Discuss Ecclesiastes 3 Page 4

It's simply because they want to mislead people from the truth. That's why they made a lot of versions. If you are searching and looking for the truth about God or the real God you must read the King James version because its 99.9 % accurate from the original version. It was proven when the scroll of Isiah was found in the dead sea and when they checked it from the King James version it was 99.9 % accurate and this KJV is really infallible. That's why the reason is simply to misinformed or deceived people or drive people away from the truth.

I think if everyone wants to be more enlightened search if it is really true about the scroll of Isiah.

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Luke, this is one of those subjects that doesn't give us clear answers on all aspects of death & the afterlife. And since we can't get first-hand detail from someone who has been through it, we have to rely on what the Bible reveals & remain confident in these Truths, yet not dogmatic.

We do know that within us, that which gives us our real identity is our soul & spirit & these are housed in our body. The body can die & deteriorate, but the soul & spirit are immaterial & cannot perish. Ecclesiastes 3:20,21: "All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?" This verse shows that the animal at death simply perishes, but the human spirit doesn't & is accountable to God.

Then Jesus spoke in Luke 16:19-31 about the death of a rich man & a beggar named Lazarus. Jesus clearly showed that they were in a place other than at the grave. The rich man was suffering & the beggar was not. And Adam also cited the passage about the repentant thief on his cross beside Jesus. So I believe that we can understand that the spirit of man does go beyond this earthly realm at death rather than lingering in or near its deteriorating frame. Then what happens to those who are cremated with their ashes scattered everywhere? How does a spirit of a dead man deal with that? My sense is that our spirit, being liberated from the body, has to move to another point or place. My preference takes Paul's words into account in 2 Corinthians 5:6-8, that if he was in the body he was absent from the Lord, but if he was absent in the body, he would be present with the Lord, i.e. he would be in Heaven. Also Philippians 1:23.

Joe, very true that we must heed the words of warning in Rev 22:19. Though I wrote that because I would rather people read from a version of the Bible that they can understand than just wander through aimlessly in a version that is written in a language that they cannot properly comprehend. If one takes the time to research those words or verses that are difficult, then yes, do read from the KJV with understanding. But most readers won't make that effort & so the Bible becomes a difficult & tedious book to read resulting in eventually not reading it all. It's a case of what is important. I know both the correct version & reading with understanding is both important, however some people have to choose between them.

Here is the explanation, men thinking they know better than God, changed His word to fit there understanding, desires, or sin. Here is another explanation, "Whatsoever is not of faith is sin," they didn't have faith in Gods word, so they changed it. The sin they are doing is of the serpent, that wicked one, "Yeah, hath God said?".

Rev 22:19 is the bottom line.

I'm in my 60's too. Born again in 1985.

My first Bible was a Living Bible which was so severely marked up after a year, I got a KJV on the 2nd Bible. I'm on my 8th Bible now (KJV).

Best advise: google has Bible Commentaries you can read. Type in your scripture like this:

" John 16:8 Commentary"

Several commentaries will pop up. Matthew Henry is reliable. Usually the first 5 are most reliable.

I love studying. In some places you'll see verses repeated a couple of chapter forward; like in Genesis.

If you'll get a KJV with center of each page, reference columns, it's a huge help in studying. The tiny abc's imbedded in the scripture correspond to the center column: that will add other books and scriptures that give more light to what you are reading.

I learn faster by reading 2-3 books at a time. It flows better. Make notes in pencil to go backward to a verse; or forward.

When your Bible is all marked up, it's time to get a new one so the Lord can show you even more light and revelation on scriptures. You'll see how much you are growing and learning.

Always ask the Holy Spirit to help you see the truth and the mysteries.

If you see someone struggling to put it all together as we did, once: you are approved to help them. "Study to show yourself approved (by the Lord), a workman that need not be ashamed."

