metmom wrote:
“If someones doctrine doesn’t match mine in areas where it is not critical for one’s salvation, then I figure it’s up to God to convict them. There is no compromise however, on the virgin birth, the deity of Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection though.”
Forest Keeper replied:
“Yup, I couldn’t agree more. Core principles are non-negotiable to be within the theater of Christianity.”
I completely and wholeheartedly agree with both of the statements above, and so does the Christian Church of every century. There are non-negotiable doctrines. The fundamental confession of the Holy Christian Church since the 2nd century A.D. has been the Apostles Creed. These are the non-negotiable doctrines. Disagreement on any point is cause to assume that the one who disagrees is either a) sincerely ignorant and in urgent need of correction and serious instruction or b) not Christian. There is no in-between. That is how non-negotiable its assertions are.
I agree, but there is one small matter I am curious about. What do you say about the precise meaning of "He descended into hell"? I have read very different interpretations from people I in all other ways consider fully Christian. Could there be any room on this issue?
My current understanding/belief is that He did NOT go to "lake of fire" hell, since that is a final, post-Judgment destination. Rather, He went to what the OT calls sheol or hades. In that place were held the OT saints as well as those who were doomed but awaiting final judgment. The NT refers to this place (the "good" side) as Abraham's bosom or paradise, hence His statement to the thief of being with him there that day. How do you see it?