Original Blessing (Do you believe in Original Sin?)

   

                         

                                                          

Of the world's three major religions, only Christianity holds to a doctrine of original sin. Ideas are powerful, and they shape who we are and who we become. The fact that many Christians believe there is something in human nature that is, and will always be, contrary to God, is not just a problem but a tragedy. So why do the doctrine's assumptions of human nature so infiltrate our pulpits, sermons, and theological bookshelves? How is it so misconstrued in times of grief, pastoral care, and personal shame? How did we fall so far from God's original blessing in the garden to this pervasive belief in humanity's innate inability to do good? In this book, Danielle Shroyer takes readers through an overview of the historical development of the doctrine, pointing out important missteps and overcalculations, and providing alternative ways to approach often-used Scriptures. Throughout, she brings the primary claims of original sin to their untenable (and unbiblical) conclusions. In Original Blessing, she shows not only how we got this doctrine wrong, but how we can put sin back in its rightful place: in a broader context of redemption and the blessing of humanity's creation in the image of God.

Zenobia Conkerite Ron, in my first day of interfaith seminary, I told the class that I come from original blessing and don't believe in a man up there looking down on me. Such depressing scenarios used to control minds. How can a child live to their fullest potential being told that they have the steepest mountain to climb before they see their own self worth? Being looked down upon is what humans do naturally to isolate another. It's a malicious act of making one feel invaluable and so small that they can't possibly be a part of our beautiful tapestry. A priest told me I could only find god in him...but wait! God is in me too. I left the church when I was old enough.

"The fact that many Christians believe there is something in human nature that is, and will always be, contrary to God, is not just a problem but a tragedy." Would not this also apply to the demonizing of the ego?  Ron Alexander ("No part of me is junk.")