I keep reading comments from Christians telling people they love them. What exactly does this mean? I said it a few times when I got here, but I was doing it because I knew it irritated the person attempting to be adversarial. I was laughing when I typed it, because I knew it would goad.
I assume, when many state this they are somehow serious. Can you explain the philosophy behind the statement? I am curious.
I think they just throw the word love around. I've been told that by a few on the religious forums. I think it's weird, as they don't even know me. They say god gives them the capacity to love every single person in the world
I don't throw love. I give and show love.
If you met me in person, you would know that.. I love to help people, for people are my brothers and sisters.
God gives me everything..
Not me. I stopped trying a while back. I try to love the people in my life.
God has to love the rest. I certainly can't find it me to do so. He also has to love my exwives. That's certainly not my job anymore, although I don't have any contempt for them at this point. And since I'm not sure about God, I guess they'll all have to fend for themselves, as I do.
As for what Christian love is, it's obviously what they do. It's a lot louder than what they say.
"...I guess they'll all have to fend for themselves, as I do."
Yep, that's man's point of view..
1 John 3:17
17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
And Beelzebub doesn't want to tell you that compassion is a by-product of love...
God says love your neighbour 'as yourself'.. [Matthew 22:37]
Been there. Did that for over 40 years.
It's pretty much man's made up version of something that he believes is bigger than himself.
I understand the scriptures, still have many memorized, and blah, blah, blah. Still the words of men.
Not interested.
I'm quite capable of loving other people without someone telling me how to do it and why. Search inside. Love is in everyone. They may not show it well, but it's there somewhere.
Religions never had the inside scoop on any of this.
Rejecting God or His word doesn't make it go away.. lol
I'm sorry, but if you've been there and understood scripture, it would be obvious to you.
And "did that for over 40 years." doesn't mean anything if you gave it up.
One will only let go of what one never believed in...
Or in the light of reality. I used to believe in Santa, but then I grew up.
Well then die and don't exist. If that's what you want to believe.
Why try to convince me?
You really think you "spawned" from absolutely nothing?
My goodness..
I got a belly laugh out of that as well!
And there is the Christian love that is so justly famous. "Well then die..."
You apparently have the right to judge me for some reason.
Wear my shoes, walk through what I did, and then say those things. You have no idea what my life is or what it has been like.
A very shallow, narrow take, indeed.
You deserve to be judged by your own judgment of others.
What was my judgement?
"Been there. Did that for over 40 years.
It's pretty much man's made up version of something that he believes is bigger than himself."
That you didn't believe? You said that of yourself...
vector, Agreed. I sincerely give and show love also.
Dear me. You think you show love?
Little wonder your religion causes so many wars.
My - you are brave though. LOLOL
Why so much war talk?
You talk more about war than anyone I know.
I can count at least 20 times and post them all right here.
Forget war, there is no war here, only peace...
I love you Mark.
No - you don't. You don't even know me. You hide behind an anonymous Internet persona.
This is why your religion causes so many wars.
My name is Daniel Buchanan. No persona. Posted it plenty before.
You can say all you want. Like it or not. I love you. Period..
Accusations are not nice. And they won't work.
Unless you claim your forefathers act in slavery because you are white, you should really give it a rest Mark..
No - you do not know me at all. You have never even met me. You are trying to show how much better you are than me, by lying. But - thanks for reminding me why I despise your religion.
This is why your religion causes so many wars.
Hi Mark, There you go again with the war stuff.
Awww
So you are not a Warrior for Jesus? LOLOL
This would be why your religion causes so many wars.
My -how brave you are - unknown stranger hiding behind an Internet persona.
So brave of you.
LOLOLOLO
You don't need her name.
Why would you need her name Mark?
That's not normal to seek personal information.
I wouldn't post it if I was her either.
It's very smart of her..
vector, You're right. It's not normal. One has a right to not post personal information if they choose not too. Besides, there are many on hubpages who are using screen names. It's quite childish for a grown person to constantly ridicule someone for not using their name. Love and blessings to you
Mark, Yes I am a warrior for Jesus. I don't need to post my name to prove that to you.
After reading all this, I am not sure what I responded to as to "Well said," I read something postive, and responded to it, but what is going on as to bringing confussion is not my intention. Yes, religion bring confussion,but the Spirit of God bring peace. I pray for peace!
Mark, it's a mistake to lump people together. Saying 'your religion causes so many wars' implies that everyone of that religion is of the same mind. Not so. You know this but always seem to choose to be an agitator instead of a conversationalist. I guess it could be fun at times to poke fun at others but really what's the point?
How perceptive you are.
Nice to hear a fresh non-confrontational voice of reason!
Not really. The religion causes wars and conflict. Always has done, always will do. Is doing so today. When you think you have a god speaking into your head - you cannot make rational decisions about a lot of things.
The point is that the religion causes conflict and wars. Admittedly - there are a few peaceful Christians - yes. Not many pacifist Christians though =- are there?
Have you read this book? I don't see how it could do anything other than cause conflicts. This is part of the central dogma and teachings:
"He who is not with me is against me,"
Matthew 12:30. Luke 11:23
How does this not cause division and - ultimately - conflict?
Sure - a few Christians do not follow the bible - I know. But the basic teaching is this. And the person I was speaking to causes conflicts and fights for Jesus. She specifically created an anonymous Internet persona to fight about her religion.
This is why their religion always causes conflicts.
I think it is the non-believers or the atheists and the like who always start wars; not the truthful religionists as they have a peaceful code of ethics, morals and spirituality while the non-believers don't have any such code; in frustration and fear they start war with the Religion.
Don't be silly. perhaps if you used ration and reason instead of nonsense your religion would not cause so many conflicts.
I could agree with most of this and certainly understand you pov. It's always the bad ones who ruin the reputation of the whole. I think there are a lot of pacifists in all religions but because they are pacifists, we don't hear from them. From what I've read of your posts over the months, you are intelligent and don't pull any punches, just a bit on the rough side in the clinches.
Realistically - this religion has been fought over since it's inception. History bears me out on this. I question the value of believing in an Invisible Super Being, and I very much question the battle-wording in the bible.
You cannot be a pacifist and claim to be a Christian. The bible is clear - you need to go forth, spread the word, and any one who is not with you is your enemy and in league with Satan. It doesn't say "burn them at the stake," but it certainly lends itself to that sort of interpretation.
Rough? You should hear me in person.
Abrupt or rude ,guess its all a matter of perspective.
And how bout those Romans who threw Christians to the Lions, reckon they were into conflict as entertainment big time!
Yeah - I know. It is all the fault of the Romans, not this incessant holier than thou passive aggressive stuff I see from y'all. If you provoke them into attacking you - this is still causing conflicts.
Rubbish.
You dont like what I believe in and you dont want me to speak about my values or my choice to speak about God.
Guess what I dont like conflict either,but what I detest even more is another humans trying to control and manipliate my right to believe and speak on what I want too.
Everyone deserves that right without prejudice,ridicule or mockery.
Those attitudes are exactly what causes conflicts!
No - your insistence on sticking your religion to us is what causes the conflicts. All you have to do is stop trying to force your religion in everywhere and the conflicts will stop. I promise.
Deal?
sticking your religion to us is what causes the conflicts.
Nobody is sticking anything-dont be so dramatic
Seriously I dont doubt you feel strongly about 'NOT' hearing anything about God ,well tough ,because if I have to hear your nonsense ,you will hear me share my faith.
Oh and no deal ,like are you serious!
Of course I was serious. So - you don't think demanding that he bible be taught in schools in sticking your religion to us? I knew you would not accept the deal. Just got to force it and shout about nonsense.
This would be why your religion causes so many conflicts.
No I dont demand anything,but I do expect Christianity be taught in schools alongside Science-at least let their be an option.
Democracy does not cause wars.
Yes it does.
I consider it to be more relevant (for my childs education) than for example witchcraft,or halloween.
I stand corrected 'As relevant' ,so long as its taught in an objective manner.
How does one objectively teach a subjective, suggestive "do as I say, not as I do", to impressionable children, beneficial in any manner, that makes it of equal value?
It cannot. Because, it's not equal in value.
Based on your defination Cags,that is not objective at all.
Teach on this basis ,which incidently they have no trouble teaching witchcraft.
This is what Christians believe and why ....
That is objective.
Anything less is based on a dictatorship.
I agree that all subject matter does not have equal value,but should not the individual have the choice?
But teaching children "religion" and you would have to use the books available as reference material and valid to be true, which you cannot honestly do, because the precise ideology behind "religion" is "do as I say, not as I do".
Telling children what other people or group believe and why? Is wrongly influencing children and ingraining the mentality as described above.
That only oppresses children to a follow motion and NOT to a Leader type mentality.
Therefore, it's NO good.
No, for them not to have a choice is wrong.
Holistic education is ALL...feeding ALL of the mind,and not just the parts you or I agree on.
Based on your theory many could object to certain material,resources being used to support for example the age of the earth ,after all these too are theories.
Example: Did we not have to read books for English and give a review. I sure as heck didnt agree or like some of those books.
And no, Christianity can be taught and in fact is taught on many levels ,unfortunatley it seems that a few of you posting here are only familiar with one style ,pity that.
There is a reason why "religion" in the US has it's own schools, aside from public education. That's the same reason why "religion" stays out of government as well.
Religion is dictatorship. "Do as I say" / "Not as I do".
To teach any child that is foolish.
Yea ok USA, division of church and state.
Hmm..so whats all the fuss about
The Truthful Religion is do as I do; Muhammad did not say anything to anybody which he did not do himself; he followed all commandments of the Creator-God revealed on him in Quran which were relevant to him; he was followed by his people not as a dictator but as they were convinced of his truthfulness.
If you have to accept commandments from others(external), then you are actually not self guiding. But, nice try. It still creates a "do as I say", "Not as I do". scenario.
The problem with religions is that none of the followers are capable of seeing it.
Revelation comes from the Creator-God; it is as much "external" as it is "internal"; it is spiritual realm having different dimensions than the physical.
Muhammad was capable of receiving Word of Revelation as he was the most suitable human being to act on it very naturally; that is how all the prophets messengers are chosen by the Creator-God.
Says you. Even if you received the revelation either "external" or "internal" and attributing it to something other than self, isn't self guiding. What part do you not understand?
And, this statement again proves you know nothing of humankind or it's history, just what you learned from a book(religion).
Kiwi- Religion is one of those subjects, that most are unable to teach without a biased opinion. For those, who attempt, to teach it purely from an historical/social point of view tend to include personal beliefs. Take these forums for example...Even, those who have simular beliefs disagree on personal views.
This is one time that I would have to say...Believer or not...If religion is something you want your kids to learn, it is best to be taught by parents and personal church. It saves confusion for the kids, when the schools teach one "truth" and the parents or church teach a different "truth".
Some parents might be indifferent to how religion is taught in school...Others might not be so openminded. Don't forget, religion includes more than just christian beliefs. Your children might be learning about Wiccan, Pagan, Buddhism, Satanism, Scientology, and various other religious beliefs systems that you do not agree with.
EDIT: Here in the US, we do have some private schools that teach some religous beliefs, to an extent. Catholic schools for example.
You raise some excellant points Scorp and yes I am aware of the broad cross section that a secular establishment would roll under the Religious banner.
However when they removed God from schools and some Law Courts ,they did not remove ALL religions ,there was no justice shown there.
I taught at a Kindergarten years ago and as with many traditional type events we engaged pre-schoolers in Easter activities, it was a great opportunity to share the Easter story (from 3 different cultures) introduce basic math in the mixing and baking Easter buns etc. A couple of songs ( one traditional ,one cultural) all up 30 mins of a 6-hr syllabus given to Easter,in a Western Country,seemed reasonable.
5 yrs ago ,same syllabus but no crosses are allowed to be placed on the Easter buns for fear of upsetting other religions.
Hmm..I bet if I raised my children in China for example, and asked they remove the Yin Yan symbol from any school lesson ,it would be laughed at and mocked with great mirth.
I do agree that parents are their childrens first teachers,and I can also understand why home schooling is huge in the U.S.A.
But I never raised children here ,so I cannot comment further.
I guess I can only comment on what worked for me and my family (at the time)...Religious Instruction was offered for 45 ins once a week, the classes were optional and Community church leaders came into the schools to teach the subject.
Other subjects were offered from time to time and this varied from school to school.
I knew two of the teachers were actually athiests ,but it wasnt up to them ,it was up to the parents to choose (or not).
The only time I openly took a stand against my childrens school ,was when they removed the Bible from the library ,yet left Scientology ,Witchcraft, and Evolution literature on the Alternative Religions shelf?....
Enjoyed your post.
Very true. If one religion goes, they all should go. Although, I don't consider evolution to be religion myself, that falls under the science block for me. But, that is my opinion.
Here in the States, schools are still allowed to teach about the bible, but as a book only, it is an optional supplimental text for certain classes.
The Easter buns you mentioned...You know that in Nordic beliefs, the buns was crossed like that to honor the Nordic god Odin... The circle with the equal armed cross inside was a symbol for Odin's Eye
Kiwi, Exactly. Those attitudes is what causes conflicts.
