Re: [TruthTalk] On playing chess & On reading/interpreting the Scriptures for living (not for 'A' living)

[Terry Clifton]

David Miller wrote: Terry wrote: I make a simple statement that there is not enough information to tell who would be the the most accurate interpreter of scriptures or the most mature believer between Bill, who I have never met, and a Russian, who I have never heard of. That is hardly placing one of you in Hell and the other outside the body of the Church. If that comment is less than honest, explain to me where I would have gotten the information needed to reach the same conclusion as Lance. I found nothing dishonest in what you wrote, Terry. I was amazed that your post was interpreted the way it was. There was definitely a problem in reading you. You mention something in this post that is somewhat interesting. You mention both "accurate interpreter of scriptures" and "most mature believer." Do you think these are related? Are more mature believers more accurate interpreters of Scripture? ===================================================================== This is going to be hard to put into words, David.  I hope it comes through as intended and that anyone can understand.  I now have more information stored in my feeble mind than I had twenty-four years ago.  I know the geographic relationship between Jericho and Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  I have a better idea of what an omer or a firkin might be.  I understand why the soldiers cast lots for the robe of Jesus.  I knew none of the details when I had been saved for two moths.  At two months I was a baby Christian but I was soaking up the word as fast as my ability would allow me.  Everything was new and everything was tremendously exciting.  I was born again, on a new adventure, a wholly new way of life. Twenty-four years ago it was a roller coaster ride, Jesus and me.  Whee! yahoo! Whatever you say on a roller coaster ride. Now it is a pleasant walk in the woods, yet in no way less satisfying than the roller coaster.  I am learning less rapidly now because I have already learned the basics and there is less left to learn.  I have finished the burger and am slowly eating the fries that came with it.  Do I know more now? Most certainly.  Did I know enough then?  You bet.  Was one better than the other?  I honestly do not know.  I have not tried a comparison.  Both were and are wonderful. Terry