[blue-duncan]

“But, let me ask you something: what would it take for you to believe (and willing to die for that belief) that a homeless man in a New York subway, begging, is Christ almighty?”

“However, I am unaware that Christ has actually done anything like what you specifically suggest since His Ascension.”

Not since the acsension, but in one of the most unlikely spots, he revealed himself as Messiah, one criminal to another, while both were undergoing capital punishment. Even one of the guards recognized him while being executed. Using that as an example, if Christ came as a homeless person, those called would recognize him, just as they will the “thief in the night”.

[kosta50]

he revealed himself as Messiah, one criminal to another, while both were undergoing capital punishment. Even one of the guards recognized him while being executed. Using that as an example, if Christ came as a homeless person, those called would recognize him

Thank you, then there is no need for preaching and teaching or the bible. Neither the theif has heard any of His teaching, nor did the Roman guard, who being Roman also didn't know the Old Testament.

Since, accoding to Reformed theology, God determiend who will "recognize" Him and who won't, it's pointless for us to go and "find" them for Him. LOL!

[Alamo-Girl]

Thank you so very much for sharing your insights, dear brother in Christ!

To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. – John 10:3-5

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: - John 10:27

To God be the glory!

[Forest Keeper]

FK: “However, I am unaware that Christ has actually done anything like [appearing as a homeless person] since His Ascension.”

Not since the ascension, but in one of the most unlikely spots, he revealed himself as Messiah, one criminal to another, while both were undergoing capital punishment. Even one of the guards recognized him while being executed. Using that as an example, if Christ came as a homeless person, those called would recognize him, just as they will the “thief in the night”.

Yes, that's a good point. I was thinking of the story of Cleopas (and friend) on the road to Emmaus. After reading it again, I suppose they weren't technically believers at that time, which supports what you're saying.