Posted by Rick [Rick] on November 01, 1999 at 19:35:06 {2gTL9dbN6k7ajbiu2wnkFMFBt36Xyc}:
In Reply to: **Jehova and Lotto!!!!! posted by Cygnus on November 01, 1999 at 17:38:35:
> Now Rick, I think you need to study your Bible a little closer. The earthly survivors of the great tribulation are to be restored to physical perfection, but are not granted immortality (or, incorruptibility). That is reserved for the 144,000 as Paul clearly stated in First Corinthians chapter fifteen.
I use the term loosely for visitors who are non-JWs, and who view "immortality" simply as not aging (like that guy in that movie "Highlander"). I realize the Society's teaching. I'm curious if you agree with the Society's present teaching on immortality for only 144,000, Cyg?
> Would you really worship (however you define it) and love God if you are destined to meet the same fate as what a common atheist expects, Rick? Seems to me the underlying theme of Christianity is the resurrection hope (1 Cor 15:14,15). If there were no resurrection, would you still be a Christian, Rick?"
That's a trick question! If I were God, and I loved you, would I give you the same fate as those who hate me? Further, if I did, then how could you love me knowing that I had the power to give you life everlasting, but withheld that power? So your question is really academic, as the answer serves no purpose. I could answer you, "no, I couldn't still be a Christian." Would that mean I didn't love God? Not necessarily!
It could mean, that I love God, but in realizing he didn't love me (in this hypothetical question you created), not wanting me to be with him forever, I would just give up and throw in the towel. But that won't happen.
It's like someone asking, "If you were in love with someone, and discovered they didn't love you, would you still love them?" This is circular and cannot compute.
Rick