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At first I thought this was another Onion parody, but...

President Donald Trump's Cabinet sang his praises during a televised meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 2
As the president appeared to be frequently closing his eyes, his secretaries showered him with compliments on everything from his sacrifices for the American people to his apparent influence on the weather.
"Sir, you made it through hurricane season without a hurricane," Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said, as Trump quietly said, "Yeah."
"Even you kept the hurricanes away. We appreciate that," she continued.

  • Haha
Reactions: Michie

Eve and the Fallacy of Moral Choices

IF you believe that is the case THEN Matt. 4:4, Luke 4:4 and Deut. 8:3 are all WRONG

or, your reasoning is off
I fully believe what Jesus said: Look at the context of Mark 4: 15 starting with Mark 4: 13 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 14 The farmer sows the word. 15 Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16 Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18 Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20 Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”

By Jesus’ own words: not everyone hears the word the same way every time.

Jesus explains Mark 4:4 in context Mark 4:13-20 and even in Mark 4 he says some and not all.

What are you trying to get Luke 4: 4 to say, since it only says: Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”

How does: “Deut. 8:3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Support your idea satan lives within all of us all the time?
IF all have sin, (we do) and sin is of the devil, (it is) then Mark 4:15 applies to everyone
All mature adults have sinned and sin is of the devil, but the scripture says we sinned and does not say: the devil inside of each of us sinned, making it the devil’s fault.
IF we are tempted in mind/heart, (we are) then Mark 4:15 is true again
Mark 4:15 is true, that is not in question, but Jesus says it applies to only “some” and not all people all the time since there are other types of soils (people’s hearts).
I could go on, but if you exempt yourself from Mark 4:15 then you are basically rejecting the Word of God
That is a straw man. I am not “exempting” myself from any scripture, just point out people are different at different times in their lives and do not always act like solid ground (harden hearts).
And of course we know who does that don't we?

The balance of your reply is self justification, which I can't do in light of the above

Oh, and btw I do believe in eternal hell, for the devil and his messengers so that question is off the table
That is a copout response.
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Why do people hate ICE...

Why? Do we get more money from somebody.
Several large private prison companies have donated and contributed to the Trump campaign. They’re then awarded contracts with the government to house all the people ICE and border patrol have been detaining. It’s essentially state sanctioned human trafficking for profit. We don’t get any of this money from this but several of Trump’s wealthy friends do.
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Will you let the bible ...

I see God is not limited. God created all the universe with it possible for any worlds with life, any other way it would not. God provides for that. God cares for life. God is everywhere, God is not limited in power, and is not limited in caring, God cares for all life. This includes each of us individually. As God cares so there is reason for us to do so.
The level and degree of care of God for humans is, however, quite varied. For all of humanity God has provided this earth to sustain life. For most humans, life is far from pleasant, with many dying of disease, famine, and pestilence. God is also perfectly just and holy with requirements to be met in order to please Him. Sadly, all of us have fallen short of His glory and are rightly deserving of an eternity in the lake of fire which burns forever. In His matchless love and grace He sent Jesus Christ to earth to redeem His people. His people were, historically, the Jewish nation and no others among the hundreds of millions of people living on the earth. Following the redemption of Jesus Christ, His people are those who have faith in Jesus Christ. Those who do not have faith in Jesus Christ are not His sheep with the result being that the vast majority of humanity will be eternally lost.
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The Baptism of Jesus and His Disciples

Jesus was baptized at about thirty years of age: “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt. 3:13–17).
“And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age…” (Luke 3:23).

The disciples followed the example of their Master: “After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.
And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized… And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.” (John 3:22–26).
Thus much water was needed for baptism so that a person could be baptized entirely. Partially wetting a person is not sufficient for baptism. The meaning of the original word baptidzein (baptism) is “to immerse under water.”

John 4:1–2 gives further detail about the baptism performed by the disciples, which therefore took place before the giving of the missionary/baptism command: “When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)…”
The disciples thus baptized one another, as well as many other people, more than John the Baptist. The followers of Jesus have always desired to act according to the example of their Master:
“And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.” (Luke 7:29–30).
The plan of God, beginning from the giving of the missionary command after the work of the cross, has been that all who have come to faith are to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ after their conversion. For this reason, in the early congregation there were no unbaptized, except in some cases for a few hours or days until a place of baptism was found. “…be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ…” (Acts 2:38, 41; 10:48). To remain unbaptized for three days was called delaying (Acts 9:9 / 22:16). Baptism has therefore belonged to “the principles of the doctrine of Christ” for about 2000 years (Heb. 6:2). It is an expression of obedience and honor toward God.
“In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thess. 1:8). “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life…” (John 3:36).

