N0008
January 1, 1990
There are some issues about Christian doctrine and apologetics that I would like to clarify by raising some questions for discussion. They generally have to do with the doctrine of revelation and its implications.
It is taught and believed in Christianity that all men have sinned and that without the salvation of Christ, men will perish (Rom. 3:23; Jn. 3:16).
What is the sin of man for which he will perish? It seems appropriate for a man to ask, what is my sin that merits everlasting judgment?
Paul in Romans 1:20 writes of a clear general revelation of God’s nature for which men are without excuse.
Q1. Can men be held accountable without a clear general revelation?
Q2. Wherein consists the clarity of this revelation that leaves men without excuse?
Q3. Must men repent of this sin in coming to Christ?
Q4. Must a faithful witness be able to show the clarity of this revelation to all who question it (at least take the thought captive, 2 Cor. 10:4)?
Q5. What does the failure to see clear revelation imply about human nature and divine judgment?
Paul, in Romans 2:14, writes that the requirements of the law are written on the hearts
of all men. This would be another dimension of general revelation.
Q6. Should a faithful witness be able to show a non-believer that this law is in his heart?
Q.7. Must a non-believer in coming to Christ acknowledge this law is in his heart?
Q8. Is this law, as it is already in every man’s heart, a necessary basis for making disciples of all nations?
John writes that in Him (the Logos) was life, and that life was the light of men (Jn. 1:4).
Q9. What is this light of men that is the life of God?
Q10. Is this light in all men? (see also Jn. 3:20)
Q11. What, if any, is the connection between the light and the clarity of general revelation?
I ask these questions, hoping for a dialogue, the outcome of which would advance the kingdom of God in our day.
Surrendra Gangadean
Tags: general revelation; clarity and inexcusability; moral law; light of the Logos; unbelief and repentance
Editor’s Note: The original context of this letter is unknown; it dates to 1990.
For further reading: Other publications by Dr. Surrendra Gangadean