The Biblical Gathering Forum

I was involved in this conversation (debate?) with "James" and "Roymondo" on the CP over the last couple of days: http://www.christianpost.com/Education/ ... index.html

I must admit, this was the first conversation I've ever had with a Mormon about the Christian faith. It was tough, and left me feeling exasperated, frustrated and sad. I didn't know how to respond to James' assertion that creation ex-nihilo is not Biblical. If this had been an full on debate, I think I would have been beaten. I am guilty of reacting before praying or thinking clearly in some places. Does anyone have any advice on the creation ex-nihlo issue? Any advice overall?

Thanks,

Aaron

I've never tried to argue the point before. But off the top of my head,

Jn 1:3 All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.

Everything came into being through Christ. If there was something that existed before the universe was created, that too was created by Christ. Eventually, you have to reach a point where even the raw materials were created - from what? Your choices are nothing or something. If it was something, then that too was created by Christ. If nothing, then you have ex-nihilo creation.

Since all things came into being through Christ, even the raw materials came were created by Christ.

Hi Aaron,

I must confess that this was the first time that I heard of this Latin phrase ex nihilo . . . after a quick search I came to understand that it means "out of nothing". These Mormons who we have been debating may have changed the subject in order to avoid addressing their own theological abnormalities but the testimony of Scripture explicitly declares that God is the creator of all things visible and invisible; this would include matter. It is interesting to hear "believers" today teach theistic evolution . . . this seems to be the new norm to describe the creation account. Discrediting the Word is an ongoing strategy of the enemy; stay encouraged my brother and continue to proclaim the truths of God's Word!

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1:16).

Hi Aaron...



Yes, possibly a redirection maneuver. We must remember, "We wrestle not against flesh and blood" (Eph 6:12) and that the enemy is very subtle, a cunning adversary indeed. Here are some thoughts to consider: Try to keep the discussion focused on your challenger's weaknesses. Do not allow them to direct or redirect you into a discussion that minimizes their weaknesses and maximizes yours.



A good scripture indeed.

Brethren,

thanks for your encouragement and advice. WBMoore, you have added a lot to the actual conversation that I never could have. Thanks. It was edifying.

After much prayer and sharing this with some of my brothers (at Church last night), I have added some last words to the thread. I began by referencing Titus 3:10, 11 -

"A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself."

I am convicted that I've done and said all that I can to these few Mormons. Praise be to God.