Max Majestic wrote:
But Mark, how do YOU determine something to be true?
first of all, the ONLY truth is found in JESUS CHRIST our LORD....and if HE and HIS ways are not included---than truth is nothing but "chasing the wind"....that means having a righteous relationship with HIM, having a prayer life with him, seeking HIS WORD and the TRUTH in it, and seeing how he works through his BRIDE/CHURCH BODY.
and the HOLY SPIRIT is what guides me into truth----
if my relationship with HIM is right---I have no doubt his guidance is "clear"...and because I know he loves me----he will lead me where he wants me to go----doesnt matter what I think or feel.....
if my relationship with him is wrong, than it all falls on me, and thats scary.
concerning philosophical bunk, if something doesnt match scripturally----IT AINT TRUTH....worth living or dying for---it will be burnt as chaff.
concerning everyday things----lots of times I take peoples words---giving one the benefit of the doubt whether it be true or not---I DONT ALWAYS seek out whether it is or not....
when I need to find truth---prayer comes first---
say for instance one of my children get in a fight in school----I dont go in thinking my child is right---NO WAY.
I do ask my child first what happened----I wont even let the principal or teacher give "what they know".....
I task my children, and know them well enough, and they know me well enough to know I like justice---and that means TOTAL truth---EVEN if they are in the wrong. After listening to my child---then I'll get the scoop from the "authority"....and work things out from there.....
and even then----I dont force truth on anyone....if they want to believe "falsely" or prejudicially, thats something God will have to handle HIS way---not mine....
we are SLAVES to information---when seeking truth---UNTIL it comes to THE WORD....
if relationship, prayer and submission to HIM is not in accord with HIS will---then HE will let you know it----my conscience/spirit WILL be pricked by the HOLY SPIRIT....
I've had a good enough relationship with HIM for a time to know WHEN I am in need for repentence/obedience----whatever the case may be.
when men determine truth----its nothing but chasing the wind
when God determines truth through HIS WORD, through prayer, through HIS church and through my everyday experiences, than HIS WILL can be clearly seen.
If the LORD isnt a part of determining truth----than truth is folly.
and that means having prayer, AND a right relationship with HIM.
I DONT SEEK TRUTH ON MY OWN----that is how I determine truth===THROUGH HIM.