Online links to scriptures (New International Version [NIV] unless otherwise stated) are shown in blue
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We now come to the end of our discussion about the differences between Greek (Western) and Hebrew (Eastern) thinking. I trust it has made you think about some of your 'sacred cows', as it has me. Perhaps we may have sacrificed some upon the altar of ignorance and misunderstanding!
Over the past 20 years or so, the Lord has graciously given me certain inspirations and revelations of His Word. These I have had the privilege of sharing with many of you through 'Tuesday Teachings' and the free downloads available on the website, http://www.wwj.org.nz/dload.php
Yet I have always been conscious that teachings, in themselves, can titillate the mind, but do not necessarily lead to changes in behaviour. Hence I have always tried to give accompanying practical applications and look to the Holy Spirit to reveal His will to you.
Over the years, I've wondered why I have done this. Have put it down to being a practical person who believes in 'walking the talk' in life. James rings a bell deep within me.....
James 1:22
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However, as we have looked at this East v West thought conundrum, I have had my mind and life challenged as I have seen more clearly what 'walking with Jesus' is truly about. It is my hope and prayer that some of this discussion will have rubbed off onto you too!
James goes on to say.....
James 1:23-5
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In the end, true Christianity is a lifestyle of love and obedience to God's will, not merely an intellectual exercise. It is about relationship, with Jesus and others, not mere academic knowledge.
Paul sums it up succinctly.....
1 Corinthians 8:1b
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and spiritual blessings in the New.
As decreed by Jesus.....
Luke 11:28
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<i>NEXT WEEK:</i> |
A surprise!
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A NOTE FROM DAVID |
This has been a long study but I trust that it has made you think, as it has done for me.
There is a saying, "Actions speak louder than words", which actually sums up the Eastern way of thinking most succinctly.
Our Western way of the separation of what we think, what we feel, and what we do, is foreign to Jews and Muslims. And remember, Jesus was a Jew!
Jesus called us to to follow Him, to be the light of the world.
Are we prepared to meet the challenge?
THE KEA
Just in case you are thinking that New Zealand is now bare of birds, let's finish this series by looking at the Kea., the world's only alpine parrot.
This large cheeky (46cm - 18 inch) alpine parrot is common and very playful. However tempting it is to feed them you are best not to. For feeding them gives them lots of energy and spare time. Instead of spending their time looking for food they use it to rip apart your tent, car rubber seals etc. Which is not so playful in our eyes!
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So until next week.......
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOU BLESS GOD!
His servant and yours
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www.wwj.org.nz/about.php
A DAVID'S DOODLING
870. The foolish one looks inwards, the wise outwards, but the godly, upwards.
David Tait
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Check
out the WWJ website for….
More David's Doodlings: www.wwj.org.nz/dd.php
Till Death do us Part!: http://www.wwj.org.nz/tddup.php Pets Rule!: http://www.wwj.org.nz/pets.php The World's Greatest Groans: http://www.wwj.org.nz/groans.php
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