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wolfpurplemoonThe phrase 'it is reserved in heaven for you' made me think of email and phone scams where it is claimed there are large amounts of money or nice prizes waiting just for you. In fact I just recently came across a quote by Gloria Steinem which is related: "It’s an incredible con job when you think about it, to believe something now in exchange for something after death. Even corporations with their reward systems don’t try to make it posthumous."
It was known that Jesus would come since before the world was formed, and he appeared when he did for the benefit of those living in the 'last times'.
The instructions to submit to various authorities (government, master, husband etc.) highlight the possibilities of using the religion to control people - though of course all the stuff about being happy to endure suffering has its role to play as well.
Christians are not to be ashamed of being Christians and should rejoice in suffering for Jesus.
Leaders of the religion are to care for the believers not as a duty but willingly and not for shameful profit. I'm certain that not a single preacher ever lead their flock for profit.
It was known that Jesus would come since before the world was formed, and he appeared when he did for the benefit of those living in the 'last times'.
The instructions to submit to various authorities (government, master, husband etc.) highlight the possibilities of using the religion to control people - though of course all the stuff about being happy to endure suffering has its role to play as well.
Christians are not to be ashamed of being Christians and should rejoice in suffering for Jesus.
Leaders of the religion are to care for the believers not as a duty but willingly and not for shameful profit. I'm certain that not a single preacher ever lead their flock for profit.
