Posted by Cygnus [Cygnus] on November 02, 1999 at 13:45:25 {.c1iAaocfMrol7LMpW5IL4bdfUTIaI}:
In Reply to: ***Jehova and Lotto!!!!! posted by Rick on November 01, 1999 at 19:35:06:
Rick,
: : 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").
There can be only one.
: 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?
I don't have an opinion, to be honest. For all I know, the Society might be right on the money as far as interpreting Revelation. I do not believe Jesus, apostle Paul, or anyone previous to the author of Revelation had any idea about the number 144,000, and honestly such a literal number not only contradicts a lot of the NT, but is just a silly idea. What does Jesus need with exactly 144,000 people in his administration?
: : 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?
You're changing the subject, Rick. Atheists by definition cannot hate a deity they do not believe exists.
: 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?
How do you know God has such power? What evidence gives you reason to believe so?
Also, perhaps God's purpose for everyone is dharmic reincarnation. That's certainly not the same as resurrection, but it gives a soul the opportunity to reach a certain Nirvana. There are many such options besides resurrection.
: 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!
I agree with that latter statement.
: 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.
As I said, there are other options you haven't considered, I don't think.
: 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.
I personally don't believe love dies that way.
Why do you think a loving God must by definition automatically resurrect people?