On Tue, 6 Apr 2004 08:39:32 -0600, “Deacon” wrote:

Mike, Good post. Now if you’d answer the question. With all the respect I

have, this is a good walk through some scriptures that give us a glimpse of God’s nature and Sovereignty, but it doesn’t really answer

the question. Why would God create those who are condemned? My basic definition of God needs only one word, love. So why is it that

God, who has declared the end from the beginning, would create those among us who will reject Him and be condemned to Hell for all eternity seperated from Him?

“The Enigma” …

Rotherham’s Emphasized Bible offers an uncommon view to the second question you are asking. Rotherham’s translation, much like Young’s Literal Translation is hailed as one of the most accurate biblical translations available.

Matthew 25:46 And these shall go away to punishment age-during, but the righteous to life age-during.’ (Young’s)

Matthew 25:46 And these shall go away into age-abiding correction, but

the righteous into age-abiding life. (Rotherham’s)

I find it interesting that the “age-abiding fire” (see Matt. 25:41 Rotherham’s for reference) is used for “correction”.

I know a common argument to this verse translated as age-abiding is, “if the life is age-abiding and the age comes to an end, that would mean the righteous die.” That would be a false premise because scripture clearly tells us that when we are resurrected we are given immortality.

1 Cor. 15:53 For this corruptible must need clothe itself with incorruptibility, and this mortal, clothe itself, with immortality. 1 Cor. 15:54 But, whensoever, this mortal shall clothe itself with immortality then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written–Death hath been swallowed up–victorious