Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 2 Feb, 2012 11:28 PM
Thanks to a question about divorce and remarriage posted on another thread, I felt the need to address those on this site who may be suffering from the weight of guilt and condemnation heaped on them because of their reasons for divorce.
I wrote the following article, "The Stone Thrower", based on actual instances that happened on this site. If you are one of those who have been ostracized by others for having an "Unbiblical Divorce," please take the time to read. May it minister to your heart.
The Stone Thrower
I want to touch on a subject today that has long been regarded in Christendom as taboo . . . and that is . . . DIVORCE. Mention that word around some Christians and their hackles suddenly go up on the back of their neck. They pull out their proverbial stones ready to put to death anyone who they think has been un-biblically divorced. And to my shame, I was one of them�a stone thrower.
We all know the story of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:3-11. The scribes and Pharisees (the religious self-righteous) had arrested this woman and dragged her before Jesus. One has to wonder how these Pharisees caught such a woman "in the very act" of adultery. How convenient for them. It's amazing the depths of depravity the self-righteous will sink to in order to defend their religious arguments. Did they have the paparazzi spy on her to get some juicy pictures for the whole world to see?
At any rate, they dragged this poor woman in front of Jesus and proudly proclaimed, "Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?" (John 8:5)
Zowie!! These men can quote the Word of God . . . at least the parts that suit their fancy.
I like our Lord's reaction. "But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear" (John 8:6b).
Don't you just love it when someone ignores you . . . especially when you're trying to win an argument? But the self-righteous rarely lie down without a fight, and those religious Pharisees were determined to prove that they had the "truth." So they continued pestering Jesus, knowing that the Law of Moses was on their side. It's not a good idea to pester Jesus, especially when it comes to "pointing a finger" at someone.
"So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, 'He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.' And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. Then those who heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning from the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst" (John 8:7-9).
This introductory story of the woman caught in adultery has a purpose: I wanted you to have a glimpse of the mentality of a "stone thrower." They are usually self-righteous, ready to condemn, and can quote the Word of God. Ouch . . . I just described me.
I had a clear cut answer for the reasons one might give to justify divorce which I thought was quite Biblical. And in my mind, there was only one reason . . . "But I say to you, that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except for sexual immorality, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery" (Matthew 5:32). There you have it�plain and simple. Who could argue with such a statement? It is the Word of God! I thought I had the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth . . . yet the truth is . . . I was ignorant of the ways of God. "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment" (James 2:13).
And it was in my ignorance to God's ways that I threw stones at the divorced ladies on a Christian dating site some time ago. As a widower, I was on this site looking for a prospective wife. I was so appalled at the amount of women who were divorced on this site whose reasons for separating from their husbands did not match my view of scripture. In order to protect myself from these "contaminated souls," I purposely wrote something in my profile for those that I would consider as wife material: "You may be single, widowed, or divorced (must be for Biblical reasons only)."
When I would communicate with these divorced ladies, I would immediately ask them to provide details on the reason for their divorce. If they could not give me an answer of infidelity as the reason for their divorce, then I considered them unmarriageable. Yet God has a way of grabbing His child's attention when that child is in error.
One of the ladies on this dating site told me her story of divorce after I demanded it. Her husband was deep in bondage to pornography and had no interest whatsoever in repentance. The man had not physically hopped into bed with another woman, and so in my self-righteousness, I condemned the poor wife for wanting to opt out on the marriage. And the "stones" that I threw created fresh wounds in her heart while she recounted those painful memories of her husband's infidelity as he lusted after porn. According to Jesus' own words, her husband WAS GUILTY of adultery: "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). I ignored that scripture and concentrated only on Matthew 5:32. She lashed out at me, saying that she was glad Jesus did not condemn her even if I did. I have to admit, I was shaken by her story which moved me to tears.
Then there was another lady whom I demanded to give an account for her divorce. I threw "stones" at her as well when she could not give me a reason of infidelity for her separation. In bitter anger, she struck back at me, stating how her husband had broken her nose and physically abused her. I ignored the scripture which reads, "But God has called us to peace" (1 Corinthians 7:15b) and concentrated again on Matthew 5:32. However, her story bothered me very much just like the other woman's.
I began to seek God earnestly. These were only two of the many ladies who shared with me their heartbreaking stories of divorce. There were so many reasons given for divorce and none of them fell under sexual immorality (fornication) as I saw it. I sincerely asked the Lord to open my eyes. Was there any scriptural evidence to support these women's choices to opt out of a marriage other than infidelity? Yes, there was.
God led me to Matthew 19:3-12. The Pharisees were looking for a reason to trap Jesus in His words. Their previous scheme had not worked with the woman caught in adultery. However, if they could just get Jesus to say something contradictory to the Law of Moses, then they could brand Him as a heretic. So they asked Jesus this question, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason?" (Matthew 19:3b)
Jesus' answer was, and still is, God's original intention for marriage: "Have you not read . . . the two shall become one flesh? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate" (Matthew 19:5b-6).
The Pharisees did not like His answer. For Jesus had taken them right back to Genesis before there ever was a Moses or a Law of Moses so that they could hear what GOD SAYS about marriage. Yet the stiff-necked Pharisees persisted with another question: "Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?" (Matthew 19:7)
Jesus responds, "Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so" (Matthew 19:8).
