The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum The politics and theology of the Sadducees

And again out of curiosity, what was the pastor's point in all this? Was he consistent with his premise and therefore tell you that unless you are a member/supporter of the current political party where you live, you can expect to be the 'victim' of hatred and persecution?

I cannot emphasize enough that the hatred that the contemporaries of Christ showed toward Him was deep-seated and personal. For if Jesus of Nazareth was indeed the incarnate Son of God, then as the Supreme Judge of all the earth, ALL would have to bow before Him, stand before Him in judgment, be found guilty and finally sentenced to eternal damnation. And, perhaps more immediately threatening to them is the fact that as God, He knew all; every dirty little secret. The divine Light is blinding to those who cannot see and extremely painful to behold. But to those who have been eyes to see, the pain of exposure pales in comparison to the relief of having all that burden, all that guilt, taken away and then being able to bask in the warm of the Sonlight of His love and acceptance.