Sign into an existing account

AI generated sermon:

Introduction:
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to reflect on the concept of pride. Pride can be a complex and multifaceted emotion, with both positive and negative aspects. In our pursuit of a virtuous life, it is important to understand the distinction between authentic pride and hubristic pride. Let us explore how we can engage in authentic pride while avoiding the pitfalls of hubristic pride.

I. Understanding Authentic Pride:
Authentic pride is rooted in a healthy sense of self-worth and self-respect. It arises from recognizing and appreciating our own abilities, accomplishments, and virtues. Authentic pride is not about comparing ourselves to others or seeking superiority, but rather about acknowledging and embracing the unique gifts and talents that God has bestowed upon us. It is a humble recognition of our own worth as beloved children of God.

II. Embracing Humility:
While authentic pride is important, we must always temper it with humility. Humility is the virtue that keeps our pride in check and reminds us that all our gifts and achievements ultimately come from God. Humility allows us to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of others without feeling threatened or diminishing their worth. It is through humility that we can engage in authentic pride without falling into hubris.

III. Avoiding Hubristic Pride:
Hubristic pride, on the other hand, is an excessive and arrogant form of pride. It is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a disregard for others, and a desire for power and recognition. Hubristic pride blinds us to our own flaws and limitations, leading to a false sense of superiority. It is important to guard against hubristic pride, as it can damage relationships, hinder personal growth, and distance us from God's grace.

IV. Cultivating Gratitude:
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to hubristic pride. When we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, we recognize that our accomplishments and blessings are not solely the result of our own efforts, but also the grace and providence of God. Gratitude helps us maintain a humble perspective and fosters a sense of awe and wonder at the goodness of God. Let us express gratitude for our abilities and successes, while acknowledging the source of all good things.

Conclusion:
Dear friends, as we navigate the complexities of pride, let us strive to engage in authentic pride while avoiding the pitfalls of hubristic pride. May we recognize and celebrate our own gifts and accomplishments, while remaining humble and grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us. Let us remember that true greatness lies not in self-glorification, but in humble service to others and a deep reliance on God's grace. May our pride be authentic, our humility be genuine, and our lives be marked by gratitude and love. Amen.

For Christians on here, Good Friday marks the crucifixion and atoning sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Christ Jesus.

God Bless

The Catholic perspective is that works are the fruits of faith. A healthy faith naturally produces works. Faith without works are dead. They represent two sides of the same thing.

Works themselves do not lead to salvation. Salvation is from the grace of God. But with good faith one will feel a compulsion to do good works.

@Tallest_Skil

There are references in the Bible to a purification/sanctification process given to those that are saved.

The Catholic position is that this process of transformation takes place in purgatory prior to release into heaven. From the Catholic perspective only those that are saved will enter purgatory. Purgatory is not a state that the damned enter into.

For the sake of discussion in this thread, the Bible is assumed to be true. We are evaluating whether purgatory is: a) consistent with scripture, and b) if consistent, whether it is compellingly the case or not.

And...go!

Catholic doctrine takes the position that Mary is sinless and a perpetual virgin. She is honoured in the Church as "Queen of Heaven" and the perfect disciple of Christ.

This thread is for discussing that topic from a Catholic perspective vs other kinds of Christian perspectives. For the sake of this discussion, the focus is not on prayer to saints and only pertains to the question of whether Mary is 1) sinless, 2) perpetually virginal, 3) "Queen of Heaven" in a sense that differs from "queen of heaven" in Jer 44:19.

For the purpose of discussion, the Bible is considered to be true. The test is to evaluate a) whether the position is consistent with scripture, and b) if consistent, whether it is compellingly the case from scripture.

Some verses that are used against the Catholic position:

- References to brothers and sisters of Jesus

- Joseph not consummating the marriage "until" after Jesus' birth

- References to "all have sinned"

And... go!

Spaghetti code

"==Forty and two=== years old was Ahaziah when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Athaliah the daughter of Omri." - 2 Chron 22:2 KJV

"==Two and twenty== years old was Ahaziah when he began to reign; and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Athaliah, the daughter of Omri king of Israel." - 2 Kings 8:26 KJV