Jump to content
The World News Media

Is it wrong for a Christian to open a fortune cookie?


Guest Nicole

Recommended Posts


  • Views 1.2k
  • Replies 18
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Posts

Depends how you feel as this is a matter for individual conscience. A fortune cookie is nothing but an small, edible biscuit or cake of sorts, usually made from  made from flour, sugar, vanilla,

???

I don't think eating a cookie is such a big deal.  However,  God does not approve of fortune-telling.  The question was a reasonable one to ask since many look to these things as a way of predicting t

Posted Images

  • Member

Depends how you feel as this is a matter for individual conscience.

A fortune cookie is nothing but an small, edible biscuit or cake of sorts, usually made from  made from flour, sugar, vanilla, and sesame seed oil. They traditionally contain a short script consisting of a vaguely "prophetic" message or "wise" saying.

The Wikipedia article on fortune cookies states that there are  "approximately 3 billion fortune cookies made each year around the world, the vast majority of them used for consumption in the United States".

It goes on to suggest that, although apparently a relatively modern American custom, there may be connection with a Japanese Buddhist or Shinto temple practice of dispensing (for money) random fortunes written on strips of paper (omuji). These sayings can predict favorable or unfavorable outcomes for the participant.

Probably the easiest comparison would be to the vague predictions found in the popular horoscope articles frequently seen in the popular press. Not many would deny having never, ever, looked at one of these, even if to ridicule its content. However, others, without the benefit of a relationship with Jehovah and an insight into demonic practices, may take these means of "divination" very seriously, regardless of their impotency.

Some now serving Jehovah, may have formerly taken these matters very seriously and have allowed such messages to exert a powerful influence in their lives. Although in the case of fortune cookies, obviously the cookie itself has no power,  they might still find that the practice, (especially if they read the message) could trigger an association and they might be tempted to look for some application of an "uncanny" or superstitious influence in their lives. A person with such a background would do well to avoid fortune cookies altogether.

In the light of Jehovah's viewpoint on such matters, clearly expressed at De.18:10-13, there is no reason why Christians would ever pay money for prophecies or wise sayings about future events from sources clearly described as demonic. Some may see this as including the purchase of fortune cookies, even under the guise of "fun". Paying money could be viewed as contributing to the promotion of a practice rooted in superstition..

But, what if these cookies are given free in a restaurant as part of the presentation of a meal? Well, eating the cookie while discarding the message is one option, Who would know apart from the staff? (What would they think if they had seen you asking a blessing before eating?). Alternatively, it would be an easy matter to decline these items, or to return them if unsolicited.

What if the group sharing a meal are not all servants of Jehovah, such as at a family or workplace outing? This is a bit more complicated but a minor trial thinking of what some of our brothers face. We might want to avoid these cookies in that situation because we do not want to stumble others for any reason, whether giving the wrong impression, or encouraging them to do something which could be detrimental in Jehovah's eyes. Compare 1 Cor 8:13. We may take the opportunity to explain why as a witness to them. Or, we could explain to the group our scriptural view of divination and magic, and how cookies are cookies regardless of a silly message, then throwaway the paper and scoff the cookie! It really is up to the individual.

So, ..............fortune cookie anyone?

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Member

I believe this is a classic case of control/puppetry. If someone is going to instruct you right or wrong on things as trivial as this matter, and you accept it, then you deserve the control over you and have rightfully asked the question to those in authority. The next question that should be asked is if it is ok to wipe 3 or 4 times, or should it always be 7 wipes since 7 is the number of completion. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Member
17 hours ago, Shiwiii said:

Yes, and that is what I addressed. If you must request permission,  then you are asking for the hard and fast rule. But who's rule? The topic IS what I addressed.

It may be a matter of common sense based on facts or information from other persons, or various sources, whether religious, historical or scientific, etc.  Throughout life we had to ask questions to know something or do certain things.  Whether we asked our parents, siblings, relatives, teachers, co-workers, supervisors, boss, police, parking attendant, attorney, or judge?  We may even ask God in prayer to answer certain questions for us.  Although, we know God probably won't answer us back as in times past, we are left to inquire of others with knowledgeable information or read and study as much as we can and then wait for an answer or clear direction.  If there is no definite right or wrong, black and white answers, only gray, then the rule of law may end up being guided by our conscience.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Member

Yes, however we are guided by the Bible no? Does the Bible give us direction on eating and drinking?  Yes!  In two ways:

1 Corinthian 10:27-31 (both are represented here)

It is only when men have attached additional laws or rules does this come into question.  Colossians 2:8 tells us to beware of these things. Instead of focusing on what men say, focus on Jesus.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Member

 

I don't think eating a cookie is such a big deal.  However,  God does not approve of fortune-telling.  The question was a reasonable one to ask since many look to these things as a way of predicting their future.  The basic answer in the original response was according to one's conscience and God's word.

 

(1 Corinthians 8:13) Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat flesh at all, that I may not make my brother stumble.

