Jesus God

So, I have this friend that has significantly and profoundly impacted my beliefs and my operations as a Christian in a way that no other person has since I became a Christian. He challenged my beliefs in many areas that, frankly, I didn't think needed challenging. His own beliefs have radically evolved in the few year gap in our friendship where we didn't hang out together.

One of the beliefs he has altered is the divinity of Jesus. He no longer believes that Jesus is God, though he is quick to affirm that Jesus is the name to be praised above all others, and that He is worthy of our worship and admiration such as no other man alive. He was the first of all men to be completely united with the Holy Spirit of God Himself to become the thing that God wishes for all men to become. He also doesn't arrive at this decision willy nilly. He views it as simple logical cohesion. How can you believe in one God, yet there are different personages for him? My friend said this is mental gymnastics trying to accomodate a simple untruth.

It's a frightening idea. Not only is it the core tenant of my beliefs, but I'm certain all American Christians. If Jesus is indeed literally God, to deny that would be a blasphemy I would not be willing to take.

It's also empowering. Jesus said these mysterious things like, "be holy as I am holy," and "greater things than these will you do," and it seems a little defeating knowing that He's God. But if He isn't, and we can have the exact same access to the exact same Power and Personage He does, then that's an exciting possibility. That opens up potential for us that seemed impossible prior.

As such, this is something I want very much to be able to arrive to a conclusion on my own. I've always taken the "truth of the matter" for granted, but do wonder if perhaps there is merit in my friend's words. I want to dedicate myself to reading the new testament. I want to start with hebrews, as i think this book has the most information as to who Jesus is, and his nature. After I've accomplished that, I want to read what others say about the topic, both Christian and non-Christian. I feel this is something important that I most definitely need an answer for.

Purpose

The purpose of this blog is to talk about religion and philosophy. The two don't always go together, but I'mpretty lazy, so layoff me. You're lucky you're getting this much. I mean, come on, do you see the ridiculous number of blogs I've got. Ungrateful bastards.