Subject: Do we go directly to Heaven? |
Bible Note: David I do not know where you got the information on crucifixion but anytime the body is suspended from the arms either vertical or from them being pulled out horizontal the diaphragm is unable to overcome the shoulder muscle tension to allow it to draw air into the lungs. The Romans perfected crucifixion, and invented many ways to prolong the agony. History records they were able to have their victims survive unbelievably long on the cross, much to the Roman’s enjoyment. Romans took great enjoyment watching the internal conflict that took place within the victim. The victim was faced with inflicting more pain upon ones body by pressing against impaled feet versus the desire of self preservation relief from asphyxiation. This was brought to a climax as the victim tired and his struggles became even more desperate and wrenching. Nonetheless the breaking of the legs (actually a smashing of the knee joint by a blow from a large mallet), thereby preventing the victim from taking the pressure off his upper body so the diaphragm could draw in more air, brought an immediate end to the victim. This was used anytime the process needed to be speeded up for what ever reason. In this case to appease the Jews by not having victims on the cross during Sabbath. The reason for Jesus’ dying within the time span recorded in scripture was obviously his severely degraded physical condition brought on by his flogging and subsequent mistreatment. There is nothing recorded in scripture or secular history that remotely suggests the condemned thieves were removed from the cross and reattached days later. Strong’s while very accurate does not provide understanding of Greek word but rather how the words were translated by the KJV scholars. Greek language students that have studied this passage agree Jesus is not talking here about his forthcoming ascension in 40 days nor the idea he hadn’t yet appeared before God since His death. The passage clearly shows he is admonishing Mary not to delay Him as he had much to do in the next 40 days. It was also spoken to comfort Mary by telling her Jesus would remain yet for a period of time. To debate over the meaning of the word “paradise” here is futile since immediately upon Jesus’ death it changed from Abraham’s bosom to Heaven. In any case Jesus lead captivity captive to say it another way took everyone out of Abraham’s bosom (paradise) and lead them into the presence of the God. Your assertion that because Luke 16 is a parable, therefore it is not true, is based on what? That Jesus told tall tales? Parables are not spun tales based on untrue concepts but rather statements based on familiar concepts projecting truth. The parable of Luke 16 lined up totally with the Jewish concept of death, and Hades as had been established throughout the Jewish culture/religion long before Jesus’ time. If the Jews had the wrong perception of death and Hades would not Jesus use the opportunity presented in Luke 16 to bring correction to their understanding? Your suggestion that Jesus would tell parable that would reinforce a incorrect belief is highly unlikely and violates everything we know about Jesus. Your argument of Hades is confused with the Lake of Fire. In Luke 16 the side of the unrighteous is described as a hot dry place, so yes a few drops of water would be a welcomed relief. Remember the souls residing there have not yet stood before the Judgement seat they are not experiencing punishment as much as they aren’t being made comfortable while they wait their fate. This compares to our treatment of criminals today. When a criminal is arrested he is placed in a holding cell and kept out of general population, why because he has not yet been judged guilty. However once convicted he is move to a much worst place where he will serve his time. To us both places seem undesirable but I assure you if you ask any prisoner, he would rather be where he was when first arrested before conviction. Your interpretation of 2 Cor 5:8 by comparing it to Col 2:5 violates established laws of language and rips the verses out of context. The concept presented in 2 Cor. 5:8 is further reinforced by Philip. 1:23 “For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” Consulting every major commentator on this subject confirms that this passage is rightly talking about departing from this body in death and coming into the presence of the Lord, which we know is in God presence thus in heaven. EdB |