In order to assist the reader with a framework for understanding this paper, it should first be emphasized that it is written from a very specific theological perspective. The necessary presuppositions are outlined at the beginning.
It could of course be objected that there may be other (what I am calling “committed Christians”) who do not hold one or more of the views expressed here. The intent is not to engage a theological debate. I could very well do that, but it is best left to another occasion.
