Subject: Studying O.T. is creating problems. |
Bible Note: Greetings Free Thinker! May I address two of your points my friend? 1) Slavery: There isn't any verse which says that slavery is a good thing. However, slavery was a reality in the ancient world and even in the not so distant past of our own history. My understanding of the verses dealing with slavery is that they are similar to the ones dealing with divorce. God does not condon either one, but provides guidelines to protect the innocent. God's revelation is oftentimes progressive. I believe that this is the case with slavery. God never condones it, but regulates it to introduce people to later concepts of equality which are made clear in the New Testament. 2) Cavemen: One thing that Scripture is clear on is that we are not condemned because of what Adam and Eve did, we are condemned because of our own sin. Adam and Eve's sin brought many terrible consequences into this world, which you consider unfair. However, you fail to realize that Christ, by dying on the cross, atoned for all sin. Was that fair? God is going to condemn you for your 'mistakes' my friend. You will be condemned (if you are) for your rebellion against God (sin). Even the way you described your relief at becoming an atheist demonstrates that rebellion is the heart of the problem. How about proof? Have you ever personally meet me? Yet, you don't doubt that I exist! Why not? Have you ever physically seen me, even in a photograph? Yet, you don't doubt that I exist! God may not have revealed Himself in the manner or method which you would prefer, but He has revealed Himself in many ways. He reveals Himself in Christ. He reveals Himself in nature. He reveals Himself in the Bible. He reveals Himself in the still small voice which speaks to us. He reveals Himself in answered prayer. He reveals Himself in the Church. He reveals Himself in His people. The problem isn't that God hasn't revealed Himself to you my friend. The problem is that you don't want to accept what He has revealed. You want it your way, not His. I don't say these things to be rude, and I hope that they are taken in that manner. I simply hope and pray that you will take the plunge and submit to Him in His way, not yours. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |