forgiveness?

As we can see, it picks up what's available from his teachings and offers a comparison of other views. It's a different age that's upon us. So far, it's not much different than reading books or articles and providing access to different interpretations, which are already readily available though some are not as easy to find via search engines.
That is similar to Grok found on Twitter/X.
It can not be used for personal spiritual growth, as it should be done with an anointed teacher presenting exegesis. .

That is like reading from Chat GTP that Bob T. Jones, Jr. teaches 3 different aspects needed in building a strong house.

Vs...

Actually listening to Bob T. Jones, Jr., teaching how to build a strong house in three ways.
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
4,073
1,123
113
It's just compiling from commentaries and sites which is not much different than being trained to interpret or pastor at this point. And it has access to translation instruction so it can do that also.

Q: what theology does r.b. thieme teach?

CoPilot AI:
  1. R.B. Thieme, Jr. was a dispensationalist theologian who emphasized biblical inerrancy and a structured approach to Christian doctrine. His teachings focused on grace, salvation, and spiritual growth, with a strong emphasis on procedures for living the Christian way of life.

  • Thieme’s ministry, Berachah Church, was known for its rigorous Bible teaching, often requiring academic discipline from its congregation. He taught that salvation is a grace gift received by faith alone in Jesus Christ, rejecting the idea that works contribute to salvation. His ministry also provided extensive resources, including books, audio recordings, and radio broadcasts, to spread his doctrinal teachings worldwide.
    Would you like to explore a specific aspect of his theology, such as his views on dispensationalism or spiritual growth?

Q: Yes.

CoPilot AI:

Thieme's theology was deeply rooted in dispensationalism, which is a framework for interpreting biblical history as a series of distinct periods, or dispensations, in which God interacts with humanity in different ways. His approach emphasized grace, doctrinal precision, and rigorous biblical study, focusing on spiritual growth through knowledge of Scripture rather than emotional experiences.

A few key aspects of his theology include:
  • The Doctrine of Grace: He emphasized that salvation is a free gift received by faith alone, without human works or merit. This aligns with Ephesians 2:8-9, which states that believers are saved by grace through faith.
  • Spiritual Growth & Bible Doctrine: Thieme taught that believers should engage in continuous doctrinal learning to develop spiritual maturity. He stressed the importance of Greek and Hebrew word studies for accurate biblical interpretation.
  • The Angelic Conflict: A unique aspect of his teaching, this doctrine explores the spiritual battle between God's plan and Satan's rebellion, impacting human history and individual believers.
  • Military & Discipleship Themes: He often used military terminology to describe the Christian life, referring to believers as "Christian soldiers" who must be equipped with Bible doctrine as their armor.
His ministry provided extensive resources—books, recordings, and structured teaching methods—to help believers systematically study Scripture. He also encouraged privacy in giving, meaning his ministry refused donations to ensure that teachings remained free from financial influence.

Would you like a deeper dive into any specific doctrine he taught?

Q: Rebound

CoPilot AI:
  1. Thieme's Rebound Doctrine is a theological concept focused on restoring fellowship with God after committing personal sin. It is based on 1 John 1:9, which states, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

  • Thieme taught that rebound is the process of privately confessing sins to God, allowing believers to regain the filling of the Holy Spirit and continue their spiritual growth. He emphasized that rebound is not about emotional guilt, penance, or human effort—it is purely a grace-based recovery method. Without rebound, he argued, believers remain in a state of carnality, hindering their spiritual progress.
    Would you like to explore how this doctrine compares to other theological perspectives on confession and forgiveness?

As we can see, it picks up what's available from his teachings and offers a comparison of other views. It's a different age that's upon us. So far, it's not much different than reading books or articles and providing access to different interpretations, which are already readily available though some are not as easy to find via search engines.
You can restrict Chat GPT to using the New Testament only, then it will not use commentaries.
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
4,073
1,123
113
Are you kidding me? A claimed faith demonstrates that it's not sincere by producing no works. James' point. We show our faith by our works. (James 2:18) Show but not establish. You read James 2:14 as if it says, "what good is it if someone actually does have genuine faith but just has not yet produced works." You completely ignore "says/claims" and "that."

Which demonstrates that it's not genuine faith (because it remains void of works) but a bare profession of faith.

Just as a breathless body exhibits no indication of life, so fruitless faith exhibits no indication of life. The source of the life in faith is not works; rather, life in faith is the source of works. (Ephesians 2:5-10) You have it backwards. Cart before the horse.
Here is how Chat GPT responds to the following questions.

