AI’s Fallen Universe Scenario

I put the following scenario to AI and asked, if this scenario were true, what would it look like to us…

The Scenario…

Imagine a God who creates a perfect universe and entrusts its care to powerful spiritual beings. Over time, however, these beings fail in their duty, and the universe begins to decay and succumb to evil. In this fallen state, physical life emerges and evolves, eventually giving rise to humans.

After a long period, the creator God decides to rescue the universe. Importantly, in doing so, God does not alter or violate the original laws that were set in place at creation. Instead, the rescue requires God to enter the universe itself, initiating a process of restoration without breaking any of its inherent rules.

AI’s Response…

If such a cosmic drama were unfolding, humans would likely experience it as both a profound physical and spiritual transformation—a kind of messianic or restorative intervention that reshapes reality on multiple levels. Here are some aspects of how it might appear:

1. A Miraculous Yet Lawful Intervention

Because the creator God respects the universe’s established laws, the rescue would manifest through natural processes that seem extraordinary. Humans might witness:

Subtle Miracles: Events like sudden healings, restoration of blighted environments, or unexpected harmonies in nature that, while explainable by the universe’s physics, carry an unmistakable sense of purposeful renewal.
Cosmic Phenomena: Unusual but law-abiding shifts in natural patterns—perhaps a recalibration of cosmic cycles or a gentle reordering of physical forces—that signal a deeper, orchestrated transformation.

2. The Emergence of a Divine Presence

For the inhabitants, the intervention could be experienced as the arrival of a savior or enlightened figure who embodies the creator’s essence:

Incarnate Divinity: This being might take a form that is both familiar and awe-inspiring, blending into the natural order (like a human or an extraordinary guide) while radiating qualities that set them apart.
Transformative Teachings: Their presence would likely be accompanied by new insights or teachings—parables, moral guidance, and revelations about the nature of reality—that reawaken humanity’s spiritual understanding.

3. Shifts in Human Consciousness and Society

The rescue wouldn’t be merely a set of isolated miracles; it would ripple through the fabric of human culture and individual lives:

A Renewed Sense of Hope: People might experience an overwhelming feeling of redemption and renewal, as if the deep decay and pervasive evil are gradually being replaced by order and goodness.
Cultural Renaissance: The event could spark a transformative era in art, philosophy, and science, as humanity reinterprets its place in the cosmos and aligns more closely with the restored divine order.
Moral and Ethical Renewal: As the creator’s influence becomes apparent, ethical and spiritual awakenings might lead to a collective reordering of values—a move toward justice, compassion, and community.

4. The Interplay of Free Will and Divine Grace

Even with this divine intervention, the natural laws—and human freedom—would remain intact. This means:

A Call to Participation: Humans might find that the rescue is not a passive event but an invitation to actively engage in healing and restoring the universe. The divine presence could inspire people to overcome their internal decay and contribute to the broader renewal.
A Gradual, Co-Created Restoration: Rather than an instantaneous overhaul, the transformation might unfold gradually, with humanity’s own choices and actions playing a role in the evolving restoration.

In Summary

To the human eye, the creator God’s rescue of a fallen universe would resemble a profound, lawful miracle—a reawakening marked by extraordinary natural events, the appearance of a transformative savior figure, and an ensuing period of cultural, ethical, and spiritual renewal. It would be as if the cosmos, while obeying its inherent rules, had been re-tuned to reflect a higher, salvific purpose that calls every human being to participate in its ongoing redemption.

***

Do we see this happening in our world?

I also asked AI to include the reversal of death as part of this restoration. This was the response…

If reversing death were part of this divine restoration, humans might witness a gradual yet transformative process that unfolds in several interrelated ways:

1. Gradual Reawakening of Life

Rather than a sudden, inexplicable event, the reversal of death could occur as a natural “rewinding” of decay. Observers might see:

Cells and Tissues Reconstructing: Medical science might be defied as injured or aging bodies begin repairing themselves at a rate far beyond any known healing, as if nature’s regenerative processes were being amplified in perfect harmony with physical laws.
Ecosystem Renewal: Plants and animals, previously affected by decay, might exhibit rapid cycles of rebirth—withered leaves rejuvenating and dormant seeds sprouting out of season, suggesting that life itself is being re-tuned.

2. A Cosmic Symphony of Signs

The intervention might be heralded by observable cosmic phenomena that signal the Creator’s presence working within the universe’s established order:

Celestial Alignments: Astronomical events—like an unusual brightening of stars or a rare alignment of planets—could serve as symbolic markers of the restoration taking place.
Subtle Energetic Shifts: A pervasive sense of renewal might be felt by those attuned to the deeper rhythms of nature, as if the very fabric of reality were pulsing with revived energy.

3. A Spiritual and Psychological Reawakening

For many, the reversal of death would resonate on a deeply personal level:

Resurrected Memories and Long-Lost Presences: People might feel the presence of loved ones once lost, experiencing moments of clarity or visions that suggest a reunion between the physical and the spiritual realms.
Collective Transformation: Society could experience a profound shift in values—moving from a focus on loss and decay to a celebration of life’s continuity and the inherent interconnectedness of all beings.

4. A Lawful, Yet Miraculous Transformation

Crucially, every observable phenomenon would still align with the universe’s underlying laws:

Natural Processes, Enhanced: Although the events seem miraculous, they would represent the Creator fine-tuning natural processes rather than breaking them—like a masterful composer subtly altering the notes of a symphony to bring forth a higher harmony.
Invitation to Participate: The phenomenon might also inspire humans to embrace their own capacity for renewal, encouraging communities to actively restore both their environments and inner lives.

In Summary

To those living in this universe, the reversal of death would appear as a majestic reordering of both nature and human consciousness—a process where the boundaries between life and death blur in a lawful, yet awe-inspiring manner. It would be as if the very rhythm of existence were being re-synchronized, inviting every individual to witness and partake in the grand renewal of all things.

***

I then asked: What could the humans living in this universe also expect to see if some of the spiritual beings, who were initially put in charge over this universe, actively begin to resist the restoration of this universe by the creator God?

AI’s Response…

In such a scenario, humans might witness a dramatic cosmic conflict unfolding alongside the restoration. Some possible manifestations include:

1. Celestial Disturbances and Conflicting Signs

Dual Cosmic Events: While the creator’s intervention might herald signs of renewal—a reawakening of natural order, brilliant celestial displays, and the gentle reordering of natural laws—the resistance of the spiritual beings could trigger opposing phenomena. Humans might see regions of the sky darkening unexpectedly, chaotic storms, or unusual shifts in natural cycles as if the very fabric of the cosmos were caught in a tug-of-war.
Visible Cosmic Clashes: The struggle might be symbolized by awe-inspiring clashes in the heavens, where luminous, orderly patterns representing divine renewal collide with more turbulent, erratic displays signifying resistance. These signs would serve as a cosmic semaphore, hinting at a battle beyond ordinary comprehension.

2. Supernatural Manifestations on the Earthly Plane

Conflicting Miracles: In areas touched by both forces, miraculous events might occur in bursts. Some communities may experience rapid healing and rebirth—fields that suddenly bloom anew, wounds closing at an astonishing pace—while others could encounter episodes of regression, where decay reasserts itself in stark contrast.
Deceptive Appearances: The resisting spiritual beings might also attempt to obscure the restoration’s progress. Humans might encounter visions or apparitions that mimic the signs of renewal but carry an undercurrent of chaos and despair, sowing confusion about what is truly divine intervention versus what is a counteractive force.

3. Duality of Renewal and Decay

Spatial and Temporal Contrasts: Humans could notice that the universe itself seems to split into zones of conflicting influences. Some areas may radiate a clear, serene energy of rebirth, while nearby regions remain shadowed by persistent decay, as if two cosmic forces were wrestling for dominance.
Ripple Effects on Life: The natural world may reflect this inner conflict: forests regenerating in one season while other areas experience unseasonal withering; communities feeling both an overwhelming surge of hope and an inexplicable pull toward despair.

