You say:
Jesus Christ claimed that he is eternal and that he has power over death; if the accounts of the NT are true, he backed up his teaching through numerous miracles, including his own resurrection. This is what the Christian hope is -- freedom from sin and death, and an eternal purpose and treasure with our Creator.
--This gospel, albeit hypocrites exploit it for their personal gain, is fair and ultimate reason. For what other gospel is there for myself, John, Schraf, you, or any others? The laws of Moses (and all other religions by deduction)? Are they only curse us?
But the redemptive observations we expect to witness on all levels continually suggest this redeeming creator: Jesus the Christ (who is perceived differently by different folks)
That implies He loves John and Schraf while they entangle themselves in this cheek-turning gospel, and is faithful and just to forgive these entities, purge their conscience(s), give each peace, assurance, joy, and the great treasure you speak of.
Interesting how that I've utterly failed to impart any gospel reason to Schraf or John and that you've replaced my metaphysical groanings on their behalf (if that makes any sense).
™ Version 4.2