 

(1 Corinthians 10:27-31) If anyone of the unbelievers invites YOU and YOU wish to go, proceed to eat everything that is set before YOU, making no inquiry on account of YOUR conscience. 28 But if anyone should say to YOU: “This is something offered in sacrifice,” do not eat on account of the one that disclosed it and on account of conscience. 29 “Conscience,” I say, not your own, but that of the other person. For why should it be that my freedom is judged by another person’s conscience? 30 If I am partaking with thanks, why am I to be spoken of abusively over that for which I give thanks? 31 Therefore, whether YOU are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God’s glory.

 

(Colossians 2:8) Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry YOU off as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ.

 

We are told to follow in Jesus' steps closely, but he was under the rules and regulations of the Mosaic law.  Since the law ended upon Jesus' death, we still follow him in many things and the traditions and practices of the apostles and perhaps early disciples.  On a wider scale, God has allowed husbands, men and/or superior authorities to make laws or guidelines for the benefit of society as a whole. 

 

Rom 7:2 For instance, a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he is alive; but if her husband dies, she is discharged from the law of her husband. 3 So, then, while her husband is living, she would be styled an adulteress if she became another man’s. But if her husband dies, she is free from his law, so that she is not an adulteress if she becomes another man’s. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Member

.  "On a wider scale, God has allowed husbands, men and/or superior authorities to make laws or guidelines for the benefit of society as a whole"

Not outside of what God has said. That is my point.  God has inspired the apostles to write what He wanted, nothing more and nothing less. To question things beyond what God has said,  is to allow men to rule instead of God. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites





  • Recently Browsing

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Popular Contributors

  • Topics

  • Posts

    • try the: Bánh bèo Bánh ít ram
    • Definitely should try the Bond roll here when you get a chance: this is a mom and pop place that does a great job  
    • An interesting concept, bible discipline. I am struck by the prevalence of ignorance about spiritual discipline on "Reddit." While physical and mental disciplines receive attention, the profound impact of spiritual discipline on a person's physical and mental well-being is often overlooked. Is it possible to argue against the words of the Apostle Paul? When he penned those words in Hebrews 12, he was recognizing that there are moments when an individual must be "rebuked" in order to be corrected. Even Jesus himself established a precedent when he rebuked Peter and referred to him as Satan for failing to comprehend what Jesus had already revealed to the apostles. Did that imply that Jesus had an evil heart? Not at all, it was quite the opposite; Jesus had a loving heart. His need to correct Peter actually showcased his genuine love for him. If he hadn't cared, he would have let Peter persist in his mistaken ways, leading to a fate similar to Judas'. There is a clear emphasis on avoiding the apostate translation and its meaning, yet many seem to overlook the biblical foundation for the reasons NOT to follow the path of the fallen brethren or those with an apostate mentality. Those individuals have embraced the path of darkness, where the illuminating power of light cannot penetrate, to avoid receiving the righteous discipline based on God's Bible teachings. They are undoubtedly aware that this undeniable truth of life must be disregarded in order to uphold their baseless justifications for the unjust act of shunning. Can anyone truly "force" someone or stop them from rejecting a friend or family member? Such a notion would be absurd, considering the fact that we all have the power of free will. If a Witness decides to distance themselves from a family member or friend simply because they have come out as gay, who is anyone within the organization to question or challenge that personal sentiment? It is unfortunate that there are individuals, both within and outside the organization, who not only lack a proper understanding of the Bible but also dare to suggest that God's discipline is barbaric. We must remember that personal choices should be respected, and it is not for others to judge or condemn someone based on their sexual orientation but should be avoided under biblical grounds. No one should have the power to compel an individual to change their sexual orientation, nor should anyone be forced to accept someone for who they are. When it comes to a family's desire to shield their children from external influences, who has the right to challenge the parents' decision? And if a family's rejection of others is based on cultural factors rather than religious beliefs, who can impose religious judgment on them? Who should true followers of Christ follow? The words of God or those who believe they can change God's laws to fit their lives? How can we apply the inspired words of Paul from God to embrace the reality of God's discipline? On the contrary, how can nonconformists expect to persuade those with a "worldview" that their religious beliefs are unacceptable by ostracizing individuals, when God condemns homosexuality? This is precisely why the arguments put forth by ex-witnesses are lacking in their pursuit of justice. When they employ misguided tactics, justice remains elusive as their arguments are either weak or inconsistent with biblical standards. Therefore, it is crucial to also comprehend Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9:27. The use of the word "shun" is being exaggerated and excessively condemned by those who reject biblical shunning as a form of punishment. Eph 5:3-14 NIV 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person — such a man is an idolater — has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.  6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.  8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible. The impact of the message becomes significantly stronger when we emphasize the importance of avoiding any association with unrighteousness and those who remain unrepentant. In fact, it becomes even more compelling when we witness how some individuals, who dismiss biblical shunning as a method of discipline, excessively criticize and condemn the use of the word "shun". Therefore, Jehovah's Witnesses do not shun people; instead, they choose to focus on the negative actions being committed, which is in accordance with biblical teachings. This should be construed as ex-Witness rhetoric. Now, let's consider why ex-Witnesses specifically target one particular religion. What justifications do they provide when other Christian denominations also adhere to the same principle grounded in the Bible? Chapter 1 - Preface Both must therefore test themselves: the one, if he is qualified to speak and leave behind him written records; the other, if he is in a right state to hear and read: as also some in the dispensation of the Eucharist, according to  custom enjoin that each one of the people individually should take his part. One's own conscience is best for choosing accurately or shunning. And its firm foundation is a right life, with suitable instruction. But the imitation of those who have already been proved, and who have led correct lives, is most excellent for the understanding and practice of the commandments. "So that whosoever shall eat the bread and drink the cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup."  It therefore follows, that every one of those who undertake to promote the good of their neighbours, ought to consider whether he has betaken himself to teaching rashly and out of rivalry to any; if his communication of the word is out of vainglory; if the the only reward he reaps is the salvation of those who hear, and if he speaks not in order to win favour: if so, he who speaks by writings escapes the reproach of mercenary motives. "For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know," says the apostle, "nor a cloak of covetousness. God is witness. Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children."   (from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 2) Divine promises 2. The manner of shunning, in the word escaping. There is a flying away required, and that quickly, as in the plague, or from a fire which hath almost burned us, or a flood that breaketh in upon us. We cannot soon enough escape from sin (Matt 3:7; Heb 6:18). No motion but flight becomes us in this case. Doctrine: That the great end and effect of the promises of the gospel is to make us partakers of the Divine nature. (from The Biblical Illustrator)  
    • Clearly, they are already demanding your exile. Yes! It's unfortunate that Pudgy spoiled a great discussion about science. I hope the discussion can continue without any more nonsensical interruptions. Just a suggestion since they are on your heels. Wow! You speak! It seems you have a lot to say! Now they are going to treat like, who do you think you are, mister big stuff! Are those aliens now going to imply that anyone who speaks out against the five or six key contributors to this site will be treated as though it is George just because those in opposition speak the language they hate to hear, the TRUTH? They are seeking individuals who will embrace their nonconformist values and appreciate what they can offer in shaping public opinion contrary to the established agenda of God and Christ. Their goal is to enhance their writing abilities and avoid squandering time on frivolous pursuits, mainly arguing about the truth they don't care for. They see it all as a mere game, even when leading people astray. They believe they have every right to and will face no biblical repercussions, or so they believe. They just want to have fun just like that Cyndi Lauper song. Be prepared to be belittled and ridiculed, all the while they claim to be angels. Haha! By the way, please refrain from using the same language as George. They appear to believe that when others use the same words, it means they are the same person, and they emphasize this as if no one else is allowed to use similar grammar. It seems they think only they have the right to use the same or similar writing styles. Quite amusing, isn't it? See, what I just placed in bold, now I'm George, lol! Now, let's leave this nice science thread for people that want to know more about science. I believe George left it at "Zero Distance."  
  • Members

