The scripture you quoted made the seperation. I think that is clear.
I didn't separate anything. I quoted Scripture. We are commanded by God's Word to "grow in Grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ."
Before one can grow, one must first be birthed into the family of God.
As to your last comment:
It seems you are stuck in the area of "the sinner's prayer."
I've never read "the sinner's prayer" in the scripture. If there is one, perhaps it could be the following:
Luke 18:13-14King James Version (KJV)
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
I think I have given you some valid, scriptual points. At times, one's theology informes one's interpretation of scripture rather than scripture informing one's theology. It is possible that may be at work here. At this point, Ringman, I will just bow out of the conversation and respectfully agree to disagree.
GB