The self-righteous Pharisees were using the Law of Moses as an excuse to bail out on marriages for any flippant reason. And because of this, the Lord had some very strong words for them. "And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery" (Matthew 19:9).
I can just hear the stone throwers shouting, "See, I told you . . . it's right there in the word . . . 'sexual immorality!'"
Wait a minute. Like Paul Harvey, let's hear "the rest of the story" before jumping to any conclusions. After verse 9 comes verse 10. Even Jesus' disciples, which would include us, were amazed at the words of Jesus. "His disciples said to Him, 'If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry'" (Matthew 19:10). Yeah, I can see their point. If sexual immorality (fornication) is the only reason for divorce, then perhaps we are better off not getting married.
But look at Jesus' response to his own disciples in verse 11. It stands to reason that if the disciples' statement was true, then Jesus would have said something to affirm it as such. He does not!
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'" (Matthew 19:11).
What saying? The saying in verse 9 of course. NOT ALL can accept the saying that fornication is the ONLY reason for divorce.
Now notice that Jesus goes on to explain what He meant with the following verse:
"For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it" (Matthew 19:12).
What did Jesus mean by this? He tells us that three different men all became eunuchs for different reasons. One was born a eunuch, another was made a eunuch by men, and still another made himself that way for the kingdom of heaven. They all became eunuchs for different reasons, but who is to say which eunuch is "God approved"? God accepted them all. That's the point!
Likewise, there are many reasons someone might seek a divorce: physical and verbal abuse from a spouse . . . being married to an unbeliever who makes life a literal hell . . . marital unfaithfulness . . . the stress of being married to an alcoholic for 23 years . . . or living with a pornographer who refuses to repent. Which one of these reasons for divorce is "God approved"? That's the point Jesus was making. Just as the eunuchs were acceptable to God regardless of how they became a eunuch, so also is a woman acceptable to God who seeks to be free from an abusive husband, even if infidelity is not involved. You and I cannot see in the heart of that abused person . . . but God can. For God has called them to peace.
And the church has done more harm counselling emotionally and physically battered women to stay in a relationship citing Matthew 5:32 "except for sexual immorality" as the only just cause for divorce. Women have actually committed suicide and murder under the stress of remaining in an abusive situation because their legalistic church counseled them to do so.
You may have heard of the case in the U.S. where a lady killed her husband (a pastor) who had been abusing her for years. God had called her to peace . . . but she never knew it, and one day she snapped. The evidence of abuse was so overwhelming that the courts found this woman not guilty of murder by reason of insanity.
I certainly do not want to imply that people should take their marriage so lightly as to divorce for every whim and fancy. I would not condone that, and neither does the Word of God. Every marriage will have its share of problems which can be worked out with God's help by two committed individuals. Yet there are some women, especially those suffering physical and mental abuse, who have reached the tipping point of no return; and the only thing they can do to preserve their sanity is to get out of that marriage. And ultimately, it is to the Lord they answer to, not you or me. He has called them to peace.
After God opened my eyes to the truth of scripture, I contacted those ladies on the dating site who I had thrown "stones" at and apologized profusely. I was truly grieved that I had been so self-righteous and blind, wounding those precious sisters for whom Christ died.
Now back to the story that I began with. The "stone throwers" had already dropped their rocks and left the scene with a guilty conscience, leaving Jesus alone with the adulterous woman.
"He said to her, 'Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?'"
"She said, 'No one, Lord.'"
"And Jesus said to her, 'Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more'" (John 8:10b-11).
HALLELUJAH�MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT!!!
Blessings in Christ Jesus,
Paul Janz
(All Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New King James Version.)
"The Stone Thrower" Copyright � 2010 by Paul Janz.
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 19 Nov, 2013 07:51 PM
:waving:..Hi Singer...I'm awake and alive...YIPYYYYYYY...I know ya aint Yelling at me....:bouncy:...I really enjoy reading all these types posts...don't care much for the intentional "Smack Yahshua's Children" though...And I find myself asking...Where is Yahshua in all this ??? :rolleyes: <<< Thinking...Yall have such awesome perspectives and input..."Biblical"...that causes lil ol me to dig deeper into the Word...asking PaPa GOD...is that right ???...is that what Yahshua says about all this ???...Its a way of learning by observation...if ya know what I mean...a person can learn a lot just by observing others...XO
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 19 Nov, 2013 08:11 PM
Thank you Gods Jude and teach_ib for exposing the real identity of the man who calls himself, IWalkAlone. So we have the banned BobBobbins returning under a different name. What an absolute fraud you are IWalkAlone/BobBobbins. You think by hiding behind the picture of some bearded man, that somehow you would not be found out. Well, you have been found out�.
GODSJUDE INSIGHT: "See what I mean Paul...IWA is actually the Bob Bobbins that posted earlier in your Thread...He got banned a ways back...and true to his nature...he returns under another screen "name" to continue his Hypocritical behavior...its just what he does here."
The man who calls himself IWalkAlone wrote to teach_ib and said: "On Jun 5, 2012, you introduced yourself to me (a complete stranger to you) by calling me a "legalist". When forced to prove your claim that I am a legalist, you supplied a non-Biblical explanation of legalist. "
TEACH_IB REVEALS THE TRUTH: "First of all I introduced myself to the thread on that date...you have now confirmed you are the previously banned BobBobbins as IWA was not on the thread at that time. �As for a non-Biblical explanation, I provided the definition I used in referring to you and Singer on the way you were presenting your views. �I don't believe the term "legalist" is in the Bible so any description would fundamentally be non-Biblical. �Whether you agree with my definition or description or impression of you is not relevant."
