What did Jesus Come to Save us From?

[Dichotomy Girl]

Originally Posted by n david

Why did we need saving from sins, if all that happens at the end is a stint in rehab and a slap on the fanny?

You know my husband and I had a spirited debate about this last night. I find it refreshing to go home and discuss spiritual matters with an Atheist after a day of discussion with Apostolics.

Anyway, in the course of our discussion, this topic came up. Firstly, I never necessarily said we didn't need saving, nor that I didn't believe that Jesus was Savior. Do I lean towards universal reconciliation? Yes. I believed that Jesus' death paid the price for everyone. Period. But I do believe there will be a judgment for our actions in this life, our sins against others, Etc. And I hardly think it will constitute a "slap on the fanny".

Have you ever had the veil lifted from your eyes, and in a moment saw clearly the truth about something you had done/said/believed and how much it had hurt or damaged another person? Maybe it was something that you couldn't fix or undo, and so you were filled with terrible regret? (Like the moment when Nathan the prophet said to David "You are that Man!") Now imagine for a moment seeing your entire life laid bare like that, seeing the consequences and results of every action, word and self-deception.

The regret and despair would be overwhelming in its scope, to the point where I don't think we could even imagine it. And realizing that your life was done, there was no changing, or fixing, or undoing, or making right. I tremble to think of it.

So please believe me when I say that I believe there is infinite value in being a Christian (even if I don't believe you HAVE to be). Firstly, Jesus is just awesome. No matter how many issues I have ever had with ANY aspect of religion, I have never wavered in that regard. Secondly, my life is infinitely superior Post-Jesus (I was blind but now I see.). It has enhanced my relationships, my psychological well-being, my integrity, my work-ethic, and He has been my shelter in the storm.

This is what I tell my husband, to whom scripture is meaningless, and doctrine laughable, and the idea of a divine being preposterous: That Jesus' love changed me.