Pulling down strongholds with gentleness and respect (2 Corinthians 10:4, 1 Peter 3:15)

Normally on Saturday morning, Paul and I would walk and talk about what we're learning about God and other life topics. We generally end up with, "I can't believe God that would punish people in hell forever and ever just because _________..." 

We talk about the reality of free will and the reality of God's sovereignty, the impact of words (God's word and our own words). The trinity of God and what love is. We talk about the church, the return of Jesus and God's plan for humanity as contrasted by the devil's plan for humanity. 

Growing up I perceived the goal of church was "say the sinner's prayer" but having matured somewhat in my faith I've been able to see that Jesus said, "go and make disciples" and "when you did this for the least of these, you did this for me." 

I've been watching some videos about, God or Science - Why the Choice? and loved the idea that Science answers different questions. Why is water boiling? Science talks about excited molecules, from heat transferred through he kettle but the question can also be answered I wanted to make tea.

My brother likes Simon Sinek "start with Why" but instead of trying to figure out why God does what he does, figure out "who" God is. Do a character study of God, look for how he describes himself via "names of God", see how Jesus describes himself and the Holy Spirit.

 Doctrine of Election is God's irrevocable call for everyone (Genesis 25:23)

 Can You FORFEIT Your Salvation? A Unique Perspective on Once Saved Always Saved

2 Peter 2:20-22;John 15:4-6;Matt 24:9-13,10:13; Heb 4:11,6:4-6; Rom 5:9-10;11:20-23; 1 Tim 4:1; 2 Peter 3:17; Col 1:21-23; 1 cor 1:18; 2 Cor 2:15

In 2 Corinthians 10:4, the phrase "pulling down strongholds" refers to using God's power, not worldly weapons, to dismantle false beliefs and arguments that oppose the knowledge of God, ultimately bringing every thought into obedience to Christ.  

The "Weapons of Warfare": Paul emphasizes that the weapons used in this spiritual battle are not "carnal" (worldly or fleshly) but "mighty in God". 

"Pulling Down Strongholds": This phrase signifies the destruction of strongholds, which are often understood as:

• False beliefs and arguments: These are the ideas and reasoning that people hold onto that are contrary to God's truth. 
• Arrogance and pride: The "high things" that exalt themselves against the knowledge of God. 
• Captivating thoughts: Taking every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ. 

The Goal: The ultimate goal is to bring every thought into obedience to Christ, demonstrating the power of God's truth to overcome opposition. 

How to "Pull Down Strongholds":

• Meditate on God's Word: Allow the Holy Spirit to make God's Word a reality in your heart and mind, and meditate on how it applies to your life. 
• Repent and Believe the Truth: Identify the lies you have believed, repent of them, and believe in God's truth. 
• Declare the Truth: Declare God's truth and tear down the faulty arguments raised against it. 
• Seek God's Guidance: Ask God to show you the lies you have believed and the truth, and to help you choose His ways. 

1 Peter 3:15, is the call to be prepared to defend your faith with kindness and respect, rather than with harshness or fear, so that others might see the good in your character and be drawn to Christ. This verse encourages believers to be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in them, but to do so with gentleness and respect. 

• Gentleness and Respect: The key is to approach discussions about faith with kindness, humility, and a desire to understand, rather than with aggression or a need to win an argument. 
• Clear Conscience: The verse also emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience, so that even if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see the good life you live because of your faith. 
• Not a call to Apologetics: Some say that this verse is often misused to serve as a proof text for a rational defense of Christianity, but the inspirational aspects of the text include the possibility of no fear, persistence in defending our hope, and the privilege of honoring the Lord Jesus. 
• Living Out Your Faith: Ultimately, the best way to share your hope is through your actions and the way you treat others, demonstrating the love and grace of Christ. 
• Focus on God's Grace: Remember that the goal is not to convert others through force or argument, but to allow God's grace to work in their hearts.