Quote:
Originally Posted by aron
...we're promised that we'll be "transformed into the same image, from glory to glory", but image and glorification doesn't mean becoming God. My dog is like my cat ...
|
Each animal was created after it's own kind (Gen 1:24,25). And we are arguably "God's kind". God our Creator is also our Father in heaven. We were once estranged, but by faith are now endeavouring to return home.
But the essential point, never overturned or contravened that I can see, is "Hear O Israel; God is one". God alone is God. That's never compromised, ever. I don't wish an attempt. I'm hopefully returning to my destiny by becoming God's kind, but I'm not God. Nor is anyone else that I can see, other than Jesus Christ Himself. And yes we are called to be "one" even as Jesus is one with the Father, but that doesn't mean that my identity is merged with Joe and Pete and Susie down the street. It means cooperation, sympathy, coordination. We are "one" with God by being fully obedient to His will. But we are not God. And I am "one" with Joe, but Joe is Joe and I am me.
Secondly, I repeat my earlier comments about stewardship and faithfulness. "It's expected of a servant that he (or she) be found faithful." (see e.g. 1 Cor 4:1-8). And indeed the faithful and prudent servant can hope for reward. But to reach beyond one's grasp is anathema.
In this vein I presented the example of faithful stewardship, given repeatedly in scripture. I used the example of Gabriel, speaking to Zechariah, and Mary; Gabriel stood before God's throne (Luke 1:19) and received the word of command, and as an emissary who was sent, conveyed the message faithfully to its designated recipient. But Gabriel the faithful steward, entrusted with God's will, never presumed pride of place; no one suggested Gabriel becoming God. If Gabriel the faithful, sinless angel never lifts himself up beyond what is seemly, then why should I the redeemed sinner?
"Oh, but don't you know that we'll judge the angels?" (1 Cor 6:2,3). If you're basing deification notions on such slender reeds, good luck. I won't. It's simply insufficient basis; it's the usual "Lee's logical leaps" in action. Imaginary worlds built out of cherry-picked verses.