It's always fun, of course, to debate...
Seeing as how I don't know Tolkien personally *wink,wink*, I too, do not intend to make any absolute statements about what he did or did not intend to put in his writings (be it theology or otherwise).
But I will say it again, Tolkien was a Christian and therefore wrote from a Christian worldview. The worldview we each hold is sort of like a road map or glasses, if you will, which we view the world through. Of course his story will have the undertones of redemption, sacrifice, salvation, temptation...etc. The very things he believed strongly in.
But I digress again. Here's what the man himself said (don't remember where else I've read this, but this particular quote comes from the 1965 edition forward)
"The Lord of the Rings has been read by many people...and I should like to say something here with reference to the many opinions or guesses that I have received or have read concerning the motives and meaning of the tale. The prime motive was the desire of a tale-teller to try his hand at a really long story that would hold the attention of readers, amuse them, delight them, and at times maybe excite them or deeply move them. As a guide, i had only my own feelings for what is appealing or moving...As for any inner meaning or 'message', it has in the intention of the author none. It is neither allegorical or topical."
Someone said it above, but hobbitlore.com has a great biography on Tolkien...
So, the debate continues...
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