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Post by TheCatholic on May 30, 2005 22:18:24 GMT -5
But what is a 'testimony'?
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Post by New Titania (TD) on May 30, 2005 23:29:27 GMT -5
Hey, it's not an ignorant question! If you have ANY questions about anything, ask away! We won't hold it against you! ;d
OK, a "testimony" is your personal story of how you became saved, or a miracle in your life, or how you came to know Jesus.
Hope it helped!
TD
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Post by TheCatholic on May 30, 2005 23:39:24 GMT -5
((ignorance isn't always bad... it's simply a state of not-knowing-ness.)) So... its one of those 'Born-Again' things? I don't think I've ever had an experience like that...  |
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Post by New Titania (TD) on May 30, 2005 23:50:03 GMT -5
Well, TheCatholic:
Being born-again is simple! (And it isn't always overflowing with fan-fare. It's a very personal/spiritual moment.)
To be born-again, you simply must accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you must plead that God forgive your sins, and you must accept the Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit.)
Saying a prayer somewhat like the following should do it:
"Father God,
I am a sinner. Please forgive me of my sins! I know that they are not Holy and are not of Your spirit. I accept that You sent Your son, Jesus Christ do die for my sins. I want Him into my heart so that I may live in Your glory. I accept the Holy Spirit and pray for its annointing.
In Jesus Name I pray,
Amen."
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Post by TheCatholic on May 31, 2005 0:08:18 GMT -5
Hmm... cool.  |
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LilyJ
Full Member
Dedication and obsession go hand in hand sometimes....
Posts: 188
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Post by LilyJ on Jul 4, 2006 21:50:07 GMT -5
Heya, I'm Catholic, too, and I know what you mean about the "born-again thing". I think some religions take the beliefs that are the very basis and foundation of Catholicism, and focus on them. The process that born-again Christians refer to as "being saved" is the simple revelation that Jesus Christ redeemed us of our sins, and that "no one can come to the father but through him." Unfortunately, I've seen a lot of people (and ever heard speakers!) that place way to much stock in just getting people to say this as a prayer, rather than the actual change of heart that comes with the revelation itself.
Now, that doesn't mean I have anythign against born-again Christians!!!! In fact, I'm amazed by the faith and strength I see in some that I know. But to me, it seems like a watered-down version, because not much attention is given to realizing and appreciating the actual spiritual (and do I daresay even physical?) change behind it.
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Post by Geberia on Jul 5, 2006 13:18:15 GMT -5
I understand your point, Lily, and I agree with you. There's more to being born again then saying a prayer. It's a personal relationship with Jesus. However, I don't think people are doing the wrond thing by trying to lead someone else who is willing in a prayer, as long as they fully understand what is going on!
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Post by steelsheen on Jul 5, 2006 20:07:52 GMT -5
Ummm..... one DOES need to pray to accept Jesus, but I don't like the mass produced prayers, like Pastor Krohns.... agh. Hate that.
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LilyJ
Full Member
Dedication and obsession go hand in hand sometimes....
Posts: 188
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Post by LilyJ on Jul 5, 2006 21:05:44 GMT -5
That's what I mean... like the speakers who ask everyone to close their eyes, say a prayer while asking people to follow along, and then say to raise your hand if you did. I've talked to someone who said they went to a Church service once with her friend, and they did that and then asked people if they'd prayer that prayer. Well, thinking that everyone did, she raised her hand, and they made a huge deal out of it. SHe was really embarassed. Naturally you need to say a prayer of sorts - but it's not about words. In fact, you don't even have to pray out loud. It's about what's in your heart. "26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God." (Romans 8:26-27) So technically you might KNOW Jesus as your Savior long before you ever put it into words - it's abotu the change of heart itself. But again, people may believe differntly, and I respect that. |
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Post by Geberia on Jul 6, 2006 8:11:58 GMT -5
True true. I suppose there's many different ways for people to be saved. I got to be part of leading a girl to God once, and she wanted to just pray her own prayer, silently. I would have liked to hear her say it aloud, just as more of a confirmation thing, but to each his own. I agree with Nen ( or lilyj) its about the heart change. Later you can become vocal about it. I just don't think that TD was trying to impose a prayer on thecatholic |
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Post by steelsheen on Jul 6, 2006 18:17:50 GMT -5
True, but as you know, Geberia, my saying is "It's between you and God, not you and me."
Many things are. I would rather talk to God about my problems than another human!
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Post by Geberia on Jul 7, 2006 10:16:35 GMT -5
Oh yes!
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LilyJ
Full Member
Dedication and obsession go hand in hand sometimes....
Posts: 188
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Post by LilyJ on Jul 7, 2006 12:39:19 GMT -5
Hear hear! I think HE's the only one who always knows what I'm talking about....  And His timing is always right! |
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Post by nella on Jul 10, 2006 20:57:22 GMT -5
Lol. Don't feel ignorant, thecatholic. Everyone has questions.
~Nella
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And His timing is always right!