Do you believe in God?

dmatic comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Oh, I forgot to try to answer your good question...(s).... So, who has the audacity to answer in the affirmative? Brilliant cautions he makes...and who knows, I may be a devil, because I believe and shudder!....too. I sense I need to think about presumptive 'sin', which, in my thinking, is ...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@WilliamRees We may have a different understanding as to the definition of sovereignty? I think I get your objection and your point about the way God trains us, but I'm pretty sure that God does not share His Sovereignty with anyone. He does grant us a measure of authority, to which we will give an account to Him. He does not grant anyone sovereignty. They may think they need not answer to anyone but they are merely deceived. Sovereign means supreme, or highest, in power and/or authority. There is only one "most High" and the spot is already taken.

Roger Scruton: The Great Hypocrisy In Morality Today - YouTube

dmatic comments on Jun 17, 2019:

Love that guy! "... a considerable amount of nonsense embedded in our legal systems..." Thanks for sharing his wisdom, Naomi!

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Naomi He used a comparison between liberal and socialist as being opposite in his little talk. Classic liberal he was referring to no doubt. Which is close to conservative it seems to me. Smart guy that people should listen to. Thanks again.

Roger Scruton: The Great Hypocrisy In Morality Today - YouTube

jwhitten comments on Jun 17, 2019:

The key here is to turn it inside out for them. When THEY tell YOU that "Morality is relative". YOU tell THEM that they're RIGHT and THEIR 'morality' is no longer relevant.

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

Not a bad line, j!

Do you think it's bad if one is not patriotic?

Krystina comments on Jun 14, 2019:

In short, yes. I don't believe the U.S. would have accomplished much of what it has without being as patriotic as it's been. That said, I view patriotism as a form of devotion similar to that which one would have to family. You can be fervently devoted to your family, but still recognize uncle ...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Krystina OK. Some day, I believe we will all be of one country...with one King. Just trying to get ready....

Do you believe in God?

Mzhammer comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Do you believe in God? Have you ever experienced the transfiguring event of believing? In June 2002, I went from believing in God to knowing God. God blessed me with a supernatural “transfiguring” event that completely changed my life. I can’t explain it in words but I experienced Divine ...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Mzhammer Thank you. That is a beautiful and true response to my question. May God continue to bless you!

Just finished reading the book Explaining Postmodernism: Skepticism and Socialism from Rousseau to ...

Cheetolini comments on Jun 17, 2019:

What if I choose not to live in the collective? What if I choose my things to not be your things based on need rather than merit? The problem with socialism is it is for the socialist. For those who don’t choose the system, it is forced collectivism. Tyranny. A capitalist may choose to ...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

Astute logic. Thank you.

This was an interesting read.

dmatic comments on Jun 15, 2019:

Not sure I understand the author's concluding paragraph: "The Democrats are dealing with a socialist-friendly Left that despises economic freedom, but Republicans are facing a resurgent nationalist Right that shares many of the same hostilities. There's a clear and present danger on both horizons."...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Mrgeo315 Thanks! That helps. Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people. Authoritarianism, by those who have not been granted authority IS dangerous, no matter from which part of the 'spectrum'. Thanks again

I am done with my research...I see you snickering back there...."Research, huh?

pbuck0145 comments on Jun 16, 2019:

Consider using paragraphs.

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Serg97 Me 'neither'! I love the way he writes! Find myself laughing out loud....sometimes at the things he's not saying, too! But, I know he's thinking them.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

iThink comments on Jun 16, 2019:

The basic driving forces behind progressivism is multi-faceted but there are two primary factors. 1: a pathological need to project virtuous insight 2: a pathological need to control other peoples behavior. Some other facets include a powerful desire to prop up ones self as superior in ...

dmatic replies on Jun 17, 2019:

@Naomi Please don't misunderstand, I am actually counseling you to examine the other side (or pole of a polarizing issue), just as you have stated. That is a good thing.....to not dismiss a view just because someone appears judgmental or opinionated who offers it! We agree! Carry on, sister!

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

timon_phocas comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I see people protesting who are better dressed, drive nicer cars, go to expensive schools. In short, they live a much more prosperous life than I do. So what economic conditions are they angry about?

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@10thGeneration Good point! Guilt should actually progress to repentance? which would progress to joy?

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

iThink comments on Jun 16, 2019:

The basic driving forces behind progressivism is multi-faceted but there are two primary factors. 1: a pathological need to project virtuous insight 2: a pathological need to control other peoples behavior. Some other facets include a powerful desire to prop up ones self as superior in ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Naomi Yes, I was 'around' during the Vietnam war era. Many were against it. I was 18 when the draft lottery came into being. Not aware, however, if Chomsky's thoughts affected me one way or another.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

iThink comments on Jun 16, 2019:

The basic driving forces behind progressivism is multi-faceted but there are two primary factors. 1: a pathological need to project virtuous insight 2: a pathological need to control other peoples behavior. Some other facets include a powerful desire to prop up ones self as superior in ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Naomi You have made that clear. It was the article's assertion. Thanks. Not sure why you don't wish to believe in "poles", however. Poles exist, and so do polarized views. By denying to entertain them, you may be depriving yourself of learning, if you are a seeker or wonderer. All "judgmental" people are not wrong, though. Only those whose judgments are not true or righteous.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

Wtretired comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I disagree. Progressives are about control. Their happiness is control And the truly intelligent ones believe they should control. Individual responsibility and account ability is out. The collective good is in. You are only unhappy if the environment is to blame, you are sick or haven’t been ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@10thGeneration yes, by trying to control what they no authority to do.

Do you think it's bad if one is not patriotic?

Krystina comments on Jun 14, 2019:

In short, yes. I don't believe the U.S. would have accomplished much of what it has without being as patriotic as it's been. That said, I view patriotism as a form of devotion similar to that which one would have to family. You can be fervently devoted to your family, but still recognize uncle ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Krystina You may hate your neighbors if you want, I guess. If you think that is good for your own country, but I prefer peace and good will.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

timon_phocas comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I see people protesting who are better dressed, drive nicer cars, go to expensive schools. In short, they live a much more prosperous life than I do. So what economic conditions are they angry about?

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@10thGeneration Are you identifying guilt, or anger?

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

10thGeneration comments on Jun 16, 2019:

First of all let me clarify the "intense unhappiness with the current state of economic and political affairs in western society" Progressives see the successes of Western Society as unfair and exploitation of others. They sight points in history where European nations scoured the world in conquest ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@10thGeneration Beautiful! For some reason, earlier, only this was showing in your post :First of all let me clarify the "intense unhappiness with the current state of economic and political affairs in western society Love these lines from you: "Today they are more Neo Communist with a globalist, mostly billionaire elite ready to lock in their wealth and lifestyles and humbly serve as the new benevolent and permanent dictatorship of the proletariat. They are little more than vain, self absorbed would be tyrants." Thank you!

If you're against Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, or George Washington.

Alexkool comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I don't know much about ant one of them and that's ok... I applod you for knowing them..

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

Alexkool, Are you an American? Just curious. If you are, it would be good to get to know them. They were interesting, to say the least.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

Wtretired comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I disagree. Progressives are about control. Their happiness is control And the truly intelligent ones believe they should control. Individual responsibility and account ability is out. The collective good is in. You are only unhappy if the environment is to blame, you are sick or haven’t been ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Wtretired The basic desire of a witch is to manipulate or control another. (by whatever means is necessary?)

