Overaged Posted September 6, 2010 Posted September 6, 2010 Is There A God? Or, Does God Exist? I thought that it would be interesting and educational to invite a topic to study the long-standing question about does God exist? There have been recent developments in the scientific/physics field, in particular, by Stephen Hawking, that is giving the world the message how that "physics leaves no room for God." As it turns out; Stephen Hawking has written a new book with the strong assertion that we no longer need a God to explain our existence, "because M Theory, a unified version of String Theory, can now explain how the universe emerged from the vacuum." As Hawkings states in the following quote out of his book, "The Grand Design," Quote: “Because there is a law such as gravity, the universe can and will create itself from nothing. Spontaneous creation is the reason there is something rather than nothing, why the universe exists, why we exist. It is not necessary to invoke God to light the blue touch paper and set the universe going,” This is the modern-day version of "The Big Bang Theory;" which I believe was initiated by Darwin, in his Theory of Evolution. So; how should Christians respond to, and think of this issue of our existence, and how it came about? How does a Christian "explain God?" Do we need to prove his existence; or, should we, merely declare His existence, as does the Bible? Or, if that is wrong to say; how does the Bible prove God's existence? It is strikingly similar to note the two opposing approaches and lines of thought here. Neither the atheistic scientific model of creation, or the Christian faith have definitively proven (empirically) that God does or does not exist. They have both declared it. But even to an amateur like myself, who is not a PhD in physics, can see that the latest Big Bang support as in "M Theory" simply is way too inadequate in order to be called a completely unified theory (explanation) on everything, as it is being touted by some physics experts. The first question I would have is where did this "law of gravity" come from? To me, physics theory has always tended to overvalue scientific knowledge, and it has always left large gaps in every one of it's theories on our existence, and the question, "Is there a God?" I would like to see responses by both Christians, and non Christians in this topic. Is God? Or is He not? Quote "People [rarely] see...the bright light which is in the clouds..." (Job 37:21)"I cannot know why suddenly the stormshould rage so fiercely round me in it's wrathBut this I know: God watches all my pathAnd I can trust""God helps us to draw strength from the storm" - OveragedFaith makes things possible; it does not make them easy, Steps To Christ
Dr. Shane Posted September 6, 2010 Posted September 6, 2010 I think the question is more philosophical than scientific. If a person wants to believe there is a God, they can. If a person doesn't want to believe there is a God, they don't have to. The decision is up to the individual. Of course, a person can choose the wrong way. Their choice can even be perfectly logical and still be wrong. The choice is up to the individual to make. Quote Pastoral Family Counselor... Find me at www.PostumCafe.com Author of Peculiar Christianity
Overaged Posted September 6, 2010 Author Posted September 6, 2010 Hmmm; I think I agree somewhat with you here. And yes; a person can choose the wrong way. I wonder what people would say if someone thought the answer to my questions was neither scientific, or philosophical? Quote "People [rarely] see...the bright light which is in the clouds..." (Job 37:21)"I cannot know why suddenly the stormshould rage so fiercely round me in it's wrathBut this I know: God watches all my pathAnd I can trust""God helps us to draw strength from the storm" - OveragedFaith makes things possible; it does not make them easy, Steps To Christ
Twilight Posted September 6, 2010 Posted September 6, 2010 God is a logical conclusion. The prophecies of the bible reveal that the "author" predicted the future. Only an author not bound by time, could do such a thing. God provides this test here: Isa 46:9 Remember the former things of old: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else; [i am] God, and [there is] none like me, Isa 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: This test is a logical basis for accepting the bible and His Son Jesus Christ. We can then base faith on that foundation of logic. Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
Overaged Posted September 7, 2010 Author Posted September 7, 2010 God is a logical conclusion. The prophecies of the bible reveal that the "author" predicted the future. Only an author not bound by time, could do such a thing. God provides this test here: Isa 46:9 Remember the former things of old: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else; [i am] God, and [there is] none like me, Isa 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: This test is a logical basis for accepting the bible and His Son Jesus Christ. We can then base faith on that foundation of logic. I really like this idea you have posted about Bible Prophecy being one of the evidences of the reality of God. I hope we can explore this and similar ideas in this yopic. I am out of time for tonight but will look forward to more on this subject! Quote "People [rarely] see...the bright light which is in the clouds..." (Job 37:21)"I cannot know why suddenly the stormshould rage so fiercely round me in it's wrathBut this I know: God watches all my pathAnd I can trust""God helps us to draw strength from the storm" - OveragedFaith makes things possible; it does not make them easy, Steps To Christ
