December 2023: Page 1, 2, 3, 4

Jumada I / II 1445

Volume 39 No 12


In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Submitters Perspective

Monthly Bulletin of the International Community of Submitters Published by Masjid Tucson

Is God’s Love Unconditional

There is a belief that God loves everyone, no matter what, unconditionally. There is a common expression that says, “God hates the sin but loves the sinner”. But is God’s love unconditional? The answer is, “No”. According to God’s teaching throughout the Quran, even though His mercy encompasses all things (7:156), God’s love is reserved. To the average person this might tarnish their positive outlook on God. To the submitter it is easily understood.

As submitters we understand why we are on this earth and the meaning of life. When Satan developed the idea that he could run a dominion and be a god beside God we failed to stand with God. We committed a terrible crime at that moment. The Most Gracious gave us several opportunities to denounce said crime. We not only rejected such opportunities, we welcomed the chance to see for ourselves whether Satan could indeed be a god beside God. We chose this life. We chose to go through this test. [33:72] We have offered the responsibility (freedom of choice) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they refused to bear it, and were afraid of it. But the human being accepted it; he was transgressing, ignorant.

[2:155] We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give good news to the steadfast.

[3:186] You will certainly be tested, through your money and your lives, and you will hear from those who received the scripture, and from the idol worshipers, a lot of insult. If you steadfastly persevere and lead a righteous life, this will prove the strength of your faith.

So, we decided we wanted to go through this test and God asked us several times if we were sure. Our ignorant selves said “Yes”. God could have just left us then to figure it out for ourselves, but He gives us signs and warnings that are obvious to submitters. The Most Merciful even gave us the scripture to help us during our test. That is true mercy. God overlooked a crime that even the angels thought was unforgivable (2:30) and essentially provided us with all the answers needed to pass the test (5:48).

My human mind cannot even comprehend that kind of mercy. God could have banished us as soon as we questioned His authority, but He is forgiving.

God knows that among us rebels there will be those that deserve redemption.

[2:160] As for those who repent, reform, and proclaim, I redeem them. I am the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

[4:26] GOD wills to explain things for you, and to guide you through past precedents, and to redeem you. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise. [4:27] GOD wishes to redeem you, while those who pursue their lusts wish that you deviate a great deviation.

[25:71] Those who repent and lead a righteous life, GOD redeems them; a complete redemption.

[90:4] We created the human being to work hard (to redeem himself).

As submitters we understand why we are here and with such understanding we are able to see that WE are at fault. We understand that we alone are responsible for our sins. I can personally say that there were plenty of times that I have felt that I don’t deserve

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