Proboscis writes:
... you should keep the question of whether Jesus was God out of this thread,
Why? Why not ask whether it is to be taken literally?
From what Jesus said, he was either the Lord, a liar, or a crazy dude.
Why limit yourself to these choices?
I think it makes most sense that he was God out of those, don't you think?
It is not entirely clear that 'the Lord' is the same as 'the God.' If they are one and the same, then why try to split them out, as the trinitarians do?
Jesus used parables and such to help us understand the things we would NEVER otherwise be able to understand.
Some say Jesus used parables to prevent people from understanding.
quote:
"That is why I use these illustrations, so people will hear and see but not understand." Matthew 13:13 LB
if you read the Bible, it's obvious to pick out which parts are historical and which ones are to be taken figuratively.
Not at all. Thus, this thread. I think it's more challenging than simply distinguishing which parts are historical.
I think God made everyone with good judgement skills.
What the heck would drive you to such a conclusion?
If you don't accept Genesis, you obviously just want to believe in Evolution just so you can "fit in" with some of the most influencial scientists in the country.
Do you believe in the theory of Gravity? Does that mean that you
just want to believe in Gravity just so you can "fit in" with some of the most influential scientists in the country?
"I am the way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me." What do you think he means with this?
Sounds like Royal jargon. Like he thinks he's standing in the place of God.
"I and the Father are one" John 10:30 ... What do you think he was meaning there?
Sounds to me like he's saying either, "I am the father." Or: "The father and I are united."
db