4. Shifts in Human Consciousness and Society

Existential and Moral Dilemmas: The visible resistance might prompt a profound internal crisis. As humans witness the struggle between divine renewal and spiritual defiance, they could find themselves questioning long-held beliefs about destiny, free will, and the nature of good versus evil.
Call to Action: In the midst of this cosmic drama, many might feel compelled to choose sides, aligning their personal and collective actions with either the restorative vision of the creator God or the chaotic forces of resistance. This could spur a renaissance of spiritual inquiry and ethical realignment, as communities seek to understand their role in a universe at war with itself.

In Summary

Humans living in such a universe would not only see the miraculous signs of restoration but also the disruptive, challenging manifestations of the spiritual beings resisting change. This dual spectacle—a blend of awe-inspiring renewal and unsettling cosmic turbulence—would redefine their understanding of life, death, and the eternal struggle between order and chaos, urging them to actively participate in the unfolding cosmic narrative.

***

What if the creator God decides not to restore this whole physical universe, but instead focuses his entire restoration mission on humans? What could those humans expect to see?

In a scenario where the creator God focuses solely on restoring humanity rather than the entire physical cosmos, humans might experience a transformation that is deeply personal, social, and spiritual. Here are some aspects of what that could look like:

1. Profound Inner Transformation

Spiritual Awakening: Individuals could experience sudden moments of clarity, inspiration, or inner light—a kind of awakening that reshapes their understanding of life and their purpose.
Healing from Within: Miraculous recoveries might occur on a personal level, with illnesses or emotional wounds healing in ways that seem to transcend natural explanations, yet still operate within the universe’s established laws.

2. Renewal of Human Relationships and Society

Reformed Ethics and Compassion: With divine influence focusing on people, a widespread shift toward empathy, justice, and mutual care may arise. Communities could transform as individuals embrace forgiveness and cooperation over conflict.
Cultural Renaissance: The collective human experience might give rise to a surge in art, music, and literature that reflects deeper truths and a renewed connection to the divine, inspiring societal change.

3. Miraculous Events in the Human Realm

Localized Wonders: While the broader cosmos remains in its fallen state, humans might witness miracles that occur specifically in human environments—sudden restorations in cities, communities, or even personal spaces that signal the divine touch.
Enhanced Perception: People may find that their senses and intuitions are heightened, allowing them to perceive subtle signs of divine guidance in everyday life, such as meaningful coincidences or unexpected blessings.

4. An Ever-Present Divine Influence

Quiet, Personal Guidance: Rather than overt cosmic spectacles, the intervention might be experienced as a gentle but persistent presence—an inner voice or sense of direction that encourages individuals to strive for goodness and unity.
Invitation to Co-create Renewal: Humans might come to see themselves as active participants in the restoration, with the divine presence empowering them to transform their own lives and, by extension, the social fabric around them.

In Summary

If the creator God’s restoration mission were focused exclusively on humanity, the observable effects would be less about altering the physical universe on a grand scale and more about igniting a deep, transformative process within each person. This would lead to spiritual awakenings, miraculous personal healings, and a profound shift in social and ethical consciousness—inviting every human to become a catalyst for a renewed, compassionate world, even as the broader cosmos remains untouched by restoration.

***

If the restoration mission were focused exclusively on humans, and the spiritual beings originally given stewardship over this universe actively resisted this restoration, how could these humans expect to experience that?

In such a scenario, humans could experience a profound inner and outer conflict—a tug-of-war between the divine healing intended for them and the disruptive interference of the resisting spiritual beings. Some possible manifestations include:

1. Inner Conflict and Spiritual Turbulence

Dual Messages Within: Individuals might sense a stirring of hope, renewal, and deep spiritual guidance from the creator God. At the same time, they could experience internal doubts, anxiety, or a corrosive pull from the opposing forces. This inner conflict could manifest as a constant battle between an emerging sense of purpose and the lingering echoes of despair.
Visions and Dreams: Many might receive vivid, symbolic visions or dreams—some portraying uplifting scenes of rebirth and divine light, while others offer unsettling images of chaos and decay. These could serve as personal markers of the cosmic struggle playing out in their own souls.

