Preserving The Spartan Way

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  This reading in Plutarch’s “Lives Of The Noble Grecians and Romans” covered chapters 51-55, comparing two Greek-Spartan leaders, who reflected Plato’s political ideal, with two Roman leaders, who reflected Aristotle’s political ideal. Chapters 51 and 52 introduce us to the Spartan kings, Agis and Cleomenes.  Sparta was in danger losing their Spartan ways, embracing luxury over discipline. Agis proposed to return people and country to their heritage by proposing a cancellation of all debt and redistribution the land of the wealthy to citizens “who were fit for service as able-bodied soldiers.” Opposition was instant as the rich dug in their heels against losing power and status. Ultimately, Agis was killed by the rich under the leadership of his half-brother, Leonidas.  After Leonidas died with his “300” in the last day of the Battle of Thermopylae, his son, Cleomenes, rose to power. Observing the deepening apathy and laziness of Sparta, Cleomenes grew curious about Agis’ model of gov

I Am Curious To Know . . .

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Have you read Rob Bell's book "Love Wins?"
Do you agree with his conclusion? 
What is your response to Rob Bell, personally? 
Would you happen to have William Barclay's commentaries on your shelf? 
Are you still are a C.S. Lewis fan?

"I am a convinced universalist. I believe that in the end all men will be gathered into the love of God . . ."  (Barclay, William. William Barclay: A Spiritual Autobiography. Eerdmans: Grand Rapids, 1977. Note pages 65-67).

"There are people in other religions who are being led by God's secret influence to concentrate on those parts of their religion which are in agreement with Christianity, and who thus belong to Christ without knowing it . . . . For example a Buddhist of good will may be led to concentrate more and more on the Buddhist teaching about mercy and to leave in the background (though he might still say he believed) the Buddhist teaching on certain points. Many of the good Pagans long before Christ's birth may have been in this position" (Lewis, C.S. Macmillan: New York, 1984. Note pp. 176-177).

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