Thought about the issue of "one person on the whole planet". Since the Bible says that Jesus died for the whole world, then if there was only one person on the world then he would have died for them. My reaction to the individualistic "personal savior" mentality probably extends over the top a bit because I believe it stems from the "gooey grace" idea. I believe in grace, more now than when I first got saved. The longer I live, the more I know, the more I need His grace because the more I think I don't need Him. I have a tendency to rely on my strength, try harder not to sin, keep the rules, etc. and Paul says these things have a semblance of godliness but are not good in controlling the flesh.

Question: How much pressure was Jesus under as he was walking about Israel with 12 guys when thousands were going to hell?

I've been examining the peace of God exhibited through Jesus. I believe we take too much on ourselves and labor under a false premise sometime. Not in a Calvinistic way but God saves those who want to be saved, draws those who draw near to him...ala Cornelius. I can't be held responsible for those who don't respond or who don't want to know. I'm responsible to tell them, and teach those who are teachable. I've spent too much energy chasing down dead people, taking blame for messed up families, etc.

"If I was a better pastor..."; "Why did they leave? What did I do wrong?"

I've been an unwitting pawn of the enemy..."If you were a better Christian..." "...or a disciple" "or a real believer." While I've not preached such things it sometimes comes across as a subtle attitude. In our zeal do you think we miss God's moving?

He's not willing that any perish but some are. Jesus didn't heal everyone, save everyone, feed everyone. He said the poor you'd always have. His priorities seemed at odds with His church at times.

Just some ideas to banter about.