Phil

**********However, the incarnation and sacrificial death of Jesus of Nazareth was initiated jointly by God the Father and Jesus himself.**********

I see the point you’re making here. I suppose I would say that the initiative comes from both in different ways. From the Father, in terms of purpose and from Jesus, in his obedient response to the Father’s plan.

‘If it be possible, let this cup pass from me…’ the Son seems to be seeking some kind of alternative route here. What man would want to be tortured to death if there was potentially another option? But the blueprint is in God’s hand.

‘Nevertheless, not my will but your will be done’, seems to be a case of two conflicting wills, one of which was submitted to the other, as opposed to the Father and Son either sharing one will, or else having two wills in harmony. It is in this act of obedience that Jesus shows supreme grace in dying for his friends (and enemies). For that he deserves to be praised.

Apropos this, I plan to deal with this whole issue of obedience in another post. I’m going to have a stab at a narrative approach, as suggested by an earlier discussion with Peter and some observations made by Andrew regarding my dialogue with him.

I hope this will prove a fruitful way forward.

Theocrat