From: John Burgeson (burgythree@hotmail.com)
Date: Mon Apr 28 2003 - 21:20:50 EDT
Jason wrote, in part: "I agree that it is important to know God, but this
importance is not nearly as weighty as accurate knowledge."
Here is where I disagree, and also why I disagree. Friend wife and I have
been involved with SS classes designed for mentally challenged adults. These
people don't have "accurate knowledge." They have very limited knowledge.
They don't read -- so all they "know" must necessarily come from others. Yet
in every important way -- love of one another, compassion, desire to know as
much about God as they can -- they are Christians.
"Accurate knowledge is what separates me from Islam and Judaism, both of
which claim to worship the same God."
You, then, have the narrow view of Christ's comment to Thomas about "the
way." Perforce, then, you must also have the view that unless a person
somehow acquires "accurate knowledge," they will not attain heaven. Which
means myriads of human beings, pre-33 AD as well as in more modern times,
are so condemned. I understand that view; I have difficulty understanding
how anyone can hold it and still hold to a loving and just god. One or the
other concept has to be rejected, to be consistent and coherent. IMHO.
There is a wider view, of course, of that passage. JC IS the way, etc. but
it does not follow that "only those with accurate knowledge" will find that
way.
"The unique and saving aspect of Christianity is the knowledge of the
nature of Christ (fully God; fully man), his atonement (as a substitutionary
payment for my sin), and that my penalty is removed completely by the action
of God, not my own doing. This accurate knowledge is what counts."
So to attain your heaven, I must pass an exam? And if I have the slightest
doubt about any of this, I don't get in?
I envy you your certainty. But I suggest that you are quite certain about
what is simply one interpretation of the scriptures. What if you are wrong?
As for the proof text you quoted, I think it might support my position
rather better than yours.
Best.
Burgy
www.burgy.50megs.com
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