Twilight Posted September 7, 2010 Posted September 7, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight God is a logical conclusion. The prophecies of the bible reveal that the "author" predicted the future. Only an author not bound by time, could do such a thing. God provides this test here: Isa 46:9 Remember the former things of old: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else; [i am] God, and [there is] none like me, Isa 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: This test is a logical basis for accepting the bible and His Son Jesus Christ. We can then base faith on that foundation of logic. I really like this idea you have posted about Bible Prophecy being one of the evidences of the reality of God. I hope we can explore this and similar ideas in this yopic. I am out of time for tonight but will look forward to more on this subject! Jesus used this very principal: Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Luk 24:44 And he said unto them, These [are] the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and [in] the prophets, and [in] the psalms, concerning me. By pointing to Moses, the psalms and all the prophets, He validated Himself and God at the same time. The prophecies are there so that we can have a logical basis upon which to base our faith. For too long, Christians have thought that they just have to have "faith", then the secularists kidnap logic whilst the Christians think they haven't got any money for the ransom. God has placed logical tests in the scripture. The logical test is so profound, that often the only way to attack it is with illogical arguments, which often happens. I look forward to your response. :-) Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
Robert Posted September 7, 2010 Posted September 7, 2010 Is There A God? Or, Does God Exist? Yes! Why? 1] In the Bible we see agape...it contradicts human love, which is self-seeking. It clearly show mankind's problem. 2] Either all we see just happened by pure chance or there is a creator - but not the creation of what we now see. The earth is falling apart...humans not in the image of their creator. Quote
LifeHiscost Posted September 9, 2010 Posted September 9, 2010 For too long, Christians have thought that they just have to have "faith", then the secularists kidnap logic whilst the Christians think they haven't got any money for the ransom. God has placed logical tests in the scripture. "...but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence..." 1 Peter 3:15 NASB The only useful proof of God's existence is what He has accomplished in the heart. I can't prove He exists and that I hear Him speak to me on a daily basis, any more than I can prove you are there on the other end of this message and will answer what is written, except by the response to this letter. And then maybe there are a lot of little bangs that set the return message into action, just as there is a big bang that set the universe into action. Some believe that makes logical thought. We'll all at last be able to see for ourselves, some to their undying gratitude and some to their undying disappointment. " The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God,"They are corrupt, and have committed abominable injustice; There is no one who does good." Psalm 53:2 NASB God just spoke to me there and I've taken it to heart. Praise His faithfulness. Blessings! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
Twilight Posted September 9, 2010 Posted September 9, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight For too long, Christians have thought that they just have to have "faith", then the secularists kidnap logic whilst the Christians think they haven't got any money for the ransom. God has placed logical tests in the scripture. "...but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence..." 1 Peter 3:15 NASB The only useful proof of God's existence is what He has accomplished in the heart. I can't prove He exists and that I hear Him speak to me on a daily basis, any more than I can prove you are there on the other end of this message and will answer what is written, except by the response to this letter. And then maybe there are a lot of little bangs that set the return message into action, just as there is a big bang that set the universe into action. Some believe that makes logical thought. We'll all at last be able to see for ourselves, some to their undying gratitude and some to their undying disappointment. " The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God,"They are corrupt, and have committed abominable injustice; There is no one who does good." Psalm 53:2 NASB God just spoke to me there and I've taken it to heart. Praise His faithfulness. Blessings! I disagree LFC. :-) The prophetic revelation of Christ and Christ's presence on the earth 2000 years ago, is logical proof for the existance of God. Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
LifeHiscost Posted September 10, 2010 Posted September 10, 2010 I disagree LFC. :-) The prophetic revelation of Christ and Christ's presence on the earth 2000 years ago, is logical proof for the existance of God. That's because you believe the Word. That is not logical to one who doesn't believe the Word. "For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."1 Corinthians 1:18 NASB "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:13-15 KJV Blessings! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
Twilight Posted September 10, 2010 Posted September 10, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight I disagree LFC. :-) The prophetic revelation of Christ and Christ's presence on the earth 2000 years ago, is logical proof for the existance of God. That's because you believe the Word. That is not logical to one who doesn't believe the Word. "For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."1 Corinthians 1:18 NASB "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:13-15 KJV Blessings! I consider it illogical to disbelieve the word... Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
LifeHiscost Posted September 10, 2010 Posted September 10, 2010 I consider it illogical to disbelieve the word... As do I. An undeserved gift of the Holy Spirit. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.John 15:16 NKJV "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 KJV "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God..." Ephesians 2:7 NKJV Blessings! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
Twilight Posted September 10, 2010 Posted September 10, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight I consider it illogical to disbelieve the word... As do I. An undeserved gift of the Holy Spirit. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.John 15:16 NKJV "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 KJV "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God..." Ephesians 2:7 NKJV Blessings! Indeed. :-) Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
Robert Posted September 11, 2010 Posted September 11, 2010 Guys...gals...read this and tell me what you think. It's has to do with "ungodliness"...the rejection of God. Read me! Quote
Woody Posted September 11, 2010 Posted September 11, 2010 Read me! Excellent. Guys Gals FOLKS ... Read this. :) Quote May we be one so that the world may be won. Christian from the cradle to the grave I believe in Hematology.