The banned BobBobbins, who now calls himself IWalkAlone, accuses Paul with this statement: "Here, he is promoting another devilish idea that a woman should instruct a man."
Paul's response: devilish idea? Really? Have you not read� "Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, was judging Israel at that time. And she would sit under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the mountains of Ephraim. And the children of Israel came up to her for judgement" (Judges 4::4-5). Here is a woman, chosen by God, instructing men, and you, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, say it's a "devilish idea".
Well did Jesus call you Pharisees for who you really are�hypocrites. For you feign to be a God-fearing man to the reader while at the same time mocking God's idea of choosing a woman (Deborah) to instruct men, calling it a "devilish idea". You ignore the Word of God in Acts 21:9, Joel 2:28-29, and Acts 2:17-18 where God says "Your daughters will prophesy�. and on My maidservants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy", and instead you concentrate on one single verse, "And I do not suffer a woman to teach" (1Timothy 2:12). Hypocrite!!! You blind guide. You ignore the weightier evidence in scripture that God uses women to instruct men today while you make up your own doctrine.
In regards to my article, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, you have ignored and mocked Jesus' very own words in Matthew 19:10-12, and concentrated on verse 9 alone. You hypocrite. The same Jesus who spoke verse 9 also spoke verse 10, 11 and 12.
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'" (Matthew 19:11).
What saying was Jesus speaking of? The saying in verse 9 of course. NOT ALL can accept the saying that fornication is the ONLY reason for divorce. Your issue, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, is not with me but with the Word of God. And just as the Pharisees hated Jesus because He did not fit into their man-made doctrines, so you do the same.
One thing is for certain, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, you do not speak for God. The very scripture you quoted now becomes your condemnation: "To the law and to the testimony: if they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them" (Isaiah 8:20).
For those readers who are not aware of what IWalkAlone posted here under the name BobBobbins, let me refresh your memory:
BobBobbins says, "Now please be sure to issue your standard verbose response to confuse all the readers.".. the only confusion the readers have here is in your hypocrisy.
BobBobbins says, "Also, don't forget your standard "thank you .. yada yada yada..".post to Teach_iib."..as you wish. But the post on "works" is for the benefit of all the readers. The Word of God speaks for itself.
Paul says, "BobBobbin, you could not be MORE WRONG! Your LIES are outrageous, Teach ib and I are one in spirit. "
This statement is so true! You see Bob, that's the beauty of being one in spirit with God's Spirit of mercy and grace. We are able to love one another and still hold different views. I am quite sure teach ib and I will not agree on everything�it really doesn't matter. But what we do agree on is this: that God is "merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity, and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:6-7a). That is God's very nature, and He wants that in His children.
You see, I was once a Pharisee, a legalist, a stone thrower, just like you and Singer, until God opened my eyes and showed me His nature of mercy and grace. I began to show mercy to women who divorced because they were physically beaten daily by their husbands. I began to show mercy to divorced women whose husbands were unrepentant pornographers who were guilty of committing adultery in their mind. And I began to show mercy to women who divorced because they had been mentally abused by their husbands until they prayed for death to escape. I threw down my stones and started showing mercy to these women, instead of beating on them with God's Word.
Now you may be wondering, why don't I show mercy to you guys? The answer is very simple: "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy" (James 2:13).
BobBobbins says, "Who is the liar here?" . . .YOU ARE!!!! The readers only have to read this post to see what kind of a liar you really are. In one breath, you offer an olive branch to me. In the next breath you make an accusation against me. In one breath you say, "Happy Father's Day." In the next breath, you say, "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective." You HYPOCRITE!!! Do you think the readers are that gullible not to see your deceitful ways? PRETENDING to want peace and spitting out your poisonous words at the same time. You, BobBobbins, and Singer4u,have been exposed as frauds, and it is obvious to everyone that you are desperately trying to keep your sinking ship of legalism afloat. But I have news for you. It will not stand against the Word of God!
BobBobbins says, "Paul and Teach_ib can not even agree between themselves what the Biblical grounds for divorce are. Paul holds one standard and teach_ib holds another"
BobBobbin, you could not be MORE WRONG! Your LIES are outrageous. Teach ib and I are one in spirit. She knows and loves the God of mercy and grace, as I do, and is known by Him. And you would do well to hold your tongue against the daughter of the King. God will not hold you guiltless!
BobBobbins quotes God's word, Matt 5:17 "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill." Exactly, all the righteous requirements of the law ARE ALREADY FULFILLED in HIM. That righteousness is not based on you keeping the letter of the law, BUT IN ACCEPTING HIS RIGHTEOUNESS OVER YOURS. I will take the liberty to add your names to the following scripture:
"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel (BobBobbins and Singer4u) is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For CHRIST is the END of the law to everyone who believes" (Romans 10:1-4).
BobBobbins says, "If this is true, Jesus was the most shining example of a legalist." Hardly. Jesus wasn't a hypocrite, never condemned anyone, and was always showing mercy. You, BobBobbins and Singer4u, do not even know what spirit you are of.
BobBobbins says, "Happy Father's Day!" . . . "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective" . . .Hmmm . . . For some reason, after looking at your hypocritical words, I don't believe you are sincere. I wonder why.
