John,

Regarding your question, I think the Trinity has to be taken into account. The Trinity didn't die on the cross, but the Son did. The same applies to your question about the blaspheme.

Also, Catholics aren't raising Mary to a diety with Mother of God. The Bible clearly calls her mother of the Lord, and "Lord" in that passage is used fifteen times, and it always refers to God. Mary carried the Divine Lord in her womb. The Incarnation - God was made flesh. She did not create the Lord, but He dwelled in her womb. Scripture calls her mother of the Lord for a reason.

You and I discussed this with someone who rejected the Trinity, about a year ago on another board. That very verse was used to show that Jesus and God are one.

God Bless,
Doug