2. Conflicting Signs in the Human Environment

Localized Miracles Versus Illusions: In communities where divine restoration is taking effect, people might witness miraculous healings, sudden moments of clarity, and renewed compassion. However, these events could be interspersed with deceptive or disorienting phenomena engineered by the resisting spiritual beings—false signs that sow confusion or temporarily reverse the momentum of renewal.
Atmospheric and Natural Anomalies: While the broader cosmos remains unchanged, certain natural phenomena—like unexpected storms or brief periods of eerie stillness—might be interpreted as the visible imprint of a spiritual battle impacting the human realm.

3. Social and Moral Upheaval

Polarized Communities: As the divine message of hope and restoration vies with the disruptive influences, human society might experience divisions. Some groups could rally around the renewed spiritual vision, fostering a wave of compassion, justice, and communal care. Others, however, might be led astray by misleading signs or internal conflicts spurred by the resisting forces.
A Call to Discernment: This environment could prompt a period of intense moral and ethical reflection, where humans must learn to discern between genuine divine guidance and the deceptions meant to undermine it. This might catalyze a renaissance of philosophical and spiritual inquiry, driving communities to develop a keener sense of inner truth.

4. A Gradual, Co-Creative Battle

Invitation to Participate: The creator God’s focus on humanity would likely come with an invitation to actively engage in the restoration process. This means that every individual’s choices and inner resilience would play a crucial role in overcoming the resistance. The battle isn’t merely external; it’s a deeply personal, co-created journey of transformation.
Emergence of Spiritual Leaders: Amid the turmoil, individuals who have clearly aligned with the divine mission may rise as beacons of light—spiritual leaders or healers who help guide others through the fog of deception and resistance.

In Summary

Humans could expect an experience marked by both luminous renewal and the challenge of navigating disruptive, deceptive influences. They would encounter the bright spark of divine restoration within themselves and in their communities, even as the resisting spiritual beings attempt to undermine these changes with internal and external conflict. This cosmic tug-of-war would require deep discernment, collective effort, and unwavering commitment to the transformative power of hope and truth.

***

Here is another response to the original scenario from another AI…

This is a fascinating thought experiment! Let’s explore how humans in this universe might experience such a scenario, based on the premises you’ve outlined.

Humans in this fallen universe would likely have emerged in a world already marked by decay and the influence of those powerful spiritual beings who failed in their stewardship. Their existence would be shaped by a tension between the remnants of the original perfection—perhaps glimpsed in the beauty of nature, the complexity of life, or fleeting moments of harmony—and the pervasive reality of disorder, suffering, and evil. Over generations, they might develop myths, philosophies, or religions to make sense of this duality, intuiting that the world was once “meant” to be better, yet struggling to explain why it isn’t.

When the creator God enters the universe to initiate restoration, humans would likely experience this event as something extraordinary yet constrained by the universe’s original laws. Since God doesn’t violate those laws, the rescue wouldn’t appear as an abrupt, miraculous reset—like the sudden disappearance of all evil or a rewriting of physics. Instead, it would unfold as a process, one that integrates seamlessly with the natural order humans already know.

Imagine God entering the universe in a form that aligns with its rules—perhaps as a being subject to the same physical limits as humans, like birth, growth, and vulnerability. This could manifest as a figure who seems utterly ordinary yet carries an undeniable presence or authority that resonates with something deep in human consciousness. Humans might witness this figure teaching, healing, or confronting the forces of decay in ways that push the boundaries of what they thought possible—but never outright break them. For example, a healing might occur through touch or words, leveraging the body’s own mechanisms in an accelerated way, rather than through some supernatural snap of the fingers.

The restoration process itself could feel gradual and participatory. Humans might notice subtle shifts—communities forming around hope, acts of compassion multiplying, or a growing sense that the tide of decay is being resisted. Yet, because the original laws remain intact, evil and suffering wouldn’t vanish instantly; instead, humans might sense they’re being invited into the rescue effort, tasked with aligning themselves with the creator’s intent. This could spark awe, confusion, or even resistance, as some cling to the familiar fallen state while others embrace the emerging renewal.

