What is redemption meant to be all about? Is it just so that when we die we go to Heaven and live happily ever after or has God something else, more profound, more exciting, more intimate perhaps, in store for those who come under the Blood of Jesus?
Thinking of redemption as the core issue of the gospel has lead us into all these back and forth theological discussions that acheive nothing in the scheme of establishing the Church of Jesus Christ. Arguing over determinism, previent grace or whatever else head Christians like to argue over is silly in the economy of God. Anyone who cannot see that this issue has done more to divide rather than unite His Body, needs eye[head] salve. The only other subject that might equal it as a distraction is the subject of the tribulation. Will it be before, during, or after that the Church is raptured? I say, if you are a watching and waiting Christian, why should it matter to you?
Ok, If we can agree that the Church of Jesus Christ is comprised of redeemed souls, what is the "quality" of the redeemed soul God is after, if indeed He is, and why would He be looking for a certain quality? Perhaps another way of asking would be, what are we saved for, what is God's intention for His children? Now, please don't respond with the overly used and shallow words, "For His good pleasure". That will only indicate that you really don't know and are part of the "white knuckle club". Instead, How about some good thoughtout responses, leaving agenda[s] aside? Can you hear me all you "Hyper Anythings" out there? No commentaries allowed as scripture and that goes for Bibles with them in it. I full well understand that most opinions are based upon commentaries however, try to adhere to the Bible alone and your understanding of it which we all, no doubt, will struggle with. My preference is the KJV for any discussion as this with difficult to understand passages helped along by other cited translations. That can be tough because most other translations are biased/slanted. However, sufficient will be the input given by them that may give the KJV clarity. [a kick start]
It is with the Bible that I pray any correction/adjustment will come and not from some agenda ridden commentary written in or of it. If you want to quote commentary, no problem, just don't claim it as your own thinking or as scripture. It is always obvious when someone does that because having no knowledge of their own, that is all they will recite..I am hoping for more honesty here.
It will seem a little radical in the minds of some,to be sure. However, may honesty prevail and tempers be long. So, any takers?
Good hunting to all,
Orm