An Arrangement - Andrew Stevens - Bog

"An Arrangement" reframes foundational assumptions and truths in a way that is distinctive from modern thought-leaders and philosophers. It builds on the foundational belief that there are natural laws that transcend both humanity and God himself. From that springboard comes a series of bold statements, woven neatly in-between scriptures, which seek to answer some of life's biggest questions.
This book starts by exploring the tension that arises between justice, mercy, and progression. Perfect justice naturally stands in the way of both mercy and progression. Without punishment there could be no relief for the victim. Without mercy none of us could make mistakes, learn and improve. This gridlock can only be overcome through the sacrifice of God's son Jesus Christ who became a voluntary victim for the salvation of many.
To understand what we're accountable for we first need to understand agency. This book dissects agency into its three parts: ability, desire and knowledge. Each is an essential component of acting for oneself rather than simply reacting to external forces. The book claims that we are only culpable to the degree that we have the agency to commit injustice. In relation to the eternities, a free agent must choose to sacrifice their old life in order to escape the punishment that justice is eager to dispense.
One of the many bold claims this book makes is the reason behind the universe itself-it was made and designed for us; for our progression. Progression is the way we improve over time through learning, stressors and trials. Christ's voluntary sacrifice enables us to progress and become more like Him; otherwise we would be as fragile as glass: to fall and never recover.
Those who read "An Arrangement: God's Plan of Salvation and Happiness" will come away with a different world view that is the grand, optimistic and and hopeful.