Quote:
Originally Posted by OBW
I don't say that there are no problems anywhere. But the problems are the actual problems, not the ones layered on by implication of purist theology..
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Well, I arguably "layered on" problems in my previous discussion of the organization of the fellowship of believers (i.e.
the church), whether that organizing tendency was a problem in and of itself. I mostly saw my questioning as a public thought exercise, but as you point out the danger is that 1) there is really no way to prove if my hypothesis (say, "organizing is bad") is right or not (rather to take a stubborn satisfaction that no one can dislodge me from my position), and 2) that even if I gain a gaggle of admirers of my ideas ---
Look, everyone, here is the most penetrating analyses yet!! --- really, what has it changed? What practical alternative does it offer? Really, none; except for me the freedom of being able to think "differently". For that experience alone, I am grateful. But beyond that, probably nothing good was done.
And certainly this recent thought exercise of mine (of course I speak not for other posters) has been similar. My question might have been posed thus: In the parables of Jesus, what do we see of the connections between this life and the life to come? And my attempts to tease meaning out of details like "owing 50 measures of wheat versus 100 measures" and so forth really doesn't go anywhere definitive. There is of course a "big picture" which most readers sense anyway, however they articulate it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by OBW
We are poised to develop a new and better theology about how to say it right (and without intention, start looking down our noses at those who don't do it that way or agree with it)...
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I appreciate your taking the time to critique in detail. I see the value in your commentary.