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

iThink comments on Jun 16, 2019:

The basic driving forces behind progressivism is multi-faceted but there are two primary factors. 1: a pathological need to project virtuous insight 2: a pathological need to control other peoples behavior. Some other facets include a powerful desire to prop up ones self as superior in ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Naomi Not sure you interpreted ithink's statement correctly. ithink did not misinterpret the statement because many would disagree with that. ithink may have erred in thinking it was your assertion, however. (The parenthetical). The way you framed it, it does seem to be two issues with which to agree or disagree about. I think, ithink's answer was right on, by the way.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

Wtretired comments on Jun 16, 2019:

I disagree. Progressives are about control. Their happiness is control And the truly intelligent ones believe they should control. Individual responsibility and account ability is out. The collective good is in. You are only unhappy if the environment is to blame, you are sick or haven’t been ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

It would appear that the desire to control is actually witchcraft.

I came across the following statement in someone's article: "The basic driving force behind all ...

10thGeneration comments on Jun 16, 2019:

First of all let me clarify the "intense unhappiness with the current state of economic and political affairs in western society" Progressives see the successes of Western Society as unfair and exploitation of others. They sight points in history where European nations scoured the world in conquest ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

Please, clarify.

Tucker Tonight...and more from the fake outrage MoB. [youtu.be]

MilesPurdue comments on Jun 13, 2019:

It is a moral shame that Democrats are accusing Republicans of a crime that the Democrats are committing. The more they push the more the truth comes out.

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@ScottforKing Democrats seem to think they are better people than the rest of us if they don't feel shame, so they simply deny the shame that a normal, or moral, person would have, for being so blatantly evil.

Do you think it's bad if one is not patriotic?

Krystina comments on Jun 14, 2019:

In short, yes. I don't believe the U.S. would have accomplished much of what it has without being as patriotic as it's been. That said, I view patriotism as a form of devotion similar to that which one would have to family. You can be fervently devoted to your family, but still recognize uncle ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Naomi, @Krystina Patriotism is love...Desiring what is best for one's country is good. One's neighbors are her countrymen. Being devoted to one's country, means wishing the best for all.

Do you think it's bad if one is not patriotic?

Krystina comments on Jun 14, 2019:

In short, yes. I don't believe the U.S. would have accomplished much of what it has without being as patriotic as it's been. That said, I view patriotism as a form of devotion similar to that which one would have to family. You can be fervently devoted to your family, but still recognize uncle ...

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Naomi Overcome evil with good. If your enemy thirsts, give him/her something to drink... I'm not saying you should be devoted to their evil cause, but being devoted to the King, one would think that one should do what the King says, regarding one's countrymen.

Intersectionality defined in a simple meme.

dmatic comments on Jun 14, 2019:

Intersectionality is seeking pity? I may have to look it up....because I still don;t get it.

dmatic replies on Jun 16, 2019:

@Cheetolini Hopefully, you're doing your best to ignore the labels "they" place on you, after much introspection, of course, to see if the charges are true? Sadly, I'm very close to the line that, if I cross it, I will ignore EVERYTHING "they" say, as simply being gobbledygook. I do not like entertaining liars and witches...who are attempting to manipulate and deceive.

Intersectionality defined in a simple meme.

dmatic comments on Jun 14, 2019:

Intersectionality is seeking pity? I may have to look it up....because I still don;t get it.

dmatic replies on Jun 15, 2019:

@Cheetolini Thanks, I'm closer to understanding, but not quite there..."stereotypical assumptions ...based on immutable characteristics" ....Hmmm. Doesn't sound like 'progress' to me.

Do you think it's bad if one is not patriotic?

Krystina comments on Jun 14, 2019:

In short, yes. I don't believe the U.S. would have accomplished much of what it has without being as patriotic as it's been. That said, I view patriotism as a form of devotion similar to that which one would have to family. You can be fervently devoted to your family, but still recognize uncle ...

dmatic replies on Jun 15, 2019:

Devotion to one's neighbors and considering their interests is simply a loving thing to do, and a society that loves each other is healthy enough to also lovingly point out one another's faults...in the hope of everybody's benefit.

Tucker Tonight...and more from the fake outrage MoB. [youtu.be]

MilesPurdue comments on Jun 13, 2019:

It is a moral shame that Democrats are accusing Republicans of a crime that the Democrats are committing. The more they push the more the truth comes out.

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

A shame indeed, but, not sure democrats feel shame?

Help pimp my logic outline, please: I'm writing an essay on taxation, in which I argue for ...

dmatic comments on Jun 14, 2019:

I am not astute enough to critique what appears to be a very interesting argument. Look forward to reading the flesh, as I am not sure even what a value added tax is. Thanks

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@jneedler Thanks for the explanation. I am not a 'tax' expert, but it seems that individual states probably operate differently? I may be wrong, but, in my state, for example, sales taxes are not paid by a manufacturer of a product for the parts that go into a product they are manufacturing....until the thing is sold at retail? So, and I'm not sure about this, but, say a car manufacturer buys nuts and bolts from company B. They would not be charged sales tax on those parts. I do agree with you about the violation of principle when taxes are charged on taxes! They do that in this state, with a food and beverage tax. That amount (sometimes 2.5%) is first added to the bill, and then the state sales tax is computed. Bad voodoo! But, since when did governments care about principle?

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo And....I have faith that you ARE going to figure it out! (Just because it is God's will that you do!)

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo "because it's not an easy path. " True, but so what? Which path is easy? Oh yeah, that's the broad one that leads to destruction. Who wants to be destroyed? And I agree! God is not incidental!

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo Well! That's not what I said....but I like your interpretation! "Hearing with inSIGHT!"

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo Some are closer than others. Some are farther away. Many "claim" to represent Him...and many claim to 'worship/ Him, but their hearts are far from Him, teachings as doctrine, the commandments of men! And neglecting the commandments, (or instructions if you prefer), of God! Jesus said that many would come in His name, but would deceive many! Not to worry....God will straighten us all out eventually. The "grace" of God, that bringeth salvation, has appeared to ALL men, (this grace) teaches us to deny ungodliness and to live righteously...in this present age... (Titus 2: 9-11?) Again, not to worry, He is all about grace! And His mercy endureth forever!

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo "Knowing" is an interesting challenge, to be sure. Obviously (?), many think they "know" something, but they probably just think they know....and that, basically, is the definition of "deceived". I think the attitude you exhibit is more conducive to finding truth than presuming you already have it all figured out! You wrote: "I don't know that he spends a ton of time worrying about every detail, ..." I don't think He worries about anything...but you know He knows even when a sparrow falls, and the number of hairs on everybody's head....:)

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@RichardD Regarding the definition of a Christian, I've always understood it to be "a follower of Christ", one who seeks His teachings and incorporates them into his/her life. An "anti-christ" or anti-christian, is one who follows teachings other than Christ's. Regarding the "unpardonable sin"...to me, it suggests that that guilty person who has committed it, will pay the penalty himself? We could talk about what that penalty might be, if you want, but it doesn't mean, in my opinion, that that person would never be allowed into the kingdom of God, eventually.

