You might just be wrong about this earth being destroyed, and possibly other things?

[bdavidc]

While I rarely send private messages, on occasion I do inform individuals if I’ve chosen to place them on ignore. That said, I consider myself an open-minded individual. I don’t expect anyone to believe me—or anyone else on this platform—without personal reflection. I encourage others to read the Bible for themselves and discern truth in alignment with the Spirit, worshiping the Father in both spirit and truth.

You say you’re open-minded, and I hear that a lot. But being open-minded isn’t always a virtue, especially if it’s an excuse for being noncommittal on the most important truth of all. Life isn’t about opinions, it’s about the truth of who God is and what eternity is. “Stay open-minded” was never Jesus’ message. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Exclusive. Not a suggestion, but a warning.

“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). You can visit a hundred websites, download a list of spiritual clichés as a trophy, and still miss the only truth that saves. Claiming to know about Jesus and then shrugging it off with, “Oh, yeah. Well, I’m open-minded…” Is a pretty cavalier way to live. James 4: 14: “Do you not know that your life is a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away?” You don’t get forever to work this out.

God is not elusive. He’s revealed Himself in His Word, and that Word is not malleable to our personal ponderings or tastes. John 17: 17: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” You either believe what He said, or you don’t. And if you don’t, don’t lie to yourself and call it “open-mindedness.” It’s really just a putting off the truth while playing Russian roulette with your soul.

Yes, read the Bible. But don’t just read it, believe it. Eternity isn’t a casual conversation, it’s your final destination. You either walk through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13–14), or you don’t make it in.

 

[MatthewG]

You say you’re open-minded, and I hear that a lot. But being open-minded isn’t always a virtue, especially if it’s an excuse for being noncommittal on the most important truth of all. Life isn’t about opinions, it’s about the truth of who God is and what eternity is. “Stay open-minded” was never Jesus’ message. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Exclusive. Not a suggestion, but a warning.

“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). You can visit a hundred websites, download a list of spiritual clichés as a trophy, and still miss the only truth that saves. Claiming to know about Jesus and then shrugging it off with, “Oh, yeah. Well, I’m open-minded…” Is a pretty cavalier way to live. James 4: 14: “Do you not know that your life is a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away?” You don’t get forever to work this out.

God is not elusive. He’s revealed Himself in His Word, and that Word is not malleable to our personal ponderings or tastes. John 17: 17: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” You either believe what He said, or you don’t. And if you don’t, don’t lie to yourself and call it “open-mindedness.” It’s really just a putting off the truth while playing Russian roulette with your soul.

Yes, read the Bible. But don’t just read it, believe it. Eternity isn’t a casual conversation, it’s your final destination. You either walk through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13–14), or you don’t make it in.

Bdavidc, see post (#40.) I'm not going to go over the basics of Yeshua, and his death, burial, and resurrection.

Warm regards, Matthew

 

[MatthewG]

Hello to anyone who may read,

This is a photograph I recently took of a page from the NKJV Study Bible published by Holman, which was compiled by a team of contributors.

Interestingly, I originally ordered a Thompson Chain Reference Bible, but received this edition instead. The order was placed through the main online Christianbook store, which typically appears first in Google search results when looking to purchase Christian literature. I ultimately decided to keep the NKJV Study Bible, and the retailer issued a partial refund due to the mix-up.

The photo specifically captures a section from the Book of Revelation. What stood out to me was the uncertainty noted in the dating—specifically the question marks beside 80 AD and 95 AD. This highlights the ongoing scholarly debate surrounding the historical timeline of biblical texts.

I find it especially intriguing that the Synoptic Gospels are generally believed to have been written between approximately 55 AD and 62 AD. In my view, recognizing these contextual details brings the biblical narrative closer to the lives and experiences of people from that era. It adds a dimension of historical depth that can be overlooked when one simply reads the Bible without a fuller understanding of its background.

 

[MatthewG]

Will the world be consumed by scorching heat and divine judgment across America, rendering the land desolate?

That depends entirely on one's personal beliefs. Each individual is entitled to their own convictions, and I honor that diversity of thought.

I appreciate you sharing your perspective. I encourage everyone to question, examine, and reflect critically on the messages presented—whether by me or anyone else.

