Would it not make sense that if there were a god, and s/he or its spirit/essence came to earth that it would know all things and thus allow for all things. The salvation of the soul depends on the acceptance of Jesus according to many. This could not be possible if there were no death or crucifixion. In this sense there would need to be betrayal in order for this to come about. Thus the role of the betrayer becomes central to that of the Christ.

 

Listening to the news and the construction of reality I listen to the words used in relation to this story. “an excuse for the betrayal of Jesus by Judas”, “this should not have a dramatic effect on how the church is viewed”. But what if in addition to the new insight, when examined and balanced with previous knowledge and history the church comes up wanting. Does this challenge the concept of heaven and hell? Does this make the challenge a personal one rather than a religious one? The concept could thus be one of individualisation. Jesus denounced the institutional church but promoted the ability and identity of the individual. What would our actions be without that structure of religion and hierarchy? What if those who follow religion have been deceived based upon false and incomplete information!

 

As a control mechanism religion continues to play it’s part. It’s use to control and predict the behaviour of others within this world continues endlessly. Take for instance the concept of the growing interest and support in religion within the continents of Africa. After being overcome by religion where invasion, manipulation and occupation have failed, many Africans are now faced with this concept of deliverance for following the way. Justification for starvation and political and social manipulation by others! On top of that the mere mixing of religion and tradition has not been a wholly successful one. Actuations of corruption and witch craft is showing many within African religion are misguided to say the least. They have been judged unworthy of support, in need of control and guidance, incapable of self rule and interpretation of the gospels. And yet their numbers grow. The continents of Africa have the biggest growing religious population in the world. The unthinkable has taken place, here within Britain we have an African bishop. How would this have gone down two hundred years ago when the story of Lot was being used as justification for the use and abuse of Africans?

 

Our historical beliefs have been examined and found to be wanting. The continual change of stance could represent a church that is progressive and considerate of worldly changes, or it could indicate a loss of control and adaptation in order to sustain inequality. Hence our individual judgements count in the support or demise of an archaic form of manipulation of the masses by a few.