Disclaimer: About This Blog

THIS BLOG IS: my personal journey of how I am rethinking some of my spiritual beliefs.
THIS BLOG IS NOT: intended to point fingers at people who I think are wrong.
I do not believe the final judgement will be based on how many correct answers we get on a theology exam. I believe many people throughout history have had genuine relationships with God, despite holding questionable beliefs and practices. I make no claim to having it all figured out or being your judge. If we end up disagreeing over these topics I pray we can find a way to demonstrate grace.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Good News of Adoption

We have some close friends who are excited about adopting a child from Ethiopia. This analogy came to mine that may help express my thoughts around our modern evangelical gospel message.

Here are two good news messages my friends could share with their child when they meet her (or when she is old enough and has learned enough English).

Good news message #1:

  • We are a good family.
  • You were stuck in a bad situation.
  • Do you want to understand the legal transactions that allowed us to get you from where you were to our good home?
  • Do you want to know what price we paid to free you and give you a new life?

Good news message #2:

  • We love you and want to give you guidance in a good new life.

Both good news messages are valid, however:
Option #1 could get a bit complex for a young child to understand.
Option #2 could possibly be demonstrated through non-verbal hugs, kisses, and a general loving household.


Option #1 is similar to the standard modern gospel which requires proof texting to attempt to answer the question "How can a Holy God make things right and be in a relationship with sinners?". There are some good things to discuss and complex issues to grapple with, but are we sure this is the most important starting place?

I think option #2 fits with the good news of the kingdom of God that Jesus frequently preached about. That He, the King, wants to adopt each of us as His children, so he can love us and guide us in His kingdom. Yes there will be further discussions as the child grows up, but I think this is a great place to start.

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