Question 1: Why would God torture his own son?

This question addresses the process of the redemption of man. The Bible teaches that every human is born into sin, or rebellion from God (Romans 3:23). It goes further to say that God's perfect character cannot stand this sin and sin cannot dwell in the presence of God without incurring His wrath.(Romans 1:18) Therefore, in order to be made right with God, it is necessary for this sin to be removed. All through the Old Testament, to pay for sin, God required that something be sacrificed in place of our sin because God is perfectly just and requires payment for this sin (Hebrews 10:4-10, Romans 3:25). However, because God loves us so much, He sent His Son to pay the death penalty for all our sins once and for all (John 3:16) so that we can have a relationship with Him. It is also important to note that Jesus was not tortured against his will. The Bible holds that Jesus and God the Father are unified in purpose and being (John 1:1 and 1:14) and that Jesus was fully aware, yet still willingly accepted to die for our sins (Matthew 26:39). Ultimately, God would allow His Son to be brutally murdered because He so greatly loves us and desires to be with us (Romans 5:8).

Introduction

This blog is here to provide a simple solution to the question of where to post the questions and answers from the Unum Fall 2008 Q&A barbecue. The comments section will be enabled for the purpose of enabling discussion, but meaningless or vitriolic comments on either side of any issue are subject to deletion. It may also become a compilation for reference sources relevant to the questions and answers as well.

Let us think and reason. Let us cogently seek and present truth. Let us pursue reality with all of our hearts and minds, whatever the existential, emotional, and personal social consequences. With the same commitment, let us accurately discern and avoid the traps presented by self-delusion.

And with that, we begin.

Have at it :).

-Josh M.