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TheDiscipleMd

One of the doctrines that seem to bother our Christian brothers and sisters is our concept that we can become like God. This concept seems like blasphemy to them. The teaching of this concept and similar reaction is not new. Listen to the words of Jesus Christ as spoken to the Jews.

“I and my Father are one. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God. Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God? If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand…” (John 10:30-39)

In summary, the Savior was asking the Jews, “Why are you trying to stone me to death when all I am doing is good works?” The response of the Jews was “We are not stoning you because of the good things you are doing but because you say you are the Son of God! The Savior references the scriptures as a witness that we are sons of God. And indeed the Old Testament does state that in a number of places. One such reference is found in the book of Genesis. God himself says, “Behold, the man is become as one of us…” (Gen. 3:22). After referring to the scriptures for support the Savior again pleads with them to at least to judge him by His works. By His works they should be able to judge that “the Father is in me, and I in him”. Nope! They were more interested in silencing him. Despite the Savior great miracles and good works the Jews were more concerned about protecting their “doctrine” and their traditions.

And so I see the same today with others who claim “blasphemy” when we teach that we are sons and daughters of God. They praise the character of our people, and the lives they lead. But…..”blasphemy” it is to claim that we are literal offspring of deity. Such was the lot of the Savior and such is the lot of His restored church. The adversary has been trying to hide from the people the divine nature of their origin. In keeping their royal identity hidden, he can more easily enslave them and lead them away from their rightful inheritance. We know better! As hymn #251 states “Behold A Royal Army”. All should know they are part of this royal army. We are spreading this message throughout the world in hopes that all will rise to their noble heritage. It’s a glorious mission and a glorious destiny!