Theos-Talk Archives (April 1995 Message tl00000)

K. Paul Johnson writes:

> Yet, even though we know how limited our perceptions
>are, when we get into high gear with our thinking
>and feeling, we forget. . . . And when the data are missing,
>we just start making up facts that fit with our judgments.

In today's Chicago Sun-Times, an article entitled "Cults Trying
to Hasten Doomsday" was found in the Religion column.  Prompted
by the recent nerve gas deaths in Japan, Andrew Herrmann, writes,
"Some experts are predicting that we'll see a rash of such
incidents as we approach the turn of the century - attacks
committed by millennial cults.  Interpreting numbers in the
Bible, they believe that the second coming of Christ is near- and
that it can be hurried by vast killing."

(These cults) claim that they speak for God.  Virtually all of
(them) say if a follower happens to die in the commission of
these acts he will immediately ascend into glorious heaven.  All
of these groups have a profound sense of alienation and have
deliberately withdrawn from society."

I think the above excerpt not only addresses K.  Paul's statement
on judgement, but also some recent posts about the Apocalypse
movement.  The last sentence of the quote is a good example of
the dire consequences of separateness.

After the year 1000 A.D., churches went up throughout Europe,
especially in France and Germany, to express thanks at the
postponement of Judgment Day.  Wonder what humanity will build in
thanks for making it past the year 2000?

p.s. Have truly enjoyed the posts of judgement.