I am a believer, and it is because of the Holy Spirit's calling, and indwelling. Sputnikboy, are you saying that you are a believer without the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, or are you saying something else? I am not sure how to read what you are saying exactly concerning this.
I do not believe that upon indwelling of the Holy Spirit, upon conversion to Christ, essentially, that we loose our perception, or gain a full understanding of the Word of God. I believe that we grow in the Lord, in His time, and for His purpose. I think disagreement among believers on aspects of the Bible is due to our fallen state, and the deception of satan. God works this to our good to teach us, to motivate us to study, to reveal our hearts, and to grow His church. I have often times, after a heated debate, had to check my heart to see if my motive was simply to "WIN", and that happens a lot, and without me even realizing it (my own complacency at work). Sometimes I debate, and realize that I am wrong, and I am always grateful (eventually) to God for showing me this truth, through the help of a sibling in Christ, and His Word. And sometimes, right or wrong, my heart motive is not submissive before God, and I am just plain o' convicted of my self-righteousness.
If someone tells me that they have it all figured out, then I am inclined to not believe them. I don't care what they call themselves. However, if someone is applying Scripture to a particular discussion, and it answers it...then, it is up to me to deny myself, and seek God's face on the matter. I should be praying for wisdom, and teaching in the matter, while studying His Word of Truth. Even if after all of that, I do not find myself in agreement with the person I was discussing things with, I still learn something new, and grow in obedience to Christ.
I do believe there is one Truth, however, and that it is not based on the perceptions of man, or the popular strain of thought at the time...though those things can aid us (by the Holy Spirit utilizing them) in learning the Truth. We are in the dark, and only God knows what is true. I may be climbing towards the truth in areas, and maybe even know some in others...but I imagine that I am completely off in still many others. I must study all of my life, and I will still not know all of it. The more I study, the more this realization sinks in. I do know, however, that God can use this all for my good, and He will lead me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. That Psalm says it all for our walk with Him, I think.
It is up to us all to come to a discussion with a heart to learn, and share. Humility is the key, and I see that in many here. This is a difficult way to communicate, and many are misunderstood. It is up to all of us to be teachable, honest, and humble. I have seen things presented here that are just flat out against God's Word. I reject those assertions immediately. I have seen God's Word explained away as not being true, yet, those people say that they seem to have the truth in the things that they can observe, or feel. Is this the Holy Spirit in them? It may be my perception, but if someone says the Word of God is not true, then I can not trust what they are saying...unless somehow the principal aligns with Scripture anyway. God's Word is the plumb line of truth for us in this world, and if someone rejects it, then I can not lean any merit to what they are saying.
As far as the confusion...that is due to the sinful nature of man, and the deceiver, not God. I think so much can be said on this topic, but it is our own hearts we must guard, and the hearts of other by not expounding on things that are in err...things we haven't studied thoroughly, or that go against the absolutes in Scripture. The Bible says if we seek the truth we shall find it...it is up to us to pray and seek. I am over my children, and I teach them...but it is with fear and trembling that I do so. I do not want them to learn err, and I want to be open when I do not know, or when I have taught them something wrong. I think in discussions we should not preume to teach, but to share...and to learn.
There are times, though, that I think it is necessary to defend the faith here. There are unbelievers who come in with the agenda to degrade Christ, christians, and the Word...they should be shut down. They have places where they can go and do that where no one minds. I also believe that Scripture should be held up as the standard of truth.
So, I am not sure...maybe I am one of those you are speaking of, but that would be your perception. :wink: The Lord bless you, and you too Relic.