Above all, stay true to who you are. Embrace authenticity. Resist the pressure to conform, and remember—you are a unique creation, formed with purpose by God.

 

[Earburner]

@Earburner,

Today, atonement has been made for all souls. From my understanding, God's concern has never been solely about sacrifice—it’s always been about the condition of the heart. I considered using myself as an example, but perhaps a more vivid analogy is appropriate: Just as a chicken or cow is no longer useful after its lifeblood has been drained, so too, when the body ceases to breathe and the heart stops beating, our time in this physical realm ends—and the soul, I believe, moves forward.

That’s why I find your perspective puzzling. It seems to suggest that having a soul might be meaningless, which doesn’t align with my beliefs. I see each person as a unique being—endowed with a soul by God. Myself, you, my mother, my late father, my departed friend—we are all part of that truth. In my view, their souls have moved onward in accordance with divine intention.

If I’ve misunderstood your position and you’re not saying that we lack souls, then I simply disagree with the notion that the soul lacks purpose or meaning. To me, that conclusion just doesn't make sense. The soul itself is the heart that Jesus spoke about.



It seems to me that the spirit of man, dwelling within the soul, is in need of transformation. But what kind of change? A change that shifts the heart of man toward the heart of Christ—a transformation guided by the Spirit of Christ, which renews our minds as we navigate the journey of life.

That said, I acknowledge this conversation may not alter your perspective or mine regarding the nature or significance of the soul.

I'm simply uncertain where you stand on the matter. It’s unclear whether you believe in the existence of the soul, or if you view the soul as lacking purpose or meaning. Your responses haven’t been entirely transparent, which makes it difficult to understand your viewpoint fully.

I am very focused on the first 10 words of Lev. 17[11] For the life of the flesh is in the blood:
It's not at all complicated to understand.

Q. What is it, that is in our blood, that causes our flesh to live?

A. Oxygen

 

[MatthewG]

I am very focused on the first 10 words of Lev. 17[11] For the life of the flesh is in the blood:
It's not at all complicated to understand.

Q. What is it, that is in our blood, that causes our flesh to live?

A. Oxygen

Hello Earburner,

Okay, to your answer.

Hey, I was wondering—what do you think happens after we die? Feel free to share your thoughts if you're up for it. I promise there's no judgment, just curiosity and open minds here.

 

[Earburner]

Hello Earburner,

Okay, to your answer.

Hey, I was wondering—what do you think happens after we die? Feel free to share your thoughts if you're up for it. I promise there's no judgment, just curiosity and open minds here.

Because born again Christians have become New creatures, due to the Eternal Holy Spirit of God dwelling within them, they also can trust Jesus' words in John 11[26] And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Unfortunately for the unsaved, who ignore and/or reject the call of God to them, to have faith in the Lord Jesus, they DO NOT have anything eternal residing within them at all, and therefore they surely do die.
Rom. 8:9
[9] But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

 

[MatthewG]

Because born again Christians have become New creatures, due to the Eternal Holy Spirit of God dwelling within them, they also can trust Jesus' words in John 11[26] And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
Unfortunately for the unsaved, they DO NOT have anything residing within them at all, and therefo

Hey Earburner,

If you’ve got anything you’d like to ask me, I’m all ears and happy to share. But there’s something I’ve been wondering too—what do you truly believe happens when someone dies?

Personally, I know I don’t want to live on this earth forever. That idea just feels... exhausting. There are so many beliefs and theories out there, and I could imagine endless possibilities. Still, I’m curious to hear your honest thoughts—transparent and real, if you're willing to share.

A lot of people say everyone ends up in hell, but I know that sounds harsh to some. Funny enough, even Jesus, according to scripture, went to hell—so clearly, there’s more to the story than most people talk about.

 

[MatthewG]

Some believe that when a soul dies, it is truly annihilated.

Personally, I just wish people would be more honest and transparent—without fear of how their words might be received. A person's actions might reflect a good demeanor, but if there's no genuine honesty or willingness to be forthcoming with others—or even with oneself—what does that outer behavior really mean?

