We have been considering various approaches to the scriptures, and in particular the approaches to spiritualising the events of the New Testament. These take the form of denying that there is a physical resurrection – that the disciples somehow discerned that there was something special about Jesus, and after his death felt He was still with them. I remember feeling like that at the age of 17 when my dog died by eating poison. I soon realised the truth. Its a natural reaction and part of the grieving process to think that the person (or pet) we have lost is still with us. It is NOT enough to build a religion on, nor it it enough to go to your death for. OK, OK, I know humans get it wrong, make mistakes, even deceive people, and if there's enough personal currency built up in the life story that you've invented, and that you're living out you may find there's no option but to go to your death for it. Lets face it they will probably kill you anyway. BUT lots of them? Much less likely. And think about the type of people they were – mainly fishermen. Not the sort given to these types fantasies perhaps. BTW Why do we have ascension and pentecost if its all a spiritual thing?
The same 'logic' is then applied to the return. It couldn't possible be a real return, its just something to provide hope, it won't actually happen. Its still important to these people that we engage spiritually with God, but don't make it physical – thats unacceptably real. I really hope these people don't apply these principles to their marriages!!
I know I have to know this stuff – but don't ask me to believe it!
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