Using only the N.T.

What questions is James asking?

Is James talking about perfecting one's faith by works?

Or is James saying that faith plus works is needed for salvation?

ChatGPT said:
Great questions—let’s carefully unpack what James is saying in the New Testament using only the text itself, especially James 2, where this issue is most clearly addressed.
1. What Questions Is James Asking?
In James 2:14–26, James uses a series of rhetorical questions to challenge his readers' assumptions about faith and works. Here are some of the key questions:
  • James 2:14“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?”
  • James 2:16“If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”
  • James 2:20“Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?”
  • James 2:21“Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?”
  • James 2:25“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”
Each of these questions is meant to provoke thought and lead to the conclusion that genuine faith results in action.
2. Is James Talking About Perfecting One’s Faith by Works?
Yes, in part. James teaches that works are a natural and necessary outgrowth of true faith and that they complete or perfect faith.
  • James 2:22“You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.”
The Greek word for "completed" here is eteleiōthē, meaning "brought to maturity" or "fulfilled." This suggests James sees works as evidence that faith is alive and mature, not just verbal or superficial.
3. Or Is James Saying That Faith Plus Works Is Needed for Salvation?
James does not say that works are an additional requirement alongside faith for salvation in the sense of “faith + works = salvation.” Rather, he argues that a faith that is real and saving will necessarily result in works.
  • James 2:17“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
  • James 2:24“You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”
This verse (2:24) is one of the most debated. But in context, James is confronting a false kind of faith—a mere intellectual belief that does not transform behavior (see James 2:19). He is not contradicting Paul (e.g., Romans 3:28 or Ephesians 2:8–9), who argues against legalism or works as a means to earn salvation.
James and Paul actually agree: salvation is by grace through faith, but that real faith will necessarily result in good works.
Summary Answer
  • James is asking whether a faith without works is of any use—and whether it can save.
  • He is saying that faith is perfected (matured or completed) by works.
  • He is not saying that works are an added requirement to faith for salvation, but that faith without works is dead—i.e., not real, saving faith.
 

Genez

Junior Member
Oct 12, 2017
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Here is how Chat GPT responds to the following questions.

Using only the N.T.

What questions is James asking?

Is James talking about perfecting one's faith by works?

Or is James saying that faith plus works is needed for salvation?

ChatGPT said:
Great questions—let’s carefully unpack what James is saying in the New Testament using only the text itself, especially James 2, where this issue is most clearly addressed.
1. What Questions Is James Asking?
In James 2:14–26, James uses a series of rhetorical questions to challenge his readers' assumptions about faith and works. Here are some of the key questions:
  • James 2:14“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?”
  • James 2:16“If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”
  • James 2:20“Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?”
  • James 2:21“Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?”
  • James 2:25“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”
Each of these questions is meant to provoke thought and lead to the conclusion that genuine faith results in action.
2. Is James Talking About Perfecting One’s Faith by Works?
Yes, in part. James teaches that works are a natural and necessary outgrowth of true faith and that they complete or perfect faith.
  • James 2:22“You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.”
The Greek word for "completed" here is eteleiōthē, meaning "brought to maturity" or "fulfilled." This suggests James sees works as evidence that faith is alive and mature, not just verbal or superficial.
3. Or Is James Saying That Faith Plus Works Is Needed for Salvation?
James does not say that works are an additional requirement alongside faith for salvation in the sense of “faith + works = salvation.” Rather, he argues that a faith that is real and saving will necessarily result in works.
  • James 2:17“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
  • James 2:24“You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”
This verse (2:24) is one of the most debated. But in context, James is confronting a false kind of faith—a mere intellectual belief that does not transform behavior (see James 2:19). He is not contradicting Paul (e.g., Romans 3:28 or Ephesians 2:8–9), who argues against legalism or works as a means to earn salvation.
James and Paul actually agree: salvation is by grace through faith, but that real faith will necessarily result in good works.
Summary Answer
  • James is asking whether a faith without works is of any use—and whether it can save.
  • He is saying that faith is perfected (matured or completed) by works.
  • He is not saying that works are an added requirement to faith for salvation, but that faith without works is dead—i.e., not real, saving faith.
The kind of faith that will end up producing works is the kind of faith that is genuine.
We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in them.

Ephesians 2:10
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
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The kind of faith that will end up producing works is the kind of faith that is genuine.
We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in them.

