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 In the article "Bernie Sanders Shows the Left’s Refusal to Coexist With Traditional Believers," the author writes that Sen. Sanders' "line of questioning seems to show an ignorance of Article VI of the Constitution, which states that 'No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.' The implications of Sanders’ questioning are far-reaching. If taken to its logical conclusion, Sanders' view would exclude all orthodox followers of an Abrahamic faith from holding public office." Sen. Sander's statements indicate that he thinks people who hold these beliefs are unfit to hold public office, but in his questions Sanders, an avowed atheist, inadvertently states that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. While it is correct that Sanders appears ignorant of the U.S. Constitution he has sworn to uphold, it is incorrect to say "all orthodox followers of an Abrahamic faith" believe that God arbitrarily condemns unbelievers. The Eastern Orthodox faith teaches that Christ descended into hell and preached to those of all ages who did not have a fair opportunity to believe in Him during their lifetimes, which is based on the Bible: see Eph. 4:8-10; Col. 2:15; 1 Pet. 3:19 & 4:6; Heb. 2:14; as well as on the Apostolic and Early Church Fathers' teachings. God wants all to be saved (1 Tim. 2:3-4), He is not willing that any should perish (2 Pet, 3:9). Ultimately it is man's rejection of God's love for the whole world (John 3:16) that causes anyone to be damned. What Sen. Sanders objects to is the Augustinian/Calvinist theology dominant in the West, which teaches that man inherited Adam's sin and guilt, God predestines some to be saved and others to be damned, and that mankind has no free will to choose in this matter. This harsh doctrine has caused many in the West to become atheists, including Sen. Sanders. But actually, for advancing these views, Augustine was censured by his contemporary Orthodox theologians and toward the end of his life he recanted of them (a little-known fact that Augustinians and Calvinists fail to teach). See also "Do I Get a Free Pass, or Is God Unfair?" Essentially, Sen. Sanders is arguing for Orthodox Christianity by advocating that nobody should be damned simply because of circumstances they were born into! Get the whole story: read the full article & get our free weekly newsletter: subscribe below! |