BobBobbins says, "I truly hope that at some point you will lay aside your hatred and your anger" . . . I'm sorry to disappoint you BobBobbins. I have nether anger nor hatred toward Singer or you. I do however feel sorry for you both that in your zealousness to keep the letter of the law, you have missed God's mercy.
BobBobbins says, "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective. I have proven this over and over for days" . . .the only thing you have proven to the readers and myself is that my article is correct and that it exposed two modern-day Pharisees who are legalists and stone-throwers, namely yourself and Singer4u. And for that I rejoice.
BobBobbins says, "Did I make any comments anywhere about what a woman should or should not wear?" No, but we are all waiting. For you quote the Word of God in a legalistic manner. You quote Matthew 19:9 that fornication is the only reason for divorce. The definition of fornication according to Encarta � World English Dictionary is "sexual intercourse between two consenting adults, who are not married to each other"
However, according to Jesus, fornication is "But I say to you that whoever LOOKS at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28).
A man who looks lustfully after a woman is an adulterer according to Jesus' words. You do not have to hop into bed and have actual sex with another woman to be an adulterer in God's eyes. Therefore any woman who has such a husband, whether he be a pornographer or one who lusts with his eyes after the women in the mall (while his wife is shopping) has every right to divorce him, unless he repents.
BobBobbins says, "Where is this verse in the Bible that states these as exceptions?" (read above and below)
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'" (Matthew 19:11)
"neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks" (Ephesians 5:4). And where in the Bible, BobBobbins does it say when humorous talk becomes foolish talk and joking becomes coarse jesting? Your interpretation of foolish talk will no doubt be different from mine. That is why we have the Holy Spirit to convict our conscience when we step out of line.
"in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works" (1Timothy 2:9-10).
Now, BobBobbins, do tell all the women on this site what constitutes modest apparel . . .a dress down to the floor, a dress down to their ankles, or a dress going 1 foot 6 inches past the knees. Now tell them to throw out their jewelry and their gold wedding band and their diamond engagement ring as women who profess godliness. And also supply your address and phone number, so that they can contact you and give you a piece of their mind.
There are no exact details given in scripture for what constitutes modest apparel. That is why we have the Holy Spirit to convict our conscience as individuals when we step out of line.
A man who looks lustfully after a woman is an adulterer according to Jesus' words: "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). You do not have to hop into bed and have actual sex with another woman to be an adulterer in God's eyes. Therefore any woman who has such a husband has every right to divorce him, unless he repents.
BobBobbins says, "NOTICE: Does he accept a truce? Does he offer forgiveness? Does he show any humility whatsoever? Does he offer his own apology?? What does he do? He demands that Singer must bow to his terms in order to receive the kingdom ( Paul's respect)"
Peter denied Jesus publicly 3 times. Jesus demanded Peter confess Him publicly 3 times.(John 21:15-17) Singer4u maligned me publicly. He needs to make a public apology. I was testing Singer4u to see if his apology was sincere. And just like your phony olive-branch offering, BobBobbins, the readers soon discovered the truth.
BobBobbins says, "This is an attempt to build an honest understanding through extension of an olive branch." Then BobBobbins follows with this statement: "Now he (Paul) takes a most haughty and prideful position - he can not be bothered to even address such lowly and ridiculous people such as Singer and I" . . . all I can say is you have a funny way of extending an olive branch. Perhaps you meant poison ivy?
BobBobbins says, "He does not say that I have misinterpreted the word of God." (you have) "but merely his articles. However, he does not show how I have done so." . . .really?
BobBobbins and Singer4u. There's really nothing more to be said to you that has not already been said. So I will continue to repeat it until you hopefully get the message.
So BobBobbins and Singer4u, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting. Your accusations are unfounded and your interpretations of my article incorrect. Stone throwers all have something in common: They are usually self-righteous, ready to condemn, and can quote the Word of God. They boast in the keeping of the letter of the law while ignoring the weightier matters of justice, mercy and faith. And besides all this, they have one other notable characteristic . . . they are hypocrites. Matthew 23:23-28.
I have been FALSELY accused by you both, implying that I said Jesus sinned. I never said Jesus sinned. YOU DID! You made the ASSUMPTION that Jesus would have sinned if He had broken the Sabbath--I DID NOT. All I said was Jesus broke the Sabbath. Then you drew out your proverbial stones and said the following:
BobBobbins says, "Jesus never broke the sabbath. If he had done so, he would not have been able to fulfill the law. Your salvation could not have occurred. I am not sure where you get such ridiculous ideas. That is completely absurd and totally false."
My response: Absurd and totally false? . . .Really? "Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said God was His Father" (John 5:18). According to the apostle John, who wrote that scripture under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit . . .Jesus broke the Sabbath.
Singer4u says, "Paul and Goldenfaith both said in their writings on this forum that Yahushua broke Sabbath. That is impossible! You two should know better than that and to say it is total heresy!!! YOU ARE SAYING HE SINNED!"
My response: heresy? . . .really? "Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said God was His Father" (John 5:18). According to the apostle John, who wrote that scripture under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit . . .Jesus broke the Sabbath.
It is very clear in the Word of God that Jesus BROKE the Sabbath. It also says in the Word of God that Jesus NEVER sinned. I have no problem with both scriptures. It is you, Singer4u and BobBobbins, who have exalted yourselves above the Word of God to add your own interpretation to John 5:18. You both claim that Jesus could not have broken the Sabbath. Since when does your word override God's Word? You claim to be defenders of the Word, yet you are woefully ignorant of it.