Ephesians 2:10
I assume your agreeing with Chat GPT?
 
May 24, 2025
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Is it at the point of faith? Satan would have you believe that’ faith” is the “end”, when actually, it is the beginning. Is it when we repent? When we actually “confess” Christ seems like a good place

We know Jesus shed His blood in His death on the cross. Romans 6:3, God says, Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His DEATH?Therefore, we were buried with Him through baptism into DEATH that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we should also walk in newness of life.”

From this scripture, I would say that we come into contact with the blood of Jesus when we are baptized into His death ( where His blood was shed).

This is in perfect harmony with what Ananias tells Saul in Acts 22:16–“ And now, what are you waiting for? Arise, and be baptized and WASH AWAY YOUR SINS.”
When is blood applied.

OT, they had to use a blood sacrifice to remove their sins ONCE a year.

Two things happen for that to happen,

1. They had to obey and follow what GOD told them to do.
2. They had to take an unblemished animal to the High Priest and he sacrifice it and the blood from that animals is what washed away their sins.

NT, JESUS is our high priest and he became our sacrifice our lamb.
When JESUS was on this earth and forgave sins as he wished like the thief.

JESUS preach app 3 years, died on the cross, buried and rose again. Then he ascended to Heaven to put his blood on the mercy seat.

Hebrews 9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

In both cases, we need a blood sacrifice and how we get the blood applied, to day the answer is found is the FIRST MESSAGE THAT JESUS PROMISED TO BE PREACHED IN JERUSALEM.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

That verse is very clear, TODAY we have to OBEY and do what GOD tells us to do but it's only has to be done ONCE.

IN THE WATER CALLING UPON HIS NAME.
 
Oct 19, 2024
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I went there.
This is what I found in General discussion.

Only one post? Dated Oct 2024.

View attachment 276781
PixelatedPope@pixelatedpope
1 Post

#1 · October 25, 2024, 23:01

Hello does anyone visit this site?

......
Huh? This is what you should see:

Welcome to Truthseekers Fellowship!


The purpose of this website is to share
insights regarding the following topics:
the best belief about ultimate reality (lesson1)
the Christian Creed or God’s requirement (lesson 2)
the teachings of Jesus (lesson 3)
the teachings of Paul (lesson 4)
key Old Testament teachings (lesson 5)
how to unify monotheism (lesson 6)


the history of beliefs (lessons 7 & 8)
moral and doctrinal issues (lesson 9)
people and their isms (lessons 10)
poems, etcetera (lesson 11)
miscellaneous comments (lesson 12)
 
Oct 19, 2024
5,441
1,124
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Try R.B.Thieme again?

Now, at this time, you may be ready for him.
One has to be made ready.

R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries is a grace ministry and operates entirely on voluntary contributions.
There is no price list for any of our material. No money is requested. When gratitude for the Word of God
motivates a believer to give, he has the privilege of contributing to the dissemination of Bible doctrine.
About the pastor-teacher: https://www.rbthieme.org/index.html#tabs-3




grace and peace .................
Been there, done that. Seminary too--thrice.
I liked both but feel no desire to repeat either.

A concept RBT taught me is that LGW is like storing water in a reservoir for times of drought.
The thought just occurred to me that this is comparable to Joseph storing grain in Egypt for the time of famine.
 
Oct 19, 2024
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He never said that. He said teachers of the word need to learn the languages and the history if they are to teach accurately and in depth. If we, as disciples, are to learn beyond the elemental principles then we need to learn from teachers who devote themselves to understanding the word through the various disciplines.



Then why did God appoint pastor/teachers if all we need is to read the book and pray? Ephesians 4:11
We all should be teachers of GW in some way, such as parents for their children.
Translation is one discipline; harmonization is another. Both are needed for correct interpretation.
 

sawdust

Well-known member
Feb 12, 2024
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We all should be teachers of GW in some way, such as parents for their children.
Translation is one discipline; harmonization is another. Both are needed for correct interpretation.
God appointed pastor/teachers, not translator/harmonizors. Anyone can teach what they have been taught, some do it better than others but the appointment of pastor/teacher is specially equipped beyond what the average person can understand from simply reading scripture and praying about it, no matter how smart they might be. If it were not so, there would be no need for the appointment. It is best utilized when one so gifted applies themself to the various categories of study. We are all disciples (learners), we are not all teachers but there are those who think they are even though they have not been appointed. A true pastor/teacher who is well trained will receive insight the rest of us won't see.