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The world is full of tribulation. (Joh 16:33) |
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The world is filled with vain rationalizations (humanistic philosophy), religious precepts (pious traditions), and self-serving ethics (elementary principles). (Col 2:8) |
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The world is a spiritually dark place in which all men are spiritually dead at birth due to inherited sin and human depravity. (Joh 1:5; Joh 1:9; Gal 5:19-21; Eph 2:1-2; Rom 1; Rom 3:10; 1 Joh 3:10) |
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Those who accept God's gracious provision for the penalty of sin (the free gift of salvation by faith through Jesus Christ), are spiritually alive at the moment of regeneration (spiritual birth). The New Birth (regeneration) is a necessary condition of salvation. Salvation is unalterable and forever. (Joh 1:12; Joh 3:3; Joh 3:16; Joh 10:27-29; Eph 1:13; Eph 2:1-2; Rom 8:1; 1 Cor 12:13; Titus 3:5; 1 Joh 5:12) |
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The world is governed by Satan who is under the direct (permissive) control of God. This does not mean God is responsible for Satan's activities, but that Satan can do nothing apart from God's permission. (Eph 2:2; Job 2:1-6) |
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The world system is controlled by Satan through the human propagation of vain rationalizations, religious precepts, and self-serving ethics. This system is full of immorality (lust of flesh), greed (lust of eyes), and rebellion (boastful pride of life). (1Jo 2:16) |
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All men are sinners before God and need to be saved out of the world through personal faith in Jesus Christ evidenced by progressive sanctification (e.g., repentant lifestyle, good works, personal Bible study). (Rom 3:10; Rom 3:23; Col 1:13; Eph 2:8-10) |
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You cannot love the world and God simultaneously. (1Jo 2:15) |
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Friendship with the world is hostility toward God. (Jas 4:4) |
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The world is temporary. (1Jo 2:17) |
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This world is not my home. (Joh 14:2; Heb 11:13) |
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My natural death is precious to God. (Ps 116:15) |