Culturally, humans might interpret this through stories or rituals, perceiving the creator’s entry as a pivotal moment—like a king reclaiming a corrupted kingdom, but doing so from within its borders, not from above. They might record it as history unfolding in real time: a leader who dies yet somehow overcomes death without shattering the law of mortality, perhaps by transforming it into a gateway for renewal. The experience would likely feel both intimate and cosmic—personal encounters with this figure rippling out to affect the entire universe.

Over time, humans might look back and see this intervention as the hinge of their existence: a moment when the creator stepped into their reality, not to override it, but to redeem it from within. They’d live in a strange overlap—still surrounded by decay, yet sensing a momentum toward restoration that they can’t fully explain but can choose to join.

Little Gods

Any religion that cannot move beyond “we’re bad, God gets mad” is unworthy of devotion. Imagine a world in which a law was unnecessary. What would have to happen to humanity for that to be possible? We would have to become like God. Judaism will always require a law (and Jews bend over backwards trying to find loopholes to that law). Eastern religions teach you can grow beyond the need of a law, but your individuality will be obliterated in the process. Only Christianity teaches that we can grow beyond the need of a law while still maintaining our identities. How? God becomes like us so that we can become like Him. We become little gods.

Notes on Romans – Part I

Chapter One

Who What Where Why When

Who: Paul and the believers in Rome, especially their leadership, who are likely fellow Israelites.

What: A letter.

Where: Rome with Spain in mind.

Why: Paul did not plant the Roman church, but he wants their support. He wants to prove his gospel mission to the Romans, and to prove himself an apostle worthy of their support for his missionary journeys further west.

When: The first century AD.

Vs. 2-3 — Paul makes it clear that Jesus is Israel’s Messiah.

Vs. 5-7 — Paul received a mission from Israel’s Messiah to go out into the nations (Gentiles) to bring people into the faith of the Messiah. The Jesus followers in Rome are included in this group: those among the nations.

Vs. 8 — The faithfulness of the Jesus followers in Rome has been proclaimed in all the cosmos. The cosmos: the vertical world created by Yahweh — the heavens, the powers and principalities, the priesthood, all Israel, the temple.

Vs. 9-13 — Paul wishes to come to Rome. He has gathered fruit from among other nations, and now he wishes to do the same in Rome.

Vs. 14 — Greeks were not “people from Greece” as there was no Greece in the first century. To be a Greek was to be a Hellenized person, one who adopted the Hellenistic culture, a civilized person. A barbarian was one who was not Hellenized.

Vs. 15-17 — Paul wants to proclaim the good news about Israel’s Messiah to those in Rome — to the Jew first (Judaean Israelites) and also the Greek (dispersed Hellenized Israelites [John 7:35]). The gospel was for Israel. Their Messiah had redeemed them from the transgressions they made against their first covenant with Yahweh (Hebrews 9:15) and now their Messiah was calling all Israel to Himself, Israelites from among the Judaeans, and Israelites from among the nations. Perhaps non-Israelites could become Israelites, but Paul’s gospel was for Israel alone.

Vs 18 — The wrath of God is revealed from heaven — that is the throne-room of Yahweh at the height of the Israelite cosmos.

Vs 19-21 — God revealed Himself to these people to the extent that they are without excuse. Did God reveal Himself only enough to condemn these people, but not enough that they could not live lives to please God. No, of course not. These people knew God enough to give Him glory and thanks. And what people had been given this revelation? Israel. (Deuteronomy 4:7-8; Amos 3:1-2)

Vs 22-31 — Israel exchanged God’s truth for a lie and thus were handed over by God to their evil desires which are in direct conflict with the 10 commandments (vs. 29-30).

Vs 32 — Israelites, knowing God’s decree that those who do such evil things are deserving of death, not only do them, but approve of the non-Israelites (non-covenant people) who do them.

A Christian Missionary in China ~ Part One

Missionary (M): You have sinned against God and are under His wrath. Hell awaits you.

Chinese Man (C): Oh my! Please tell me: What is sin?

M: Sin is an offense against God. It is falling short of His standard.