    • Wolf T

      Wolf T 0

      Member
      Joined:
      Last active:
  • Recent Status Updates

    • lauleb  »  misette

      merci pour ton travail très utile. tu es une aide qui fortifie
      · 0 replies
    • Pamela Dunston  »  T.B. (Twyla)

      Hi, TB
      I would like to get the weekly meeting and watchtower materials  and the 2024 convention 
      Attend the 2024 Convention—“Declare the Good News!”
      notebook, I just recently got a new computer, If don't mind my brother to add me on and allow me access to our study again.
       
      Thank you, so much
      Sister Dunston
      · 2 replies
    • SpiritualSister 24  »  DARLENE2022

      Hello, Darlene, I just love your name, I had a cousin named Darline, and had a classmate also named Darlene! It's a pleasure to know another Darlene! Especially a Spiritual Sister! There's some websites, Ministry Ideaz , JW Stuff.com, and Etsy that I use to order my yearly buttons for the Conventions! They always send me what I order, and their also Jehovah's Witnesses, that send us the merchandise we order!  You can check out these websites, and they might have what your looking for! I hope I have been helpful in assisting you, Darlene! Agape love, Shirley!😀
      · 1 reply
    • SpiritualSister 24

      2024"Enter Into God's Rest" Circuit Assembly! 
      · 0 replies
    • Janice Lewis  »  T.B. (Twyla)

      Hello Twyla, when will the weekly study material be available. I am a member.
      Janice Lewis     lewisjanice84@gmail.com
      Thank you
      · 1 reply
  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      65.4k
    • Total Posts
      159.9k
  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      17,694
    • Most Online
      1,797

    Newest Member
    Gardeniableu
    Joined
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Service Confirmation Terms of Use Privacy Policy Guidelines We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.