"And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to Him, 'Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath!'"
But He said to them, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him:
"how he entered the house of God and ate the showbread which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests?
"Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless?
"Yet I say to you that in this place there is One greater than the temple.
"But if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would have not condemned the guiltless.
"For the Son of Man is LORD even of the Sabbath." (Matthew 12:2-8)
Oh yes, Jesus broke the Sabbath, but He never sinned. He was WORKING on the Sabbath healing people, but He never sinned, for He was doing exactly what the Father told Him to do. JESUS IS LORD even of the Sabbath.
And now in regards to Singer4u and BobBobbins adamant stand on the reasons for divorce. Both of you have ignored Jesus' Word spoken in Matthew 19:11:
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'"
You both ignore Jesus' Word spoken in Matthew 19:11 and quote only Matthew 19:9. Hypocrites! Is Jesus' Word spoken in verse 11 any less anointed than verse 9? You blind guides, you strain out a gnat and swallow a camel. Jesus said, ALL CANNOT ACCEPT the saying that fornication is the only reason for divorce, 'but only those to whom it has been given.'"
So Singer4u and BobBobbins accept that fornication is the only reason for divorce. Good for you. That's between you and God. Jesus said "ALL CANNOT ACCEPT THIS SAYING." And whether you like it or not, Singer4u and BobBobbins, the LORD JESUS makes it clear that He accepts other believers who have views on divorce contrary to yours.
IWalkAlone/BobBobbins writes: "I have been encouraged by others who care about me to walk away from this thread." �sounds like good advice..
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 21 Nov, 2013 12:49 AM
Paul............ Get over yourself! Calling me a fraud ??? You don't know my heart before Yahweh nor how I live my life. You are being the hypocrite now. What are you going to do if you stand before Yahweh and he tells you your belief system was wrong???? I can assure you that your definition of all can't receive this statement in Matthew 19 is WRONG!!!
IWA definition lines up with scripture and with what bible scholars believe that means also. As for me being judged by you it's a very small thing. I quote scriptures from the New Testament that you have in no way explained nor disaproved! Anyone on this forum should look into this and see that I quote the word. Paul's problem is he doesn't like what Yahweh said in the verses that I quoted so his problem really is with Yahweh. He deflects calling me a legalist. PROVE ME WRONG BY THE SCRIPTURE before all reading this forum on a point by point basis !!! Then you can say whatever but as far as right now it doesn't hold water Paul. Very disappointing I have never called you a fake nor unbeliever nor of the devil.......... I just told you that you had doctrinal error and I will stand on that...... I have provided proof on my earlier posts which you never answered accurately. Say whatever you want you haven't backed it up with truth just your opinions.....................
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 21 Nov, 2013 05:21 AM
Scripture is Truth...human interpretation of Scripture is not equivalent to the Truth.
If someone posts a verse from the Bible, they have cited the Truth. How one interprets it can make it into something other than the truth.
How we respond to others that we agree or disagree with shows the Autry of the spirit in us. As Christians we should strive to display the fruits of the Holy Spirit even to those who are not in alignment with your interpretation.
Yelling, screaming, ranting, raving, never achieves the goal of persuading someone that you are right. Christians should try to live as Romans 12 describes...and strive to love peaceably with all.
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 21 Nov, 2013 06:14 PM
Thank you Gods Jude and teach_ib for exposing the real identity of the man who calls himself, IWalkAlone. So we have the banned BobBobbins returning under a different name. What an absolute fraud you are IWalkAlone/BobBobbins. You think by hiding behind the picture of some bearded man, that somehow you would not be found out. Well, you have been found out�.
GODSJUDE INSIGHT: "See what I mean Paul...IWA is actually the Bob Bobbins that posted earlier in your Thread...He got banned a ways back...and true to his nature...he returns under another screen "name" to continue his Hypocritical behavior...its just what he does here."
The man who calls himself IWalkAlone wrote to teach_ib and said: "On Jun 5, 2012, you introduced yourself to me (a complete stranger to you) by calling me a "legalist". When forced to prove your claim that I am a legalist, you supplied a non-Biblical explanation of legalist. "
TEACH_IB REVEALS THE TRUTH: "First of all I introduced myself to the thread on that date...you have now confirmed you are the previously banned BobBobbins as IWA was not on the thread at that time. �As for a non-Biblical explanation, I provided the definition I used in referring to you and Singer on the way you were presenting your views. �I don't believe the term "legalist" is in the Bible so any description would fundamentally be non-Biblical. �Whether you agree with my definition or description or impression of you is not relevant."
The banned BobBobbins, who now calls himself IWalkAlone, accuses Paul with this statement: "Here, he is promoting another devilish idea that a woman should instruct a man."
Paul's response: devilish idea? Really? Have you not read� "Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, was judging Israel at that time. And she would sit under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the mountains of Ephraim. And the children of Israel came up to her for judgement" (Judges 4::4-5). Here is a woman, chosen by God, instructing men, and you, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, say it's a "devilish idea".