We need you in here to help those who are new to this :)

In man's attempt to present new Bible versions in contemporary English & style, they have also appealed to 'old' manuscripts that have not wholly been faithful to the true Words of God. Not to say that these other versions are altogether in error, but the many changes, inclusions & omissions should alert us to maintaining constant vigilance in this area. I would also include the Apocryphal writings as well - these too are riddled with errors, that to me, make any use of them, worthless & futile. Though many Christians are ill-informed about these things & so they continue on in blissful ignorance & not knowing the full Truth. But the bottom line is this: should one read from another 'acceptable' version so that they can understand what they read, or read from the KJV that is difficult to comprehend because of its wording & style?

Hello Mr.Wallace,

This is a good question. We begin to understand by reading the book of Revelations, the types of things that will befall those who love God in the end-times, which all be for God's glory.

Matthew 24 is an excellent example of what to expect.

Read Jeremiah 5:31. The wicked deceive the people of God, and God's people love the have it so.

In summary there is nothing sacred, nothing which Satan will not pollute and corrupt. People prefer to have a bible and God that conforms to their own wants, and desires. And they have corrupted versions of God's word to fulfill these desires.

I have always read from the KJV my whole life. I am in my 60's. I do not understand the reason for all of these new versions. Help me to understand why would anyone rewrite the KJV of the Bible? Please help me to understand. Thank you, Connie Wallace

As you may have read other portions of this Book, Solomon speaks largely of the seemingly aimless cycles of life & its paradoxes. And one of those issues that might cause us to despair is the similar condition we have to those of animals.

As far as the flesh is concerned, man is no better than they. With all our intelligence, abilities to calculate & forecast, as well as our moral & spiritual dimensions, we still are no better than animals when we die: our bodies return to the dust - we are equal in that sense.

But 'the spirit of man goes upwards & the spirit of the beast goes downward to the Earth' (v21). Our spirits are accountable to our Creator for what we have done in this life (& specifically to God's call upon us), whereas the animal's spirit (that gave it life) perishes with it into the Earth. There is no indication here or anywhere else, that the end of man's life is simply a disappearance or annihilation from an earthly existence. Our spirits are indestructible & accountable, unlike the animal's. That's how I understand this portion.

Ecclesiastes 3 18-20 explain

in Reply on Ecclesiastes 3:3 Don't be a fool- the bible gives you a right to defend yourself. Genesis 9:5-6

5And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.

6Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Chris, may the Spirit grace you with the intent of my words, none to be taken as condemnation but edifying. The beast in revelation has so been misunderstood by the teaching of the carnal mind and the doctrines of man. May the Holy Spirit grace us with his words. Job 18:3 Wherefore are we (all mankind) counted as beasts (carnal minded), and reputed vile in your eyes. Psalms 49:20 (carnal) Man that is in honour (pride),and understandeth not (the Spirit), is like a beast that perish (goes to the grave). Psalms 73:22 So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee (Spirit of God). Proverbs 9:1-2 Wisdom (by the Spirit of God) hath builded her house (us), she hath hewn her seven pillars: (vs) 2 She (wisdom) hath killed her beast (carnal mind).... Ecclesiastes 3:18 I said in my heart (mind) concerning the estate of men, that (the Spirit of) God might manifest (grace) them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. II Peter 2:12 But these (carnal mind) as natural brute beast, made to be taken an destroyed, speak evil of the things they understand not.... Jude 1:10 But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beast...The only mammal (beast) that buys and sells is a man. Revelation 13:18 Here is wisdom (hath killed her beast). Let him (wisdom) that hath understanding (of the Spirit) count the number of the beast: for it (the beast) is the number of a man (all mankind)....The angel told John not to seal the book. Revelation was just as relevant in Johns (To-day is the day) as it is (To-day is the day). The day (one day) of the Lord that was prophesied by the prophets has been going on now for 2000 years. The beast (all mankind) is judged in Christ ( Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire) and the beast was thrown alive into the lake of fire (Christ), All mankind will eventually be judged in Christ. Gods grace be upon us.

