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I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 4:11:46 AM
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Xcythe
Posts: 4
Joined: 8/7/2008
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Back about 2-3 years ago I remember literally denying god after being confused with life and wanting to walk my own path. During that time I became an atheist until today where I had an experience on "the other side". I decided to switch back to christianity... but denying god has gotten me worried.
I remember in the bible it said those who blashamied christ (or god) cannot be forgiven and will burn in hell forever. Now I am afraid of my mistake... and think I can no longer be forgiven.
Can I ever be forgiven? Or am I destined to go to hell when I die?
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 6:05:42 AM
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wintery
Posts: 1809
Joined: 2/1/2007
From: nw alabama
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When sin separates us from God, we confess to Him that we have sinned and ask for forgiveness, which God is faithful to provide:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
(1 John 1:9)
God desires for us to be saved:
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(John 3:16)
I do understand the concern you raised; however remember where the desire to return to God comes from:
No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
(Joh 6:44)
Others have had this kind of fear or concern. I know a minister who spoke of denying God forcefully after he was saved and he has become a well-thought-of and well-liked minister.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
(1 Corinthians 10:13)
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)
God bless you in your walk with Him.
========wintery.
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 8:52:45 AM
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drussell52
Posts: 201
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From: Michigan
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Hi, welcome to the family of faith and to the forum! Wintery cited some great verses for all of us, and I would add Luke 7, think it's verse 48 speaking to the Lord being the one who forgives our sins. I ttoo struggle with the tendency to worry about has this sin or that sin surpassed God's willingness to be merciful, but within myself am brought to the place where I realize, God is doing the forgiving, the redeeming, the saving, and need to place my confidence in Him to make the just decision on my behalf. He hates sin, and there is consequence for sin all throughout the Bible, but equally so there is forgiveness for sin all throughout too. One of our forefathers, the apostle Paul was a persecutor of early believers but look what occurred to him, Acts 9. I would suggest you spend time in prayer, in the book of Psalms, and work it out with our Savior, He will meet with you!!
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 9:19:13 AM
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sparkleingsnow
Posts: 3777
Joined: 1/9/2007
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Peter denied Jesus three times. Yet, he went on to serve the Lord and speak boldly for Him. The Lord forgave Peter, and He will forgive you. All you have to do is ask Him.
As wintery quoted: 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
_____________________________
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is
within me, bless his holy name.
Psalm 103:1
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 10:45:51 AM
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SomeFineDay
Posts: 90
Joined: 5/2/2008
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So many people have denied there is a God, so you have fine company.
Before we are found we are all lost, and by our own choices are "denying" God.
In this world it is logical to deny God, it is faith that turns us around. Faith is good, but a faith that does not question and seek answers is just blind devotion. IMHO it is better to have raised the questions and answered your objections, than to just believe.
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 10:54:23 AM
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earthless
Posts: 6134
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From: where pigeons are wearing sweaters....
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In response, let me first point out that from a historic perspective the Pharisees mentioned by Matthew militantly hated Jesus and attributed His miracles to Beelzebub, the prince of demons.
Unlike those who are afraid they have committed the unforgivable sin, the Pharisees were totally unconcerned about Christ's forgiveness. Instead, with premeditation and persistence, they willfully blasphemed the Holy Spirit's testimony that Christ was the Son of the living God. It is crucial to recognize that the unforgivable sin is not a single act but a continuous, ongoing rejection leading to dying having rejected the grace of God.
Furthermore, those who have committed the unpardonable sin have no godly regrets. As the apostle Paul emphasizes in the book of Romans, they not only continue in their evil ways but approve of others who do so as well (Romans 1:32).
Conversely, "godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation" (2 Corinthians 7:10). Sorrow for sin and the desire for Christ's forgiveness is proof positive that you have not rejected the Savior of your soul.
Never forget that three times Peter denied his Lord with vile oaths. Yet, Jesus not only forgave him, but his confession, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:16) became the cornerstone of the Christian church.
Finally, the Bible consistently teaches that those who spend eternity separated from God do so because they willingly, knowingly, and continuously reject the gospel.
John refers to this as the "sin that leads to death" (1 John 5:16) in the sense that those who refuse forgiveness through Christ will spend eternity separated from His grace and love.
Be assured that those who sincerely desire God's forgiveness can be absolutely certain that they will never be turned away.
_____________________________
Probing Today's Religious Movements | Promoting Doctrinal Discernment & Critical Thinking | Providing Reasons for Christian Faith & Ethics
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 11:57:07 AM
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deermousie
Posts: 1866
Joined: 9/26/2007
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Xcythe
Back about 2-3 years ago I remember literally denying god after being confused with life and wanting to walk my own path. During that time I became an atheist until today where I had an experience on "the other side". I decided to switch back to christianity... but denying god has gotten me worried.
