Letters to the editor

Statements about context
apply to gay issues, too
I was surprised to read J. David Trawick’s comment that, “While the Bible contains stories of war and violence, they are all set in particular historical settings and don’t give generalized commands for holy war” (“Moderate Muslims need to speak against cartoon violence,” Feb. 24).
That’s the same argument gay Christians have pleaded to the church. If we know that biblical examples of war, violence, racism and sexism no longer work, then can we see that the same applies to what some interpret as biblical injunctions against homosexuality? They were written in “particular historical settings” that don’t reflect the love and commitment of today’s gay Christians.
Love is a good thing. If two people are fortunate to find it in this life, then the church should celebrate it, not condemn it.
Andrew D. Reichert
College Station

Jesus did indeed know what
would happen after death
I disagree with George Ricker’s statement: “What God will bring to pass following our end of life experiences, we don’t know. Jesus didn’t know” (“What does our faith offer those suffering pain, despair?” Feb. 10).
I don’t know which Bible translation Mr. Ricker uses, but if I were a non-Christian, I’m not sure I would join the Christian religion. My two Bibles are very specific about what happens to me after I leave this earth.
In Luke 20:27-36 the Sadducees challenge Jesus about the resurrection. Jesus answered them in Verse 35: “for they (the worthy ones) are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.”
And in John 14:3 Jesus said: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be also.”
I could cite other biblical passages, but believe me, Jesus did know.
Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:10 “For we all must appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” This judgment isn’t because of our sins—they were judged at Calvary—but our works.
And finally, Revelation 21 gives us such a beautiful glimpse at what we can expect when we join our Father in heaven. That’s what it’s all about.
If Mr. Ricker says he has no answers, I tell all other Christians to read the New Testament, and you will find out.
H.K. Rahlfs
Fredericksburg