However, that is a Protestant tradition and not a traditional Christian one. I believe that only Moses was called a saint. Now, if you read the Bible, you will find that 1st century Jews residing in Jerusalem were referred to as saints. I think that I shall stay with the traditional Christian belief that saints are those who are in Heaven; and Saints are those recognized by the Church (by no means all the entire group of saints) to be in Heaven.
MarkBsnr,
Thank you for your thoughts. As always, I appreciate you.
I am not concerned in the least - ever - as I think you know, with Protestant thought, with what Luther wrote or thought, etc. It is all interesting to academics. It may inform us historically. It doesn’t bind us.
I am concerned with God’s inspired thoughts, recorded for us, ever there and easily accessible to all Christians, of every stripe who seek Him.
He clearly calls all Christians saints. Since we do not believe in spiritual death for believers, their whereabouts are immaterial (had to say it). All remain what God spoke... here or there.
I do not wish to change what He spoke, but changing the meaning of His Words.
In this, we rejoice!
If it depends on our works to define sainthood, no one would be a saint. If it depends on the righteousness of Christ, imputed to us by His grace, we rest in Him, give Him all the credit and glorify Him forever.
Hope today is a great day for you and your family. Sun is shining here and Spring is apparently going to make a long-awaited appearance.