The language surrounding the concept of God giving his "only begotten son" (typically referring to Jesus in Christian theology) is complex and open to interpretation. Here's a breakdown of the reasoning and different perspectives:
* "Only Begotten Son" - Meaning: This term, derived from the Greek word "monogenes," is often understood to mean "unique" or "one of a kind," rather than strictly "only one ever created." It emphasizes Jesus' unique relationship with God as the divine Son, sharing God's very nature.
* Sacrifice: The idea of God "giving" Jesus is deeply tied to the concept of sacrifice. Christians believe Jesus willingly took on human form, lived a sinless life, and then died on the cross as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. This act of love and self-sacrifice is seen as a profound gift from God to reconcile humanity with Himself.
* Temporary vs. Eternal: While Jesus' earthly life was finite, Christian theology emphasizes his eternal nature. The belief is that Jesus existed eternally as God the Son, entered into human history, and then returned to his eternal glory. So, while the earthly *manifestation* of Jesus was temporary, his existence is not.
* Lending vs. Giving: The analogy of "lending" suggests that God retained ownership and simply allowed Jesus to be used temporarily. However, the concept of "giving" implies a more profound offering, emphasizing the cost and commitment involved. Many Christians feel "lending" undermines the magnitude of God's love and Jesus' sacrifice.
* Different Interpretations: It's important to note that interpretations of these concepts vary within Christianity. Some denominations or individual believers may place more emphasis on the temporary aspect of Jesus' earthly life, while others focus on the eternal nature and sacrificial giving.
In summary:
The language of "giving" God's only begotten son emphasizes the sacrifice and love involved in the Christian understanding of Jesus' role in salvation. While Jesus' earthly life was finite, Christians believe his eternal existence and the act of sacrifice make "giving" a more fitting term than "lending." The specific understanding of this concept can vary depending on individual beliefs and denominational teachings.