Kutz,
I am enjoying this conversation. I often ponder the whole Assurance thing cos it is such a “given” in Protestant circles that I frequently come up against it. (I hang out more with protestants than others, although that is largely a function of proximity).
Reading Watchman Nee has given me some insights into the doctrine that I haven’t come across (although I am unconvinced by his arguements). Nor do I mind this being a public discussion cos, like the ones I have had with Gordo, it is civil and useful. (Oh Gordo, once my comp is running again I shall revisit Trinity).

I don’t have any sensation about being marginalised so all is well. I don’t get bothered by being marginalised too much anyway.

I agree with the fact that we have “sonship” with God and that our relationship with Him is personal.
I also assume that I am a human being (some do not share this assumption about me) and that I have the capacity to entertain flawed beliefs and perceptions.
At the end of the life we will be judged. Jesus will say to some “Get away from Me, you never knew me.”
and they will answer “Didn’t we call on You and perform feats in your name?”

In other words, there are folks out there who believe themselves to be His and they aren’t.
Is it possible that I am one? Yes.

Oh the bit about certainty in me and my beliefs...; good grief, sorry. They seem to need me to have certainty. Sometimes I think that folks just react to difference in belief as if it is a personal affront.

I don’t feel like I have any less faith in Him than when I thought there was Assurance. In fact, in some ways it is better, cos the focus shifts right away from me and stuff I do/ generate. My assurance is in God, not me. (I hope that is true and not a self deception)