Others have said it but it's worth looking at again - look at Peter denying the Lord three times. After Peter's betrayal:
John 21:15
So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”
Jesus asked him if he loved (agape - unconditional love) Him, and Peter, being the pantywaist he was at that time, said, you know I love (phileo - friendship) you. Pretty lame. And does Jesus strike him dead for it? No! He gives Peter a job, not rejection. He puts Peter in charge of feeding the flock, the early Church. Wow!
quote:
I remember in the bible it said those who blashamied christ (or god) cannot be forgiven and will burn in hell forever. Now I am afraid of my mistake... and think I can no longer be forgiven.
You'll be reassured to look at that passage:
Luke 12:10
“And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
The Greek word used in this verses in the original Greek is "blasphemeo" which means defamatory speech. If you didn't stand up in public and defame (rail against) the Holy Spirit, you're not guilty of this.
Here is a good job for you and for all of us: get into your Bible and learn as much as you can. Part of why you've been suffering is that you didn't know what God said about denying and blaspheming. Read your Bible every day - it's God's love letter to you and has the things in it God wants you to know. Great treasure is there!
quote:
Can I ever be forgiven? Or am I destined to go to hell when I die?
God bless and comfort you, dear heart. I suspect what you did wasn't as bad as what Peter did, and Peter was forgiven and lifted to a level of authority few humans ever have been with God. Peter wrote two books of the Bible under God's inspiration AFTER he had denied Jesus. He was a major mover in the early church, and one the Apostle Paul looked up to and authenicated Peter's position as an elder in the Church. Paul was also inspired of God to write, and he approved Peter. Thus, so did God. And Peter was Jesus' friend!
So are you. No one comes to God unless God draws him, and you want to be in right relationship with God. It's obvious to me that God has not rejected you. Look at the verses again and ask yourself, what does it mean about me? How can I apply this to me? Then rejoice in what you find. God's grace is abounding, free and totally mind-blowing.
So go throw a party for the lost sheep that was found and is back in the Shepherd's arms - you. Your story is a story of God's grace, and you are a walking billboard of God's love. Bear yourself well - people can look at you and know God is love and gives great forgiveness. Then go on, knowing God loves you, and obey Him and live for Him in great victory. I am rejoicing with you!
Note: I used www.biblegateway.com for finding the right verse, and Vine's "Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words" to find the meaning of the word blasphemy. Great book to have and easy to use.
_____________________________
Want to know where a certain word or phrase in the Bible is found? www.biblegateway.com Yay!
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 11:58:22 AM
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Xcythe
Posts: 4
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Thanks guys. I can rest assure knowing I can still be saved. A great burden off my chest :)
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 12:51:09 PM
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SweetPea213
Posts: 61
Joined: 2/20/2008
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Xcythe
Back about 2-3 years ago I remember literally denying god after being confused with life and wanting to walk my own path. During that time I became an atheist until today where I had an experience on "the other side". I decided to switch back to christianity... but denying god has gotten me worried.
I remember in the bible it said those who blashamied christ (or god) cannot be forgiven and will burn in hell forever. Now I am afraid of my mistake... and think I can no longer be forgiven.
Can I ever be forgiven? Or am I destined to go to hell when I die?
Well, the way Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (and the only unforgiveable sin) was explained to me as giving Satan credit for what God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit has done.
Now, I'm not a minister or anything, but it doesn't sound like you Blasphemed against the Holy Spirit. There have been lots of Christians throughout history who have been former atheist/whatever, and have denied God. Peter, Paul, and countless others--have all been transformed by the power and love of God and His Holy Spirit!
If you are still unsure, then perhaps you could contact a local pastor, or if you know a more mature Christian to talk about the issues.
_____________________________
"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." ~ 1 Peter 2:24
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 5:41:45 PM
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slushie
Posts: 2016
Joined: 4/30/2006
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The state of denying God is a place we all have been.
You're all set to go.
_____________________________
Testify to Love
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 7:19:50 PM
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TheBibleTRUTH
Posts: 94
Joined: 7/8/2008
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Blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is like never accepting Christ and getting born again. If you accept Christ and get born again, you get holy spirit and you are heaven-bound. :)
I encourage you not to do this, but the truth is that you could get born again in the last few days of your life and still go to heaven. Though there are rewards to those who remain faithful all throughout their lives so you would forfeit those, you could still do it. It's always available for you to come back to God no matter what.
God bless you in the wonderful name of Jesus Christ
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 7:55:51 PM
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deermousie
Posts: 1866
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Luke 12:10
And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
This verse is in the context of speaking, not faith-ing. The "speaks" in that verse is logon from the Greek word logos whick means the word spoken out loud.
Blaspheming (blasphemeo in the Greek) means defamatory speech, so again it is in the context of words spoken out loud.
I have a tough time getting anything about being born again or believing out of the text, but maybe that's in the wider context.
_____________________________
Want to know where a certain word or phrase in the Bible is found? www.biblegateway.com Yay!