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 14, 2019:

@chuckpo A whole lot of "I don't know" in them. Love it! You know what the Bible says about the men, (or women?), who think they know something....that they don't yet know it as they ought... So you don't hold to the hounds of heaven idea? My personal belief is that God is WAY more involved in each and every life that He has created than many of us have a clue about! Certainly, He can conceal His presence if He desires...or revel His activity, but that is up to Him. (It is the glory of God to conceal a matter....)

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

BEARSHRUGGED comments on Jun 9, 2019:

"Torah" (the "Old Testament") means lessons. For the believer, these lessons are as a result of a G-d that exists, and the structure of the Torah itself has meaning we attempt to glean. The "New" Testament can be viewed in a similar manner, but Christianity seems to skew toward viewing it as a ...

dmatic replies on Jun 13, 2019:

Pretty sure JP knows that God exists.

Jordan Peterson, among others, sees the Bible as follows: The Bible is a series of books ...

chuckpo comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Where JP stops is in stating there is a real God and that God is personal (He relates to us individually). JP articulates God and the Bible in terms of literature--as historical human wisdom. I don't think he can, in any sense, call himself a Christian. However, it seems to me JP is on a path, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 13, 2019:

@chuckpo @RichardD, Now that you mention it, what IS the definition of a Christian? And I really liked the paragraphs from which the following quote is from: "From a Christian perspective, it sure looks like God's got hold of him and is working in JP's life." Is there anyone, in your opinion, whom God does NOT have a hold of, chuckpo?

Reading Psalm 1 this morning, began to wonder what counsel from the ungodly is.

dmatic comments on May 23, 2019:

I am thinking ungodliness is the opposite of Godliness. So, to define ungodliness we need to understand God's character? We need to know God?

dmatic replies on Jun 13, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Yep, just asked the goog;le: pride, covetousness, lust, anger, gluttony, envy and sloth! Stay away from those killers!

Social justice demands the unequal treatment of individuals... [thelibertarianrepublic.com]

dmatic comments on Jun 12, 2019:

From the article: "This is the fundamental question of our time and the source of most of our political discord: should we treat people equally or treat them differently based on their race, gender, or class to correct collective imbalances in “wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a ...

dmatic replies on Jun 13, 2019:

@Cheetolini "We", apparently, are part of the collective, whether or not we choose it? If the question is how should "we" treat people, I think the answer is impartially. Not showing favoritism to any. Individually, or collectively... But, I am not too familiar with intersectionality...are you going to make me look it up? :) Thanks

Reading Psalm 1 this morning, began to wonder what counsel from the ungodly is.

dmatic comments on May 23, 2019:

I am thinking ungodliness is the opposite of Godliness. So, to define ungodliness we need to understand God's character? We need to know God?

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires It would be a start! Sin, according to the Bible, is a transgression of God's Law. I suppose one could think that gluttony, envy, Lust, (dont' know all seven?) could be considered a sin against one's own self. Though most people seem to love themselves pretty much...is selfishness on that list?

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@govols You wrote: "Yeah, I'm way outside of clear thought or actual belief....." Funny! If I can help, let me know!

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@RichardD Well, I certainly agree with that! "Beyond all KNOWN physical laws." We don't know very much. You guys are way too high and deep for me...But, thanks for letting me chime in...And, you're right...nobody did say that. Somebody said God cannot ONLY be within His creation, and I cannot imagine a place where God is not, since He is everywhere.

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@RichardD In God we live and move and have our being. Is there any place where God is not? Not, apparently, if He is Omnipresent. To suggest there is such a place, outside of God...is way beyond my present knowledge...That God is outside Himself? Strange indeed.

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@RichardD You wrote: "God cannot be only within His own creation (the universe)." And: "We cannot fully know God as He actually exists. God exists in a way that exceeds the humanly knowable nature of existence." I'm not sure who would say what God cannot be....nor would I recommend someone trust what they would say... All I know is that God must be AMAZING! And I want to get to know Him more and more every day....and night.

Reading Psalm 1 this morning, began to wonder what counsel from the ungodly is.

dmatic comments on May 23, 2019:

I am thinking ungodliness is the opposite of Godliness. So, to define ungodliness we need to understand God's character? We need to know God?

dmatic replies on Jun 12, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires So, you are saying that a sin is against oneself? Interesting.

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@govols Agree with the definition issue. And it would be good to agree with the definitions being used.....but, you wrote: "We cannot fully know God as He actually exists. God exists in a way that exceeds the humanly knowable nature of existence." Not sure I understand you here. Who says we cannot fully know God as He actually exists? He says, speaking of His new covenant.....and they will ALL know Me, from the least to the greatest... I just think we are in for an exciting and amazing ride! After all, we are either of "human" "nature" or we are partakers of the Divine nature. Those words in the scriptures are, indeed, amazing....we will know Him as He is, (1 John 3:2)

Reading Psalm 1 this morning, began to wonder what counsel from the ungodly is.

dmatic comments on May 23, 2019:

I am thinking ungodliness is the opposite of Godliness. So, to define ungodliness we need to understand God's character? We need to know God?

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Who does one look to to "gain forgiveness from past sins if "it is up to us to make the right steps"? How would you define "sin"? Thanks

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@RichardD "God is usually conceived of as transcendental and not part of the universe." By whom?

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Guess I didn't understand your "imagination is god...". Still don't. But, that's OK, I guess. Consciousness is imagination? Maybe I should ask what you mean by imagination. Are imaginations real in your mind? Do you think consciousness is only for humans? I'm confused. Sorry.

Reading Psalm 1 this morning, began to wonder what counsel from the ungodly is.

dmatic comments on May 23, 2019:

I am thinking ungodliness is the opposite of Godliness. So, to define ungodliness we need to understand God's character? We need to know God?

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires No time to respond to all of your comments, now, but, You said: "I wouldnt say that its based on the will of God, God already laid out the path, it depends on the individual himself to choose the correct path" Salvation, itself, needs to be defined, I suppose. What do you think salvation is, or means?

Do you believe in God?

ElishevaH comments on Jun 10, 2019:

I am a Jew. And for me me, an intellectual belief in the Eternal is unimportant. I think this has to do with some of the differences between Christianity and Rabbinic Judaism. The Master of the Universe is--and I rely on that and live my life. Reliance--in Hebrew, the word we use use for ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

Intellectual 'belief' may be a harder path, of course. Jordan's is an example....but it is rich, as well...as the more peaceful, reliance, you describe.

Do you believe in God?

Mzhammer comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Do you believe in God? Have you ever experienced the transfiguring event of believing? In June 2002, I went from believing in God to knowing God. God blessed me with a supernatural “transfiguring” event that completely changed my life. I can’t explain it in words but I experienced Divine ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires I agree. Good answer, faith is a gift, too...

Do you believe in God?

Diogenes comments on Jun 9, 2019:

I'm with Dr. Peterson. Non credo, sed volo credere.

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DavidQDauthier Thank you....and you will! I believe we all will come to know God....and in the mean time, we will come to believe...

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@RichardD Pretty bold, and possibly misinformed, opinion that God is not a being amongst other beings. Think I'll disregard that opinion. Thanks anyway.

