R&I ~ MJM
For a while now, I have been Hard-pressed to confess -Jesus is God-, as one who claims Him as her own, yet not “professing him GOD” myself, like everyone else. This distracts and is often off-topic. So this OP is for that purpose. If you are non-Christian and choose to participate (which I hope you do:), I politely ask that you respond “for the sake of [the] argument”. But as always, you do you:)
I think it important, that we first define what a God is, and then look at the scriptures accordingly, as the definition for GOD is a very broad one. Even within the Bible itself. Context being everything!
Merriam-Webster (I find this one covers most bases:)
1. The supreme or ultimate reality:
a. A Being perfect in power, wisdom, and goodness who is worshipped as creator and ruler of the universe (as in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism)
b. Christian Science: the incorporeal divine Principle ruling over all as eternal Spirit; infinite mind
2. A being or object that is worshiped as having more than natural attributes and powers specifically one controlling a particular aspect or part of reality( such as Greek Gods)
3. A person or thing of supreme value (idols)
4. A powerful ruler (such as Presidents/kings; Can also include Judges)
Jesus can be said to be every one of these; Theologically, Doctrinally, and Scripturally. Some will even say that all three of these are in agreement. But upon closer examination of all three, under the surface, it is actually something quite different.
Indeed, the majority of denominations will agree on the foundational aspects -such as Jesus’ God status, the crucifixion, and the resurrection. Yet there are those few in-between who are “silenced”; who see something different, walking against the tide.
So to those, who would demand me profess what I don’t see, or brush me off because I don’t speak as -you- do, let’s take this opportunity to reason this together:)
Please present your evidence -according to scripture-. Please, do not flood me with 30 scriptural verses. Let’s set a limit of 5 at a time, -per- testament. Cross-references are fine, but let’s limit those to 3, to keep things focused and on point. Deal?
Are you ready?
Let’s begin! 🙂
L.O.V.E.