If someone came to murder me for some reason, I would blow them away. And I don't think God would blame me.

Not knowing why this was posted here. In the past the same mentality was in my head. Purchasing firearms and whatnot. Although after receiving Christ I will never take the life of another human willingly. Even if they have come to murder me for some reason. I will be the victim. To not have the blood of anyone else on my hands.

Jesus Christ is our perfect example to follow. What did He do when they came to arrest Him to put Him to death? He knowing what was to come.

Put on love and trust in our Perfect Father. God Bless you all my brothers and sisters.

...because when someone comes to murder you, you may kill them.

Laurie, this is the way to be released from things which trouble your peace:

Mark 11:25

And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

How many times? Until that memory loses its power to trouble you.

I pray, that as you pray, that you will once again find your peace of mind and spirit.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says: to every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. Read verses 2-8. This season will come to a close if you will trust in what God says here.

It's the forgiving that makes this whole thing work. You'll not feel like doing this. It's an act of obedience and faith in Gods Word to us. Just like me, you'll wake up one day, and all that hate and discomfort of mind...will be peaceful.

Spiritual growth in oneself in Christ

Verse 13-Jehovah God created us to enjoy work and leisure. We must find the balance between both.

Is the breath of life from God not spirit?

Wouldn't every breathing thing, created by God, therefore contain spirit?

Did God not create all of the animals?

References:

Ecclesiastes 3:18-21

1 Corinthians 15:42-44

Job 12:10

Psalm 74:19

Genesis 1:30

Revelation 5:13

Job 12:7-10

Psalm 150:6

Genesis 7:15

A man can study the Bible his entire life and will claim he knows everything about it. The reason a man studies the Bible his entire life is to TRY to better understand it. NO MAN KNOWS THE FULL WORKS AND WONDERS OF GOD OR HIS CREATION.

Saying "no it is a metaphor" is an opinion from personal understanding.

Use scripture. Not someone else's opinion.

Adam was alive spirit, soul, body; until he and Eve ate the fruit. In Genesis 3:22 we see the Godhead conversing about how to protect the Tree of Life. It's not where it was, now: Revelation 22:2.

Since it's written, by God: all souls are mine.

Ecclesiastes 12:7 Then shall the dust return to the Earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. Ecclesiastes 3:21.

New Testament Scriptures on Christian spirits: Hebrews 12:23, Luke 23:46; Matthew 22:32, 1 Thessalonians 5:10,

1 Peter 3:18, 2 Corinthians 5:1-8

John 17-24, Philippians 1:21-24

Acts 7:55-56, Acts 7:59, Genesis 35:18

Love to all. Mishael

Hi Emma,

I pray that you are doing well. After reading your post, I realized just how important it really is for us to have faith in God as our protector, just as He is our Creator. Have faith. The shootings you hear are most likely a result of violence, and as long as you are not involved you are not a target. Also, it is best they do not ever see you look in their direction. Don't try to see where it is coming from, or who is shooting. If it is in fact a murder taking place, if they see you see them, it is likely you will then be shot as a result of witnessing them commit murder. Pray, and always have trust and faith in God that He is your protector and provider of all things needed. :)

Many Blessings,

Lisa Chapman

William, as much as we would like to think that our loving faithful pets will also be with us in Heaven, the understanding of God's creative Work, His Designs & Plans & Scripture itself, suggests that just won't happen.

Ecclesiastes 3:18-21 tells us that even though mankind & animals both return to dust from whence they came, it is only humans whose spirit is preserved that return to God Who gave it (Eccl 12:7). It is true, that all creatures have been given life (breath = spirit) from God, but to mankind, God has given a spirit that transcends anything given to any other creature.

