Hmm - a dangerous argument
Submitted by Forgiven on July 22 2000 04:00:33
In reply to Why do we need a revelation? submitted by Chris on July 21 2000 21:12:39
|
As with so many theological arguments, there is a measure of truth in what you are saying, but if taken to its logical extreme leads to a falsehood. There is a truth in the absolute need for revelation from God at the core of the Christian life. Although it is the work of the church to proclaim the gospel, ultimately there is the work of the Holy Spirit to convict the world of sin and convince the unbeliever of the validity of the offer of cross to bring forgiveness. It is in that context that it is undoubtedly correct for the church to call people to repentence, as the preaching of the apostles (Acts 2 v 38, 3 v 26, 17 v 31 for example). On the other hand the emotional overload that evangelists too often impose to try to do the convincing themself is undoubtedly at least dangerous, if not wrong, if people succumb to the convincing of the preacher, not the work of the Holy Spirit. A gentle wander through the New Testament epistles leaves no room for this belief in its simple form: "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I Jn 1 v8,9 "Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived, neither the immoral,.... nor thieves, nor the greedy nor drunkards .... will inherit the kingdom of God" 1 Cor 6 v9,10. Note that this was written to church members, not to non Christians. "He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is that loves me [Jesus]" Jn 14 v 21 The core question for all of us is 'Why do I think I am going to be with God after I die'. I'll let others offer their answers! I look forward to a heavy discussion for the weekend :-) |
Follow ups: