Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Due to the Covid-19 virus and being quarantined, I have begun to read all the different books that I had skipped in the past due to a lack of time and dedication. But I have learned that Eric Metaxas did a thorough job in researching his subjects and have begun this book about Dietrich Bonhoeffer of almost 600 pages.

Almost immediately, I am struck with Metaxas’ recitation of how the Nazi’s began their campaign of capturing the control of different elements of the government, civil authority and finally the entire society of Germany. If I may say so, it appears that such an effort is underway in the United States today.

I was particularly impressed with Bonhoeffer’s view of real Christianity and his simple but elegant explanation of the differences between being saved by grace and the popular plan of being saved by works. The Nazi’s were anti-Christian, but they would pretend to be Christian if it served to getting theologically ignorant Germans on their side against the Jews.

He then aggressively attacked the idea of “religion” and moral performance as the very enemies of Christianity and Christ because they present the false idea that we can reach God through our moral efforts. This led to hubris and spiritual pride, the sworn enemies of Christianity.

In an essay, Bonhoeffer wrote, “to know anything about God, one had to rely on revelation from God." In other words, God could speak into the world, but man could not reach out of this world to examine God. Man could not earn his way up to Heaven, but God could reach down and graciously lift man toward Him!

One point I read that Dietrich Bonhoeffer equated the Tower of Babel (Gen. 11:1-9) to the belief in works, versus the belief in salvation by grace. That on the one hand there were those who believed that their good works was the road to salvation. Bonhoeffer held that a belief in works were, like the tower doomed to failure. God has revealed himself through his word and that is all we have or can know about him.

I understand that any conversation about soul salvation, or religion makes some individuals nervous and others to turn away completely, and to those I apologize for this essay, but under the present circumstances I felt it necessary.

Some Christians believe we are nearing the End Times. So, If I, or any other members of the Forum can assist in answering any personal questions, feel free to ask. Rather than being Bible Thumpers, we were sincerely concerned about your soul’s salvation. Just Sayin…RJS

saw1 Loc: nor cal Windsor

Amen RJ. There are several of us on here that would gladly answer any questions you might have about Christ and His salvation. Weather the end times are near or not, you need to know Christ as your savior before you die.
John 14:6 Jesus says" I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."
There IS an afterlife and it is eternal. AND You have a choice of where you want to spend it. Just Sayin.

JMWilson

I agree wholeheartedly! I think we are in the midst of a Cultural Civil War. No shots have been fired as yet, but depending on the outcome of this year’s elections, they could soon follow.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Jack and Saw1: That's the purpose of my post. If there are folks who have questions, I wanted them to know we are here and ready to respond. To not be judgemental, argumenative, or anything negative. Thank you for your positive support. Just Sayin...RJS

Randyhartford Loc: Lawrence, Kansas

First I want to say thanks to you three guys, as well as Denny and others who are taking a public stand for Christ. I also want everyone to know that I am also always available to help anyone , as best I can, with questions, whether general or personal in nature. For personal type questions, you can PM me anytime and I WILL reply ASAP.
I don’t know everything, but I DO have a lot of experience being both a sinner and a Christian, and if there is a question that I’m not sure of the answer, I know where to look and have those resources readily available to find most answers.
Please don’t be afraid to ask; it is my “calling”. Several FS members have already been asking questions, so you are not alone.
Maybe one of us will have something that will help you. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

Ronniejw Loc: West Point MS

I have been over here since the end of 2008 and seen how the country has gone down the last 6 years or so. You are right, there is a revolution to change the American way, from many sides. Politicians are greedy and only think of shoring themselves up, giving handouts for votes. I'm surprised the general population hasn't woke up to it by now. All the rioting and looting has really shown how bad the political leaders are looking after their states. Ca is a big problem, shutting down churches and services, pretty pathetic. Mho is that we all matter, we were put here for a purpose.

FrenchieQ Loc: Manchester TWP., Ocean County, NJ

While I may be older than more than a few of you, I consider you my mentors when it comes to fishing. Religion not so much but respect entirely your right to do so. I say not to religion not because I don't believe, I very much do, but don't feel adequately qualified to discuss it. I have first hand knowledge God exists as I am still here for no other reason than His intervention while under intense combat situations. He let me get dinged a little just to keep me honest, but he saved me many times. Because of that I am very grateful for you gentlemen carrying on the message so much better than I can. Indeed, our nation needs Him more than ever at this moment. We seem to be forgetting (or propagandized) that we are ALL His children, together in this world, not blacks not whites, not browns, not red, nor yellow.

JMWilson

I am firm believer in the push for term limits for all politicians! It is evident that most politicians are more concerned with reelection than serving those who elected them. It is a shame that often you have to choose between the lesser of two evils when voting! We need to hand Congress a “Dishonorable Discharge” with no benefits, as they have already raped this country!!

Smokypig Loc: Cheyenne, wyoming

These men are making a priceless offer. The issues we are struggling with are not cultural. They are spiritual. We can't possibly resolve a spiritual problem with a cultural treatment. These guys can help us.

JimRed Loc: Coastal New Jersey, Belmar area

I have been an advocate of term limits for over 30 years. I also believe that all political donations should be anonymous. If you don’t know who’s buying, you can’t sell influence. You should be allowed to donate any amount you wish to any candidate or party you choose; that’s freedom. But to demand an outcome in exchange makes it bribery, a crime.

Term limits and real campaign financing reform would result in only people who want to serve seeking office, and would discourage those seeking to become wealthy at public expense. Ask yourself why lawyers who could earn a half million a year without breaking a sweat would want to take a job at $177,000+ perks ?

Crunchy Loc: Clark Fork, North Idaho

JMW You have been reading my mail.

Crunchy

Able Man Loc: North Coast (Cleveland, Ohio)

Mr. Samples; I am reminded of what my Mother must've told us boys 100(+) times: "Those who can't (won't/ don't) learn from history, are damned to repeat it."

Able Man Loc: North Coast (Cleveland, Ohio)

Oh! ... And, thanks for "bringing this up".