Scripture says, “The soul that sins shall die.” If someone gives their soul over to the world, they may lose their awareness or understanding of God. That’s just my personal take. After all, Jesus also said, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” I believe these ideas are connected. When we sell out to worldly pursuits, we lose a piece of who we are.

In that sense, the soul within begins to decay. But I also believe that when someone chooses to trust in Jesus and live for Yahavah—through spirit and truth—they become truly alive. There's a kind of spiritual deadness that many live in, but could God not restore and raise them again? I believe He can—perhaps not here on earth, but in the heavenly realms.

These are simply my thoughts, stirred from within this fleshly body I inhabit—honest musings from my soul.

 

[Earburner]

Hey Earburner,

If you’ve got anything you’d like to ask me, I’m all ears and happy to share. But there’s something I’ve been wondering too—what do you truly believe happens when someone dies?

Personally, I know I don’t want to live on this earth forever. That idea just feels... exhausting. There are so many beliefs and theories out there, and I could imagine endless possibilities. Still, I’m curious to hear your honest thoughts—transparent and real, if you're willing to share.

A lot of people say everyone ends up in hell, but I know that sounds harsh to some. Funny enough, even Jesus, according to scripture, went to hell—so clearly, there’s more to the story than most people talk about.

Hell is nothing more than the grave, aka the pit.
What "religion" has done with those three biblical words is just a downright shame!!
Not because they don't understand them, but rather how they have twisted words to describe them, according to their first foul doctrine, which is that "God gave to man an Eternal soul".

Because of that first foul doctrine, "religion" has no other choice but to continue corrupting many of the end time doctrines, whereby there are three concepts of understanding about the 1000 years, being that of Amillennialism, Premillennialism and Postmillennialism.
And of course, since there can only be one truth about the 1000 years, two of the three concepts are absolutely wrong!!

 

[MatthewG]

Hell is nothing more than the grave, aka the pit.

Hello Earburner,

Where did the souls of people go. I thought it was the covering place for the souls whom were to remain there until judgement, called Shael? Or something like that. Ive heard that the soul that sins shall die, but what does that mean for a Non-Jewish person?






I asked Microsoft Co-pilot: Microsoft Copilot: Your AI companion
You're absolutely right in recalling Sheol (sometimes spelled “Shael”) as a concept from the Hebrew Bible. It’s described as a shadowy, subterranean realm where all souls—righteous and unrighteous—go after death, awaiting final judgment. It’s not quite Heaven or Hell, but more like an intermediate state:

• Sheol = Hebrew term; in Greek, it’s often translated as Hades
• It’s depicted as a place of silence, darkness, and inactivity
• Some traditions believe Sheol had two compartments: one for the righteous (sometimes called “Abraham’s Bosom”) and one for the wicked2

Over time, especially in Christian theology, Sheol evolved into more distinct ideas of Heaven and Hell, with the righteous going to be with God and the wicked facing judgment.

“The Soul That Sins Shall Die” — What Does It Mean?​

This phrase comes from Ezekiel 18:4 and is often quoted to emphasize individual accountability before God:

“The soul who sins shall die.” — Ezekiel 18:4

But what kind of death is this? Theologians interpret it in two ways:

• Physical death: Sin leads to mortality and suffering in this life
• Spiritual death: Eternal separation from God unless redeemed4

For non-Jewish people, especially in Christian thought, this principle still applies. The Bible teaches that all people are accountable for their own actions, regardless of ethnicity or background:

• Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:10: Everyone will be judged “according to what he has done, whether good or bad”

So, whether Jewish or not, the idea is that each soul stands before God individually. Redemption, in Christian belief, comes through faith and repentance—not through ancestry or ritual alone.

Would you like to explore how different faiths interpret the afterlife or judgment? Or dive deeper into Sheol’s evolution across religious traditions? I’ve got plenty of spiritual rabbit holes we can explore together. ️


Edit in a page
How do different religions interpret the concept of the afterlife?What are some cultural views on sin and its consequences?How has the concept of Sheol evolved over time?

 

[Earburner]

Hello Earburner,

Where did the souls of people go. I thought it was the covering place for the souls whom were to remain there until judgement, called Shael? Or something like that. Ive heard that the soul that sins shall die, but what does that mean for a Non-Jewish person?






