Called to do God's work

[naomi24]

I had a short conversation on here recently with a Christian who is convinced that God will provide for those he 'calls' to do his work. I mentioned that he failed to provide for my friend who was hacked to death as a result of her 'calling' as a missionary to Zimbabwe, and I asked what good that did anyone - including God. I received no response. So what good did it do? Anyone know?

[mike11111]

On a theological note (although I am no theologian) I think a Christian might argue that those who are martyred following God's calling will be more than amply provided for in Heaven. Obviously this suggestion will not satisfy the secularists, but I would be interested to hear from someone more erudite who can argue this point.

[naomi24]

Luna, this is confusing. You say you looked at the address and then say you didn't, and you ask whose fault's that? The address I gave you to contact included the username which wasn't difficult to spot. This is just silly, and it's irrelevant now anyway, so enough. Let's stick to the subject in hand.

Mike, I can't see what good that would do anyone, but if that's the answer, I'd like to hear from someone who would like to argue that point too.

[Davethedog]

Mike11111 - I'm not going to argue the point.

Where does it say that in christian teachings. Its many years since I did any sort of Christian study but I always understood that the martyrwas welcome in heaven never read abouta reward.

Sure you haven't confused it with another religion? or do you want someone to come along and make it up?

[naomi24]

Oh, for God's sake! This is ridiculous, Luna! Please yourself!

[society]

Naomi, I do believe there's a God. But, people who claims they are called to do 'God's work are blasphemers and only want to live off of others through their donations and contributions.

[naomi24]

I think in many cases you're right, Society. You only have to look at the American TV evangelists and their lifestyles (and their facelifts!) to see that. I do, however, think some people (like my friend who was a very kind person, and genuinely wanted to help others), as gullible as they are, are quite sincere in their belief. There are others who are not interested in money either, but are in it for the personal satisfaction they derive from acting out the role of 'do-gooder' - and these people are acting. They see themselves as somehow qualified to tell others what to do and believe, and in their own minds (if not in anyone elses) feel they are vastly superior to the rest of the human race.

[society]

Naomi, I agree with you and yes it's the preachers I'm mainly referring to.

I am very sorry to hear about your friend, I know this incident is painful and will always hurt.

[naomi24]

As I said Society, it was a long time ago, but you're right - it doesn't go away - and neither do the questions.

[keyplus90]

So someone told you that God asked them to do his (God's) work and you believed them. Oh I see,

[naomi24]

Keyplus, no I don't think you do see.

[Ankou]

i knew a friend of a friend who's mind decided that he would actually be able to fly from the top of a building. he tried, but couldn't, obviously, with tagic circumstances i wouldn't pertain to blame any specious entity for this, only him for placing himself in that dager in the first place - whether of sound mind or not.

i sympathise for your frind, but i am surprised that you are seeking blame and culpability from an enty that doesn't exist, rather than your friend for clearly placing herself in a dangerous situation, however misguided.

or are you just badger baiting.....? hmmmm.....

[naomi24]

Ankou, Odd how everyone seems to have understood the question except you. I'm not seeking to blame an entity, or to hold an entity culpable. I don't believe in entities. I blame the mindless idiots who indoctrinated my friend, from childhood, with the rubbish she believed. One such person has told me that God provides for those he calls and I would like someone who agrees with him to explain why they believe that.

I'm not badger baiting - but I suspect you are trying to cause pointless waves in the debate. Hmmmm?

[Ankou]

'he failed to provide for my friend'

sounds like acknowledgement and blame to me. sure, blame the idiots who indoctrinated her, i woud too - but she should have personal responsibility for her decision and safety.

[naomi24]

Yes, Ankou, just like all believers take responsibility for themselves, eh?

If it sounds like acknowledgement and blame to you, then you appear to be the only person here who's reading it that way. Maybe you should read it again.