Comments for My Word Like Fire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com "Is not My Word like fire?" declares the Lord, "and like a hammer which shatters a rock?" (Jeremiah 23:29) Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:18:17 +0000 http://wordpress.com/ hourly 1 Comment on Why do you believe A.A and 12 Steps are Christian? by AndyM http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/06/18/why-do-you-believe-a-a-and-12-steps-are-christian/#comment-1119 AndyM Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:18:17 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2219#comment-1119 Christian belief requires no such "pathway to seeking God". It requires no self-appointed intermediaries or "spiritual fellowships which are not religions".It does not countenance any temporary, and disposable worship of false gods of one's own imagining. Christians recognise only one saviour, Jesus Christ, and call Him by name. AA is clearly heretical from a Christian standpoint. Wilson, with his morbid fixation on spiritism, was clearly a very disturbed and deluded figure who was meddling with forces he did not understand and could not control in direct violation of clear condemnations of such behaviour in the Bible. Christian belief requires no such “pathway to seeking God”. It requires no self-appointed intermediaries or “spiritual fellowships which are not religions”.It does not countenance any temporary, and disposable worship of false gods of one’s own imagining. Christians recognise only one saviour, Jesus Christ, and call Him by name. AA is clearly heretical from a Christian standpoint. Wilson, with his morbid fixation on spiritism, was clearly a very disturbed and deluded figure who was meddling with forces he did not understand and could not control in direct violation of clear condemnations of such behaviour in the Bible.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by mywordlikefire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1077 mywordlikefire Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:34:30 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1077 Kim, you don't seem defensive, you seem like you are a pretty thoughtful person. Nowhere in the Bible are we told we can add our God to other deities--and in fact, much of the Bible is strongly against such a thing. 2 Kings 22 and 23, Jeremiah, Galatians 1:6-9. Because there are emotional and spiritual attachments to AA, it is hard to see this for many. Anyway, thank you for your point of view. Kim, you don’t seem defensive, you seem like you are a pretty thoughtful person. Nowhere in the Bible are we told we can add our God to other deities–and in fact, much of the Bible is strongly against such a thing. 2 Kings 22 and 23, Jeremiah, Galatians 1:6-9. Because there are emotional and spiritual attachments to AA, it is hard to see this for many. Anyway, thank you for your point of view.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by Kim http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1075 Kim Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:23:15 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1075 Well I'm not going to argue over symantics, that's all they are to me, the Big Book is not scripture, I'm not going to over analyze every word, to make sure I'm still in God's grace (I know I am). You've obviously made up your mind about AA being anti biblical, and there are many more Christians who disagree and they will all stand firm on their beliefs and quote scripture to prove their point. In the end it all takes the focus off of Jesus, and certainly away from loving one another. Sometimes believers need to learn to agree to disagree, respect one another's beliefs and worry about their own actions. The bottom line is either your following Christ or not and it is NOT about obeying everything to a Tee, especially when there is so much disagreement within Christianity. I know you have the true viewpoint, just like everybody else, and you eagerly point to scripture to prove YOUR right. The saddest thing within the kingdom, is the amount of Christians focusing on others beliefs, pointing the finger in judgment and threatening Hell if they don't repent and see things their way. The ways of man and religion. Is Assembly of God a cult? Many think so, many Christians in fact, does that make them right? Are they not following Jesus, just because they do some things I don't agree with, I don't condemn them, and I could point to plenty of scripture to prove my point, does it matter? As for praying the Lord's Prayer at the end, reducing Christ to one of many, it's not for me, God know's my heart, I will not be bound by the law of others. As far as I'm concerned a case can be made for just about anything to be biblical or unbiblical depending on the bending of scripture. Sorry if I seem defensive, it's just that when people start claiming what is required for salvation over and above the sacrifice of our lord and savior Jesus Christ, I do get ticked. Especially when the issues are so small. Well I’m not going to argue over symantics, that’s all they are to me, the Big Book is not scripture, I’m not going to over analyze every word, to make sure I’m still in God’s grace (I know I am). You’ve obviously made up your mind about AA being anti biblical, and there are many more Christians who disagree and they will all stand firm on their beliefs and quote scripture to prove their point. In the end it all takes the focus off of Jesus, and certainly away from loving one another. Sometimes believers need to learn to agree to disagree, respect one another’s beliefs and worry about their own actions. The bottom line is either your following Christ or not and it is NOT about obeying everything to a Tee, especially when there is so much disagreement within Christianity. I know you have the true viewpoint, just like everybody else, and you eagerly point to scripture to prove YOUR right.

The saddest thing within the kingdom, is the amount of Christians focusing on others beliefs, pointing the finger in judgment and threatening Hell if they don’t repent and see things their way. The ways of man and religion.

Is Assembly of God a cult? Many think so, many Christians in fact, does that make them right? Are they not following Jesus, just because they do some things I don’t agree with, I don’t condemn them, and I could point to plenty of scripture to prove my point, does it matter?

