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Originally Posted by Splendour
Isn't the aim of the bible spiritual growth?
I'm sure it's on of the aims of the Bible.
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Maybe some religious leaders outstrip others in spiritual growth.
I think universalism is a doctrine that outstrips eternal hell and torment doctrine by miles and it also reveals the inconsistencies of eternal hell doctrine.
But, you can't "outstrip it" if it indeed exists. Like I said, I lean more towards the annihilation camp than the eternal punishment camp, but because some Biblical scholars have reached a conclusion that's more palatable to your sensibilities doesn't mean it's correct.
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Mercy is higher than judgment in God's mind.
When you're talking about theology then you're talking about God's mind. It's a shame so many people want to limit God's mercy off of literal interpretations of the bible.
Sure, it would be a shame if those interpretations were wrong. It would also be a shame if you and other Universalists are wrong and have angered God by spreading false doctrine.
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Jesus Christ said:
New International Version (©1984)
But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself."
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Do you see the word all believers above or just all men/all people?
Who's word are you going to take on this? Men's interpretations or Jesus Christ's?
You can research more verses on your own. There's no lock on the bible.
Silly, did you really think the good Lord would fail any man? Failing and imperfection is all on men's part.
As for God, He is perfect and always has been.
I could go through and quote mine passages that make it sound like faith is necessary for salvation as well. That won't get us anywhere.
If the Universalists are correct, what incentive is there to be a believer in the first place? If you can subvert everything God desires and has commanded and still be saved, why follow at all?