The church practice of infant baptism has made void the plan that God has for all people. Peter exhorted thus:

“…Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ…” (Acts 2:38).


Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers…” (Acts 2:41–42).
Thus the congregation founded at the cross began to function. The congregation, ekklesia (Eng. congregation), means those people who have received the risen Jesus. WE are the congregation. The work of the cross, the blood sacrifice and death of Jesus amidst sufferings, is the foundation of our eternal life. We have received the forgiveness of our sins through the merit of His substitutionary sacrifice.
There is no teaching or example in the Bible of the baptism of infants in arms. Nor is there any of belonging to a church. Therefore, it is good to resign from the church before baptism. This belongs to repentance.

The Bible knows no practice in which someone who has come to faith could remain unbaptized. Jesus gave the missionary/baptism command about forty days after the work of the cross (Acts 1:2–3, 9). This remains in force until the end:
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mark 16:15–16).
First, therefore, the hearing of the message of salvation and coming to faith, then baptism by immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ. This is the unambiguous teaching and example of Jesus and of the early congregation. To this also refers the teaching in Eph. 4:5, “One Lord, one faith, ONE BAPTISM.” If someone has not been baptized after coming to faith with this only biblical baptism, he is unbaptized, even if he had been “baptized” many times with other kinds of “baptisms.”

Give therefore your life to Jesus, and come to baptism. This is the good will of God: “And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.” (Acts 10:48). Thus the blessing of Heaven may fill your life.
“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16).

Blessings,
Weijo Lindroos, from the Turku Congregation
Email: weijo.lindroos@pp.inet.fi

Struggling with feeling God’s presence

I’ve always struggled with feeling God’s presence. It’s hard having faith in something I can’t feel or haven’t really EXPERIENCED in the way I hear stories about. It makes me scared that my faith isn’t genuine or if I’m doing something wrong.

I’ve been a Christian since I was 4. Yes, this has haunted me for awhile because I feel like that was way too young, but I feel as if I’ve had enough faith since then (and panic prayers) that at some point it really did become genuine. Plus I read “Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart” by JD Grear to help with some of my fears.

But now, I don’t know if I’m just backsliding or if it’s something more serious.

I’ve never been good at prayer or Bible reading. I get distracted. I get busy. I have really good phases where I do it daily and then I drop off and have trouble getting back on it. But even then, it feels more like studying and learning information instead of meditating and sitting with God. I read, do a quick prayer, and go about my day. I’ve tried to sit with Him more, but then my thoughts just wander, and I don’t ever hear Him or feel Him.

I keep trying to pray for God to reveal Himself to me. To ease my anxiety. To give me some kind of answer. But I hear nothing. And then I just become less motivated to read the Bible or pray. I’ve never been good at praying anyway.

I don’t know what to do at this point. Has anyone else experienced this? Is this normal for Christians to just feel distant? I feel like most of my “encounters” with God have just been vicariously through others. I know all the answers to questions at church, am very familiar with the Bible, and serve regularly, but it just feels like I’m following obligation and not living by faith.

It feels like I’m just forcing everything, and I don’t know how to make it feel real.
Do you Love Jesus Christ of Nazareth?
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Weekly homilies

Homily Friday, December 5 2025



Isaiah 29:17-24

“On that day the deaf shall hear the words of a scroll; And out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see.”

For us, it is wonderful to think about these major transformations in people’s bodies.

God leads us to a deeper understanding. It is also about allowing Him to open our hearts to His grace.



Matthew 9:27-31

The blind men on the road believe that Jesus can restore their sight. Welcoming God’s presence, His joy and peace, our hearts find their joy again.



Biblical texts: NAB-RE

Normand Thomas.
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First Week of Advent

December 4, 2025

Our Morning Offering – 4 December – Daily Prayers to the Infant Jesus


One Minute Reflection – 4 December – “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 13:14

Saint Peter Chrysologus propers & commentary (EF)

St. Peter Chrysologus, Doctor of the Church propers with Feria and St. Barbara commemorations (EF)

Thursday of the First Week of Advent readings & commentary (OF)
Saint John Damascene, Priest, Religious and Doctor—Optional Memorial

Thursday of the First Week of Advent; Opt. Mem. of St. John Damascene, Priest and Doctor readings & commentary (OF)
Other Commemorations: St. Barbara, Virgin and Martyr; St. Osmund, Bishop