I asked Microsoft Co-pilot: Microsoft Copilot: Your AI companion
You're absolutely right in recalling Sheol (sometimes spelled “Shael”) as a concept from the Hebrew Bible. It’s described as a shadowy, subterranean realm where all souls—righteous and unrighteous—go after death, awaiting final judgment. It’s not quite Heaven or Hell, but more like an intermediate state:

• Sheol = Hebrew term; in Greek, it’s often translated as Hades
• It’s depicted as a place of silence, darkness, and inactivity
• Some traditions believe Sheol had two compartments: one for the righteous (sometimes called “Abraham’s Bosom”) and one for the wicked2

Over time, especially in Christian theology, Sheol evolved into more distinct ideas of Heaven and Hell, with the righteous going to be with God and the wicked facing judgment.

“The Soul That Sins Shall Die” — What Does It Mean?​

This phrase comes from Ezekiel 18:4 and is often quoted to emphasize individual accountability before God:

But what kind of death is this? Theologians interpret it in two ways:

• Physical death: Sin leads to mortality and suffering in this life
• Spiritual death: Eternal separation from God unless redeemed4

For non-Jewish people, especially in Christian thought, this principle still applies. The Bible teaches that all people are accountable for their own actions, regardless of ethnicity or background:

• Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:10: Everyone will be judged “according to what he has done, whether good or bad”

So, whether Jewish or not, the idea is that each soul stands before God individually. Redemption, in Christian belief, comes through faith and repentance—not through ancestry or ritual alone.

Would you like to explore how different faiths interpret the afterlife or judgment? Or dive deeper into Sheol’s evolution across religious traditions? I’ve got plenty of spiritual rabbit holes we can explore together. ️


Edit in a page
How do different religions interpret the concept of the afterlife?What are some cultural views on sin and its consequences?How has the concept of Sheol evolved over time?

Over the years I have done my due diligence to understand the many thoughts people have about what a soul is.
By the help of the Holy Spirit within me, through God's word, I believe that I have a solid understanding of what a soul is and what it is not. I hope that I have conveyed that to you effectually.

Thanks for the invite "MG", but I do not venture out too far past what God has established for me to understand, concerning the topics and subject matter of what He wants me to know.
Knowing that there are many that like to speculate, I prefer to examine a topic according to His word and gain the understanding of it by His Holy Spirit only.
1 John 2
[27] But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

 

[MatthewG]

Over the years I have done my due diligence to understand the many thoughts people have about what a soul is.
By the help of the Holy Spirit within me, through God's word, I believe that I have a solid understanding of what a soul is and what it is not. I hope that I have conveyed that to you effectually.

Thanks for the invite "MG", but I do not venture out too far past what God has established for me to understand, concerning the topics and subject matter of what He wants me to know.
Knowing that there are many that like to speculate, I prefer to examine a topic according to His word and gain the understanding of it by His Holy Spirit only.
1 John 2
[27] But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Hey brother if I hated you it would be a crime. (Hate crime.)

I don’t though. Thank you for sharing ya know.

We might not agree on everything but I love you, nonetheless.

God doesn’t got any favorites or something like that.

• 
  
• Biblical Texts:
  Several passages in the Bible, such as Romans 2:11 and Acts 10:34-35, explicitly state that God does not show favoritism or partiality.
  
  

 

[MatthewG]

To the first post:

You might just be wrong about this earth being destroyed, and possibly other things?

Many today hold the belief that caring for the world is futile—reasoning that since it will ultimately be destroyed, there is no value in stewarding it. This mindset often draws from interpretations of scriptures such as those found in Peter’s writings, which describe the end of an age in terms...

www.christianityboard.com

 

[Ronald Nolette]

Many today hold the belief that caring for the world is futile—reasoning that since it will ultimately be destroyed, there is no value in stewarding it. This mindset often draws from interpretations of scriptures such as those found in Peter’s writings, which describe the end of an age in terms of intense heat. However, this passage does not necessarily suggest the complete annihilation of the world, but rather the transformation or conclusion of a particular era.