No brave one who hides her identity - this is what causes the conflict:
"He who is not with me is against me,"
In fact - this is why your religion has caused 2,000 years of wars.
dear mark
"he who is not with me is against me" is an observational statement of truth. Obviously We who are not with YOU are against YOU as YOU have pointed out so many times.
Had the statement have read "be against those that are not with me" now that would have been an adversarial statement, but the statement you sloppily misinterpret as being aggressive, and wrongly so, is not aggressive at all but an astute observance, pushing the christian onto more devotion in Christ.
In proper context the following verses and preceeding verses do not point to creating wars either.
As usual you have stormed in like an enraged bull on dopamine and proclaimed with a loud voice such an inane sentence like "this is why your religion causes so many wars". Truly, a good laugh for any sensible person but personally i think rudeness like that and belligerent statements coupled with lack of discretion and proper interpretation lead to wars.
But we don't want to war with you, we just want peace.
IF being in here and reading to all the stuff we say makes you angry perhaps not being here and getting all angry may be a possible solution.
Its your anger that creates wars
be at peace in jesus christ
if you think you can do a better job than other christians, feel free to do so. God is waiting.
Nonsense. I do not consider any one who is not with me to be against me. Your doctrine says that I am against you.
"He who is not with me is against me" is nonsensical war mongering hatred.
Disgusting religion. No wonder it causes so many wars.
sorry its your interpretation that is amiss. This statement does not invoke war like attitudes in ME, you maybe, but children of wrath are like that, very wrathful.
Dear me you have been so wrapped up in your warmongering ways for so long now that all you can see is hatred.
Its obvious in your posts.
you need a vacation and an unbiased attitude.
This is why your atheism causes so many wars.
You are the one saying I am against you if I am not with you. This is the true cause of the conflicts.
Wrathful? You mean like God?
And yet, this is the entity you love, worship and learn from:
"God will still smash and devour each soul that pisses him off"
It would appear that those who would embrace such an entity are indeed the "children of wrath" if you consider god your father and you his child of learning.
Mark
obviously you lash out because we are not with you. This is how you interpret this and therefore you judge others by your own actions. Constantly, through mockery and repetition you set out to arouse the anger of those you know are not to treat you as you should be treated and then you say they are not showing love when a little of your own style of posting comes back at you.
This is why and how your atheism starts wars. Just follow your nose into other peoples business and you will find what you find in a mirror - yourself.
Beely
What you fail to notice, as per usual is that we are told not to be wrathful in our dealings with you type of people. We are told to speak the word as we know it and if it falls on deaf ears then we shake the dust off our feet and move on. God deals in wrath, which is something HIS children are not part of. (romans 5:9) We know only a God who patiently forebears and loves us and yes, chastises us like a father who needs to correct his childs wrongful ways. This is the God we worship. All His wrath, since you forget about the book of revelation, is for people who are not fit for eternal life. As touching the subject of eternity I will say that the stakes are very high indeed, for eternity is without end. If you were to have someone stay in your house for eternity would you not screen them thoroughly, i dare say you would be absolutely sure of their fitting every qualification needed for entry... narrow is the way. I am sorry but the God you will see at the white throne judgment is not the God WE will see at the judgment seat of Christ. The God you say is a killer and psychotic has never been that way to me in my personal relationship with Him. In fact God is love and constantly I am aware of it.
Join the group and perceive a different God and you will be amazed at the difference.
I am done bantering around with both of you on this post. It is never ending and i have given enough information. You say my words are not convincing and i suspect you will never hear words from anybody that are convincing. Your delusion has trapped you.
Did you ever wonder why Jesus spoke in parables to the jews? because they never listened to anything He said, they never "got it" and so to stop them from digging themselves a deeper pit and stockpiling up more wrongs to condemn them with, God sent them confusion. Now i know you have an argument brewing here so i will say, to those that have ears let them hear. I can picture my brothers and sisters saying yep to this and all the atheists shaking their heads in disbelief, but i am not bothered by your reactions, the only opinion that counts is my brothers and sisters opinions because "they get it".
have great days
how do you love me, specifically? Do you know what I like, what causes me pain? What I value, what I despise?
Or is 'love' to you just preaching at people you don't know?
???? Love is an action. One does not have to visibly see a person to show love. I don't have to know what you like or what causes you pain to show love toward you. On one of my first conversations with you online, I told you I was sorry about the hurt you been through. I really mean't that. I didn't mean any harm by stating I hope you come back to the Lord before it is too late. You formed a judgemental attitude toward me and stated that I was preaching at you from just a simple reply to you. It was an overreaction to my post. I was showing love toward you, but you failed to recognize it and took it the wrong way. I hope the best for you. Take care.
It kind of makes me gag when I read it. I can't imagine loving someone you don't know. A lot of posters here fascinate me, but even those I agree with I couldn't garner much more than a statement about them sounding like good people. It will be interesting to read the explanations. But I know a lot of people that bandy the word about more than I feel comfortable with, so it could just be me.
yeah, it just sounds weird and insincere when they say it, because humans cannot possibly 'love' ALL humans, let alone like ALL humans - their brains would explode if they tried.
I don't love all humans - it would not be the truth to say I do. Don't hate them either. I don't even like my work colleagues. Like some, yes. Dislike some, but have to be professional, yes.
I love those dear to me, like my husband and son.
Thankfully, because you believe someone cannot do something, does not make it so.. You not understanding does not make it impossible, or unreasonable to think someone can.
What a person "is" and what they "do" are two different things. I love people.. I don't love the things they do such as call people names or steal. But I still love the person..
I say what I mean and I mean what I say.
I love everyone..
I hope I don't turn out to be in the minority when I say this, but I do love you, lol. And everyone else, too. Sorry if that is offensive. But I am, of course, not christian.
The christians -and other worldviews- teach that there are several kinds of love. I agree with this. While the love we may feel for people we don't know may not always be an active love in a very measurable way, I believe it is active, in a round about way.
Only rarely have I said it to someone I don't know over the internet, but there have been occasions. To ease the sting of a sharp reply, to express a sort of an I'm with you, you're not alone (most often), or to just express my appreciation of someone else's regular wit or humanity or ability to supply me with something I want, lol.
The people I argue with online are just the same as me when you get right down to it, and so are the ones I don't. We're all human, we all have many of the same trials and tribulations, and no doubt ones we haven't personally faced as well.
I don't see what the big deal is.
Christian love is nothing special imho. They just credit it to Jesus/God/The Vapid One, while I credit it to 'being in touch with my humanity', whatever one can make of that.
Frankly, I am shocked to hear that you don't love me back! It's concerning. Where can the human race go without loving each other?
Agreeing with what you have written, I propose we go to a movie.
Sounds good. You buy, I'll pick the movie.
Joshua entered Jericho ordered to 'devote everyone and everything to destruction. That's killing the old, the sick, the lame, women, children, pregnant mothers, what would be called genocide today. The Church has a history of persecuting Jews, witches, atheists, inquisitions against any who disagreed with their theology and even those who translated the bible into the common language.
If this lot love you, you really need to watch out.
Maybe you forgot Jesus Christ, the Son of God came and there was no more need to set a plan for the Messiah into action any more.
And He also taught the law which we are to abide by today.
Matthew 22:36
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
~Jesus
A small amount of knowledge is dangerous. And can one can condemn themselves with their own words..
Matthew 12:36
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
~Jesus
If you are to watch, it should be of yourself friend..
...christisn love can be best defined by studying the 1000 yrs of the "Dark Ages."
Oh and ya might just swing by "Salem" in the late 1600's.
There ya go. That should do it!
Qwark
Ok. Thanks for the input. I was curious what those who use the word all the time meant. I've never noticed you use the word, but I'm feeling the love here. So that's where your inspiration comes from. Interesting.
..."inspiration?"
Oh yeh!
Lotsa love here...:
Qwark
Here is some more biblical "love"
"Go up, my warriors, against the land of Merathaim and against the people of Pekod. Yes, march against Babylon, the land of rebels, a land that I will judge! Pursue, kill, and completely destroy them, as I have commanded you," says the LORD. "Let the battle cry be heard in the land, a shout of great destruction". (Jeremiah 50:21-22 NLT)
Are all religions blind, or are the mass of misspelled threads indicative of a total lack of education?
Well, unfortunately God being real.. He's really not going to smile on you saying He is less intelligent than you..
Of course you think it's wrong.. You also think governments are considerate of the people they govern do you?
The world is evil, God was trying to keep the weeds cut back.
It's His judgement. He wrote the book of existence. What's tearing out a couple pages of living words out because they refused to be read?? You going to keep feeding that dog that's biting your hand too?
it does not require a lot of understanding to see the psychosis in the OT, a simple read will suffice.
I am still trying to see how anyone could read it and believe otherwise.
I see Jesus Christ, and His resurrection and wonder how anyone cannot see it. The evidence is there.
But you can deny it of course..
How do you deal with the OT, do you ignore it or rip it out of your "good" book?
I guess not. I wish you would address the issues the OT brings, and all the contradictions in the NT.
When someone writes literally thousands of abusive hate filled threatening "scripture" in the tome, you, like the readers of that other "good" book seem to have tunnel vision!
The quoran and bible are the same for the most part.
The quoran is so far from scientifically accurate Mr. Rogers could have wrote it..
God is not changed. God will still smash and devour each soul that pisses him off, eventually. In the meantime, God will endevour to bring all people, everywhere in any condition to himself. This is the work of God, to do whatever he has to do to bring people into a state of acceptance of Him.
Jeremiah is a book about how sinful Israel had become, through their idol worship and astrologers, etc. How they were performing the ritual devotions that God had instilled to remind them of their old ways and keep them focused on God (we humans are short sighted so to speak and we forget stuff) God reminded them of His bringing them out of Egypt and upholding them in the desert with manna which fell from heaven and a couple a hundred other miracles. But still the people, like today, went their own way.
In your no contextual application of jeremiah 50, God is telling HIS people to go up against BABYLON. Now lets remember that babylon had taken Israel into captivity for 70yrs. The leader of Israel had his sons killed in front of him and his eyes burnt out (oh the horror but i guess its okay if anybody other than God does terrible things huh earnest) and people were taken from their loved ones and marched off into babylon to serve that nation.
Here once again God shouts BE FREE! my people
But i guess while you are busy proclaiming war you miss a simple idiom of "payback is a B****".
Sound of the buzzer on this one, dear friend
I kept it short there's so much more i could have added.
But remember, God is not someone to mess around with, as much as he loves you, albeit i am sure it is an agapao type of love, he would scoop you back into his arms in a moment if you were to become humbled and contrite in his eyes. Hopefully my rebuttal of your loose post helps.
In order to appease his violent nature?
And, if you don't accept him, he will "smash and devour each soul that pisses him off."
Sounds exactly like any mass murdering dictator ruling any given country today.
And athiests dont want to control Christainity? silence them ?
JC. yes Im seeing the comparable thingy now.
One simply has to look at your posts and other Christians here to see why Christianity is destructive and dangerous for mankind and why religious indoctrination is abuse. What more does one need?
I knew our little conversation was going to bring a world of hurt down on you. Sorry. I enjoyed the talk. Keep your chin up.
With a view like that, it makes one wonder how you can love people?
Speaks volumes of you. Thank you for sharing. Good luck touting a non-real god.
Hi Earn:
There is so much of that in scripture!
Ex.: "Anyone who is captured will be run through with a sword. Their little children will be dashed to death right before their eyes. Their homes will be sacked and their wives raped by the attacking hordes. For I will stir up the Medes against Babylon, and no amount of silver or gold will buy them off. The attacking armies will shoot down the young people with arrows. They will have no mercy on helpless babies and will show no compassion for the children." (Isaiah 13:15-18 NLT)
Don't these ignorant, insane "believers: read this stuff?
If they do, do they turn a "blind-eye" to the psychosis of this biblical god thing?
Disgusting!
Qwark
It's a brotherly love. Not that I have to like you, but I feel that it would be a bummer if you died or didn't exist.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away
Hi Dosh, Welcome to Hubpages. I enjoyed reading your beautiful post.
christian love is brotherly love for fellow christians. it means being with them, especially when distress comes their way. christian love may be shown in many ways, by giving them emotional relief, material support, spiritual aid, or simply a pat on the shoulder.
i think we need to also consider jesus on this, he is the christ anyway. he showed brotherly love in a lot ways (we can read it in the scriptures), but the most notable of all is dying for them. (according to interpretations, his death was the best kind of love ever shown)
Love is a good word,but it is a verb which means ,its shown in action
Guess that didnt really answer your question huh, lol.
I dont usually say it ,unless I can back it up.
See? It's posts like yours that I get completely. It's a good definition.
Cool.
(I confess,had the same question fired at me by my son) cept he worded it slightly differently,lol)
His question 'Do you love me ,because I exist,or because I make you happy?- Easy to answer son ,since you most definately do some things that dont make me happy
I love (him) because he exists. The word love then is considered a noun.