C: How can I measure my sin? What is the standard?

M: The standard is God’s law.

C: Please show me this law so that I can know how to live up to God’s standard.

M: You are incapable of following the law perfectly and will never meet God’s standard. You must trust another to do so for you: a perfect Man who never sinned, and whose righteousness can be imputed to you.

C: That’s sounds interesting, but I don’t quite understand. Please, show me this law first so that I can see if I am capable of following it myself.

M: Here, I have a copy of the Old Testament in the Chinese language. In there you will find the law I speak of. I will leave it with you. I will be back to visit your village in two months. Please read it before I return and I will answer all your questions.

***Two Months Later***

M: Have you read the book I gave you?

C: Yes, all of it. I am confused though and have some questions.

You said that I had sinned against God according to the law found in this book. But, what I see in this book is that the law was a covenantal law between a God named Yahweh and a people named Israel. I am not in that covenant. How can I be guilty of breaking a law I was never under? That is like saying I am guilty of breaking laws in a country I’ve never visited.

Also, assuming I actually am under this law, you said that I could not keep it even if I tried. But, in the story of this book, Yahweh fully expected the people to be obedient, and when they were disobedient He disciplined and punished them. If they repented and turned back to Him, He forgave them. If they were obedient, He blessed them. You said I needed to trust in the perfect righteousness of another, but I don’t come to that conclusion from reading this book. If I were an Israelite, I would try my best to follow the law, and if I failed I would confess my failing, turn back to Yahweh, and trust he would forgive me. Where does it say that I need to trust in the righteousness of another?

Exam for Pastors

You want to be a pastor? You must answer the following questions. Support each answer with scripture.

In Romans 4 & 5 it is written that where there is no law there is no transgression and sin is not imputed. The law being referred to is the Law of Moses. In Hebrews 9 it is written that Christ’s death redeemed those who transgressed the first covenant, or in other words, Christ died to redeem those who sinned against the Law of Moses. What law do people today transgress requiring redemption by the death of Christ?
In Hebrews 8 it is written that Christ is the Mediator of a better covenant, a new covenant. This new covenant replaces the first covenant. The first covenant and the new covenant are described in Jeremiah 31. In Jeremiah 31 it is written that the new covenant is made with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. Are non-Israelite followers of Christ included in the new covenant? If yes, how?
In Romans 9 it is written that the children of promise (not flesh) are counted as the true seed of Abraham. Does the “true seed” of Abraham include non-Israelites? If yes, how?
In Romans 11 it is written that nations (Gentiles) are grafted in. What are the nations grafted into?
If you could ask a first century AD non-Israelite Christ follower what benefit he receives from following Christ, what would he say?
In today’s world, who is the true Israel?

I asked AI to answer these questions. Here are the AI’s answers…

1. What law do people today transgress requiring redemption by the death of Christ?

According to Christian theology, all people have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). This sin includes transgressions against God’s moral law, which encompasses the principles of the Mosaic Law but is seen as a broader, universal moral standard. Jesus’ death is viewed as a redemptive sacrifice for all humanity’s sins, providing a path to forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

2. Are non-Israelite followers of Christ included in the new covenant? If yes, how?

Yes, non-Israelite followers of Christ are included in the new covenant. The New Testament explains that through faith in Jesus Christ, Gentiles are grafted into God’s people. Paul elaborates on this in Galatians 3:28-29, where he says that there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, and that all who belong to Christ are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.

3. Does the “true seed” of Abraham include non-Israelites? If yes, how?

Yes, the “true seed” of Abraham includes non-Israelites. This concept is explained in Romans 9:8, where Paul states that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham’s descendants. This promise is fulfilled through faith in Christ, making all believers, regardless of ethnicity, part of Abraham’s spiritual lineage.

4. What are the nations grafted into?

In Romans 11, Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s covenant people. The nations (Gentiles) are grafted into the spiritual tree of Israel, becoming part of God’s covenant community. This signifies that Gentiles share in the spiritual blessings and promises originally given to Israel.