Well did Jesus call you Pharisees for who you really are�hypocrites. For you feign to be a God-fearing man to the reader while at the same time mocking God's idea of choosing a woman (Deborah) to instruct men, calling it a "devilish idea". You ignore the Word of God in Acts 21:9, Joel 2:28-29, and Acts 2:17-18 where God says "Your daughters will prophesy�. and on My maidservants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy", and instead you concentrate on one single verse, "And I do not suffer a woman to teach" (1Timothy 2:12). Hypocrite!!! You blind guide. You ignore the weightier evidence in scripture that God uses women to instruct men today while you make up your own doctrine.
In regards to my article, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, you have ignored and mocked Jesus' very own words in Matthew 19:10-12, and concentrated on verse 9 alone. You hypocrite. The same Jesus who spoke verse 9 also spoke verse 10, 11 and 12.
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'" (Matthew 19:11).
What saying was Jesus speaking of? The saying in verse 9 of course. NOT ALL can accept the saying that fornication is the ONLY reason for divorce. Your issue, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, is not with me but with the Word of God. And just as the Pharisees hated Jesus because He did not fit into their man-made doctrines, so you do the same.
One thing is for certain, IWalkAlone/BobBobbins, you do not speak for God. The very scripture you quoted now becomes your condemnation: "To the law and to the testimony: if they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them" (Isaiah 8:20).
For those readers who are not aware of what IWalkAlone posted here under the name BobBobbins, let me refresh your memory:
BobBobbins says, "Now please be sure to issue your standard verbose response to confuse all the readers.".. the only confusion the readers have here is in your hypocrisy.
BobBobbins says, "Also, don't forget your standard "thank you .. yada yada yada..".post to Teach_iib."..as you wish. But the post on "works" is for the benefit of all the readers. The Word of God speaks for itself.
Paul says, "BobBobbin, you could not be MORE WRONG! Your LIES are outrageous, Teach ib and I are one in spirit. "
This statement is so true! You see Bob, that's the beauty of being one in spirit with God's Spirit of mercy and grace. We are able to love one another and still hold different views. I am quite sure teach ib and I will not agree on everything�it really doesn't matter. But what we do agree on is this: that God is "merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity, and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:6-7a). That is God's very nature, and He wants that in His children.
You see, I was once a Pharisee, a legalist, a stone thrower, just like you and Singer, until God opened my eyes and showed me His nature of mercy and grace. I began to show mercy to women who divorced because they were physically beaten daily by their husbands. I began to show mercy to divorced women whose husbands were unrepentant pornographers who were guilty of committing adultery in their mind. And I began to show mercy to women who divorced because they had been mentally abused by their husbands until they prayed for death to escape. I threw down my stones and started showing mercy to these women, instead of beating on them with God's Word.
Now you may be wondering, why don't I show mercy to you guys? The answer is very simple: "For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy" (James 2:13).
BobBobbins says, "Who is the liar here?" . . .YOU ARE!!!! The readers only have to read this post to see what kind of a liar you really are. In one breath, you offer an olive branch to me. In the next breath you make an accusation against me. In one breath you say, "Happy Father's Day." In the next breath, you say, "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective." You HYPOCRITE!!! Do you think the readers are that gullible not to see your deceitful ways? PRETENDING to want peace and spitting out your poisonous words at the same time. You, BobBobbins, and Singer4u,have been exposed as frauds, and it is obvious to everyone that you are desperately trying to keep your sinking ship of legalism afloat. But I have news for you. It will not stand against the Word of God!
BobBobbins says, "Paul and Teach_ib can not even agree between themselves what the Biblical grounds for divorce are. Paul holds one standard and teach_ib holds another"
BobBobbin, you could not be MORE WRONG! Your LIES are outrageous. Teach ib and I are one in spirit. She knows and loves the God of mercy and grace, as I do, and is known by Him. And you would do well to hold your tongue against the daughter of the King. God will not hold you guiltless!
BobBobbins quotes God's word, Matt 5:17 "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill." Exactly, all the righteous requirements of the law ARE ALREADY FULFILLED in HIM. That righteousness is not based on you keeping the letter of the law, BUT IN ACCEPTING HIS RIGHTEOUNESS OVER YOURS. I will take the liberty to add your names to the following scripture:
"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel (BobBobbins and Singer4u) is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For CHRIST is the END of the law to everyone who believes" (Romans 10:1-4).
BobBobbins says, "If this is true, Jesus was the most shining example of a legalist." Hardly. Jesus wasn't a hypocrite, never condemned anyone, and was always showing mercy. You, BobBobbins and Singer4u, do not even know what spirit you are of.
BobBobbins says, "Happy Father's Day!" . . . "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective" . . .Hmmm . . . For some reason, after looking at your hypocritical words, I don't believe you are sincere. I wonder why.
BobBobbins says, "I truly hope that at some point you will lay aside your hatred and your anger" . . . I'm sorry to disappoint you BobBobbins. I have nether anger nor hatred toward Singer or you. I do however feel sorry for you both that in your zealousness to keep the letter of the law, you have missed God's mercy.
BobBobbins says, "You err in your doctrine and your reasoning is defective. I have proven this over and over for days" . . .the only thing you have proven to the readers and myself is that my article is correct and that it exposed two modern-day Pharisees who are legalists and stone-throwers, namely yourself and Singer4u. And for that I rejoice.
BobBobbins says, "Did I make any comments anywhere about what a woman should or should not wear?" No, but we are all waiting. For you quote the Word of God in a legalistic manner. You quote Matthew 19:9 that fornication is the only reason for divorce. The definition of fornication according to Encarta � World English Dictionary is "sexual intercourse between two consenting adults, who are not married to each other"
However, according to Jesus, fornication is "But I say to you that whoever LOOKS at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28).