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/7/2008 8:10:21 PM
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TheBibleTRUTH
Posts: 94
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quote:
ORIGINAL: deermousie
Luke 12:10
And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
This verse is in the context of speaking, not faith-ing. The "speaks" in that verse is logon from the Greek word logos whick means the word spoken out loud.
Blaspheming (blasphemeo in the Greek) means defamatory speech, so again it is in the context of words spoken out loud.
I have a tough time getting anything about being born again or believing out of the text, but maybe that's in the wider context.
Honestly it's more about the other verses in the Bible that help you understand the meaning behind this. As far as the east is from the west God hath removed our transgressions from us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us from all unrighteousness. All, is all inclusive, meaning that nothing is left out. If you get born again like in Romans 10:9-10, it says you shall be saved. So the only unforgivable sin is not ever getting born again. Once you get born again you are heaven-bound. Use your concordance and look up incorruptible seed, etc. This is how I came to that conclusion, whether you agree with it or not. ;)
God bless you in the wonderful name of Jesus Christ
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/9/2008 7:49:48 AM
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dawnofthemorning
Posts: 200
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amen
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/9/2008 3:00:18 PM
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SavedByGraceMD
Posts: 899
Joined: 2/13/2008
From: the poconos
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Xcythe
Back about 2-3 years ago I remember literally denying god after being confused with life and wanting to walk my own path. During that time I became an atheist until today where I had an experience on "the other side". I decided to switch back to christianity... but denying god has gotten me worried.
I remember in the bible it said those who blashamied christ (or god) cannot be forgiven and will burn in hell forever. Now I am afraid of my mistake... and think I can no longer be forgiven.
Can I ever be forgiven? Or am I destined to go to hell when I die?
I have a great song that may help you, Grace Tells Another Story by Mercy Me.
The chorus goes like this....
We've been told that the heart is too far gone to save...
But Grace tells us another story....
Where glory sends hopelessness away...
Oh grace tells us another story...
the last verse
And though we may not understand...
Why you'd give us another chance...
We praise You who lets us start again...
I think that says it pretty well. We tend to think that we can sin past Gods ability to save and forgive, but that is not what grace tells us. We don't understand it, know why or how He can keep forgiving us, but if we confess with our mouths that Jesus Christ is Lord, and believe in our hearts that He rose from the dead, it is by our faith, through His amazing grace that we are saved.
I hope this helps.
_____________________________
Isaiah 41:10
"Fear not for I am with you,
Do not be dismayed for I am your God,
I will strengthen you and help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand"
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/10/2008 8:53:22 AM
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jn1010lf
Posts: 319
Joined: 4/20/2005
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Hello Xcythe
Get this! If you are serious about returning to God, He is always there. But you have to come with a contrite heart with repentance.
I would suggest that you get a modern translation of the Bible and make a life long study of it. There you will see the redemption that God offers all through Jesus Christ. And as for that unforgivable sin, it is stated in scripture. It is the calling of God bad and the Devil good. Of course, while one is on such a course there can be no forgiveness, no salvation, thus no sparing of a smoke filled iternity.
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/10/2008 5:31:47 PM
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AboundinginHisGrace
Posts: 403
Joined: 4/28/2008
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Just look at my signature.
"What a mercy it is that it is not your hold of Christ that saves you, but his hold of you." - Spurgeon
_____________________________
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/10/2008 5:39:11 PM
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AboundinginHisGrace
Posts: 403
Joined: 4/28/2008
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quote:
Grace Tells Another Story
Read Deuteronomy chapter 30. A few chapters before this God is telling His people what He will do if they forsake/rebel against Him. He tells them that He will scatter them etc, look at what He tells them in Deut 30:1-4
1 “Now it shall come to pass, when all these things come upon you, the blessing and the curse which I have set before you, and you call them to mind among all the nations where the LORD your God drives you, 2 and you return to the LORD your God and obey His voice, according to all that I command you today, you and your children, with all your heart and with all your soul, 3 that the LORD your God will bring you back from captivity, and have compassion on you, and gather you again from all the nations where the LORD your God has scattered you. 4 If any of you are driven out to the farthest parts under heaven, from there the LORD your God will gather you, and from there He will bring you.
I tear up just thinking about how much God loves us. That is what Grace is, giving us what we do not deserve and we do not deserve the love He gives us, THANK YOU LORD FOR LOVING ME NO MATTER WHAT!!!!
_____________________________
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
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RE: I've denied god... - 8/22/2008 1:13:38 AM
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Thessa
Posts: 811
Status: offline
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Xcythe
Back about 2-3 years ago I remember literally denying god after being confused with life and wanting to walk my own path. During that time I became an atheist until today where I had an experience on "the other side". I decided to switch back to christianity... but denying god has gotten me worried.
I remember in the bible it said those who blashamied christ (or god) cannot be forgiven and will burn in hell forever. Now I am afraid of my mistake... and think I can no longer be forgiven.
Can I ever be forgiven? Or am I destined to go to hell when I die?
Heres your answer :)
http://www.gotquestions.org/sin-God-not-forgive.html
God Bless You
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