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 11, 2019:

@DesireNoDesires Well, you're right about the idea that man's imagination is fraught with the delusional danger of playing make- believe. Creating a god in your own image, or imagination is, it would seem, the height of arrogance.

Who made God?

govols comments on May 28, 2019:

Part of the reason there even IS a God is that we can't imagine the complexity of our experience without there being one (or more). God said, "I am." We humans can't really conceptualize that notion. Everything has a beginning, a cause, a purpose...to even pretend to imagine a form of being that ...

dmatic replies on Jun 10, 2019:

@RichardD God is. "I am" seems to be existence. Not sure what you're getting at, but would be interested to know how your conception has changed since you read Aquinas. Thanks

Do you believe in God?

Mzhammer comments on Jun 9, 2019:

Do you believe in God? Have you ever experienced the transfiguring event of believing? In June 2002, I went from believing in God to knowing God. God blessed me with a supernatural “transfiguring” event that completely changed my life. I can’t explain it in words but I experienced Divine ...

dmatic replies on Jun 10, 2019:

May I ask what you mean by "unconditional"? Thanks

Do you believe in God?

RichardD comments on Jun 9, 2019:

"Even the devils believe in God". That is not the issue

dmatic replies on Jun 9, 2019:

Are you saying that if the devils really believed, they would repent?

Do you believe in God?

Diogenes comments on Jun 9, 2019:

I'm with Dr. Peterson. Non credo, sed volo credere.

dmatic replies on Jun 9, 2019:

In order to understand you, may I ask the interpretation of the non-English part of your comment? Thanks

Multicultural Inclusion Council> being established in my neck of the woods.

jnaatjes comments on Jun 7, 2019:

It depends on how far libertarian you're talking here, but almost anything supported by tax dollars, except for maybe a strong national defense, law enforcement and minimal overhead necessary to run the government, goes against libertarianism. Some libertarians are basically anarchists though, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 8, 2019:

@jnaatjes Not sure what you imply with the word "regulating", but I do think the government is present to establish rules and their enforcement, to ensure a just and/or fair, marketplace. Just weights and measures, etc. and trying to establish honesty, rather than deception in the trading of products, somehow. I do not think local government 'agencies' have any business, confiscating taxes from the local economy to try to lure businesses, of their particular liking while not giving other businesses the same.

Multicultural Inclusion Council> being established in my neck of the woods.

Jeeper752 comments on Jun 8, 2019:

Immigration and a host of other things can be fixed by repeal of the Sixteenth Amendment WITHOUT replacing it with anything. That will dry up the river of money that Washington uses to pay for the welfare state, among other things. Drying up the welfare will mean that people coming here will need ...

dmatic replies on Jun 8, 2019:

The welfare state seems to be a cause of resentment among many. Taxing income also seems to be regressive, if that's the word. Unjust may be better. My inquiry seems to be about the basic idea that we are all different, therefore, have slightly different "cultures". The differences make for interesting discussions and observations, but, unless there is agreement about some basic "mores" it is hard to "walk together". The old adage," the house divided against itself, cannot stand", comes to mind. We, as a country seem to be dividing against one another more and more every day. Should that division be celebrated and encouraged?

Multicultural Inclusion Council> being established in my neck of the woods.

SpikeTalon comments on Jun 7, 2019:

Not all libertarians agree with open borders, although that does seem to be an LP stance, one I disagree with.

dmatic replies on Jun 8, 2019:

@jnaatjes Good, thoughtful answer. Thanks, I appreciate it.

Multicultural Inclusion Council> being established in my neck of the woods.

jnaatjes comments on Jun 7, 2019:

It depends on how far libertarian you're talking here, but almost anything supported by tax dollars, except for maybe a strong national defense, law enforcement and minimal overhead necessary to run the government, goes against libertarianism. Some libertarians are basically anarchists though, and ...

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

Personally, I am against the whole idea of "economic development" government supported groups. The local one is funded by sales tax dollars and the idea of government taxing people, and then picking and choosing what businesses to give incentives to, without regard for the taxpayer's opinion, is not what government is commissioned to do. But, the beast is coming.....I'm just wanting to know if opposing the multicultural inclusion council is worthwhile....Thanks

Multicultural Inclusion Council> being established in my neck of the woods.

SpikeTalon comments on Jun 7, 2019:

Not all libertarians agree with open borders, although that does seem to be an LP stance, one I disagree with.

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

I'm working my way through the debate, myself. The Libertarian proponent is making some very good points, however. But, do you have anything for me regarding the multicultural idea? Thanks, Spike.

Dan Roodt speaks about Britain involvement in keeping the ANC in power. [youtu.be]

dmatic comments on Jun 3, 2019:

This is all just so very sad. What is the answer to racism and hatred? God, please show us the way.

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

@WorldSigh 100% agree!

Dan Roodt speaks about Britain involvement in keeping the ANC in power. [youtu.be]

dmatic comments on Jun 3, 2019:

This is all just so very sad. What is the answer to racism and hatred? God, please show us the way.

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

@WorldSigh Interesting. Thank you for educating me. I recently read the book, I think titled 100 year Marathon, by a China expert, but can't remember his name. Certainly this is making more sense to me. China does seem to want to be the world's super power. Understandable. If the world is to have a new 'master', one would hope they not be Communist, however. Personally, I'm hoping for the Kingdom of God to arrive soon.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Dodged a bullet is apropos. There seems to be some hope...especially if the woke people wake up. But, what do I know? I'm a nobody, too!

What we call free markets, philanthropy, and volunteerism is nothing more than people cooperating to...

dmatic comments on Jun 6, 2019:

Curious. What do you think "government's goal" is?

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

@jnaatjes When government is righteous, the people rejoice, but when it is corrupt, the people hide themselves.

Been in Twitter jail for 10 months and do not miss it a bit.. Twitter can suck it.

dmatic comments on Jun 6, 2019:

Twitter put you in jail? Have you learned your lesson? You sound a bit bitter......or better as the case may be...

dmatic replies on Jun 7, 2019:

@EdNason Icky!

What we call free markets, philanthropy, and volunteerism is nothing more than people cooperating to...

Seasteader comments on Jun 6, 2019:

Sounds like someone is an anarchist.

dmatic replies on Jun 6, 2019:

@Bay0Wulf Excellent commentary!

