2003-2-23 19:16:00
John asks:
Once a resolution on this PARTICULAR topic of this PARTICULAR debate: namely, the question of whether God had all foreknowledge or not, how is knowing this answer going to benefit or change one's life either spiritually or materially?
JJ: Some truths and mysteries are more interesting than others. Some find this subject very interesting and some do not, just like any other topic.
The question you ask, however, is one that is often asked inside the orthodox churches and is used as an anchor to keep the flock happy with what they have rather than seeking higher knowledge.
Some I have heard go something like this:
"I don't need to know what the meaning of this scripture is for it does not effect my salvation."
"I don't need to explore reincarnation because I have faith in the plan of God whatever it is."
"I don't need technology because the Bible doesn't endorse it."
"I don't need to know what happens after death because I have faith I am going to live with God."
"Do not delve into the mysteries because they can lead you astray."
Believers come up with all types of excuses to not explore higher knowledge, thinking it will serve no use, but does it.
Joseph Smith made an interesting statement: "A man is saved no faster than he gains knowledge." And "Man cannot be saved in ignorance."
True enlightenment consists in seeing one or more of the pictures that make up the Great Plan. Each picture is like a jigsaw puzzle with many pieces. Each truth is a piece. Some pieces do not look important until it is linked up to other pieces and then just one insignificant piece can reveal the whole picture or at least an important part.
The principle behind the knowledge of God is an important truth that will reveal much light when joined with other pieces of knowledge.
I personally have found this knowledge delicious to the taste and a door that has brought in much light to my mind that has increased my power of vision in all areas of seeing.
Every truth, no matter how insignificant or mundane, is an important piece of the great puzzle, just as every soul is an important part of the Body of God.
Copyright 2003 by J.J. Dewey, All Rights Reserved