The Golden Statue

[FallentoReason]

It all depends on what the golden statue represents? Are you thinking the veracity of the Gospel accounts or attaining the Kingdom of Heaven?

In the OP I used the claim of who wrote the Gospels as an example of what the golden statue represents.

The veracity of scripture is two-fold. The first concerns historical details of its production and whether the events told happened exactly as recorded. In the first case, the Gospel accounts were most likely recorded by followers of the original Apostles, rather than the Apostles themselves. Their late authorship reflects the attempt to preserve the testimony of each Apostle before his passing. I doubt any evidence of authenticity, or lack thereof, would be uncontroversial.

I don't really know what to think of these writings anymore. I have read some interesting theories of ulterior motives of why they were written, and the reason behind some of the 'counter-intuitive' theology contained in them. I want to see people's take on what I have found, but I need to read up on it some more to better understand this theory.

The second concerns the usefulness of the text as spiritual guide. For me this issue is much more important than historical accuracy. Attainment of the Kingdom of Heaven is experiencial and one that the believer confirms in their own heart. Such confirmation is similar knowing the benefits (increased energy, clarity of thought, etc.) associated with healthy diet and exercise. In the case of spiritual benefits, the scriptures start reveal their depth, the conscience grows more acute, it feels more pleasant to serve others, and easier to cultivate personal virtues.

I've always seen this 'growth' as a mindset personally. That is to say, when one is reborn (if that is what you're referring to) it's not that one feels a radical supernatural force within oneself that changes one's desires to those of Christ, but rather one [possibly] subconsciously has decided to change one's approach to life in general. I never saw this as a confirmation that God was there, but rather I told myself "this is how it's going to be".
In my own case I have found the 'Word' to be a reliable guide to the Heaven within.[/quote]

In my own case I have found the 'Word' to be a reliable guide to the Heaven within.

Is Emanuel Swedenborg's approach to the Bible a theological one still, or somewhat more philosophical? This sounds like something a yoga instructor would say (although I know nothing about yoga).

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Wow... this might be the best stuff I have seen out of Drich... you are a comic genius, my friend. Your analogies are priceless.

It made the discussion more efficient in my opinion