But [according to the Protestant/Baptist theology] it doesn't affect the outcome, FK! It's pointless. It's like having to take continuing education courses to keep your license current, even though you can't lose your license if you don't!
Being sanctified brings us closer in our relationship to God, a thing God says He wants for us during our time here on earth
But God doesn't specify how close is close enough! In other words, it's left up to the individual to determine. It all comes down to the man-made religion tailor-made for human ego and comfort level!
This is the same issue I have with Orthodox fasting rules the way they are presented. On the one hand, the Church says everyone should do their "best." On the other hand, they should not compete with others, or boast like the Pharisees.
The Church also doesn't explain what makes some foods "bad" when the Bible says all food is good! And the Bible also says that no one should judge another based on what they eat or don't eat.
What's much more important is how many old ladies did you help cross the street, FK, then if we read the bible, fast, or even pray. Have you shown mercy? Do no harm. Are your intentions pure?
In other words, be Christ-like, be perfect as your Father in heaven in perfect. Be good, God-like, as much as you can. Not minimum, not "just enough." Theosis is "becoming like God." Regaining His likeness. Restoring your original purpose.
Just because one goes to church every Sunday, and gives money to charity, and reads the Bible and prays a lot doesn't mean he is closer to God. Being closer to God means being God-like. Being less of what we are by nature, and being more what we can be by grace. That's what theosis is.
But [according to the Protestant/Baptist theology] it doesn't affect the outcome, FK! It's pointless. It's like having to take continuing education courses to keep your license current, even though you can't lose your license if you don't!
Well, actually we DO have to take CLEs (unless we have an exemption) in order to keep our licenses. You may have a decent analogy there. :) While the license was fully granted, it does take deeds to maintain it. However, if you don't turn in your credits, eventually you WILL lose your license, (at least in Missouri). There is a reasonable comparison to salvation here. The difference is in who is in charge of getting those credits turned in on time. :)
This is the same issue I have with Orthodox fasting rules the way they are presented. On the one hand, the Church says everyone should do their "best." On the other hand, they should not compete with others, or boast like the Pharisees.
How would you describe the purpose of the Orthodox fastings rules? I.e., is the one who fasts closer to God per se, OR is the one who fasts and prays BECAUSE of it closer to God, etc.? If the latter, then everyone can try to do his best, AND there would be no point to competition. Fasting can be a very good thing. I wish my church emphasized it more.
In other words, be Christ-like, be perfect as your Father in heaven in perfect. Be good, God-like, as much as you can. Not minimum, not "just enough." ............ Being closer to God means being God-like. Being less of what we are by nature, and being more what we can be by grace. That's what theosis is.
AMEN, Kosta. :) Whether it is called theosis or sanctification, the "goal" appears to be similar.