Monday, May 6, 2024

Christians are often criticized for saying Jesus is the only way to God... As Well They Should Be!


Christians are often criticized for saying Jesus is the only way to God... As Well They Should Be! 

When Christ said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me," he wasn't saying it's my way or the highway. He's saying my way works. He's saying that when in doubt simply asking oneself W.W.J.D (What Would Jesus Do?) will keep you on the right path. 

As is often the case, the dogmatic interpretation shown in these screenshots is shortsighted and in being overly literal, misses the mark by being blind to the metaphorical/symbolic understanding of Jesus' words. Here are a few quotes from theologians and scholars who advocate for this perspective:

1. **Marcus Borg**: In his book "Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time," Borg suggests that Jesus' statement is about living according to his teachings and embodying his way of life rather than through exclusive religious beliefs.

2. **John Dominic Crossan**: Crossan, in his work "The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant," proposes that Jesus' statement emphasizes the importance of following his ethical teachings rather than focusing on doctrinal beliefs.

3. **John Shelby Spong**: Spong, in "Why Christianity Must Change or Die," argues that Jesus' words should be understood as an invitation to adopt his radical love and compassion rather than as a requirement for exclusive religious affiliation.

4. **Karen Armstrong**: Armstrong, in various writings including "The Case for God," suggests that Jesus' statement is about embodying the divine qualities of compassion, love, and forgiveness rather than subscribing to particular religious dogmas.

These scholars interpret Jesus' words within the context of his teachings and actions, emphasizing the ethical and moral dimensions of his message rather than a narrow exclusivist understanding.

There is much more evidence that supports this view, which I will be compiling soon, but it also concerns whether Christ was God or just of God and thus will be presented on it's own and then linked together on:

God bless! Until then, have a great day all you children of God out there! 

"Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." --- Jesus Christ