Kevin Sullivan -
This past July, Kevin Sullivan, the Washington Post London correspondent, went to Siberia, 2,000 miles from Moscow, to interview a man who claims to be the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. Sergei Torop, now called Vissarion, "he who gives new life", lives in a tiny new town built up around him which is named "Abode of Dawn" and is the spiritual leader of a new religion, Church of the Last Testament. He now has over 5,000 followers.
We thought it might be interesting to talk to this man. There were those who disagreed, arguing that it would be offensive to publicize someone who claims to be Jesus. How could he possibly be? Most Christians believe that Christ will return someday. How will we know if it is the real Christ? How do we know this man is not? We thought you might like to read Kevin's story, see Kevin's video, and then read Kevin's interview with Vissarion that follows.
--Sally Quinn
Q: Are you Jesus of Nazareth, and if so, is your presence here on earth proof of the second coming, which, in traditional understanding, is supposed to signal the end of times?
If not, that is, if you are not here to initiate the coming of the kingdom, then what are you here for?
A: My dear friends, you’ve touched upon a very complicated question to which, of course, I’m ready to answer. But every answer will inevitably arouse deeper and deeper questions. Because people’s traditional understanding has very little to do with the Truth and is very primitive and awkward. People could have such understanding in medieval times but now we must have a much more exact understanding. During such a significant period for all mankind it is important for many people to have a clear view on everything, which concerns the Truth of God.
Continue »