A christian love is the love of God which dwells within them. Not all have this love, (you already know where I stand on it from another thread).
The Bible says that God so loved the world that He gave. A person who loves is a person who gives to those who deserve it and those who do not. They will love those who are unlovable, drunkards, drug addicts, outcasts, criminals, etc. . .
Hey just curious - I've been out of the forums for a while and just decided to see what's been going on. Same old junk, I see. If you don't know what love is then one can naturally assume you have never felt it from within yourself. Christian love is the same as any other love. It is not definable, unexplainable, a state of consciousness which defies everything man can create. We get to the state of love through understanding, real understanding, not the type you are provoking through what you believe to be a comic radicalism. You will never find it or find out what it feels like because you look in the wrong places in the wrong ways. Wake up and realize that the mentality you embrace will lead you to a path of emptiness. Namaste.
Cool. A psychic. That's one interesting attempt at a parlor trick. Unfortunately you don't know me and you've gotten it wrong.
Sometimes. But in this case I took your OP at face value. You asked what love is. I gave my learned opinion. You goad. I rejected your premise that it is possible to do so within the state of love. I should have said 'one will never find it', etc. instead of using the word 'you'. So what do you see as the parlor trick? Apologies for getting it wrong. You are offended but you have not addressed the answer to your quest, only defended your pride.
I wasn't defending my pride. I was laughing. You could very well be right, but not from the observation of a post or two. I do goad at times, I do admit. But it is in response to behavior of like kind. This is, of course, just my opinion. You have a different one. That's great. Two opinions are better than one, but only if both parties are willng to listen. This thread was started in response to definitions bandied about that aren't in line with your quite reasonable definition. It was an attempt at dialogue; but your initial post did not reflect an understanding of that. It appeared somewhat judgmental. If I misread your statement, I apologize.
No you didn't misread. I can be surfacely judgemental. Guilty as charged. I always say two half heads are better than none. L
Thank you. I was actually happy that you called me out on the judgmental thing. Sometimes I just get fed up with people who don't think, don't care, are inconsiderate even on the most base level. So I just jump to conclusions, first impressions. There was a time when I actually gave people the benefit of the doubt. Today, I need time to absorb information so it's best for me not to jump and be judgmental but I guess it's easy to do in forums because it's only the very powerful written word. Namaste to you. (I think it's really funny, considering the OP, that your screen initials are jc.)
Now I feel bad again. I wasn't attempting to call you out. You are correct, though. I guess words are more powerful than we intend quite often. I still post more train of thought than I should.
I have to laugh at your jc comment. I was mortified at first when I realized whose initials I shared. It seemed presumptuous to end up with initials that matched someone as great at he was, but it was an accident. And I am, for the most part, just curious.
I know, I always feel a little bad, too, when I am used to correct someone's indiscretions. But I think we all need it now and then. In the old days, we'd be put into a circle of community and they would each tell us why they love us. We would remember that it is best to be loving. Happily, I was more wrong then I imagined about you. Talk is good for the soul. L
I think that mamny christians are under the delusion that without belief in a god then you cant love one another.
Just look at the common christian belief that gay relationships cannot contain love between the couple.
Why is that? Put it this way, I have been presented with the arguement many many times that god exists because love exists which in my eye, implies implicitly that godless people do not know love.
I have also been accused of being incapable of love since I dont believe in a god.
I think it is sad that people think this way. Especially when the hypocrites dont love gay people......
Yes. I had a christian propose once that homosexuality is simply someone's cross to bear. What the heck? What rankles me is how they spew their hatred at those who don't belong to their congregation and then find the ability to forgive a pastor when it comes to light that he isn't heterosexual, but now that it's out he's 'seen the light and cured himself'. And don't get me started on the catholic church.
But, with power always comes hypocrisy. What can you do other than rail against it? It's the way of the world.
Life and Love is one , the understanding of one is the understanding the other.
Love means you want the best for another...
But what is the best for another?
We usually think it is that which we are ourselves, therefore you desire that a person be that who you are...
So therefore if you do not realize that you are already perfect , then you Love can only be imperfect...
In this world "I Love you" primarily means "I love what you can give to me"...because the one extending love sees himself as empty...
But love is never empty but full from the beginning...
So I am Life...so Love is all I have to give
Let me give you my take on it...Christian love is love like Jesus offered - it's love that's given freely, whether it's requested or returned, and it's love that's not conditional on another's agreement with your position or assent to your belief. It's a very deliberate action. Frankly, I choose to look on it in a very traditional way. There are seven corporal acts of mercy:
To feed the hungry
To give drink to the thirsty.
To clothe the naked.
To visit and ransom the captive, (prisoners).
To shelter the homeless.
To visit the sick.
To bury the dead.
When all of these things are done respectfully, the person is offering Christian love. There is also a list of spiritual acts of mercy, but I think too many people misunderstand that list and actually abuse people in the process. They are:
Instruct the uninformed
Counsel the doubtful;
Admonish sinners;
Bear wrongs patiently;
Forgive offenses willingly;
Comfort the afflicted;
Pray for the living, sick and the dead.
I believe it's only right to instruct the uninformed if they ask for instruction. Counseling the doubtful does not mean telling them that their doubts are wrong. Admonishing sinners, in my opinion, is to admonish a fellow BELIEVER who is living contrary to what they say they believe. The rest can all be done quietly and without fanfare. Unfortunately, too many folks take those first three to mean that they should do those things to/for EVERYONE, and in a very demanding and demeaning way. Ask for my instruction, and I will gladly give it. Ask me for counsel when doubtful, and I will do my best to reasonably acknowledge and understand your doubt and help you through it. I will admonish a sinner within my own "community" if I believe they are putting themselves or another in danger.
Hope that helps some. In the end, corporal works are mercy are the ones that most easily SHOW our love for one another. The others are nebulously interpreted and ambiguously presented. But, the general belief is that Christian love is an action, not a feeling, so while I may not like you much, or agree with you, I can still choose to love you by showing my love in concrete ways. Saying it to someone you've never seen in a religious forum? C'mon, be real. They don't buy it, and you're really just trying to sell it. So, in the end, it's a lose/lose. And, more often than not, the person is saying it too appear to be "better" than the person to whom they're speaking. It looks condescending, in my opinion, because it typically is.
Thanks Mo. As always, your take on it is kind and admirable.
Nonsense, that isn't "Christian love" that's simply compassion, which all humans have instinctively.
Those most certainly are Christian characteristics, the ones that start conflicts and wars. Do away with them, stick to just being compassionate and all will be well.
Wow. I would have never thought I had to say this to you, but take off those rose colored glasses. Humans don't 'instinctively' possess traits of compassion. Look at any kid. They are, by nature, selfish. Our society teaches these things to their childred in whatever way we deem appropriate.
Indoctrination is very, very strong in this one.
"Children securely attached to their parents, compared to insecurely attached children, tend to be sympathetic with their peers as early as 3.5 years of age (Saters, Wippman, & Sroufe, 1979). In contrast, abusive parents who resort to physical violence have less empathetic children (Main & George, 1985).
Developmental psychologists have also been interested in parenting style, and disciplinary practices as predictors of empathy and pro-social behavior. The comparison tends to focus on one of two styles. Parents who rely on induction engage their children in reasoning when they have done harm, prompting their child to think about the consequences of their actions and how they have harmed others. Parents who rely on power assertion simply declare what is right and wrong, and resort more often to physical punishment or strong emotional responses of anger. Parents who resort to induction and reasoning promote children who are more pro-social and likely to help their peers (e.g., Eisenberg & Fabes, 1998; Hoffman, 1983).
Other factors still promote more empathy and helping. Giving children chores makes them more pro-social. Children who have grandparents around, and have strong connections with grandparents tend to be more pro-social. Children who have compassionate and pro-social parents tend to be more altruistic."
http://www.altruists.org/static/files/T … ner%29.pdf
You don't understand what I'm saying. I agree with your post. I'm talking Lord of The Flies. Children, with no guidance from adults would not understand compassion. Not as we know it.
Have you even read that book? These were kids that already were well educated in British society.
Btw, do you know for what the literal translation is from "Lord of the Flies"?
No. I didn't read the book. I don't think I've even seen the movie. A trailer maybe. I just know it's about a bunch of wild boys. And no, I don't know what the literal translation is. I am interested, but before ypu enlighten me can you, at the least, concede that children need the guidance of adults to develop social and emotional skills? I'm not talking religion Beelzedad. But they have to observe the behavior of something in order to copy it.
Oh, also, lighten up on the indoctrinated statements.
Then, why the heck are you even referring to it? Sheesh.
Why should I? You refer to a book you've never read to support an uninformed assertion. Hilarious.
Yet, another uninformed assertion.
Perhaps, if stopped exhibiting those characteristics and begin thinking for a change, the statements would then stop. But, so far, your posts show little else but religious indoctrination.
I referred to that simply because, for some reason, every man I know uses that as an example. I assume you are a man and therefore thought it would be appropriate. My bad.
And you see what you call religious indoctrination in me. I see what I call inconsiderate behavior in you. They're probably synonymous.
In other words, you're repeating innuendo and hyperbole?
There's no reason to be upset because you exhibit those characteristics and others observe them. Of course, if you are so upset about it, you must already know it to be true.
I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about. How does your lack of civility equate to religious indoctrination in me?
He likes to think that because he doesn't believe in God that nobody should be taught about God. Its selfish, but it works for him. I'm glad he believes in electricity
I don't see him that way at all, but you and I have disagreed on many things. I suppose if he ever chose to answer the question I would have the answer I was curious to hear.
Oh no, we should all be quite knowledgeable when it comes to gods, ALL gods. We should all learn the atrocities committed by religions over the centuries just as we should learn about all the good and wondrous things religions have provided.
Electricity wasn't one of them, though.
beely
Electricity has been revealed to mankind when it was supposed to be. Look how evolved mankind has become with electricity. Thomas edison was in 1879. Not even 200 years later and look at the state of the world pollution wise because of electricity. Now picture if God had revealed this power 2,000yrs ago, we would probably be extinct. Now i know you disagree already with this statement because you live to disagree and it comforts you. If we look back in history we might find some rather huge earthquakes on some sites that nuclear power plants were made on, for example.
Electricity and the pursuit of electricity and the technology that runs on electricity is all very harmful to the planet, but not adding this into your calculations, well, gets you the sound of the buzzer.
So, if we take your ill informed assertion another step forward, we can assume mankind will be extinct in that it is inevitable based on our use of electricity.
Then, why would your god reveal electricity to mankind if he knew we were going to become extinct by it's use?
Then, you say electricity was revealed to mankind "when it was supposed to be" as if god wanted mankind to be without electricity for a very long time, needlessly suffering from the many technological discoveries and breakthroughs electricity allows us to help ourselves and others.
Hilarious. Wishful and magical thinking, ill conceived examples and contrived claims don't appear to be within your sphere of awareness as reasons for disagreement.
Yet, more nonsense. Your beef isn't with electricity, it's with nuclear plants. Why not mention the vast amount of factories that burn coal to make electricity, or the fact we also use windmills and solar panels to get electricity?
Again, YOU said your god revealed electricity to mankind "when it was supposed to be." Why would he do such a thing if it was going to be harmful to the planet? Why are we then bothering to research and discover other alternatives for generating electricity that aren't harmful? Why didn't your god reveal those methods from the get go and avoid all the harm you are claiming?
Along with not thinking things through, you appear to have a very unhealthy obsession with buzzers.
I don't agree with this. They are needy however.
I don't mean to imply they are bad. They are self centered, naturally. But kids need guidance. Without it they will not instinctively gravitate towards compassion.
Humans are equipped with the complete range of emotions. Most response is based on stimuli to produce a reaction. It's human nature to respond with help from a call for help. Unless there is a trigger to provoke a negative reaction such as distrust or threat, there will likely be a positive reaction in most cases we're implying here. Encouragement by authority figures only works for a period, until the individual can actually test and decide for him/herself. Most people decide that positive responses like love and compassion are not only beneficial to themselves, but to many others, and therefore, it's safe and prudent to proceed in such a way.
So, while kids may need encouragement and guidance, it's not nearly as much as we assume, because it's already innate in them. In the end, they decide for themselves anyway, when given the opportunity.
Nonsense, altruism and compassion are part of us as they have evolved along with us over many millennium. These are not characteristics that need to be taught, they will occur naturally just like any other instinct we possess.
Yeah. He adopted altruism from the monkeys..
If nothing else, read this article. It will be well worth the while and should make one really question the belief that mankind is sinful by nature or instead by scriptural curse. Enjoy.
"Altruistic behaviour is common throughout the animal kingdom, particularly in species with complex social structures. For example, vampire bats regularly regurgitate blood and donate it to other members of their group who have failed to feed that night, ensuring they do not starve. In numerous bird species, a breeding pair receives help in raising its young from other ‘helper’ birds, who protect the nest from predators and help to feed the fledglings. Vervet monkeys give alarm calls to warn fellow monkeys of the presence of predators, even though in doing so they attract attention to themselves, increasing their personal chance of being attacked."
http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/altruism-biological/
It's amazing what information you can find on the internet, isn't it? I found this. You might want to read up on it.
Altruistic behaviour is common throughout the atheist kingdom, particularly in individuals not associated with courteous social structures. For example, aggressive atheists regularly regurgitate lines from Richard Dawkins’ book to other members of their group who have failed to feed that night, ensuring they do not suffer from lack of ammunition. Numerous individuals receive help in attacking their prey by soliciting ‘helper’ aggresssive atheists, who protect the primary aggressor from flanking moves by anyone that doesn’t agree with their attack on their prey. Aggressive agnostics, who lean heavily toward aggressive atheism, sometimes give alarm calls to warn aggressive atheists of the presence of believers, even though in doing so they attract attention to themselves, increasing their personal chance of being condemned to the eternal fires of hell.
check it out at
http://socrates.uofbs.bs/entries/altrui … kiddingme/
Your link doesn't exist. Can you fix that, please?
Did you actually read the article I posted or did you ignore it like the others?
Did you miss my point or ignore it,as usual?
And I find it interesting to note that you failed to mention that the evidence and support for this theory is limited.
Oh, how clever of you to pull a fast one one me and provide a fake link to a quote you rewrote.
Brilliant!
Did you not see the sources for the article below, would like me to break internet protocol and post the lengthy list here considering you might miss it again? I can conclud you read nothing from the article, then?
Bibliography
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* Boyd, R. and McIlreath, R., 2007, Mathematical Models of Social Evolution, Chicago: Chicago University Press
* Bourke, A. and Franks, N., 1995, Social Evolution in Ants, Princeton: Princeton University Press
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I see you did miss the point, or chose to side step the issue. Your choice.
Good one though. Anyone not taking the time to look into your post would have reason to assume you have proven a point. You and I may be the only two that will know otherwise. Ok by me.
hilarious!
and so true
pack animals are not altruistic. And neither are people. It is only a set of circumstances that allow humans to react in any way. If a robber enters your house, there is no altruism there. If a tsunami ruins coastal housing developments there is altruism there, but it had to be generated, prior everybody did their own thing and none were overly concerned about the other. When it comes to a soccer team losing there are fights, hmmm. no altruism there. When it comes to someone saying God loves me, we can see no altruism there. When someone loses their job and is too old to find employment, we find a friendly smiling face at the food bank but bitterness inside.
i find atheists to be very shallow in their thoughts.
I don't consider atheists shallow in their thoughts, but shallow in their arguments; definitely. I see it as a testament to what little respect they have for the minds of a believer. People all think differently, but they turn a blind eye to that and see anyone who has faith in God as sheep. Unfortunately, the aggressive behavior makes them more like sheep than they want to admit.
Not ones like Beelzedad and Mark. They truly put a degree of personal effort in their attacks. But I just finished reading The God Delusion and you have no idea how many of his statements are regurgitated on this forum. It must be the atheist idea of a bible. It's rather sad how little people see the need to think.
Really? What statements exactly are being regurgitated? Please keep in mind that whatever statements you present may not have originated with Dawkins and may very well be ideas and concepts previously conceived or discovered. Dawkins is an evolutionary biologist and gets a lot of his material from a lot of different sources.
Ok. Point well taken. I am still in possession of the book, so if you really want me to cite specific examples I will. But they aren't the meat of his argument, its the fluff. This comment had nothing to do with your arguments. It has to do with statements I perceive as lacking insight. Why any of us think the way we do should be the result of personal reflection on what we perceive as facts and truth. When I see evidence that someone is simply following the lead of another I find it little more than choosing a team. It means nothing.
As I said, this was a general observation of posts on this forum. It does not, in my opinion, apply to you. You strike me as someone who says what they mean and means what they say because they've thought about it and believe in it. Which I respect.
Thank you, but just for a point of clarity and import is that it's not a matter of "believing in it" but instead a matter of understanding it. This key difference is what separates what is believed critically and what is believed uncritically. It's usually a word not used often unless in terms of faith.
To understand it does not then require the need to believe it.
I couldnt have put that better myself. That is exaclty what I try to say everytime someone tells me they "believe in evolution".
Yes, I know. I realized I had poorly worded my response as soon as I hit submit. I was running out the door and chose not to edit the post. I meant what you said, for the most part. And I do understand that you are firmly planted in reality. I'm working on it, but even though I may not agree with you at times, I can still call a spade a spade.
I like the way you began that sentence. Well done.
Why I bring up this point is due to the fact that the word "believe" is bantered around by believers whether the subject matter is of a ethereal or corporeal nature, it really doesn't matter. But, they are using the word correctly, which is actually more of a problem for them.
For example, a believer may state they believe in creationism as per the bible and they believe in evolution as per science. But, what they are saying is that they believe in them but they are not saying they understand them, which is completely different and is tantamount to whatever claims or statements the believer makes.
As a result, we see the same ill-informed attempted refutations about a particular subject, believed, but not at all understood.
Hence, it's important to know whether or not one really understands something before just accepting and believing it.
Beelzedad, I wouldn't begin to say I'm well versed in all of the information surrounding the theory of evolution. To say I believe in it is not stating that I'm taking anything on faith, except that I have faith in the knowledge that I am being presented facts. I assume that's what anyone means when they make that statement. I could be wrong.
But I do think there are times when people are in agreement and it is difficult to see because we equate the wrong meaning to the word another person uses.
Anyway, I would like to ask you something. You told me a week or two ago that you would await my apology. I know I said I would never offer one, but I'm feeling magnanimous today. What did you think I need to apologize for? If its the same thing I think, I'll offer one.
You are dead on right. And, you have driven home the point exactly.
If one does not have an understanding of a subject, like evolution for example, but they have faith in the knowledge they are being presented facts, they still have no understanding of evolution and therefore cannot make any judgment calls as to whether or not the facts being presented to them are facts at all. How can they know they are facts if they have no understanding of the subject? It is entirely impossible. Hence, one is left with only the "faith" that they are being given facts.
More importantly, there is by product of understanding something, and that is one has learned something. But, without an understanding of the subject, they cannot learn anything about it. Not only are they left with just "faith" but they also have not learned anything and remain ignorant.
This is how we remain honest and true to ourselves by knowing in our own minds whether or not we really understand something, or do we just take the facts on faith and not bother learning anything or have any understanding.
I can't stress the importance of this distinction enough. Don't just take the facts on faith and never settle for not understanding something if you feel it is important enough to understand.
No need to apologize for anything. Take this one post and understand it thoroughly and I will be quite content.
No. I would disagree, if I understand your intent. I can pretty much state, unequivicably, that there would be no discussions on these forums about evolution if it was necessary to have a degree in the subject before one opened one's mouth. Everyone states their opinion of the facts that they have read about. They share the conclusions they have come to, about those facts. I see no evidence that anyone here has more of a background in the subject than the next person.
It would be nice if we were all open minded enough, and honest enough, to simply state the facts and accept the inevitability that if we take the time to listen we could all deepen our knowledge. What we tend to do is exactly the opposite. We spend more time assuming the other person is wrong 100% and bickering back and forth.
Sorry to interupt. I just wanted to say...Even those who have formal education in certain areas are told that we don't know what we are talking about. We might still have the forums, even if everyone had formal degree/education in areas, for the sole purpose of arguments, debates and discussions.
I do realize that. I took his argument as justification to insist that opposing opinions remain quiet. Not possible, or advisable, in my opinion. People should state their mind, and be open to other opinions on a topic.
Religion is a very touchy subject. It is very hard for it to be discussed with an open mind, purely for education purposes. And of course science is always brought into the "argument". The only time I have an issue with "religion discussions" is when someone claims it as "complete truth or fact" for everyone. It would be nice to sit and talk "beliefs" with you some day. I always enjoying learning new things, or seeing things from new angles.
Me too. I enjoy hearing all of the opinions, when the level of emotion is notched down. I've never understood how anyone could begin to imagine they knew the answers. I talk more than I should, I know. But, where I come from, there's only one game in town. It's quite boring.
You're right. Getting together would be cool. There's several voices here I'd love to see in the same room, sharing their views. My contribution would be pitifully small, but I'd like to at least have the opportunity to be a fly on the wall. From what I've read of your posts, your knowledge on the subject would bowl me over and you'd be a great moderator for such a gathering.
One day, maybe. And thanks for the kind words. I think your questions would greatly enhance the discussion. Without your type of questions, it would most likely break down into a free-for-all argument.
Iter-faith dialogue is very interesting and educative if one believes in multi-cultural society; then it is a must.
There you go believing things without thinking, again. No one said you needed a degree in evolution to talk about it. You also don't sit there with faith about it either.
When you admitted to not knowing about evolution, this would deny you from making conclusions as to who has a background and who does not.
And of course, we don't see the sharing of opinions and facts, we see believers stating emphatically that evolution is wrong, while not having an inkling as to what they're talking about.
But, when believers start making ridiculous claims, ignoring reality, facts and evidence in order to support their faith based ideals, then they are wrong, no assumptions required.
Aw gee beelzedad. I was enjoying you so much. You misunderstood my intent. When people blindly make assertions, it's great to have someone pull them down a notch or two. That's what makes you special. It's simply sometimes we can be too argumentative when we're actually in agreement. Like now, for instance.
Hey. Not to belabour a point, but it just occurred to me. What I think you believe in is the need to rid the world of religion. I don't think you have real evidence that it will elicit any great and beneficial changes in society, you just believe it will; by your perception of the evidence as it has been presented to you.
I doubt you agree, but I believe you believe this simply because I believe the evidence isn't clearly indicating the same thing you think.
Attempting to resolve the problems of the world require one to look at all that is causing violence or harm to others, whether intentional or not and make attempts to change them so that they can't be used for a reason to cause such harm.
For example, we now have laws that don't allow Christians to torture or kill those who disbelieve or are denounced as witches or some such nonsense.
It was a change to that religious freedom that now benefits us all.
Religions are just one of the reasons for conflict in the world. But, considering there is no way believers are going to change their belief systems any time soon would warrant further consideration in terms of finding solutions.
The one solution is to introduce the critical teaching of all religions to children rather than the indoctrination of children into a singular religion.
Again, I can only see that as an improvement for societies. In fact, statistics show that countries with less religious indoctrination tend to be less violent, and vice versa.
wow, and where did you find that statistic? would you say communist china? or vietnam? what about cambodia during the killing fields when religion WAS eradicated...oh how about middle america where there is a predominant christian population. any wars going on there? or let's go to say the vatican. what about china and tibet...did the monks in tibet invade china?
lots of holes on that one beeljuice.
It's available on the internet along with a host of statistics. Didn't you know that?
Would I say communist china, what?
What about it?
Is that what you really believe happened? Have you checked?
No, but in America, predominant populations of Christians have the highest crime rates.
Sorry, are you saying the vatican has not caused an undue amount of grief in the world?
No, what of it?
Perhaps, but there is none there you've managed to punch through.
says the guy who doesn't know what memes are.
Funny though, all you have presented are the "thoughts" of a believer who believes they are the thoughts of an atheist.
I must point out though, this statement lacked entirely of compassion and ethical fortitude:
If a tsunami ruins coastal housing developments there is altruism there, but it had to be generated, prior everybody did their own thing and none were overly concerned about the other.
Thumbs down on that one, brothero.
Yes. Naturally in some people. How do you suggest a child that doesn't naturally develop these traits learn them? Not everyone has them Beelzedad. I've met people, even on these forums, that lack compassion.
No you haven't. Just cause they didn't choose to take it out and show it to you doesn't mean they didn't have any.
I can certainly see how bearing wrongs patiently, forgiving offenses willingly, comforting the afflicted....yes, these are terribly controversial things which lead to war and conflict. Your astute observation holds me in thrall. Perhaps if you quoted someone's entire post rather than piecing together what you want to attack, everyone would take your argument a little more seriously. I seem to recall in my original post saying that the first three of these often cause conflict. Did you read that part? Probably not. Or, if you did, I notice that you very deliberately left it out of the part of my post you chose to quote. Here's the part you deliberately removed:
"I believe it's only right to instruct the uninformed if they ask for instruction. Counseling the doubtful does not mean telling them that their doubts are wrong. Admonishing sinners, in my opinion, is to admonish a fellow BELIEVER who is living contrary to what they say they believe. The rest can all be done quietly and without fanfare. Unfortunately, too many folks take those first three to mean that they should do those things to/for EVERYONE, and in a very demanding and demeaning way. Ask for my instruction, and I will gladly give it. Ask me for counsel when doubtful, and I will do my best to reasonably acknowledge and understand your doubt and help you through it. I will admonish a sinner within my own "community" if I believe they are putting themselves or another in danger."
Really, Beelzedad, troll for bigger fish. You'll find no joy or sport in catching this one.
As to compassion being instinctive in every human being? No, I do not believe that it is. It is instinctive for us to do kind things for those for whom we "feel" love. Doing it for others, who may be cruel, unkind, smelly, or downright evil - that's above the average human instinct. That's what makes it of supernatural origin.
Have fun!
Really? So, not one of your points can stand on its own, it must be supported by the entire argument even thought the point is contradictory or unnecessary to the argument?
If each point cannot stand on it's own, the entire argument cannot be valid.
No, I get that and I did read and understand it. But again, if your entire argument is going to be based on several points, then each of the those points needs to be valid. Let's look further into your argument for more inconsistencies.
Here again we find flawed and illogical reasoning as well as that which contradicts facts and reality, and smacks entirely of scriptural indoctrination.
Yet, while it is the duty of every Christian to evangelize their religion and convert others, you would not agree with this approach, yet on the other hand, you agree with other doctrines of your religion.
Which is why I'm as hated by Christians as I am hated by unbelievers. It is the duty of every Christian to evangelize their religion and convert others? That is indeed what scripture says, and I do not disagree with it. I simply believe that many go about it in the wrong fashion - perhaps even I do on occasion. Debating with you is not how one should go about it. You, like it or not, oh, un-indoctrinated one, are a disciple in your own right of a system of beliefs and doctrine different from mine. Perhaps your purpose is to make as many disciples as possible. So be it.
Again, bigger fish than I will be much more fun for you.
Personally, I have seen no one here exclaim that they hate you, maybe I missed that memo or something. You appear to be a very nice person.
Whatever fashion they decide is their own doing whether you agree with it or not, they probably don't think your fashion to be acceptable either.
Such is the nature of conflict within Christianity.
Yes, I understand you don't wish to debate, to question your beliefs or attempt any rationale thought processes. So be it.
However, pointing out the flaws of your arguments is perfectly acceptable and has nothing to do with making disciples or holding a set of beliefs.
I didn't say that anyone here on HubPages has said that they hate me. I actually don't think anyone has in my time here. For the most part, they've been quite kind to me. Thank you, by the way. I'm glad that you feel I'm a nice person. I am, however, not really here to debate, evangelize, or anything else. My initial post in this particular thread was to give my answer to a very specific question. That you disagree with it in no way surprises or offends me. That you choose to pick it apart "logically" in debate fashion just doesn't inspire me to want to do the same. Humans are not always logical. Life is not always logical. So, for the un-evolved and indoctrinated among us, fighting logic with logic isn't an exciting endeavor. I am personally of the opinion that much of what man claims to "know" is frankly un-knowable. And, yes, I'm content to live in the zone of un-knowing. You may choose whatever adjective or noun you like to describe that feature of my character. I call it acceptance.
And, yet you are here, contradictory to why you claim you are not here.
I am sorry you're not inspired, excited or interested in logic. If not, what does inspire and excite you?
And yet, contradictory to what you claim, whatever man knows is what he does know, and much of it actually works just the way they know it works.
I call it acceptance, too. Acceptance of the illogical, irrational and that which fails to face up to the facts of the world around us. And, I totally understand you are content to live in that zone.
Huh? Did I claim that I was not here? I thought I simply said I wasn't here to debate or evangelize. I should have expounded on the "anything else" I suppose as being anything else related to religion. I am here. Here at HubPages, I mean. I am here to write. Contradictory, I know, given that this is a site for writers. That I would have the nerve then to answer a direct question on a forum is appalling when considered in that light. I'll be certain to avoid that in the future. Thanks so much for pointing that error on my part.
And, regarding what excites,inspires, and interests me? I assume (perhaps wrongly) that you don't really give a hoot about that. Since that is the case, I shall decline answering that question. In reality, it's meaningless to anyone but me anyway, and certainly doesn't address the OP or anything else in the thread. You may feel free to now berate me for having said what does NOT inspire me as an attempt to "cause conflict" by getting you to ask what does.
Man knows - then those who know may feel secure in their knowledge. May they live long and prosper.
Call it whatever you wish to call it. That you "understand" me brings immeasurable joy to my heart. I don't know that I'd have made it through another day of being un-evolved, indoctrinated, and content without that knowledge. Certainly your validation is exactly what I search after and long for with every word I type here at HP.
And yet, you are by contradiction, debating and evangelizing.
That's pretty silly considering that and a host of other things are what makes up these forums, despite your contradiction you are not debating.
You see, you contradict yourself again by not answering my question even after just saying you came here to answer a direct question.
Why would I berate you for that when I haven't berated you for anything else?
That knowledge brought you your computer, internet connection, these forums and a host of things you use at your convenience and leisure every single day.
To Christ, love was a verb. Quite simply, it is something you do, not something you feel. In his case, it was often unrequited, undeserved, foolish, unjustifiable and total, and ultimately fatal. He loved the unlovable, and often used the Samaritans, the hated adversary of the Jews, as his example.
How many Christians today do you know using gays or Muslims as their examples of who they love?
Excellent point. It would be nice if someone who uses the word in every other post could explain that.
I love gays and muslims and everyone.
Contrary to what the question implies, those you speak of are not true Christians.
Christ said to love everyone, including your enemies.. Let alone a gay or a muslim, for they are not my enemies. (Matthew 5:43-44)
"To Christ, love was a verb."
Yes, meaning that you act on the love you have for them.
He taught extensively on the fact that the actions and things you say come from the heart.
Luke 6:45
45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
But the good things from the heart should not just be spoken:
Matthew 25:40
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
"How many Christians today do you know using gays or Muslims as their examples of who they love?"
If someone claims to be a Christian and does not the things which Christ teaches, why do you ask why Christians do this or that?
For you know those who act like a Christian are a Christian. While those that only claim they are Christians are not Christians at all if they do not fit the description.
Anyone can claim to be anything. That does not make them so. Using the word "Christians" to describe people who don't act like Christians is like using the word "NBA Athlete" to describe people that don't even play professional basketball.
They do not do that which makes them what they claim. Anyone can wear a jersey, carry a ball around, and tell people they make a million dollars a year.. That does not mean they are a "NBA Athlete".
So then if you use that person which claims they are a NBA Athlete to describe the people that actually do play for professional teams, you are applying a characteristic to one group of people because of someone who simply "claims" they are such..
This is irrational.
God bless..
So, I'm curious. Do you think pointing out a belief that those, and other groups who don't agree with you, are bound for eternal hell is a loving stance?
No. No. No. No. No. No.
In case I haven't made myself clear, my answer to this question is NO.
Hey Mo. I'm sorry. I didn't see this one. I apologize if I posted that to you. I thought I was talking to Vector. I have nothing but the utmost respect for your take on Christianity.
What about watch out there is a shark in the water coming towards you.
Is that a loving response?
Or would I be showing intolerance if I warned someone in a loud voice about that?
This Shark actually exist? Instead of conferring some imaginary power on the one doing the warning?
You have no authority John. None. You are trying to gain some with fear. I am not afraid.
This is why your religion causes so many conflicts. Fear always causes conflicts and you try to spread it like a seed.
Yes but there is a shark and he will get you, BUT if you repent and turn from your sinful ways He will not bite you instead just the opposite will happen, He will love you and caudal right up to you and make your world so much better, you can grab hold of that fin and ride the wide oceans with a loving friend and so much more (that you don't believe in )
Of course if you perceive the shark to only be psychotic then you will panic, make splashy sounds and the shark will zoom in on you.
Either way you get what you think you will get. Amazing how that works huh.
sorry for the fear
I'm afraid I would have to agree with mark on this one, and man, I don't usually like to do that. If one believes and one does not, pointing out any perceived danger to the non believer is pointless, at best, unless the non believer has never heard of christianity.
But that isn't really an answer to the OP, unless you are saying that spreading the gospel is your primary definition of christian love.
My primary definition of Christian love is enacted daily by millions of believers in our world.
It has little or nothing to do with whatever is said in the forums, which are basically places to let off stream or rant for a while, goad others, or hold mass debates over nonsense issues.
In other words they are a place to waste time.
Nothing is achieved, nothing learned, no opinion changed and no productive element produced.
The ONLY reason to visit here is to gain followers who seem to gravitate to those who can amuse them here.
It also seems to increase ones Hub score, maybe it's seen as communally endeavoring to participate?
Now I will be more productive, and sleep, heavy day tomorrow.
Not really, it is our own evolved altruistic nature of not wanting to see harm done to a fellow human.
Japanese culture, for example, is quite contrast to western views in that they look out for the other guy as opposed to looking out for number one.
At least I don't claim Jesus and deny His doctrine..
I didn't write the law. I just tell it.
There is no point telling the law. You must become the teachings. This is where pseudo christians fail miserably. Spewing scriptures is not, never was, and never will be the same as being Christian.
Hello, good to see that you are still doing ?
That is right, what you said.
Why would anyone want to be the reflection that comes off of the pool.
When they can be the cause of the reflection?
If I understood you correctly??
Please explain where you got the notion that I don't do so? And pseudo Christians are not Christians. Your judgement is incorrect. Please refer below for the explanation. (1)
And if telling people the Gospel is not what Christians are to do then why Christ's teaching to do so?
Matthew 28:19-20
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Mark 16:15
15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
"Spewing" scriptures is what Christ said to do. Preach.
Yes you must do your best to follow the law. But you cannot fulfill the law yourself. That is exactly why we need Jesus, and why we are to preach...
Any rational statements regarding the topic, or just more useless side comments?
Add to the topic?
What is Christian Love? On one perspective it's religious stranglehold on the masses. On one perspective, it's not Christian at all, but is based on Jesus' true teachings.
The love you are suppose to have for self is no different than the love you are to have for someone else.
I know plenty of people, who have successfully demonstrated the love is true, and many of the were Christians, as per, the average person's understanding of what it means to be Christian.
Those who fail in understanding that their actions speak volumes about themselves, fails in the being responsible for themselves.
If you love yourself, then you would not fail at your responsibility to yourself. Thus, leading you to not fail your responsibility to the rest of the human race.
People talk a good game when it comes to love, but actions speak louder than words. You talk a good game with regards to the bible, but you fail in understanding the love you're supposedly to derive from said book.
Would you die for a complete stranger? If not, then you don't actually understand Jesus' teachings.
That's my add to the topic. Don't like it? Too bad.
"The love you are suppose to have for self is no different than the love you are to have for someone else."
I'm very happy to see someone gets it.
And I would die for another. If I could spare someone's life, I would follow Christ's example..
This is very easy to say, but hard to do. And it is what love truly is.
John 15:13
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
~Jesus
And I actually do like it...
(1)
"" "How many Christians today do you know using gays or Muslims as their examples of who they love?"
If someone claims to be a Christian and does not the things which Christ teaches, why do you ask why Christians do this or that?
For you know those who act like a Christian are a Christian. While those that only claim they are Christians are not Christians at all if they do not fit the description.
Anyone can claim to be anything. That does not make them so. Using the word "Christians" to describe people who don't act like Christians is like using the word "NBA Athlete" to describe people that don't even play professional basketball.
They do not do that which makes them what they claim. Anyone can wear a jersey, carry a ball around, and tell people they make a million dollars a year.. That does not mean they are a "NBA Athlete".
So then if you use that person which claims they are a NBA Athlete to describe the people that actually do play for professional teams, you are applying a characteristic to one group of people because of someone who simply "claims" they are such..
This is irrational. ""
Written with grace and wisdom as always, Jewels!
thebrucebeat. You have it totally wrong and you have confirmed your lack of understanding of the teachings. Which is of course not surprising as most modern day 'christians' also misunderstand. The love of Christ and Christ Consciousness are the same. It is a state of BEING. It is what you be as you do. As you embody this magnificent virtue, you then 'emit' the state and others will want to be around you.
As has been mentioned by many in this topic there is compassion which is a verb. You have compassion for people, you become Christ. This is the fundamental teachings of Jesus the teacher. You can only spread these teachings correctly by BEING your spiritual essence. If you can get that you will become Christian in the true sense of the word. Otherwise you're just foolishly pretending.
My goodness.. Christians aren't Christians unless they are doing God's will and follow Christ's teachings.
Those that don't are NOT Christians.
And you cannot "become" Christ, which means "The Messiah".. He is a savior - hence the name...
You can be a faithful follower.. But you "need" Jesus, you don't become Him. Please no one think they are going to "become" the Son of God......
It's ridiculous how many times I need to tell people this.
It is posted twice on this thread, thoroughly explained...
Please use logical reasoning.......
Have a good one everybody...
DOH! This is part of what gets you into trouble. If you truly understand the teachings of Jesus you will understand that YOU are to follow in his footsteps and find the Christ within yourself. You do not get that by spewing scriptures. You can post your thoughts and opinions as much as you like, you can not change anyone but yourself. You are to find your spiritual self, otherwise you will always be a follower. Until you understand this you will always be fooling yourself.
Furthermore, because of this lack of awareness of your spiritual essence you cannot truly understand what Christian love is, not the true Christian love. It's impossible from this external standpoint you are displaying. Perhaps you can credit yourself with a watered down version of Christian virtues. These virtues are seen by your actions in the world. Generally Christian virtues are not seen from the pulpit. It is a priest's actions that credits the man, not what he speaks of.
And maybe you could think before you TELL people things and address your own inner life first. Jesus would have wanted you to do that.
"DOH! This is part of what gets you into trouble. If you truly understand the teachings of Jesus you will understand that YOU are to follow in his footsteps and find the Christ within yourself."
I'll give you one thing, I admit I did become a little frustrated. But I think the point made of following Christ should be a little more clear to the public that it isn't a magic act. People interpret things really perversely often times...
"You can post your thoughts and opinions as much as you like, you can not change anyone but yourself."
That is a very well made point. But I don't just post opinions. I back everything I say with scripture... And Christ's words are what influences a person, and they are what people need to know.
John 6:63
63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
~Jesus
If I am to "spew" any words on the forums, I believe Christ's carry a vast majority more wisdom, knowledge, and truth.. Not to mention.. LIFE. The scriptures are exactly what we derive the very person of Christ from. If I post not scripture, then where do people see Christ? From MY words?
I do believe our actions speak much louder than words, and that they should be in line with Christ completely. But let's face it. There aren't many doors to open, or poor to feed within these forums.. I'm a little lost on why people keep telling me I need to "show" and not just tell, when they cannot see a single thing I do during my day.
Not to mention. The greatest gift Christ offers is the salvation He bought on the cross for everyone to live. If I don't tell people of His amazing selfless gift, then am I not being selfish and keeping the good news to myself?
John 8:51
51 Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
~Jesus
The scriptures are what Jesus said. And Jesus says they are life, and save men from death. I have changed considerably since I became a Christian, because I know what I must do. And that is tell everyone both small and great of the opportunity they have to have their sins forgiven.
It is work for me to teach, and learn scripture.. And I don't like being ridiculed by those who don't believe. I do it because I love them and everyone, and I spend much time trying to spread a good knowledge. I don't do any of this for myself. Freely I have received.. Freely I shall give..
"...you cannot truly understand what Christian love is, not the true Christian love. It's impossible from this external standpoint you are displaying."
Internal things are between one's self and God...
Matthew 6:6
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
It is a personal relationship with God, that is not to be boasted about before men. Yes, "I love God" and "God is good" ... But not.. "I am righteous... favoured by God.." Raising God up in glory, not one's self.
And the love Christ taught of is simple. Here are His own words:
John 15:13
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
~Jesus
"Perhaps you can credit yourself with a watered down version of Christian virtues."
I don't credit myself with anything except the proclamation that I love God, and Christ Jesus died for my sins.
And I don't have a pulpit, nor do I stand in front of one. If God ever ask me to I certainly would. But amazingly that is the power of God which teaches me in my sincere efforts, and I'm often mistaken for a minister.
I do think very much so while posting. Along with looking up scripture and verifying that I'm not teaching someone the wrong thing. I also don't like to be told what Jesus would want me to do when I have His very words right here.
I think you have good intentions. But you don't have anything but secular words that you are attributing to Jesus with nothing to back or verify the truth of it. That is exactly what scripture is for. Had it not been put into scripture, you wouldn't know truth from lies from the men who spoke of Him.
I do not "spew" scriptures. They are used to address the words I speak and show I am telling exactly what Christ Jesus says. Without scriptures I can say anything I want and make all sorts of invalid claims.. But I prefer to show people so they do not need to doubt me, as there are many, many liars in the world today.
I teach what Christ taught. I don't just use His name within my own opinions.
Babble babble babble, you are making this forum your pulpit! You are not getting it. You are not to tell the words you are to become them. Why do you need to refer back to scriptures to verify what is inside of you?
You are looking at the bible from the standpoint of rationality. You are to learn to go beyond the mind. The mind is of course that instrument the congnizes, puts everything into a nice box so you feel in control of it all. But he who satisfies the mind alone is a fool.
Truth is only found within. You must learn to go inside yourself and find God, find Christ, find Christ Consciousness. Love yourself the same as you say you love God. This is what Jesus did. He meditated, he found his spirit, he found the part of him that united with Christ. You are no different, you are a (hu)man, you have the means, you have the ability, you have the time. Do it. You have to learn to understand the teachings from the physical and the metaphysical. If you have no means to do that, find the way to do it. Find a teacher that will experientially show you how. This is what I did and this is why I understand the difference. It is not via scriptures it is via experience. Go beyond the personal relationship with God and make it a transpersonal relationship. Learn to know what the difference is.
You will never never never find your Christ thru reading scriptures. You find it by going inside yourself and becoming the teachings. Continually telling people to read the scriptures does nothing. It never has and never will. (Especially as the bible has been bastardized to death and misunderstood). You clearly misunderstand if you continually take an external source as your reference. Hopefully sooner rather than later you take your own centered self as your reference. If by now you do not know what virtue is your scriptures will not help.
The problem with 'teachers' is that they never learn, they never apply the teachings to themselves, they think they know it all and it is their path in life to tell people what to do.. You must always see yourself as the student otherwise you fall into the same trap as every other scripture reader.
Perhaps don't be Christian and all that you perceive it to be. Be yourself first and really really understand what that state of Self is, and then being Christian becomes clear.
The true meaning of Christian Love eludes the masses. Sadly it does. I understand 'Jesus' better than you think and find your words a cheap shot of ignorance. I have experienced some of the states he has, this is why I understand. Nothing I say is invalid yet proving it to you is a fruitless exercise and so you invalidate me because of opinion. You must have these experiences yourself by your own practice.
You have incredibly good thoughts, but I think the 'throwing pearls to swine' metaphor might be appropriate. He's been building to a crescendo for a while now. I don't think he can hear anyone but himself.
"You are not getting it. You are not to tell the words you are to become them."
Please tell me what all 7 of those paragraphs are for if you're not to "tell" the words?
And people who don't like me don't like the Bible. I don't put opinions in anything. And if I do I flat out say it's my opinion.
Everyone can notice just_curious' personal attacks. She has more to say about me than anything the OP has anything to do with no matter what the question is.
And throwing pearls before swine is a scripture as well.
Matthew 7:6
6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
~Jesus
He's talking about things of God.. Hence the "holy" in the sentence.
I hear just fine. Mostly nonsense though with nothing but opinions. You don't even quote books or state and explain experiences... Nothing.
I will certainly leave you two alone in the unreasonable notion that you know more about Christianity than Christ Himself. That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard, and I'm not attempting disrespect. I'm being honest.
And I'm glad you flat out called me ignorant. It shows just how Christlike you are. No need for input from me.
Vektor, if I remember correctly, you called me beelzebub. I didn't consider it a personal attack. The point of my comment is you listen to no one. You preach. Jewel had insightful things to say, yet you refuse to listen. Sorry if an honest observation is considered to be a personal attack. Perhaps you could practice what you love to preach and stop attacking others with this notion that they are headed for hell if they don't follow your lead. And stop crying foul. If you can't speak directly to me when you have a comment directed at me, you shouldn't find it odd that I would follow suit.
For everyone to know what I have done, and not done.
"Vektor, if I remember correctly, you called me beelzebub. I didn't consider it a personal attack."
-just_curious
"Wow what a believer in Christ you are. Beelzebub has taught you well..."
-vector7
And it wouldn't have been a personal attack even if you said so. I was pointing out the disagreement with Christ's teachings.
THIS:
"I don't think he can hear anyone but himself."
Is a personal attack stating that I don't consider the words of the other posters. And in fact I do. I even quote what they say to address what "they said" directly.
And if you wouldn't say things like that up there and like:
"Well said vektor. Now that you've admitted your religion is made up, what's your next move?"
-just_curious
And would spell the name correctly instead of trying to be funny then I may be more obliged to answer your replies. You don't like scriptures, and that's fine. But don't tell me not to post them, that's (at least of now) still within my rights and we're in a "RELIGION" forum.
Go to the secular forums if you don't want scriptures. AND it's posted under Christianity, the Bible and Jesus, ABOUT "Christian" love.. By YOU.
Where does Christianity come from???
THE BIBLE...
But it is your take on the bible. Open your eyes and ears. Fundamentalism is not the only interpretation. It isn't even the top interpretation, according to statistics. Forget who I am, or what I think. Think for yourself. Don't be scared. Your stand makes absolutely no sense. You don't seem to care that it doesn't.
And cutting and pasting, simply to rebut with scripture and not a dialogue is not listening.
No.
Christ can speak for Himself. If I post the scripture people can read what He says themselves.
And that is the point to show what CHRIST says about HIS ways.
It's not odd that you do not see the inherent conflict in your own words. Now, that's sad.
You didn't think out what you said, or maybe you did? But, I'm inclined to think you didn't.
And there's another problem. That isn't entirely true. Posting scripture does not equate to Jesus's words with every post, then you have to consider different theological stands on what are considered the actual words of Jesus.
Which, again, makes it your opinion. Christians don't even agree on that. You go on and on, as if you think it is the voice of god posting through your finger tips. It is an opinion of a guy who listened to another guy who might have a degree in theology, or not. Which, even still, leaves it in the category of opinion
Threatening damnation for people who don't agree with either your opinion, or the opinion you were handed, does not, in my opinion, constitute an act of love. I add that since you mentioned we needed to get back to the OP.
You're right, vector. Christ DID speak for Himself. I think what gets frustrating for some is that most of the folks on HP can read. If they wanted to read the words of Christ, they'd go find a bible and do so. It gets redundant and sometimes annoying for a forum thread to be nothing more than a regurgitation of Scripture. Christ not only spoke for Himself, He also thought for Himself. And, as Christians, we are to have the mind of Christ. Which means that we also should be speaking and thinking for ourselves. I think we're fearful to do that, though, because we don't want people attacking our personal words or thoughts, so we spout Scripture to give the impression that everything we think and say is in accordance with what Jesus thinks and believes. As human beings with free will, I am pretty certain that isn't the case. I'm still human and fallible the last time I checked, following Jesus to be more like Him. I've not yet achieved that goal, and still have plenty of work ahead of me before I do.
That's what I think just_curious may be trying to point out.
"If they wanted to read the words of Christ, they'd go find a bible and do so"
If they say Christ didn't say something or did say something that is incorrect then tell me, am I not to post scripture to show the correction?
You can not like me posting scripture all you want. But it's relevant, and it's no different then you adding your opinion.
What gives either one of you the right to tell me not to post something?
I have one Lord and that is Christ Jesus.
I am given the right to post anything I please within HP's guidelines, and you are as well.
Maybe you should consider that you aren't an authority figure, nor mine..
God bless..
I don't recall telling you that you can or can't post anything specifically. I was attempting to clarify a point. I also didn't claim any authority of any kind - about anything. I am perfectly willing and able to say that I was stating my opinion. You're right, I can like or not like lots of things. At the end of the day, though, I was simply trying to gently explain what I thought just_curious was trying to say - from an objective, outside point of view. You seemed a bit heated as though she was attacking you, and I was, in a sense, trying to soften what you appeared to think was "the blow."
As long as that is remembered all the way around people would get along just fine. You are posting your opinion too. You don't get special rights.
Your point Cag?
(ADD)
Maybe you didn't notice there wasn't a reply button..
Hey vector. I just thought of something. I know you don't get where I'm coming from. I don't know if this will help clarify it or not. I read something once written by the pope of the Eastern Orthodox church that struck me with awe at the time. He said ' the Love of God sent the Reason of God to walk among us.' I thought it was incredible to imagine, because I would have thought the Love would be the only way something perfect could put up with us for any amount of time. But he said it was the Reason that came instead. It was like God saw us as equals enough to want to explain the message.
If you think about the whole story of Jesus' ministry he didn't preach or quote scripture to the crowd. He talked to them. He reasoned with them by giving examples of how internalizing the message could change their lives.
Anyway, that's always been my point. Anyone can read it. If you're attempting to minister, you could show and offer practical application; not simply quote scripture.
vector, Agreed. You have posted scriptures when needed and that's a good thing.
To be honest, I can't recall ever saying I love everybody. I should, but I have not gotten to that point yet. Some I love and some I do not. God is still working on me, especially in that aspect. One day I will be there and can say with honesty that I love everyone. Until then, everyone will just have to wait.
"Instinctively gravitate towards compassion" as opposed to what? We're not one or the other, we're all things.
It's a natural byproduct of being a species with an advanced brain. We observe, we connect, we solve.
Love feels better than hate. Given the opportunity, it will prevail.
But yes, that whole advanced brain thing does give us other thought processes which may subvert that. It doesn't do away with the ability to feel compassion, but it may affect what we do with it.
Life coming into existence just to die and disappear is not a normal phenomena.. Death is a gate.
Information in a designed machine (The human body-With digital coded instructions) is implanted with it's 'designed' structure and functions from an 'external' source. Intelligence does not not come from within. If this were so, we would not have so many species extinct. Rather we would see them burst into amazing new things.. Which we note is not happening.
The whole evolution thing is old and outdated with no basis. Most people are beginning to realise and claim there is "some" intelligence that created them. They just don't choose what.
Love is from that source. Which you may not claim my God, but it is from Him..