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 6, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Sure, I remember the 55 mph speed limit! I thought you were Canadian? :) This, my friend, is an interesting statement: "Money becomes a mere symbol of wealth, a token if you will, used more to manipulate and control than as a representation of one's contribution to his fellow man." Money as a representation of one's contribution to his fellow man? Interesting indeed. Never heard of that being a purpose of money. The more he contributes the more money he should have. A merit based economic system? Who would be the arbiter and determiner of such things? Certainly not the Government!??? :) You also wrote:"...I don't want to claim to be perfect - that's impossible, ..." Are saying it is impossible to claim to be perfect? :) We see people doing that all the time. You must be agreeing with the old lie, then...that perfection is impossible? Who told you that? Nobody's perfect. Be a nobody! :)

Dan Roodt speaks about Britain involvement in keeping the ANC in power. [youtu.be]

dmatic comments on Jun 3, 2019:

This is all just so very sad. What is the answer to racism and hatred? God, please show us the way.

dmatic replies on Jun 6, 2019:

@WorldSigh Was not aware of the Chinese "investing" in South Africa. What do they hope to reap from their investments? Civil war destroys investments, it would seem.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 6, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk From your previous: "Of course, what we see today, in western society is moral degradation, money is detached from production, unions demand more without an increase in production, inflation demands cost of living adjustments, casinos and lotteries promise instant riches, governments are able to spend as much as the feel they need and create huge debts - money is cheap. Governments in a hurry to consolidate their power print excessive amounts of money to distribute to the poor without any connection to production, thinking they are helping. All that money only serves to increase prices which means the government must now legislate price controls to keep prices form going up. Producers, already making no profit on their products find other markets and shortages arise. If they sell above the legislated price they are jailed for price-gouging. So vendors close shop." We do, indeed, see this! Astute analysis! Care to elaborate on the "money is cheap" comment? :)

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 6, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Thanks, Frank. Appreciate the insight into 'you'. I am definitely not enamored with "organized" religion either. Reminds me of your knock on Governments that seek to control. It's called "nicolaitanism"; control of the laity..or the common man, a doctrine, (a way), that Jesus hates! Organized religion, like big business, sometimes falls to the temptation of the love of money, where everything is measured by the thing's affect on the bottom line. But, having said that, I see all the evil that's in the world as simply an obstacle to be overcome. And, you're right, God provides the means and strength to do so, and in the overcoming, there is growth, learning and enlightenment. I agree with you, too, about defining "better", too, to a degree. Liberty of pursuit of "happiness", or contentment with one's choices and results, is a wonderful teacher. Consequences and responsibility for one's choices in the pursuit help us to grow and correct mistakes, which seem inevitable. The reason I say: 'to a degree' is what seems to be the answer to the question: Who rules in the affairs of mankind? Do we control our own destiny by our choices, or are our destinies determined by a loving God, Who rules in the affairs of men? In my view, we are all under God and will give an account of ourselves, and our choices, to Him. There is liberty in doing what He defines as better and right. That would lead to a whole 'nother discussion, but we do agree that there are some things we seem to be just "under" with not a lot of choices to change the circumstances. Say, an economic system. Important as that system is, the rules may not seem to be set by the individuals participating in it. We do what we can to support our needs and wants, with varying degrees of 'scruples' to guide us, but, we seem not to be able to change the system itself. We can complain about its injustice, and try to correct it, or accept it and do the best we can with a clean conscience. The discernment is important...so we may need to inquire at the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? Knowledge and wisdom are worthy goals, but knowledge puffs up, sometimes. Love is the important thing. It edifies.

Dan Roodt speaks about Britain involvement in keeping the ANC in power. [youtu.be]

dmatic comments on Jun 3, 2019:

This is all just so very sad. What is the answer to racism and hatred? God, please show us the way.

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@WorldSigh How would the international community do this? Through force, no doubt, but then they would be accused of inflicting their 'morality' on others? Tragedy for sure.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk "The Empire was around for about half a century and near its end we know how decadent it had become." You might know it, but I wonder if it's anymore decadent than ours today? I didn't study history like I should have as a young'un, I was too wrapped up in the here and now. I should read up more, now, but the here and now and it's problems command too much of my attention. The old saying, if we don't learn from history, we will repeat it, comes to mind. I appreciate you giving me a snippet. you wrote; "The history of governments and Kings throughout has been of seizing and maintaining control of the wealth in their domains. We can say that when the money in a society becomes unsound or dishonest you will see moral degradation creep in." The Bible has an interesting quote, I think, from Solomon : "Money is the answer for all things." And of course, the famous, "The love of money is the root of all evil" The "united" kingdom of Israel, through their first three kings, was divided due to Solomon's sin, through high taxation by his son, when he took over. The subsequent history of Judah and Israel included good kings and bad ones, mainly determined by how closely they followed God's instructions or not. i think that is still our problem today. God's way is just and true and fair, but man's is corrupt. One would think we people would have learned that lesson by now? Anyhow, we are witnessing another fall of an empire, it seems. Namely, the Mystery Babylonian empire of financialism. Sooner, rather than later, it seems, the world wide system will fall, or collapse, under its own insidious debt. I agree completely with you about price controls and even so-called "gouging" in an emergency situation. Nice post, by the way. Thanks. Plan to re-read it when I get back from the DR. Peace

Bipartisan Senate effort predictably kills Rand Paul's plan to balance the Federal Budget.

Peelsr comments on Jun 4, 2019:

His ideas were the first practical approach presented to move towards a balanced budget. I hope everyone is paying attention to who voted for this and who voted against. The Republican Party is dead. Not even half voted for it. Any suggestions what party to move to?

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@Peelsr I am pro-life and recently switched to Libertarian, after hearing our state's Libertarian Party Chairman, who is also pro-life and a Christian. When the other members of the "party" discover that the baby's right to life is what the Constitution protects, they will come around, I think, unless they don't agree with the Constitution as a rule of Law and are anarchists.

Bipartisan Senate effort predictably kills Rand Paul's plan to balance the Federal Budget.

dmatic comments on Jun 4, 2019:

From the article: [Most Republicans go back to their districts and say they support balanced budgets, Paul said on the Senate floor before the vote, "but they're not really for balanced budgets if they vote for budgets that don't balance." Paul also took aim at Democrats, who he accused of ...

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@jwhitten Maybe, but that's what the ruling French elites thought, too.

Do you really believe that Republican/ Conservative people want to rape and pillage the land, ...

Bay0Wulf comments on Jun 4, 2019:

But ... “The Legislature” ... Democrats and Republicans, both, MOSTLY don’t see Themselves as “Everyday People”. They’ve also got lots of studies that indicate that “Everyday People” ... their “Constituents” ... by a very large factor ... DON’T Pay Any Attention to what THEY ...

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

Yet. Until the they do. (The problems)

Do you really believe that Republican/ Conservative people want to rape and pillage the land, ...

Craigglenn comments on Jun 4, 2019:

Has anyone been able to articulate true motivations for either side. I have obviously chosen a side right of center and feel confident in holding and argument for my values. But what motivates the powers and why do they run so far left or right? I find it very hard to believe the reasons are well...

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@Farmergramma Excellent points!

Do you really believe that Republican/ Conservative people want to rape and pillage the land, ...

dmatic comments on Jun 4, 2019:

It is part of "the plan" to keep us divided, while they fleece us. But, for me, it's hard not to demonize evil . Why compromise with evil? ( If it is compromise you are suggesting.) It seems to me that compromise has led us to some of the problems we are seeing in our 'society' today. People today...

dmatic replies on Jun 5, 2019:

@DAN_STL And pray....to be able to stand in the evil day.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 4, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk I agree that morality is very valuable in life and society and in an economy! That is what we are talking about. Trying to discern what makes an "economy" moral. Just and fair balances and scales and "rules" ensure a system that produces what people want and need, and avails the means by which to obtain those things. I am not familiar with the devaluation of coins in Rome, nor do I really understand France's problems. May I ask you to elaborate a bit on how you see "rulers...destroy(ing) the people's money through monetary means". How do they do that? thanks

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on Jun 4, 2019:

Well, we agree on another thing! Jesus is not in hell! Let me try to say it another way. The penalty for sin is death, correct? The wages of sin is death. The soul that sins will die. Correct? (This statement by God, of course, counters the idea of the "immortal soul" by the way.) You, and otherw who think like you, have instead said: The wages of sin is eternal punishment in hell, separated from God and life forever. You say: the penalty for sin is eternal "life" in hell? (Or, would you say eternal death in hell?) If Jesus paid the penalty, which according to you is eternal hell, He would still be in hell paying that penalty. The fact that He is NOT in hell, should inform you that your initial misunderstanding about the penalty is indeed, wrong. Now, with my next statements, you will probably call me a heretic, but, I will risk your wrath to tell you the truth. God does not subordinate His will to man's will! Just as a loving father does not submit to the will of his disobedient son, neither does our loving Heavenly Father submit to ours! Our wills are not "free" either, in the sense of not being influenced by God Himself! He works within us to will and do of His good purposes! So, if by "free will" you mean free from influence, you are again, sadly mistaken. The reason we still see death occurring is because we still see sin occurring. Sin itself must be dealt with. When there is no longer any sinning (which, by the way, is transgressing God's Law), there will be no need for death. When God spoke the commandments, He was also prophesying, as no word He speaks will return to Him void of not doing that for which He, the only Sovereign, spoke it. When He said, Thou shalt not commit adultery, for example, someday, no one will be committing adultery!

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@Wordmage I'm not sure I know how to reply to your comment without hitting the little blue quote thingie on the upper right of your posted comment. You are suggesting I remove the @ sign and your user name? after I have clicked on the reply icon? This whole discussion started when I posted an idea that "hell" does not last forever, according to scripture, because it (hell) will give up the dead who are in it, and then hell and death will be cast into the lake of fire. Apparently, you think hell will survive this act? Apparently, then you also think death will never be "no more" either? I was speaking with a Buddhist the other day and asked him if he thought death would ever 'not be anymore' and he answered that he thought death would always be with us. Death is the punishment or reward for sin. Correct? Jesus paid the price for all of us, correct? He died for all, didn't He? If the punishment for sin was "eternal" burning in hell-fire, as you seem to insist, wouldn't Jesus still be in "hell" according to your doctrine? Or, how would He have paid that "penalty" if He was not still suffering it?

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Well, technically, we are all 'brethren, brothers, or family and who needs to borrow anything if he/she already has it? It is the "poor" who generally need to borrow. You also, no doubt, remember Jesus' story about the loving thy neighbor, Samaritan? when asked "who is my neighbor". The Lev. passage mentions brother even defining such an one as even possibly a stranger or sojourner...not a "near blood relative", but a "far blood relative? Anyway... I have not a clue how he obtained his wealth...enough to have a left over store of it. He may have inherited a better, more crop yielding piece of land? He may have been a hard and efficient worker who was diligent to weed and water his crop. What I do know is that God can bless a crop to yield more than a hundred fold increase from the seed planted. The person borrowing may have just moved in to the area from other parts? (Which is what the Leviticus passage infers in its reference to the stranger or sojourner) so that he may live with you...and provide his own way. maybe the borrower had had inclement weather the previous year, maybe a drought or a flood, living close to a river. The point is that God desires to care for all of His creatures, and does it through other people sometimes. And He teaches us things through the process. A sense of morality and brotherhood is good. And is good motivation for doing anything. Besides, when our countrymen prosper, so do we, generally, prosper, too. This is not a competitive game of competition to see how much stuff we can accumulate until we die and leave all the stuff to others, or to moths and rust or decay and rot. Indeed, to lend to the poor is to lend to the LORD, He will repay. Maybe we've all known rich men who hoarded their stuff and were greedy and selfish, only motivated by how they could gain more stuff. Compared to other rich men who were generous and thankful and not fearing the future, and were actually happy when their neighbors prospered.

Something on a lighter note for a Sunday morning. Jordan Peterson on Alcohol. [youtu.be]

DanielEvans comments on Jun 3, 2019:

I drank not long ago to excess as a coping mechanism for my stress and trauma. I drank heavily at home and around the clock for about 8 weeks. I had always been a one beer a night guy, but this was straight vodka. Why did I drink? ... To suppress memories, good and bad, and to prevent myself from...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