As for praying the Lord’s Prayer at the end, reducing Christ to one of many, it’s not for me, God know’s my heart, I will not be bound by the law of others. As far as I’m concerned a case can be made for just about anything to be biblical or unbiblical depending on the bending of scripture.

Sorry if I seem defensive, it’s just that when people start claiming what is required for salvation over and above the sacrifice of our lord and savior Jesus Christ, I do get ticked. Especially when the issues are so small.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by mywordlikefire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1072 mywordlikefire Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:19:57 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1072 It is a present day part, when the AA Big Book teaches that "god" can be found within. (Pg.55) This is a direct inheritance of the Emmet Fox influence. When all gods are prayed to during the Lords Prayer and the Serenity Prayer, is that not reducing Christ (not that He can really be reduced) to one of many? It is a present day part, when the AA Big Book teaches that “god” can be found within. (Pg.55) This is a direct inheritance of the Emmet Fox influence. When all gods are prayed to during the Lords Prayer and the Serenity Prayer, is that not reducing Christ (not that He can really be reduced) to one of many?

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by Kim http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1071 Kim Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:55:12 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1071 Thanks, but it is still not a present day part of AA, nor is praising and praying together. Thanks, but it is still not a present day part of AA, nor is praising and praying together.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by mywordlikefire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1070 mywordlikefire Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:05:25 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1070 Hey Kim, Thanks for the thoughtful reply. Here, if you have time, is more about AA's use of the Emmet Fox book. It was a teaching text before the Big Book was completed. http://www.worldviewtimes.com/article.php/articleid-3537 Public school, sports, or working with non-believers is not the same as participating in a "spiritual" program where the higher power is praised and all pray together. Hey Kim,
Thanks for the thoughtful reply. Here, if you have time, is more about AA’s use of the Emmet Fox book. It was a teaching text before the Big Book was completed.

http://www.worldviewtimes.com/article.php/articleid-3537

Public school, sports, or working with non-believers is not the same as participating in a “spiritual” program where the higher power is praised and all pray together.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by Kim http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1069 Kim Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:56:35 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1069 I read your new post. I am familiar with some of Dick B's books, as I recall he focused much more on Dr. Bob than Bill W. And through my own study of the history it seems to me Dr. Bob was a Christian, and that Bill also accepted Christ. The only book Dr. Bob brought to the early Akron meetings was His bible, which is still at that meeting to this day. And I've read at "that" meeting accepting of Christ was a requirement back then. I don't think anyone can judge who or who is not a Christian by their doctrine, as doctrine varies like New England weather. But more importantly Salvation is by grace through faith. As Christ said on the cross "it is finished", the work of the cross is complete it is not the cross or Christ "plus anything". Perfect example is the thief that died beside Christ, he was saved without any doctrine or theology whatsoever. Our best righteousness is as filthy rags, so to try to add to the work of the cross is useless and not an acceptance of what Christ did. It seems to me you are trying to say that the many Christians who are in the fellowship (not religion, as the only requirement is the desire to stop drinking, no beliefs or actions are required) are not saved. If that is so I would have to say your faith is not in Christ, but in religion. We can judge a brother or sisters walk, but not their salvation. I'm very happy to hear all that you have been delivered from, that is a great testimony to the power and grace of Christ! I also have been delivered from alcoholism, drug and sex addictions. You say that most responses from Christians in AA are of a personal nature, yet you claim that the intent of the 12 steps was to assault Christ and His people, this is not fact but your opinion (from a personal nature). You also mention Emmett Fox's book as a teaching tool in AA, also not fact, maybe Bill and Bob liked the book, but I have never seen it in a meeting or heard any mention of it within AA. As for 2 Corinthians 6:14-17, again AA is just a fellowship, friends who have overcome the same problem. Are my children not to go to public school or play sports with non-believers? Should I work with only Christians? I think you take the context and make it sound as if people are worshiping with other believers such as going to a Islamic Temple.Their is no worship in AA or teaching about who God is, that is to do done outside of AA not within. That would be like saying I worship with the people I play tennis with, can they be non-Christian, according to your doctrine or is that sharing my pearls with the swine? As for Galatians 1: 6-9, I understand where your going with this (my opinion above would be the same), however you are using it out of context Paul was talking to Jewish converts who were starting to go back to living by the Law and not accepting the freedom in Christ. His point was the freedom from the law because of the Cross. As for your statement "people do as they will", they always have been and always will, and they are still Christian, doesn't mean they are living in freedom and won't face consequences, but we are sanctified over are entire life, not in an instant. He is Holy and righteous, but His wrath was paid for. Praise Jesus. Fearing Him is the beginning of wisdom (not means of salvation), and we all have that a varying degrees, hopefully more each day. The Lord's people more from a lack of wisdom than knowledge, wisdom is knowledge applied. Which can only result in love and that is what lacks the most in this world today. And finally as for "different understanding of God" no two people can have the exact same understanding. And our own understanding changes as we grow. God Bless, Kim I read your new post. I am familiar with some of Dick B’s books, as I recall he focused much more on Dr. Bob than Bill W. And through my own study of the history it seems to me Dr. Bob was a Christian, and that Bill also accepted Christ. The only book Dr. Bob brought to the early Akron meetings was His bible, which is still at that meeting to this day. And I’ve read at “that” meeting accepting of Christ was a requirement back then.

I don’t think anyone can judge who or who is not a Christian by their doctrine, as doctrine varies like New England weather. But more importantly Salvation is by grace through faith. As Christ said on the cross “it is finished”, the work of the cross is complete it is not the cross or Christ “plus anything”. Perfect example is the thief that died beside Christ, he was saved without any doctrine or theology whatsoever. Our best righteousness is as filthy rags, so to try to add to the work of the cross is useless and not an acceptance of what Christ did. It seems to me you are trying to say that the many Christians who are in the fellowship (not religion, as the only requirement is the desire to stop drinking, no beliefs or actions are required) are not saved.
If that is so I would have to say your faith is not in Christ, but in religion. We can judge a brother or sisters walk, but not their salvation.

I’m very happy to hear all that you have been delivered from, that is a great testimony to the power and grace of Christ! I also have been delivered from alcoholism, drug and sex addictions.

You say that most responses from Christians in AA are of a personal nature, yet you claim that the intent of the 12 steps was to assault Christ and His people, this is not fact but your opinion (from a personal nature). You also mention Emmett Fox’s book as a teaching tool in AA, also not fact, maybe Bill and Bob liked the book, but I have never seen it in a meeting or heard any mention of it within AA.

As for 2 Corinthians 6:14-17, again AA is just a fellowship, friends who have overcome the same problem. Are my children not to go to public school or play sports with non-believers? Should I work with only Christians? I think you take the context and make it sound as if people are worshiping with other believers such as going to a Islamic Temple.Their is no worship in AA or teaching about who God is, that is to do done outside of AA not within. That would be like saying I worship with the people I play tennis with, can they be non-Christian, according to your doctrine or is that sharing my pearls with the swine?

As for Galatians 1: 6-9, I understand where your going with this (my opinion above would be the same), however you are using it out of context Paul was talking to Jewish converts who were starting to go back to living by the Law and not accepting the freedom in Christ. His point was the freedom from the law because of the Cross. As for your statement “people do as they will”, they always have been and always will, and they are still Christian, doesn’t mean they are living in freedom and won’t face consequences, but we are sanctified over are entire life, not in an instant.

He is Holy and righteous, but His wrath was paid for. Praise Jesus. Fearing Him is the beginning of wisdom (not means of salvation), and we all have that a varying degrees, hopefully more each day.

The Lord’s people more from a lack of wisdom than knowledge, wisdom is knowledge applied. Which can only result in love and that is what lacks the most in this world today.

And finally as for “different understanding of God” no two people can have the exact same understanding. And our own understanding changes as we grow.

God Bless,

Kim

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by mywordlikefire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1068 mywordlikefire Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:20:40 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1068 Salvation through manipulation does not work, not any man made strategy. The Father draws the sinner to Christ, that is what the Bible says. Kim,this blog's message is to the Church. Not the unsaved. Salvation through manipulation does not work, not any man made strategy. The Father draws the sinner to Christ, that is what the Bible says.

Kim,this blog’s message is to the Church. Not the unsaved.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by Kim http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1067 Kim Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:07:42 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1067 I couldn't agree more, and I do. I'm not suggesting you don't, I do not know you. However when someone's initial encounter with a Christian is with someone who has a controlling "I am right, I know the one and only truth, you must listen to me" attitude. What usually happens is the person being "evangelized" want's nothing to do with that person or anyone like them, particularly someone in early recovery. As they are a long way from losing their rebellious attitude, I have found no other way than to love them into the kingdom. speaking the truth in love, gracefully over time as led by the Holy Spirit. If they choose not to accept Christ, then I guess they weren't chosen too, or it is not their time, but at least seeds will be planted. I believe fruitful seeds can only be planted in love, not condemnation. "Salvation through manipulation" just doesn't work. I couldn’t agree more, and I do. I’m not suggesting you don’t, I do not know you. However when someone’s initial encounter with a Christian is with someone who has a controlling “I am right, I know the one and only truth, you must listen to me” attitude. What usually happens is the person being “evangelized” want’s nothing to do with that person or anyone like them, particularly someone in early recovery. As they are a long way from losing their rebellious attitude, I have found no other way than to love them into the kingdom. speaking the truth in love, gracefully over time as led by the Holy Spirit. If they choose not to accept Christ, then I guess they weren’t chosen too, or it is not their time, but at least seeds will be planted. I believe fruitful seeds can only be planted in love, not condemnation. “Salvation through manipulation” just doesn’t work.

]]> Comment on Pro-A.A. author Dick B. protests by mywordlikefire http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/pro-a-a-author-dick-b-protests/#comment-1066 mywordlikefire Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:45:15 +0000 http://mywordlikefire.wordpress.com/?p=2349#comment-1066 But we are to contend earnestly for the faith. But we are to contend earnestly for the faith.

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