Sam
<<Mark it is amazing how these pretentious hypocrits preach one way and live another.>>
I am certainly not a Christian, but I am not willing to call them all pretentious hypocrits either.
IMO, I think most people accept the religious philosophies that they were born into and then spend the rest of their lives trying to find facts and ways to support those beliefs. To some extent, I think that is human nature.
Most people(myself included) have a philosophy of life that they try to live by, but in one way or another consistently fall short of. I dont think that makes anyone a hypocrite, as it is extremely difficult for human beings to live up to the idealized standards of their beliefs. If we could live up to those standards, we would be fully realized beings such as Christ, and possibly others, who have roamed this earth.
Conversely, I dont think differing ideas are signs of demonic possession. (Especially since I dont believe in anything even remotely close to the concept of the devil) If, we as people, never consider ideas that are in conflict or oppossition to our own ideas, how will we ever learn or grow? I have always considered those that are staunchly against considering the differing opinion, to ultimately be the least confident in their own beliefs.
Sam, I agree with aspects of what you say. I do agree that god resides within all of us. I dont think, as many on this thread do, that the concept of Gpod within us, leads to anarchy and immorality. In fact I believe the opposite.
W
hat I dont agree with many times is the manner in which the message is presented. I dont agree with name calling by anyone, on any side. Aalthough I have to admit that as a human being with human failings, I frequently am guilty of the very same transgressions.
My wish for this thread would be that everyone would be able to discuss their own philosphies without anyone feeling threatened, without anyone feeling the need to denigrate.
there is much p[eople can learn from one another, if they are willing to listen with tolerance and compassion. I am sure that God would not be anymore offended by a compassionate yearning to learn, than he is by defiant name calling and vitriol.
Mark |
