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NASB | Matthew 3:15 But Jesus answering said to him, "Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he *permitted Him. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 3:15 But Jesus replied to him, "Permit it just now; for this is the fitting way for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then John permitted [it and baptized] Him. |
Subject: Character of Purpose |
Bible Note: Dear Daniel, Let's see if I understand you... It seems you use "divine plan" and "purpose" interchangeably. I'm also curious about how we can quantify the amount character that is sufficient. However, for the sake of this discussion, we'll set discussion of these points aside. If I understand your theology properly, a man with sufficient character may respond to God's divine plan. Indeed, only men with sufficient character can respond to God's divine plan, while men with insufficient character cannot. Therefore, God's divine plan for people with insufficient character is always thwarted. Furthermore, people with sufficient character may choose a contrary path, thereby also thwarting God's divine plan. It would seem, at best, God's plans are not really plans, more like hopeful possibilities or wishful thinking, for He is dependent on the cooperative participation of the people with sufficient character. God is impotent to insure that His plans are fulfilled. On the other hand, all people with character have the power to decide their own course at any time. If I've mis-characterized your assertions, please correct me. However, in theological terms we could summarize your doctrine as (1) the moral inability of people without character; (2) the sovereignty of people with character; and (3) the bondage of God's will. If I have it right, might we find some didactic Scripture to support your teaching? In Him, Doc |