Not sure what Peterson would tell you, but he would agree that life is tough. I used to repeat the phrase: "Life is suffering." but then I would add "but, so what?" Does one not want to live? Of course not. Unless, of course, he/she thinks life is only suffering. We should not think that fiery trials are unusual or only accosting us! These fiery trials accost everybody! We all "get it". None of us are unique in that way, but we seem to complain a lot about all our troubles. Not sure that complaining is the way to 'handle them'. What if we welcome them as tools for growth? I once read a quote from Benjamin Disraeli in the local newspaper and cut it out and put it on my mirror. I did not know him from Adam, but it rang true to me. It said: "Those who have known misery seldom seem sad." Someday there will be joy. You may just have to trust me.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk "I'm certain that you would meet with resistance from the church administration because they are not entrepreneurs but cautious minders of their flocks. They thus have no ability to assess risk in the matters of money. To be really frank, when it comes to money, church authorities are not likely to trust their parishioners with their money. Their parishioners are confronted with many evils in society outside the influence of the church and can be torn away from the flock. I think loss of control over their money would be their biggest concern. " Resistance from the church administration? Come on! They wouldn't resist God's commandments would thy? Well, obviously, that is one of the biggest problems with "churches"! As Jesus said: "They worship God with their lips, but their hearts are far from Him, as they teach the commandments of men and make God's commandments of none effect"! Substituting God's commandments and instructions with their own ideas is the disease of the times! It is called Law-less-ness! And because of the increase of lawlessness, the love of many is waxing cold! It should be enough that God says: Interest collecting is unjust, therefore don't charge interest to your brothers! But, NO! That is not enough for their hard-hearts! Not sure how all "churches" operate, but one can bet that they operate like a business of entrepreneurs! Or like a den of thieves! Most of them give God a bad name! Sad, but true. Give up interest collecting? Never! They take the monies donated and put them in the bank or funds that increase their "profits" by yielding a percent return on their "investment". They may even loan some out to members as long as they pay back the loan with interest! they think it their fiduciary duty! After all, it is "legal" and everybody does it! Certainly there are many evils in the world, and the church is supposed to equip the people to deal with these evils and not to become spotted by, nor enslaved to, the world and its enticements. As for "control"...most of the time, they seem to use witchcraft to manipulate rather than teach truth which will set the people free.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk "Well, one good aspect of your system of wealth creation is that money the church would lend originates from savings and not the creation of new money out of thin air. I am assuming you are envisioning a system within a system, sort of a communal approach. Who controls the issuance of the "money"? " By "communal" approach, do you mean "communism"? Or community? :) What I envision is a church "family", or community, actually putting God's instructions into practice, simply to show the benefits of living according to them! This would not even be "socialism", let alone "Communism". It would be an example of love and justice and liberty. Who wouldn't want to partake of such blessings? Imagine that! A "system" of justice, love and liberty operating within a system of greed and selfishness and slavery. It may produce envy from those so enslaved by the world, but a desire to obtain the blessings for doing what is right, as defined by God, may spur others to live according to His instructions, too! I imagine that there would be some problems that would come from 'the world', where they would complain that it is not fair for these people to be able to borrow money and not have to pay interest on it! They may even try to declare it illegal! If anyone needs to borrow money they MUST go to the banks! And they MUST pay them interest! Who knows, there may already be such unConstitutional laws on the books the way it is! It would make a beautiful Supreme Court case, to decide if God actually does give us the right to "Life Liberty and Pursuit of happiness"! But, of course, the world does not want us free! Of course, the "government" under which the people live would still be the issuers of "money". And it should not be created out of thin air, but would be issued according to the representative value of the wealth that exists within an economy. As true wealth is created, more money that represents the increase should be introduced into the economic system. That is not creating it out of thin air. The wealth is being created therefore it needs to be represented in the economy. Again, wealth is not the "money", it is everything and anything made valuable by human effort. What I am suggesting is that this community, or family, that presumably wants to live in a loving, free and just situation that encourages responsibility and prosperity, through private ownership of the wealth they create would live according to the Creator's loving instructions. The members of this community, desiring the benefits of liberty for all their members and desiring their success would be happy to employ God's righteous commandments. Love thy neighbor would be a good place to start.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk "A biblical sentiment, for sure. I have heard the justification for charging interest as being only wrong if it is excessive. " Usury simply means charging somebody something, for "using" what was 'borrowed'. In Biblical times it could even have been charging wheat seed or other grain for using the borrowed wheat or other grain. So, for example, a guy needed some seed to plant a field, so he would go to his neighbor who had some stored and ask him to borrow enough to pant his field, and promised to pay back that which he had borrowed when the harvest came. The "wrong" thing would have been for the neighbor to say: "Sure I will loan you 14.5 bushels if you pay me back 15 at harvest!" The desperate guy, needs the 'capital', the grain seed, otherwise he won't have a crop, so he agrees with the 'deal'. If the seed yields a crop at harvest, he pays back the loan and, hopefully, has enough for him and his family to live and even save for planting the next year....so it's really not such a bad set-up....but God says that 1/2 bushel is unjust gain. It is gain alright, to the lender, because now he has 15 bushels of new grain, rather than the 14.5 he had lent. Those who like the idea of prospering off the other guy's labor, (gain for themselves) and disagree with The Creator about right and wrong, often try to twist things to justify them doing it, for their own 'advantage'. So they say..."well, if i only gain a half bushel, that's not too bad...I'll just call that "interest". It would be usury if I charged a full bushel! Besides, I could have used that grain and it is my best interest to do with it as I see fit. I'm actually loving my neighbor if I lend him some...and i should be rewarded for it!" One can easily see the beauty of a system whereby the neighbor,if he could only get control of all the grain in the neighborhood, and then when his other neighbors came to borrow some for seed, he could charge each of them a little more than they borrowed, that soon, he wouldn't have to plant and cultivate and sweat but still gain enough grain for him to store for the next years crop and even some to share with his own family to eat! Let the other guys work and sweat. I will live off their usury payments! And increase my store every year! What a world! Trouble was, God said that was unjust. Scripture mentions usury in numerous places...Ex. 22:25 is the first mention. Lev. 25:36, 37 Deut. 23:19, 20 are those references in the Torah. Proverbs 28:8 and Psalm 15:5 are good, too. More comment on your other good comments, later...Peace!

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on Jun 3, 2019:

@Wordmage I don't know anything about tagging, for which I apologize, I just click on the little blue, three dot, quote thingie when I want to reply to someone. Not sure why that offends you, but I will try to not do that again. The New Covenant I was referring to can be seen in Jeremiah 31:31ff sorry if my response was confusing to you. It was not my intent. I thought you would recognize John 17:3, too. Jesus' definition of "eternal life"...."and this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent." I then jumped to God's promise of His New Covenant and His promise that "ALL would know Him, from the least to the greatest of them," declares the LORD, "for I will forgive their iniquity and their sin I will remember no more." Maybe it would be best if we didn't continue this discussion. You seem busy and so am I, my methods seem to upset you, as does the idea that God's plan to reconcile the whole world to Himself, through His Son, and your mind seems already made up. I wish you no ill will. May God bless you.

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on Jun 2, 2019:

@Wordmage "Well, to get right to the meat of the issue, the New Testament is clear and consistent about stating that salvation & eternal life are made available only through the one-time sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. It also is unambiguous about the condemnation & punishment earned by those who reject him and his atoning death & resurrection." Apparently, you are satisfied with my answers to your objections to the fact of God's love for His creation and His ability to save them in spite of themselves. Yes, there is a cost for rejecting His mercy and love, and people will pay it. God is not a respecter of persons. Nor does He show partiality. He is perfect! And we are commanded to be perfect as He is. Your assumption that the punishments for sin is "eternal" hellfire, and not simply what God has declared is a bit concerning, however.

Tucker Carlson 5/30/19 - Democrat party pushing ahead with impeechment process of President Trump - ...

purdyday comments on May 31, 2019:

It was a little dismaying to me, when Tucker was talking about leaving the country, . But you know, that's what I like about him and find the most trustworthy, he wears his heart upon his sleeve. And even if he didn't call BS on the crazy guests FN throws at him, he talks with his face.And unlike ...

dmatic replies on Jun 1, 2019:

Indeed, he 'talks' with his face! Great insight! But, one of the things I love about him is that he usually first, LISTENS, then he thinks and then he talks. Sometimes a little "awkward silence" occurs that cannot be faked either.

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on Jun 1, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk I think it is called "hyper-inflation". Yes, the ol' too many 'dollars' chasing too few goods. When the value of goods and services do not match the 'value' of the money in circulation, the economy is not sound. When there is not enough money in circulation, or, more goods and services than money in circulation, then there is also a problem, and the economy slows. But, of course, that what financiers create. "Free" trade and 'free' markets are always best, when people play according to just rules. But, financiers do not play thusly. Usury charges are unjust gain. As for tariffs, If there was one system in place for the whole world economy, and one currency? Who knows? When one country has minimum wages ect. or non-free markets, due to government regulations, etc. it is not seemingly fair. When one 'dollar' buys 20 of a thing in one country, and the same 'dollar' buys only one of the thing in another, how does that work? I agree that the illegal immigration is a problem...and the dems need voters....because their ideas are often stupid and nobody with any brains or heart buys them, they have to open their "markets" to unsuspecting 'customers'. So, imagine a young man who has grown up within the church, and is learning how to live in the world. He finds a girl he marries and they need a place to live. There is a house they find that is for sale but the cost is more than they have saved. The world invites them to step right in and borrow from the banks, the $100,000 needed to buy the house....at say, 6% interest compounded daily...monthly payments that his job could support would "only" be ????, for 30 years. If he kept up with the payments for those 360 months, he would finally own the house. I don't have the figures for what he would have paid in total for those 360 months, but...it would not be unusual for the final price, including interest, to be well over $200,000. On the other hand, if he was able to borrow the money from the 'church's' find, at no interest...he may be able to pay back the loan within 10 years...say. With all of his monthly payment money going toward the principle, it would be paid down very quickly relative to the first scenario. Now this family is "free" from the debt obligation to the bank and own their $100,000 home. Sure, the bankers would be out the "unjust gain" they would have made off the new family, and they may have to get a real job where they actually contributed to the wealth production, but that's another story. So, in the case of the new family, they would have 20 years of no monthly payments. What could they do with that money? Well, in appreciation, they could donate some to the fund, so that other families could also benefit, and with the rest, they are free to spend it in the economy,...