LifeHiscost Posted September 12, 2010 Posted September 12, 2010 This test is a logical basis for accepting the bible and His Son Jesus Christ. We can then base faith on that foundation of logic. Very definitely true. Then when other developments don't seem to continue to strengthen that faith, this below, alone, has laid a foundation which the seemingly illogical is able to verify. "He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. " 1 John 4:8 NKJV Blessings! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
LifeHiscost Posted September 12, 2010 Posted September 12, 2010 Originally Posted By: Overaged Is There A God? Or, Does God Exist? ...it contradicts human love, which is self-seeking. It clearly show mankind's problem. The answer to the failure of fallen humanity's love. "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. "John 14:16-18 NLT "...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure."Philippians 2:13 NKJV Regards! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
LifeHiscost Posted October 31, 2010 Posted October 31, 2010 I disagree LFC. :-) The prophetic revelation of Christ and Christ's presence on the earth 2000 years ago, is logical proof for the existance of God. Logical to you, Twilight, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in your heart. No matter how logical, it is not proof to those who wish not to recognize the simple gospel. Even the unbeliever accepts this maxim: "There are none so blind as those who will not see." Regards! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
Twilight Posted October 31, 2010 Posted October 31, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight I disagree LFC. :-) The prophetic revelation of Christ and Christ's presence on the earth 2000 years ago, is logical proof for the existance of God. Logical to you, Twilight, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in your heart. No matter how logical, it is not proof to those who wish not to recognize the simple gospel. Even the unbeliever accepts this maxim: "There are none so blind as those who will not see." Regards! But then they are not operating from logic my friend, they are operating from lies, which are always illogical. :-) If we allow the light of God, to be the true standard of "logic"... Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
LifeHiscost Posted October 31, 2010 Posted October 31, 2010 But then they are not operating from logic my friend, they are operating from lies, which are always illogical. :-) If we allow the light of God, to be the true standard of "logic"... Most assuredly. I merely make effort to apply this outstanding logic from He Who is the Light of God. I'm supposing some feel that only in the particular context of when Jesus made this request would it be worthy of accepting as "Truth". I believe it to be necessary under all circumstances of this present world, even for the most enlightened, excepting Jesus of course. "Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” "Luke 23:34 NLT I'm of the opinion that it is only the ones who don't know and are forgiven, who will have privilege to enter into the realm of eternal glory. Those who accept themselves as knowing enough would fit into this category: "Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—" Revelation 3:18 NKJV Even we have this hope extended to us as a gift by the Holy Spirit, if we are willing to accept it. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent."Revelation 3:19 NKJV God's love! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
Twilight Posted October 31, 2010 Posted October 31, 2010 Originally Posted By: Twilight But then they are not operating from logic my friend, they are operating from lies, which are always illogical. :-) If we allow the light of God, to be the true standard of "logic"... Most assuredly. I merely make effort to apply this outstanding logic from He Who is the Light of God. I'm supposing some feel that only in the particular context of when Jesus made this request would it be worthy of accepting as "Truth". I believe it to be necessary under all circumstances of this present world, even for the most enlightened, excepting Jesus of course. "Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” "Luke 23:34 NLT I'm of the opinion that it is only the ones who don't know and are forgiven, who will have privilege to enter into the realm of eternal glory. Those who accept themselves as knowing enough would fit into this category: "Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—" Revelation 3:18 NKJV Even we have this hope extended to us as a gift by the Holy Spirit, if we are willing to accept it. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent."Revelation 3:19 NKJV God's love! And there lies the crux of the matter my friend. Confession and repentance. So few are willing to admit God has it right and they are wrong. Without that, they can never experience repentance... Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
Twilight Posted October 31, 2010 Posted October 31, 2010 And they will come up with all sorts of arguments to show that they know more then God... Quote The best wisdom is always second hand...
LifeHiscost Posted November 1, 2010 Posted November 1, 2010 And there lies the crux of the matter my friend. Confession and repentance. So few are willing to admit God has it right and they are wrong. Without that, they can never experience repentance... May I add that there is some knowledge of which we need not repent. "And we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and he is eternal life."1 John 5:20 NLT "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." 1 John 5:13 KJV God blesses! Quote Lift Jesus up!!
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