[kosta50]

He gave us everything. Can't we give back a little?

Of course. But, playing Reformed advocate, we could say God doesn't need it, does He? Why engage in idle and repetitive tasks and useless rituals such as praying, offering gifts to God he doesn't need, or going to church, when they cannot change what has been predestined?

He determined from all eternity who will have what, so there is no point in asking, praying, and going to church. You are either the (s)elect or the reprobate. It's decided, it's done. Everybody already has a ticket to heaven or hell. So, sit back and just do whatever your heart desires, and let God do the driving. In fact, why even bother with God?

And, let's not make a mistake of calling this a "fellowship" with God. We are not his "fellows," HD. According to the Reformed theology, we are His peons; we play no role other than where the puppet master puts us. So, we might as well rename the whole relationship to Puppet Master and His Puppets church.

You know, Protestants amaze me as much as solipsists do. There is actually a great deal in common between them. Next time you get sick, please don't seek medical help. After all, whether you do or don't, God has already determined if you will stay or leave. And since you know you are already saved, why in the world would you wish to stay?

[HarleyD]

"...we could say God doesn't need it, does He?

God owns the cattle on a thousand hills. How many are you going to give Him?

Why engage in idle and repetitive tasks and useless rituals such as

praying,
So that we understand the will of God.

offering gifts to God he doesn't need,
Because we love Him.

or going to church,
Because it's beneficial to us to fellowship.

Each of these reasons is for our benefit, not God's.

According to the Reformed theology, we are His peons; we play no role other than where the puppet master puts us.

Obviously you don't understand the Reformed theology of God's love for His people. He loves them, cares for them, nurtures them, defends them, on and on. We rest on the thought that God greatly loves us and provides the very best for us to help us to grow. All things work together for our good.

I wish that I was a puppet on a string that God could pull. I would undoubtedly be less rebellious and arrogant to Him.

Next time you get sick, please don't seek medical help. After all, whether you do or don't, God has already determined if you will stay or leave.

Oh, please. You should not tempt the Lord your God. He has provided resources. Failure to utilized those resources when we are capable is sin.

And, you're right. God has determined when we are to die.