Post by robin on Nov 18, 2009 16:12:40 GMT -8
If his death, the blame for his death, and his forgiveness are all to be examined in a historical context only, then what is it we believe in? In other words, it's not history that we have faith in, it is the universality of what he did in that moment for all of the future of mankind -- this is what we have faith in. If this is true, we must also accept that the moment in time, the actions taken, the words spoken are universal in meaning as well -- even the blame is universal.
I see your point, and I can see that it may very well be correct. However, Jesus uttered many words, not all were meant to apply universally throughout the ages. Jesus' words are comforting to me in the sense that it shows that God truly is Just, and takes not only our actions, but also circumstances into consideration when judging us.
But I must disagree on your overall point that Jesus was seeking acquittal of all involved in His persecution and crucification. It seems to me that there were some in power who new very well who Jesus was (remember Nicodemus?), yet they chose to fear Rome, and not God (John 11:48). Or perhaps they just loved their positions of honor and power(Matthew 6), and could see that if Jesus were the Messiah that they stood to lose all they loved, and instead Jesus would appoint fishermen, and tax collectors to rule with Him.