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on May 31, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Well, to assist in not cutting off the circulation in your legs from sitting on the edge, I'll try to get right to it. But first, a comment on the film "Nebraska". As I recall I loved it, though it was bit quirky or dark, as it seems, if I remember correctly, it was kind of a love story. Most of our stories involve unperfect love, as did "Nebraska". We all hope to be perfect someday. The reason I put "backed" in quotes in my sentence above, I think, was to suggest that unless the wealth of the country "stood behind" the fiat money, the people would not use it. Nothing the "government" could do to force them to, in my opinion. But you point out the truth of course. that money is simply a government's stamp of approval on the paper that it will be honored. In the case of Venezuela,or Zimbabwe, they printed more money than they had wealth to "back" it. Obviously, that does not work. Finance (interest collecting) is a parasite on an economy. The banks will fail. The so-called Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is no where near funded to cover all the banks who are members. That is when the "collapse" will be a reality. Is there another way to introduce money into an economy? Without using debt and interest collecting? Where would people get "capital" to support Capitalism? What if they didn't have to go to private borrowers to get the money they needed to create wealth? The "General Welfare" clause of our Constitution can be promoted using the following idea. Every citizen, upon reaching a certain agreed upon age, would be entitled to obtain, from the government that prints and issues the money, a "loan" of some agreed upon amount, without interest attached, to spend or invest as each wanted. If they paid back that loan as they worked for a wage or invested and succeeded with a profit with their investment, they would then qualify for a greater loan amount in the future. If they didn't pay back the loan, they would not qualify for additional loans. So, in a sense, the government would invest in its own citizens, for the benefit of the whole country. Some, having ideas that would create a greater amount of wealth, may need to gather others to invest in their ideas, too, but bottom line, more wealth would be created in the economy. I have, for at least 40 years, wanted to convince a "church" to put this idea into practice. A fund would be created and loaned to members without interest, thus freeing them from paying the interest expense to the worldly banking system and freeing them up to be debt free within a few years as opposed to being slaves to debt for decades! More later, if you're still interested! A church so following God's principles would free up its members to enjoy liberty and prosperity!

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on May 31, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk Nebraska is, as you imagine, for the most part, flat, wide-open farmland with amazing sunrises and sunsets. Rolling hills and rivers and creeks invigorate, however, and of course, beautify the scenery. The four seasons alternate keeping life interesting....certainly not boring! It's really quite a beautiful place with many varieties of flora and fauna, that claim Nebraska as home. But, of course, many of us still complain when Tornadoes, floods, blizzards and hot and humid spells inflict! Thanks for asking. I have gained great respect for Canadians, but have not had the pleasure of seeing too much of the country, save through pictures on TV. Did pass through in '92 while viewing Niagra Falls. Seems like it would be a great place to flee to, should Dems take over this country and make it uninhabitable! Not sure if we'd be welcome, though? Very happy to see that you have "progressed" in your understanding of the function of money. Many seem to continue to hold on to the mistaken idea that money needs to be value in itself, in order to function as a trade convenience, or that we should go back to a "gold backed system". Not going to happen. money is simply "backed" by the wealth it represents. You wrote: "I finally accepted that bankers had turned it into money, the finalization of a trade, and it served all the purposes of money in an economy. It was though, a form of money that was less sound than a commodity backed currency. It was not wealth itself but a symbol of wealth. It was a debt instrument that if I wanted real wealth I would have to hope someone would accept it in trade. .." Money, however, does not have to be a debt instrument, as it indeed, is now, with that put out by the Federal Reserve. As long as people have "faith" in it and accept it in trade. Money can be used to settle debts, of course, as long as the one who is owed the debt, takes it in trade for freedom from further obligation once the debt has been paid. So, back to the builder and house scenario. You do see that all those involved in the construction of that wealth, probably started by borrowing money for tools, etc. for which they all paid interest....and needed to increase the price they needed to charge to cover that expense. Interest expense, therefore, contributes to the inflation of the price of the wealth being sold and consumed, or used. All of these actual workers and the builder, himself, are entitled to a share of the profit, or increase, for their part in creating the wealth. What, pray tell, did the money lenders do to add to the increase? Why should they be allowed to skim off part of that increase for themselves? They did not "materially" participate in it's construction. How else would "money" then be put into circulation? Is there ...

We live under such well-crafted illusions; the biggest is perhaps the one that is known as the ...

dmatic comments on May 6, 2019:

Inflation is caused by "interest collecting". Republicae is right when he points out that inflation has weakened the purchasing power of the dollar, but he is wrong as to inflation's main cause. It would be interesting to have the figures and interest rates since 1913 to the present. I suspect they ...

dmatic replies on May 30, 2019:

@FrankZeleniuk I love reading your stuff! I do not think you are talking past me! Sorry if I am doing that to you! You write so much good stuff, and I cannot comment on it all, though I would like to. Because I start...then "ramble", then run out of time, then post it....and then there you are again, before I can respond to more of the previous. I intend, one of these days....to start again from the beginning and reread our conversation...when I can find the time to do so.... I agree with you about the builder also having borrowed to "create" the wealth of the house. And that that is the way "money" is put into circulation! Or that this "debt" fueled economy works for a while and for the creation of new wealth...But, I am going to try to think of a way to explain a better way....OK... Peace, my friend.

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on May 30, 2019:

@Wordmage "The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions. They want to be known as teachers of the law of Moses, but they don’t know what they are talking about, even though they speak so confidently." " 1 Timothy 1:5 "Now the end (goal) of the commandment (the Law of God) is charity (love) out of a pure heart and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned."

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on May 30, 2019:

@Wordmage " Why should anyone think they can reject Christ in this life and gamble on the improbability that God may extend even more grace than he already has? And one that was not phrased as a question, but I think is deserving of an answer, What justifies inserting parenthetical text which was not present in the Scripture and clearly changes its meaning? Most importantly, Why gamble that a soul who rejected Christ and wound up in Hell might have a change of heart and subsequently receive hypothetical grace that is not promised, indeed that is promised to be denied? That seems to me a very tenuous position on which to base an eternal decision." I do not counsel anyone to reject Christ. "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to ALL men..." Titus 2:11 Not sure about your reference to me adding parenthetical text to scripture that changes its meaning, and there would not be justification for that.

Removing Hell - A Brief Discussion on "Love Wins" In an excerpt from a longer discussion, Vocab ...

dmatic comments on May 27, 2019:

The key is to understand why God judges. Is 26:9 says that it is good when His judgments are in the earth because then the people of the world will learn righteousness. The purpose of God's judgment is remedial. The soul that sins will die. But, the good news is all will be resurrected. For one ...

dmatic replies on May 30, 2019:

@Wordmage "Why should we assume Hell is destroyed just because it is cast into the lake of fire?" Because its function of holding the dead until judgment had been fulfilled, and since there will be no more death, hell is no longer needed.