Subject: Suffering and God's providence |
Bible Note: At Doc’s request: 1. Where the comment was made, “They've done their homework, now do yours. Scripture, son, dig into the Scripture!” The assumption made, it seems, is that I am negligent in studying the Bible and unwilling to ascertain it’s truths. Granted I may not intellectually grasp the Bible or spend the time studying as does Edwards and company but that does not necessarily mean I am lacking commitment to the Word or that I am wrong concerning what I presently understand to be Biblical truth. 2. It was also advised that I “Care enough for the truth to be willing to be wrong,” giving the impression that it is suggested I am proud, that is, not teachable. Now I understand, given the context, that I am only being encouraged to defend the truth. However, this board, at least to me, is a fellowship of believers. As you said, “Our contention is not about being right or wrong.” For me, it is fellowship; discussing biblical views with others and, in light of another’s insights, hammering out what we feel God is speaking to us. If change is required, I agree, it should be made. However, to change one's view held in good conscience according to how he understands the Bible, should not be expected. As such, it is not a matter of whether the views I hold should be true for everyone. I cannot understand how or why one would jump into a discussion of pluralism. Disagreements here have nothing to do with pluralism and everything to do with gaining better a understanding of God through fellowship. That is not to say that there are not views essential and unique to the Christian faith, which must be adhered to and upheld, e.g. the incarnation, the Cross, the trinity. But there are some views that I believe, believed by all Christians in its essentials but viewed differently in a theological and practical framework, e.g. the doctrine of divine omnipotence. Christians believe that God is omnipotent but they disagree on what omnipotence entails. So I disagree with Edwards. What is the big deal? The impression made is that if I disagree with Edwards then I must be a heretic or, at the least, entertain heretical thoughts. Then it is further thought that my salvation is in jeopardy or (for those who adhere to “eternal security”) I must not be a “genuine” believer. It seems, rather than just discuss the issue, there is an attempt to “discern” the character or kind of person behind the statements being made, whether they are saved or not, honest or not, deceived or not studious or not. I would surmise that the Internet is not the place to attempt making such evaluations. Ten times out of ten so evaluations are wrong. I leave this as something to think about, not respond to. As such, it is respectfully submited that any further discussion on this issue is unnecessary. However, if someone feels strongly that this need to be addressed further, you may send it to my personal email me account. |