A man who looks lustfully after a woman is an adulterer according to Jesus' words. You do not have to hop into bed and have actual sex with another woman to be an adulterer in God's eyes. Therefore any woman who has such a husband, whether he be a pornographer or one who lusts with his eyes after the women in the mall (while his wife is shopping) has every right to divorce him, unless he repents.
BobBobbins says, "Where is this verse in the Bible that states these as exceptions?" (read above and below)
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'" (Matthew 19:11)
"neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks" (Ephesians 5:4). And where in the Bible, BobBobbins does it say when humorous talk becomes foolish talk and joking becomes coarse jesting? Your interpretation of foolish talk will no doubt be different from mine. That is why we have the Holy Spirit to convict our conscience when we step out of line.
"in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works" (1Timothy 2:9-10).
Now, BobBobbins, do tell all the women on this site what constitutes modest apparel . . .a dress down to the floor, a dress down to their ankles, or a dress going 1 foot 6 inches past the knees. Now tell them to throw out their jewelry and their gold wedding band and their diamond engagement ring as women who profess godliness. And also supply your address and phone number, so that they can contact you and give you a piece of their mind.
There are no exact details given in scripture for what constitutes modest apparel. That is why we have the Holy Spirit to convict our conscience as individuals when we step out of line.
A man who looks lustfully after a woman is an adulterer according to Jesus' words: "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). You do not have to hop into bed and have actual sex with another woman to be an adulterer in God's eyes. Therefore any woman who has such a husband has every right to divorce him, unless he repents.
BobBobbins says, "NOTICE: Does he accept a truce? Does he offer forgiveness? Does he show any humility whatsoever? Does he offer his own apology?? What does he do? He demands that Singer must bow to his terms in order to receive the kingdom ( Paul's respect)"
Peter denied Jesus publicly 3 times. Jesus demanded Peter confess Him publicly 3 times.(John 21:15-17) Singer4u maligned me publicly. He needs to make a public apology. I was testing Singer4u to see if his apology was sincere. And just like your phony olive-branch offering, BobBobbins, the readers soon discovered the truth.
BobBobbins says, "This is an attempt to build an honest understanding through extension of an olive branch." Then BobBobbins follows with this statement: "Now he (Paul) takes a most haughty and prideful position - he can not be bothered to even address such lowly and ridiculous people such as Singer and I" . . . all I can say is you have a funny way of extending an olive branch. Perhaps you meant poison ivy?
BobBobbins says, "He does not say that I have misinterpreted the word of God." (you have) "but merely his articles. However, he does not show how I have done so." . . .really?
BobBobbins and Singer4u. There's really nothing more to be said to you that has not already been said. So I will continue to repeat it until you hopefully get the message.
So BobBobbins and Singer4u, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting. Your accusations are unfounded and your interpretations of my article incorrect. Stone throwers all have something in common: They are usually self-righteous, ready to condemn, and can quote the Word of God. They boast in the keeping of the letter of the law while ignoring the weightier matters of justice, mercy and faith. And besides all this, they have one other notable characteristic . . . they are hypocrites. Matthew 23:23-28.
I have been FALSELY accused by you both, implying that I said Jesus sinned. I never said Jesus sinned. YOU DID! You made the ASSUMPTION that Jesus would have sinned if He had broken the Sabbath--I DID NOT. All I said was Jesus broke the Sabbath. Then you drew out your proverbial stones and said the following:
BobBobbins says, "Jesus never broke the sabbath. If he had done so, he would not have been able to fulfill the law. Your salvation could not have occurred. I am not sure where you get such ridiculous ideas. That is completely absurd and totally false."
My response: Absurd and totally false? . . .Really? "Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said God was His Father" (John 5:18). According to the apostle John, who wrote that scripture under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit . . .Jesus broke the Sabbath.
Singer4u says, "Paul and Goldenfaith both said in their writings on this forum that Yahushua broke Sabbath. That is impossible! You two should know better than that and to say it is total heresy!!! YOU ARE SAYING HE SINNED!"
My response: heresy? . . .really? "Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said God was His Father" (John 5:18). According to the apostle John, who wrote that scripture under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit . . .Jesus broke the Sabbath.
It is very clear in the Word of God that Jesus BROKE the Sabbath. It also says in the Word of God that Jesus NEVER sinned. I have no problem with both scriptures. It is you, Singer4u and BobBobbins, who have exalted yourselves above the Word of God to add your own interpretation to John 5:18. You both claim that Jesus could not have broken the Sabbath. Since when does your word override God's Word? You claim to be defenders of the Word, yet you are woefully ignorant of it.
"And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to Him, 'Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath!'"
But He said to them, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him:
"how he entered the house of God and ate the showbread which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests?
"Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless?
"Yet I say to you that in this place there is One greater than the temple.
"But if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would have not condemned the guiltless.
"For the Son of Man is LORD even of the Sabbath." (Matthew 12:2-8)
Oh yes, Jesus broke the Sabbath, but He never sinned. He was WORKING on the Sabbath healing people, but He never sinned, for He was doing exactly what the Father told Him to do. JESUS IS LORD even of the Sabbath.
