Sin for Jesus

I’ve been watching a Netflix series entitled “The Last Czars,” (in which, historical authenticity be damned, the Czarina talks like a Californian—“You’ll be OK”—and prays before a crucifix with a very unOrthodox three-dimensional Jesus). Well, anyway, despite the occasional oops moments, I’ve learned a lot of fascinating history. For instance, Rasputin’s special understanding of Christian redemption theology, i.e., redemption is reserved for those who have SINNED, and the greater the sin, the greater (obviously) the redemption. It is therefore necessary for true believers to sin mightily and often—in order to be fully deserving of forgiveness, salvation and eternal life. This theology found considerable favor among the Russian aristocracy, especially women, who did their best to Sin For Jesus—often with Rasputin himself.