Loving everyone is a delusion Christians like to promote. It's a complete lie. It's not possible to love everyone or everything on this planet, but we can however learn to respect each other.
What you just said is the lie.
You can only go one of two directions.
You cannot travel in two different directions at the same time..
Either you choose left or right, good or bad, up or down, love or hate..
The world is full of hatred. Do you think automatic weapons are for hunting? And there are more fully automatic weapons in the world than any other kind.
I believe the dilusion is that we can fully respect another without love.
If you don't love, you will certainly choose to be hateful at some point or another. Seen it all my life.
Nice attempt at trying to justify not loving people though.
"Loving everyone is a delusion Christians like to promote. It's a complete lie."
-topgunjager
"I like the way you think."
-just_curious
Wow what a believer in Christ you are. Beelzebub has taught you well...
See. This is the type of thing that irritates me..don't reference me in another post, simply because you don't want to hit a reply button to say it directly to me. I don't believe in your god vector. And I owe you a debt of gratitude. Your insane posts helped me see how ludicrous the whole thing is. Please. Post away. It will help keep opening people's eyes.
And what's with the reference to beelzebub?
yes, this forum was an eye-opener to me too
Eye opener for me also. Showed me that just because you might love someone, you should not always say so. I imagine some thing are best kept as secrets because not all can stand to be loved.
no, it's just that people who make those kinds of statements (loving EVERYONE) don't gain credibility or respect
I would venture to guess that most of them really mean it. I also state that I try to love everyone, but am unable to do so, at least right now.
Sir Dent, I have a great deal of respect for you for this statement. It's an honest stand on how you see who you are.
A few years ago I would have said that I sisn;t love anyone hardly at all. In fact I hated God and anything to do with Him. I was not raised to be a believer. I know I should love everyone, but it is not possible for me, at this time.
I don't think it is truly possible. It sounds absurd. I think compassion and empathy are attainable. Consideration and tolerance for others. If everyone could do that, it might feel like love.
It is possible to get to that point. But it is impossible to stay there. Transcendental love is not the same as affection or romantic love, it is a sense of allowing the idea that all people are here for a reason and are good in their own way.
You can get there and then you come across annoying people and you become unbalanced and you forget. But once you get there, you know how to return.
This is what is meant by that love. Not that the people who say I love you know what that love is. they just hope to and so they keep on talking about it.
When they experience that love, there is no need to say anything.
I think you give them to much credit, myself..I know that sounds unkind, but those who tend to say it have a fundamentalist take on things and I think their interpretation is too unbalanced to even begin to grasp the concept. I could be wrong, but I strongly doubt it.
Too much judgement is unbalanced too. There are many ways people gleam upon higher concepts. Don't let the extremes pull you to one side. Mark can be very persuasive but the truth dances on both ends, when the beat calls for it.
Just CURIOUS is a good name. The cats reminds me of Henri Cartier Bresson's take on photography: "what is there to learn? a cat can tell you more about it than I can"
Mindfulness is to observe observe observe. Judgements are for the foolish. When you make fixed opinions on groups of people, on things, you know you're no longer learning.
I take most things as advice, although I might initially react as if offended by criticism. Most of us mean well, but definitely go about commenting in a less than harmonious way. You, on the other hand, make your points without the hard edges many of the rest of us share, so I can move from ' what the heck?' to ' pretty sage advice' much more quickly.
Oh yes, that happens I have a pet peeve...stupidity really is no excuse. It should be destroyed.
I'm sure you agree.
Completely. I just prefer to go about it in a different fashion than you do.
Yes, and it is not fashionable at all. It's so x-files.
But it is effective - for the undecided. Your woo woo approach doesn't seem to be getting through very well either. A tough nut to crack, this irrational belief in an Invisible Super Being in the Sky. Anyone would think humans are a lazy bunch and take the easy answer every time. Especially when offered some mind-numbing TV to watch and the promise of eternal life.
I bother with what you call "sage advise" (although it was just a comment) to intelligent people who see sense. You know, the type.
I just think disliking groups of people is not a good practice, its a little lazy on the brain and frankly its just not right as a rule. Now specific people I understand, particularly if they're extremely annoying, postures as intelligent but falls short but then, on the one hand--funny. It's like you want to ignore them but you can't. Because man, the funny comes with the stupid and you gotta admit it's pretty entertaining.
Then, there goes your productive hours.
I've wasted a few productive hours myself, but there's a grain of truth in everything. I don't mind getting batted around while I search for it.
I wouldn't say I hated a particular group, although that might be difficult to glean from my posts in this thread. I simply think there is a great deal of conflict created because the hard line fundamentalist stand unfairly refuses to show tolerance and acceptance of opposing views. In the final analysis, who knows who is right? No one.
So it seems to me we should play nicely. I'm not naive enough to think if they stop commenting on hell the fundamentalist atheists will disappear, but it seems so horribly unkind to say it. Doesn't mirror any idea I might have of 'love'.
I would dare say this here. The truth is not out there.
I know. But I've come up against a road block. I find the thoughts others have on the subject helpful. And oddly, especially the atheists thoughts. They've helped me shake things up and see presuppositions I've held onto. I'm afraid I've abused them unmercifully in the process, but they've tried to abuse me, so I don't feel I'll retain a measure of guilt from the interaction.
Hmmm...i think you should explore more. Atheism is just a door. The path is a long one and usually it comes back round.
Nah, the aliens did. please, look at you hanging around religious forums, battling your remaining religious demons.
Aww - look at you lying about the aliens again.
This is why your religion causes so many conflicts.
yes and according to you the aliens started religions, so the aliens are causing all these conflicts. (lying? don't lie, Mark. You think the aliens are out there and they created the egyptian civilization.) You don't get that war is wired in us and is especially so when we are afraid. It doesn't take much to make people kill each other particularly if they feel vulnerable.
The fact that you blame on religion and not politics over and over is actually very---revealing. It is very educational actually, what people battle endlessly. HOurs and hours and hours struggling with a shadow you yourself are casting.
I'm pretty sure I figured that one out. I didn't say I thought atheism was the answer to anything. I believe they have a valuable voice. Of course, it is entirely possible I could be saying that because I like what I hear.
Anyway, the point is I take everything I hear with a grain of salt until I verify the facts are as stated and I agree with the conclusions. They're simply presenting odd arguments I have, quite frankly, never heard before. Some I agree with, some I don't.
I don't pretend to know the answers to what troubles our world. We all have ideas on how to fix the problems. I will say that I have seen evidence of some of their arguments (within the religious right) and some of the fundamentalist views expressed in these forums has given me pause to wonder how wide spread the problem truly is.
Plus the fact that there are many many Christians who believe the end is near, Armageddon style. The thought of people looking at world problems as if some mega war were not only inevitable, but welcomed; scares me to no end.
I doubt my personal philosophy has changed for anything but the good so far. I was never part of anything as far as the church goes. My belief structure does not mirror their teachings. I have solid evidence for what I know, and I believe that what I know was given to me for moments such a this. It is a tiny thing admittedly, but I have no doubt now I was meant to know so that my core faith would remain unshaken. Nothing presented here, or any adjustments I have made in my philosophy contradicts the fact I was given. I feel pretty good about that actually. Better than I have in years.
how do you feel when you think there is no god? do you feel as if you transcended something. do you feel that is the complete truth? does it make you feel more compassionate, more at peace? does it make you more cynical or angry?
furthermore, observe the people here who are atheists. do they strike you as people who have elevated understanding of humanity?
there is more but it is not out there. It is deep deep down.
recommended reading, the inner reaches of outer space, joseph campbell.
atheism is just one part of the elephant.
I can appreciate that kind of honesty SirDent, and applaud you for sharing what certainly appears to be soul searching and personal emotions.
There's nothing really wrong with not having the capacity to love everyone. If you love everyone, then you really love no one at all.
It is one of the most important aspects of our nature and an emotion that should probably be shared with those who you really want to share it with and not an emotion to be handed out to everyone.
If you don't really feel love towards another the same as those you really do, don't worry about it. Save it up for someone you really care about and share it with them. They'll appreciate that extra saved up piece. Trust me on this one.
I expect most of them are sincere in that they really believe they love everyone. I think they delude themselves though. Your honest answer earlier would earn more respect in my books
SirDent, I learning to not always say so in these forums. I can see that some of the unbelievers can not stand to be loved and reject it. In the next breath, they whine about "where is the love from christians"? Some people are hard to please. This forum was an eye opener for me and many of the other forums also. God bless you
I don't suppose it has occurred to you that mouthing words and exhibiting behavior that defines other words are in direct conflict? I read your post to bailey bear. Saying sorry, them telling her you hope she comes back to the lord before it's too late. Too late for what? You know you're referencing your idea of hell. And she does too.
I honestly don't see how the obvious problem escapes anyone. You are rejecting her with your words more than embracing her. It isn't love, it's judgement by your standards; without any consideration of her opinion. It's a high and mighty stand. You have no right being upset when it offends someone. You went out of your way to do it.
WOC reminds me of my mother in many ways. Think she means well, but cannot see how offensive/hurtful their comments can be.
But look heres the thing I dont get.
I can understand how that comment might upset a backslidden Christian ( and uncalled for IMO) BUT I seriously dont get why ,when you dont believe in Hell,why a comment like that would mean diddly squat?.
Its like if someone tells me Im an animal, and came from a monkey,it doesnt have any effect on me ,because I dont believe it.
The difference is - you are an animal, you are related to monkeys - you refusing to accept proven facts is the reason your hate filled religion has and does cause animosity and conflict.
See? One is a fact - the other is religious nonsense.
After a life time of people like you telling me religious nonsense and threatening me with punishment if I don't do wot u sed god sed - guess what?
Do you tell children this Invisible Super Being is watching them and the Evil Scientists are lying to them in school? Child abuse. You should be arrested.
Your god does not exist. You will not live for ever and Jesus is not coming back to punish me for not believing.
This is why your religion causes so many wars.
There are no facts resulting from the remains of any monkeys or related species ever becoming humans.
Charles Darwin himself stated if there was any complexity to the cells which make up the body that his theory would absolutely break down.
Here's one of your own.. A very well known and famous former atheist, Dr. Antony Flew who now believes in a creation by intelligence..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNkxpTIbCIw
Extinction proves evolution isn't true. As many that become extinct so quickly there should be at least one major example of an evolving species in the past 200 years at least..
There are none.
Intelligence comes from an external source.. Not internal.
If intelligence was produced internally you would be witnessing new amazing things coming into being from existing species. Which again we are not and have not seen anywhere.
See.. You have no facts. I still have Jesus Christ..
Humans didn't come from monkeys, we both evolved from a related ancestor.
Here is the Hominid timeline in which the break from that ancestor began:
Sahelanthropus tchadensis - 6-7 million years ago.
Orrorin tugenensis - 6 million years ago.
Ardipithecus ramidus - 4.5 million years ago.
Australopithecus anamensis - 4 million years ago.
Australopithecus afarensis - 3.7 million years ago.
Kenyanthropus platyops - 3.5 million years ago.
Australopithecus africanus - 3 million years ago.
Australopithecus garhi - 2.5 million years ago.
Australopithecus sediba - 2.3 million years ago.
Australopithecus aethiopicus - 2 million years ago.
Australopithecus robustus - 1.8 million years ago.
Australopithecus boisei - 1.5 million years ago.
Homo habilis - 1.5 million years ago.
Homo georgicus - 1.3 million years ago.
Homo erectus - 1 million years ago.
Homo ergaster - .9 million years ago.
Homo antecessor - .75 million years ago.
Homo heidelbergensis - .5 million years ago.
Homo sapiens neanderthalensis - .25 million years ago.
Homo sapiens sapiens (modern) - .2 million years ago.
That is not true, Darwin conceded that, "If it could be demonstrated that any complex organ existed, which could not possibly have been formed by numerous, successive, slight modifications, my theory would absolutely break down." Such a complex organ would be known as an "irreducibly complex system". An irreducibly complex system is one composed of multiple parts, all of which are necessary for the system to function. If even one part is missing, the entire system will fail to function. Every individual part is integral. Thus, such a system could not have evolved slowly, piece by piece. The common mousetrap is an everyday non-biological example of irreducible complexity. It is composed of five basic parts: a catch (to hold the bait), a powerful spring, a thin rod called "the hammer," a holding bar to secure the hammer in place, and a platform to mount the trap. If any one of these parts is missing, the mechanism will not work. Each individual part is integral. The mousetrap is irreducibly complex."
Nonsense, strawman argument.
More nonsense to support a strawman argument.
"...no facts resulting from the remains of any monkeys or related species ever becoming humans."
Focus.. I know reading certain words is hard. But they are there.
And I said nothing of irreducible complexity. I'm very familiar with it and you brushed it off anyway. Which is the reason it wasn't included.
You don't have a SINGLE example of evolution.
Only species dying out.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ex … xtinctions
All those dead species without a single "evolution" of ONE?
Give it a rest.
The difference is - you are an animal, you are related to monkeys - you refusing to accept proven facts is the reason your hate filled religion has and does cause animosity and conflict.