And now in regards to Singer4u and BobBobbins adamant stand on the reasons for divorce. Both of you have ignored Jesus' Word spoken in Matthew 19:11:
"But He said to them, 'All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given'"
You both ignore Jesus' Word spoken in Matthew 19:11 and quote only Matthew 19:9. Hypocrites! Is Jesus' Word spoken in verse 11 any less anointed than verse 9? You blind guides, you strain out a gnat and swallow a camel. Jesus said, ALL CANNOT ACCEPT the saying that fornication is the only reason for divorce, 'but only those to whom it has been given.'"
So Singer4u and BobBobbins accept that fornication is the only reason for divorce. Good for you. That's between you and God. Jesus said "ALL CANNOT ACCEPT THIS SAYING." And whether you like it or not, Singer4u and BobBobbins, the LORD JESUS makes it clear that He accepts other believers who have views on divorce contrary to yours.
IWalkAlone/BobBobbins writes: "I have been encouraged by others who care about me to walk away from this thread." �sounds like good advice.
Singer4u, you defend IWalkAlone/Bob Bobbins, even though he was proven to be a fraud, having lied about his true identity. He was living the lie, while at the same time passing himself off as a man of truth. That's called hypocrisy. He has lost all credibility and anyone who defends him is like him.
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 21 Nov, 2013 09:24 PM
Paul, I am only saying I agree with IWA's interpretation of Matthew 19's All can't receive this statement. That doesn't make me a fraud. If he said something I disagreed with I would say it. However, his scripture presentations are accurate that I noticed which he has posted. If I notice something when I take the time to reread this long post I will say it. I have at your interpretations. I don't tell you that you are of the devil, or are an unbeliever, or anything else. I just say to you that I don't agree with all of your doctrinal views. A lot of your views I do agree on. I don't agree with all of teach ib's interpretations (but alot I do) of scripture.( Yet I don't tell her she is of the devil, a fraud, or hypocrite, unbeliever, or evil I know she's a believer but her complete interpretations I don't agree with all) Yet the verses she presents are true in their context as are the ones you present as such. Yet I don't count either of you as enemies...... Just want truth and nothing but the truth presented here for all' s benefit............. Therefore stop with the calling me a fraud because to me that means you are saying I am of the devil and that greatly offends me so I hope that's not what you mean? All you have to do is say you don't agree with my views and present a counter point????? Let's hash out the truth of the interpretations and stop mudslinging. Truth is all that's needed...........
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 22 Nov, 2013 12:42 AM
Teac IB, well said on your last post except for saying ranting raving etc. = there's no way to do that on a word post forum LOL. In person that could take place in discussions. However, you left out false accusing, calling people fake or fraud unfounded or even referring to them being evil???? That should never be between believers. As such we should be able to discuss and judge each other's fruit but not the person that's Messiah's job (hear that paul! Don't judge the person judge the actions) Also don't tell someone they are bitter because they got cheated on. People get over things eventually (usually I also add). I'm over mine you have no idea and I'm so thankful to be delivered from it. I hate adultery because it has false teachings upholding it in most churches despite damaging and producing hurt children. All the while getting a wink or positive excuse reaction from church leadership......... At my assembly if another believer did adultery on another and was unrepentant the pastor and leadership which I'm part of would do the 2 or 3 witnesses thing and if they didn't repent we would kick them out of the assembly and warn other assemblies in case they brought their adultery there too. THis is a sin that destroys the body of messiah and why I believe being unrepentant of this grievous sin can lead to DAMNATION. I have done a thorough many years of study on this matter and so does the other Assemblies of Yahweh's restored people believe the same way on this matter. We are to test all things and so we should...............Divorce isn't sin per say and it's not the issue it's adultery in all the forms it shows up that is the issue................................SMH
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 22 Nov, 2013 06:53 PM
Singer4u says, "hear that paul! Don't judge the person judge the actions" �Thank you�I already have. Read below.
Singer4u, you defend IWalkAlone/Bob Bobbins, even though he was proven to be a fraud, having lied about his true identity. He was living the lie, while at the same time passing himself off as a man of truth. That's called hypocrisy. He has lost all credibility and anyone who defends him is like him.
Have you been CONDEMMNED by others as having an "UNBIBLICAL DIVORCE" ?
Posted : 23 Nov, 2013 02:28 AM
Wrong Paul I defended the interpretation he has of Matthew 19 because it is the same as mine. I'm only talking about scripture not personal issues........ I believe your saying all men can't receive this teaching as non credible. The context clearly says Messiah was quoting a fact about how there will be those who can't receive this teaching of what he said earlier about how he wouldn't honor the divorce unless for fornication/adultery. The disciples said if this is the way it is with a man and his wife it's better not to marry. That's when he said all men can't receive the requirement he pointed out on marriage and remarriage. Which he noted except to those that it has been given. Those it's given to are his true people who follow him and does what he said. That's who it's given to..... It's not as you say with some liberal explanation that is like its well with our soul if we don't see it his way and we can do what we want because we can't receive this teaching from him.... No way Paul!!!! He is going to judge every idle word men speak so how much more where we disobeyed him in a 2 believer's marriage! Not oh he's fine with me cause I don't see it his way. Come off it Paul you are wrong so judge me if you must. Your interpretation is totally wrong of Matthew 19......... A Strong's concordance will on these verses back up what I'm saying by the references not what you are saying........ Everyone look it up in a Strong's concordance on marriage and see for yourselves.