Here are some other verses that lend support to this:

a. Gen 1:27: we're specially made, created in God's Image unlike animals.

b. 1 Thes 5:23: man is comprised of spirit, soul & body, unlike animals, & all three parts of the human makeup will be required by God at their specific times.

c. Mt 6:23: only man can commune with his Creator & has the ability to know, worship & serve Him.

d. Gen 3:4-6: humans have the power of using free will, discernment & choice (all attributes of God) whereas animals exist by instinct without the power to reason, calculate, effectively communicate, create, culturally develop, etc.

e. Rom 3:23: only mankind had the ability to sin against his Creator (re: his the special spirit given him). And that life of gross violation to God's Holy Standards & Character, prompted Him to pursue man to the point of offering up of Himself for man's redemption & restoration.

Animals simply don't fall into the same category as God's specific & special Work of creating man: we were created to love Him, serve Him, to enjoy His blessings & to one day return to Him. Why? Because we were specially created for Him to one day join the Heavenly throng in everlasting worship. Unfortunately, animals (& our beloved pets) don't become a part of this in-gathering after their death as they weren't created to this end - Heaven is not filled with beasts but holy beings.

Jesus said to turn the other cheek Matthew 5:39, but in my opinion that means to not seek vengeance or to retaliate to participate in endless quarrels or conflicts. We are called to be an example of love and called to forgive. That doesn't mean we should forsake our personal safety or safety of our family or loved ones. We also should protect ourselves and loved ones as our bodies are valuable holy temples and we need to be good stewards of our gifts, talents, and our ability to serve others. The Bible also talks about being on our guard, prepared, with the armor of God. Ephesians 6:10-18.

So, it's my opinion that we should take care of ourselves, including physically, like what we eat, exercise, hygiene, security, and personal safety. For safety there are lots of ways to protect oneself and ones property, like door alarms, security light sensors, cameras, pepper spray, dazzler lights, loud sirens, decoys, surprises, extra secure doors, windows, layers. I personally would do 100% of that before buying firearms, but that is my personal opinion. Even though we should protect ourselves we should not fear, but trust God. Matthew 10:28. May God bless you!

Emma, I wish you could move in with one of your kids or a nursing home. BUT, if not I would buy protection. I would suggest a 410 shotgun. They don't kick much and will do enough damage that they will run. Nothing wrong in protecting yourself. Go to a firing range to try it out.

Emma - I say you should do as Jesus said and buy a sword (modern day firearm) and protect yourself if need be from the violent animals that roam the streets of today.

iam a woman who lives alone iam 82 yrs old In this time of great uncertainty i hear many shootings at night I came across this word from Jesus that a time would come to sell my garment to buy a sword I feel for being alone i should buy protection for defending myself now if my home is invaded Can you elaborate on what Jesus said?

It's like I always say" Life is too short to waste time, energy or thought" on things that don't please God. The only way we can know Him is through His word. I love the King James version of the Holy bible and it is what I use. This chapter expresses our need to be true to the calling on our lives. I found out what God called me to do. Each day I grow stronger so when the time comes I will be ready, willing, and able to accomplish what thus saith the Lord. I hope everyone will seek and find their gift and talent from Almighty God: in Jesus' name, Amen.

The world will always be full of hate, until the end of time, because of greed, hate, power and money will always be wars.

To come out of the world, I don't believe any christian should ever go into war or military, or have anything to do with any profession, where there could be a possibility of arming someone.

I don't see Jesus taking a gun to go kill anyone, or hate anyone that much. His mission was about Love and even to give your own life for someone,....unconditional love.

Kim B.

Charles Stanley may very well be a devout Christian, a good man, an excellent preacher, and know what he is talking about concerning Scripture. No preacher, however, is correct concerning everything they preach ( Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Understanding the 7th Day, Law and Grace, are important topics in the Word of God

Some of the best education I have received concerning the Word of God came from Pastor Arnold Murray of the Shepherds Chapel. A Bible scholar that many times stated: "Don't take my word for it, research it for yourself. From his advice, I realized that he was not always correct.

2 Timothy 2:15

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.