Sanil
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Post by Sanil on Apr 1, 2009 19:45:42 GMT -8
In my class tonight, we discussed these two passages (and a few others that I have forgotten, sorry). I am a little confused by them and hoping to get some help understanding. A common argument in the Messianic movement is that the still applies because God does not change his word. The Deuteronomy passage excludes several people from being included in the assembly of the Lord. In particular, Deut. 23:1 seems to mention eunuchs. Now flip over to Isaiah. In this section, all are welcomed in to the Lord's house. In particular, eunuchs are mentioned in Isaiah 56:3-4. Aren't these directly contradicting each other? How do we deal with this? Did God take back his restriction? Thanks!
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Post by Mark on Apr 2, 2009 3:24:57 GMT -8
So, are you suggesting that the Most High God who has the capability to heal and make whole would stand by and watch those coming into His kingdom broken and mame? There are two ways that this text could be looked at: that God changes to allow in those whom He has declared that He would disallow, or that He changes us. We already know that we who were distant and aliens He adopts as sons, giving us access as heirs to the kingdom. He changes us. The idea that Isaiah 56 could be used to suggest that has chinks in it is, frankly, baffling; particularly as it is taught by those rejecting the validity of the Sabbath day. He didn't invite the son of the stranger to come in and change all the rules. He welcomes him to become a part of the kingdom. Imagine the audacity that they are suggesting! The point of Isaiah 56:2 is simply that it is never to late, nor can you go so far that the power and grace of God cannot extend to you.
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Sanil
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Posts: 29
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Post by Sanil on Apr 2, 2009 8:06:57 GMT -8
Thank you for your answer. However, I understand your point, but doesn't Isaiah directly contradict Deuteronomy? In one we are told to keep a certain group of people out. In the other we are told that the same group cannot be kept out. Is there a difference in how it's used, what they're being kept out of? The Deuteronomy passage says "assembly of the Lord", would that have connections to the Tabernacle or something specific that had to be kept perfect? Like...were these people kept out of Israel, or just certain parts of worship? In Isaiah, I don't think that it says anything about entering the Temple, just that they can join with Israel and will have a name within the Temple. Is there a difference there? I don't think you were accusing me of it, but just in case let me be clear: I am not saying that the is imperfect. I believe it is perfect and that it never changes or passes away, so I am trying to understand what seems to me to be a contradiction. I would rather try to think it through and get more help understanding than just ignore it and happily go about my business as if there is nothing troubling or confusing about the Bible.
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