Daily Gospel

ADVENTCAzT 2025 – 05– Thursday 1st Week of Advent

Saint Peter Chrysologus

Saint Barbara Virgin and Martyr

The Legendary Saint Barbara

Pope Benedict and Saint John Damascene

Saints of the Day

Sermons for Everyday Living - St Peter Chrysologus & St Barbara 12/4/25

Audio version of Gueranger
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Biblical Exegesis explanation and discussion

If historical-cultural context are consulted, God-breathed has nothing to do with inspiration. It's expiration that is in view, which is why it is useful...because God makes the text alive.
I disagree.
The OP seems to promote at least 2 traditions that developed in the late middle ages in sola scriptura and the sui generis nature of the Bible such that it can be called the Word of God in its own right rather than functioning as an icon.
Actually the primacy and holiness of scripture is well documented among the ECFs.
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Virgin Mary Doesn’t Have ‘The Role Of Holding Back God’s Wrath,’ Vatican Expert Says

God may have relented on occasion due to Moses intercession, but there were several occasions when He still punished the people of Israel, sometimes severely.

This is an AI generated summary -

Key instances where God punished the Israelites include:

Worship of the Golden Calf (Exodus 32): After Moses was on Mount Sinai, the people created a golden calf to worship. As punishment, God ordered the Levites to kill about 3,000 people.

Complaining at Taberah (Numbers 11:1-3): The people complained about their hardships, and the Lord sent fire that burned the outer edges of the camp.

Craving Meat (Numbers 11:4-35): After complaining about the lack of meat and being tired of manna, God provided a massive amount of quail but also sent a severe plague that killed many people due to their gluttony and lack of trust.

Miriam and Aaron's Rebellion (Numbers 12): When Miriam and Aaron challenged Moses's authority, God punished Miriam with leprosy for a period of seven days.

Refusal to Enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14): The most significant punishment occurred when the people, out of fear after hearing the spies' report, refused to enter the Promised Land and wanted to return to Egypt. God sentenced that entire generation of adults (except Joshua and Caleb) to die in the wilderness, wandering for 40 years. The ten spies who brought the bad report were struck down by a plague and died immediately.

Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16): Certain leaders, including Korah, rebelled against Moses's and Aaron's leadership. God caused the earth to open up and swallow the main offenders and their families, while a subsequent plague killed 14,700 people who sided with the rebels.

Complaining about Lack of Water (Numbers 21:4-9): The people complained again about the lack of water and food. God sent poisonous snakes (fiery serpents) into the camp, which bit the people, and many died.

Idolatry at Peor (Numbers 25): The Israelites engaged in sexual immorality and worshipped the Midianite god, Baal of Peor. This resulted in a plague that killed 24,000 people.
God might concede to Mary's requests from time to time, but if He gets fed up enough, He'll act and when He does it will be tough.

Mary might intercede for us, but she can't hold back HIs wrath.
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The Great Judgment is coming

Time is running short; The Great Judgment is at hand.
All souls that fail to meet the standard will be destroyed, for this judgment is a prelude to Christ's Final Judgment.
Any soul that has participated in cult sacrifices or worshipped demon will be destroyed.
Any soul of a pastor who has used the name of God to illegally reap wealth will be destroyed.
Any soul that is maliciously involved in the LGBTQ movement will be destroyed.
What is the destruction of a soul?
To suffer forever and ever in the eternal fires of
God's Judgemt Day indeed draws closer continually as time advances… beyond that we know little of the timing. Jesus says in Matthew 24 that all the signs are were already there at that time. Keep Watch of yourself… your life and doctrine is being warned of here. Watch to protect God’s sheep and have a heart toward people and in this way continue to evangelize and have hope for them and remember such ones in prayer. We all were once lost so have mercy on them, mixed with fear!

We see the written accounts of folks who sinned these great sins you listed and they repented, were forgiven and thanked and praised God for the reward of eternal life within them. Even the last hour workers receive an inheritance
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New belief among teenagers. What do you think?

i feel so sorry if this is how teens see themselves if they truly do , sometimes teens like to role-play or do cosplay as in dress up as their faveorate charter from movies or tv shows and anime , but if a teen think they ARE animals they need to see a dr asap , they need to see a psych and fast
when i was a child i would role-play and teen are still children, you don't have a full brain capacity until you are 25 .they have research it . i know where are adults that feel they are from tv and films etc there is game play in board games that you role-play, i won't say what game as it not a thing we should talk about he cos we do have younger members of the forum .
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