Scripture offers a broader, more enduring perspective on creation and humanity’s role within it:

• Isaiah 45:12 affirms, “It is I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. My own hands stretched out the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts.”
• Genesis 1:26–28 reveals God’s intent for humankind: to reflect His image, populate the earth, and exercise stewardship over all living creatures.
• Psalm 104:5 declares, “He set the earth on its foundations; it can never be moved.”

These verses collectively emphasize the enduring nature of the earth and the divine intention for human responsibility toward it. If the earth was created to stand firm forever, why should we believe it is destined for complete destruction?

Such ideas may stem not from Scripture itself but from long-standing traditions and interpretations that conflict with the biblical narrative. It is worth reexamining these perspectives to rediscover a theology that affirms creation’s value and our duty to care for it.

Wrong:

2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
2 Peter 3:12
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat
Isaiah 65:17
For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.
Isaiah 66:22
For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain.
2 Peter 3:13
Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Revelation 21:1
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

 

[MatthewG]

Wrong:

2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
2 Peter 3:12
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat
Isaiah 65:17
For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.
Isaiah 66:22
For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain.
2 Peter 3:13
Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Revelation 21:1
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

Ronald, that is okay if you see it is wrong.

I am not here to debate people, but I can say this much, 2 Peter 3:10, 12, all concerning the dreadful, and great day of the LORD, when he would pour out the wrath upon the nation of Israel in 70Ad. It was the end of the Age, the world they knew. That did happen already. It's okay if you don't accept it though.

Not many people do. They really believe this place is gonna all gonna burn up. I just don't get it when the bible states otherwise.

 

[Ronald Nolette]

Ronald, that is okay if you see it is wrong.

I am not here to debate people, but I can say this much, 2 Peter 3:10, 12, all concerning the dreadful, and great day of the LORD, when he would pour out the wrath upon the nation of Israel in 70Ad. It was the end of the Age, the world they knew. That did happen already. It's okay if you don't accept it though.

Not many people do. They really believe this place is gonna all gonna burn up. I just don't get it when the bible states otherwise.

Sorry but that wasd a day of judgment and not the day of the Lord- that will happen in the future.

If you do not want debate you should not post. You post here, if people disagree they are going to debate and discuss.

 

[MatthewG]

Sorry but that wasd a day of judgment and not the day of the Lord- that will happen in the future.

If you do not want debate you should not post. You post here, if people disagree they are going to debate and discuss.

Okay. But why do you think this world is gonna be burned up? For what reason does it need to be? Why do people assert Peter in their lives, as though it is meant for today, when he is speaking to a specific audience?

I don't mind to challenge anyone really, because I hate anything that is not true.

1 Peter 1: 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,

To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood:

Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

What is he speaking to for these people which you quote?

 

[MatthewG]

I'm genuinely curious—what leads you to believe that this world is destined to be burned up? What purpose would such destruction serve? It’s something I’ve often questioned, especially when people apply Peter’s writings directly to the present day, as though his message wasn’t originally directed to a specific audience.

I’m not opposed to engaging in challenging conversations—especially when the goal is to discern truth. I value Scripture deeply, and I believe we should approach it with precision.

Take 1 Peter 1, for example. Peter clearly addresses God's elect, scattered across regions like Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. These were real people facing real persecution, and his words were tailored to their context. So when modern readers quote Peter’s letters, I think it’s worth asking: What was Peter saying to them—and is that same message universally applicable today?

I welcome discussion around this, because seeking truth matters. And recognizing the original intent behind Scripture helps us understand its enduring relevance more clearly.

 

[Ronald Nolette]

Okay. But why do you think this world is gonna be burned up? For what reason does it need to be? Why do people assert Peter in their lives, as though it is meant for today, when he is speaking to a specific audience?

I don't mind to challenge anyone really, because I hate anything that is not true.

1 Peter 1: 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,

To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood:

Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

What is he speaking to for these people which you quote?

Well Matthew all of Scripture was not written specifically and exclusively to you so do you reject it all? but it is written to all of us to instruct us.

Why do I KNOW it will be burned up? Because God said it will be! Why does it need to be? god cursed the earth because of the fall of Adam and will recreate it free. of the curse..

Peter was speaking under teh inspiration of God to all people, not just the ones specified by Peter. He did not know that God was inspiring HIm for all time.