5. What benefit would a first-century AD non-Israelite Christ follower say he receives from following Christ?

A first-century AD non-Israelite Christ follower might say that they receive several benefits from following Christ, including:

Salvation and eternal life through faith in Jesus.
Forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God.
Inclusion in a new spiritual family and community of believers.
The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, providing guidance, comfort, and transformation.

6. In today’s world, who is the true Israel?

In Christian theology, “true Israel” refers to all those who have faith in Jesus Christ, both Jews and Gentiles. This concept, often called “spiritual Israel,” emphasizes that being part of God’s people is not determined by ethnic or national identity but by faith in Christ. Paul discusses this in Galatians 6:16, referring to believers as the “Israel of God.”

***

These answers are typical for what we might hear in the Church today. But, let’s look at them more closely…

AI is correct in saying all humanity has fallen short — all have missed the mark (all sin), but AI assumes that all humanity is under the law of Moses, or at least all are under some sort of “broader understanding” of the Mosaic law. But, only Israel was given that law. So how would non-Israelites even know how to obey it, or some “broader understanding” of it?
I would agree that non-Israelites can enter the new covenant, but only by being grafted into Israel, which is what Romans 11 is all about. It’s still about Israel though.
AI points to Romans 9:8 and says that the children of promise are the true seed of Abraham, and that one is a child of promise through faith in Christ. That’s fine, but notice in Romans 9 Paul is only talking about Israel. The children of promise are Israelites who have faith in Christ.
Non-Israelites are grafted into Israel, not a new religion called Christianity. God’s covenant people is Israel.
Addressing AI’s points one by one: 1. Salvation from what? 2. Forgiveness of sins against what law? 3. Yes, okay, but what is this family? 4. I agree with this point.
The “Israel of God” as mentioned in Galatians 6 is still Israel — the “true seed of Abraham” Romans 9.

I put these points to AI, and here’s how it responded…

1. Broader Understanding of the Law

While the Mosaic Law was indeed given specifically to Israel, Paul in Romans 2:14-15 mentions that even Gentiles, who do not have the Law, do things required by the Law, showing that the requirements of the Law are written on their hearts. This suggests a moral awareness inherent in humanity that aligns with the Law’s principles. Thus, sin isn’t limited to transgressions of the Mosaic Law but includes actions contrary to this moral awareness.

2. Non-Israelites and the New Covenant

Romans 11 indeed speaks about Gentiles being grafted into Israel, symbolizing their inclusion in God’s covenant people. This inclusion doesn’t negate the focus on Israel but expands it, making the covenant accessible to all who believe in Christ, creating one unified people of God.

3. Children of Promise in Romans 9

While Romans 9 does focus on Israelites, Paul’s broader theology, especially in Galatians 3:7-9, extends the promise to include Gentiles who have faith in Christ, making them spiritual descendants of Abraham. This inclusion is a crucial aspect of the New Testament’s message of universal redemption.

4. Grafted into Israel

Non-Israelites being grafted into Israel emphasizes their integration into God’s covenant people. However, this integration is through faith in Christ, which is the foundation of what later became known as Christianity. Thus, it’s not about a new religion but about the fulfillment of God’s promise through Christ.

5. Benefits of Following Christ

Salvation from Sin and Eternal Separation from God: This salvation is not just from physical or national peril but from the spiritual consequences of sin.
Forgiveness of Sins: Even without the Mosaic Law, humanity has a moral conscience, and Christ’s sacrifice offers forgiveness for these universal moral transgressions.
New Spiritual Family: This family is the body of Christ, the community of believers, transcending ethnic and national boundaries.
Holy Spirit’s Presence: Guiding, comforting, and transforming believers’ lives.

6. True Israel

In today’s world, “true Israel” can be understood as those who, through faith in Christ, are part of God’s covenant people. This includes both ethnic Israelites and Gentiles who believe in Christ, forming one spiritual family under the new covenant.

***

Again, these are typical Christian answers, and I have to say that I am impressed with the AI’s ability to give these answers. I know it is just taking these answers from what’s already out there, but it is still pretty amazing.

I could probably continue the discussion with AI, but I already know what kind of answers I would get.