I am not filled with hate.
Disagreeing with you doesnt make me angry.
However it is noted that you feel angry,write angrily, and resort to all manner of childlike tantrums.
Grow up.
Dear me.
I am not angry - simply trying to get you to understand why your ridiculous beliefs cause so much conflict. Teaching children that an Invisible Super Being is watching them and that scientists are lying to them is child abuse. This does anger me. You should be put in prison.
Get an education.
I agree with you to an extent, but you might want to rethink the backsliding christian comment. There's probably a more politically correct way to say someone doesn't agree with your philosophy.
Backslidden..ok well to me its just a label ,and yes youre right there are too many labels flying around. I did however mean it from the perspective of believing in God ,but not active.
Thanks for an answer by the way.
Your right. It's only a label. But this whole argument seems to get emotionally charged pretty quickly. It can be perceived as a loaded label. Doesn't bother me in the least.
I don't believe in hell now, and dismiss it as ignorance when people do. A person in a vulnerable state can suffer psychological distress from being told such stuff - I've heard of people having nightmares from their childhood indoctrination about hell/demons etc
I'm sure you are right, in that she means well. But people have a responsibility to think things through. I understand your mother. She's your mom. Of course she wants you to share her views.
I've figured this problem out though. The ones I've talked to just honestly don't get it. The lines of communication don't intersect. It's a curiosity.
Bailey, I am sorry I hurt you by stating that comment. I didn't purposely intend to hurt you. I don't think no one knows if their words are offensive at all times until they are told. Have a good day.
thanks WOC. Hopefully others will take note
You are welcome. I was reading your reply above and understand you don't believe in hell. I find it insulting when you stated that you dismiss it as ignorance when people do. Labeling people as ignorant if they believe hell is real is not kind at all. Believers have a right to believe that the bible is the true inspired word of God. I don't mean no harm, but did you overlook how offensive your remarks could be to others?
I know longer believe in hell, and I am no longer personally offended, but I know that when I was unsure what I believed, being constantly told I was going to hell did my head in. I am speaking on behalf of all people there that get psychological abuse in this manner.
It is my opinion that this stems from ignorance. It is different from telling you personally that you are ignorant or telling someone personally they are going to hell. There is a difference. If you take my general opinion (not personal attack) as offensive, there's not a lot I can do about it, because we have different viewpoints.
Bailey, I have a very important question I need to ask you. Have I ever stated to you personally on any of the forums that you are going to hell?
Bailey, This is a discussion, so I am not arguing. An opinion does not have to be a personal attack to be offensive. You would have made a big thing out of if I stated, " I believe in God and dismiss it as ignorance when people don't." I am just making a point. All is well.
Really, describe one? The only time people find things offensive is if it personally wounds them in some manner. Otherwise, there would be no rhyme or reason to be offended.
But, what you fail to see is your actions do exactly that. Ignorance is only a lack of something, so you would see them as "lacking faith", which you would attribute to ignorance.
So don't try to pawn off your actions as something other than they are. Because, any rational person can see the difference.
Hi Cagsil, How are you? You fail to see that I don't need you to explain to me what ignorance mean. I don't try to pawn off my actions, so I guess you are just picking a fight. I love you even when you try to belittle me to make yourself feel good. Take care.
no, not at all. There is a difference in that you think people are ignorant, and telling a specific person they are going to hell, or they are the devil's helper or something else that you find detestable
Bailey, I have a very important question I need to ask you. This post is referring to your reply above. Have I personally stated to you on any of the forums that you are going to hell? A yes or no answer would be just fine.
just_curious, No, I don't have my idea about hell. Yes my statement was referencing to hell according to the word of God, and the word of God is not a book of opinions as you seem to think. Yes it was love when I stated " I hope you come back before it's too late." You are not a part of me, so you can not determine if my response to her was not done with love. I did not not go out of my way to offend her. Shame on you to jump to that conclusion. Hope you feel better
I feel about the same as I did when I posted that response. I have learned something since then..I do realize that this is not a topic that we can communicate on. I realize tolerance is not within the faith structure you have adopted. I am sorry you feel that I jumped to a conclusion, but having read your reply, I see no reason to change my opinion on this matter. The fundamentalist brand of religion is not, in my opinion, a good reflection on the meaning of the message as shared by Jesus. This if, of course, just an opinion. I do not claim divine revelation.
Matthew 25:41
41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
~Jesus
Matthew 25:45-46
45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
~Jesus
Matthew 18:8
8 Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.
~Jesus
Mark 9:43-45
43 And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: 44 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 45 And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:
~Jesus
I really wish you would quit telling people things opposite of what Christ obviously taught. If you don't like His teachings then you don't like Him.
Seems pretty consistent to me. And there is more if you need it.
"The fundamentalist brand of religion is not, in my opinion, a good reflection on the meaning of the message as shared by Jesus."
Your opinion... Contradicts Jesus Christ's very obvious words. Christianity is based on those posted scriptures. That is double-mindedness when you claim part of something's teachings but cut out the things you don't like personally.
I still love you just_curious. But I don't understand your logic. I've looked the words up in the greek and they all mean the same thing.. Exactly what they say.
No divine revelation needed either. It is very straightforward.
I can't understand a need to interpret any of this.
everlasting / fire / punishment / fire that never shall be quenched / dieth not
God bless..
I need to see what Cags has on this lot.
I want to love you to vector. Really, really I do. I just don't define it the way you do; as, I see, our definitions on many things vary. I doubt that can ever change.
vector, Amen. Those are some scriptures of what Christ actually taught. How can our belief not be a good reflection on the meaning of the message shared by Jesus?
just_curious, I have tolerance of many things. I don't think no one have tolerance in everything. You can not determine if I am a person with zero tolerance.
Was this to me or vector? If me, I would say you are right. Everyone is tolerant of various things to varying degrees. I realize I have upset you and, for that, I do apologize.
Yes the reply was for you. I have corrected it. I am not upset because I made myself clear to you in my reply. I was simply correcting something in your response above. "I realized tolerance is not within the faith structure you have adopted." You are apologizing for the wrong thing. Making false accusations of who I am is what you should be applogizing for, but I won't expect that to happen. Have a good day.
I believe the fact that I agreed with your statement on tolerance falls within those bounds. Not sure what else you are looking for. I have never left any doubt as to what I think of threatening hell. It is as offensive to me now as it has always been. Hell is an opinion, nothing more. And an unkind one.
vector, You got that right. I have left it alone after responding to their post.
We humans are such an "unevolved" lot.
WE are so intellectually infantile, that we have not yet been able to rise above the shoal waters of primitive misunderstanding and confusion.
We are unable to differentiate fact from fiction.
When a fact, proven by empiricism, is offered to the majority of us, human imagination creates fears which frustrate intellectual movement into the world of "truths!"
The age old "concept" of god/s is contrived by childish, human imagination.
God/s are engendered by superstition and fear caused by abject human ignorance.
The learned/enlightened will not consider the "concept" as being worthy of consideration as a "reality."
Those who believe in supernatural entities are, in my mind, the lesser evolved of mankind and they, insidiously, jeopardise all extant life on this planet.
Qwark
Glad you said "in my mind". It ensures you are speaking of your opinions and rational logic. Thankfully there are pioneers working as we speak on expanding our understanding of consciousness. In the world of science everything appears to be siphoned into the end product of materialism (materialistic reductionism). It's not satisfying and never will because not everything is reduceable to this end.
What is understood as superstition is merely one person's inability to broaden their reality.
Hi Jewel:
I can't speak for others. My opinions are, of course, mine.
"logic" IS rational.
"Materialism" is an evolved characteristic of man.
Down thru the ages, he who has gained the most, gains power!
That is deeply imbedded in the genetic programming of us: humans!
Unfortunately we are a very "fertile" and productive species.
We havn't learned, yet, an important fact; that because of our gained anomaly i.e. "consciousness." we have been able to attain a level of dominion over all life and really, have no natural enemies but ourselves! That throws the "natural" balance of life aside and places us and all life in great jeopardy of being ended..or at least reduced maximally.
Those who you speak of who are dedicating there lives to bringing understanding and with that "adaptability" to a species of life, ARE THE FEW and, I'm afraid are going to offer too little, too late.
"What is understood as superstition is merely one person's inability to broaden their reality."
Yes. Superstition is just an irrational belief that has no foundation in fact and can be mesmerizing to the point of unreasonable commitment! We see that everyday of our lives amongst those who are abjectly ignorant and maleable.
It will only get worse over the next 50 yrs as population in 3rd world nations burgeons and suffering and deprivation exceed humanity's ability to "cure."
All we can do is depend upon the old superstition that crossed fingers bring us luck.
I've got 'em crossed on both hands!
Qwark :
I concur with people not broadening their consciousness - it's sad.
I came across this article The Death Delusion which I found fantastic as it left the reader in an open frame. It's more in line with what my thoughts are. You may or may not find it of interest. http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/7yRpot/ba … press.com/
I have absolutely no affiliation with the author. It's just a great read. Hope you like it.
Just once, I would like to see a source other than the son of a minister and an indoctrinate religionist as a credible source instead of links to people who have an agenda.
Most scientists don't start research with the prerequisite that goddunnnit.
Gimme a break vector!
Not at all.
Sorry you think a world without these conflicts is not a good thing.
You and I dont see the world the same way.
But Im not trying to force you to see things my way ,by insulting your background.
Awww. How have I insulted your background exactly? You were the one bought up my education.
Yea right.
I got thicker thin than that.
Besides money ,education ,status has absolutely nothing to do with Faith.
Easier for a rich man to get through the eye of a needle than to use his riches to make it into heaven.
Moral...Cant buy ya way in.
What on earth has this utter nonsense got to do with anything. If you are daft enough to swallow the idea that it is OK for the rich to step all over you in life because they will get what is coming to them after they die - that is your business.
Do some research woman.
You know I don't believe this rubbish - right?
Humans didn't come from monkeys, we both evolved from a related ancestor
Which ancestor might that be?
I never said we came from monkeys. I said we were related.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_o … _evolution
Dear me. No wonder you religionists cause so many wars.
I repeat -Which ancestor??
You dont know huh.
Oh dear this is why you are irritable perhaps?
By the way your 'this is why your religion cause so many wars" quote is up to $18 now Mark.
Did not read it then? Try this one:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ape
It is not a specific person you know - like Adam. It is a family. And it was millions of years ago.
Oh - I see - I cannot introduce you personally, therefor Jesus is the son of god?
Little wonder your religion causes so many conflict.
I hope you don't mind that I left out your childish picture from your quote?
This is where the lineage diverted:
Sahelanthropus tchadensis - 6-7 million years ago.
Orrorin tugenensis - 6 million years ago.
Ardipithecus ramidus - 4.5 million years ago.
You twist everything
Hardly know where to start ,so guess what I wont.
Its Sunday ,Im off to the flea market.
Elephant ears are so good ,specially coated with brown sugar
I'm a Christian, and I have empathy and compassion for other humans as well as for animals. Call it love, if you wish. Would I feel the same way/do the things I do to help if I weren't a Christian? I honestly don't know. I do know that Christianity - or any religion, for that matter - does not hold a monopoly on compassion/good deeds. I worked with a math teacher once who was a confirmed atheist, and he was one of the most compassionate, altruistic individuals I've ever known. He was always helping others.
Something that irks me about some of my fellow Christians: they "talk the talk," but they don't "walk the walk." Actions are much louder than words. Some of these folks are pious on Sundays and a$$holes the rest of the week. They talk about "Christian love," but they don't put it into action. The ones I'm talking about are judgmental, intolerant, and incredibly stingy.
Habee:
"I'm a Christian, and I have empathy and compassion for other humans as well as for animals."
WE ARE ANIMALS!
Qwark
Well said, habee. In my original response to this OP, I was very specific in addressing what Christian love should be. I did not say that it was behavior exclusive to Christians, though there are those who felt that I did. I apologize to anyone I may have offended by implying in any way that non-Christians are not capable of love, compassion, etc... What I meant was that love/empathy/compassion are not instinctive for human beings and often requires a stepping above self that isn't always easy.
There are those who are flat out good people, and do not call themselves Christians. There are just as many evil Christians. Wear the label, fine, but if you can't live up to it, keep your mouth shut. Better yet, keep your mouth shut period, and let your actions speak for themselves.
I agree with you wholeheartedly on this one! Very nicely put.
Motown, I was in now way referring to you! You know the type I'm talking about. They preach about love, forgiveness, and generosity, but they don't practice it.
Oh, I took no offense at all! And, yes, I do know the type you're talking about - I have them in my family and among my dearest friends. It gets frustrating. And, frankly, it's what gives anyone who chooses to call themselves a Christian a VERY bad name. Hope you're feeling better, btw, and recovering well!
Cursing isn't better or finger pointing. It should be stated that if they act like that every day but not on Sunday, they simply aren't Christians.
If they act like a Christian they are Christians. Christians make mistakes, but if they repeat the same behaviour over and over. That's not Christian.
Matthew 7:3
3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
~Jesus
Just saying..
Really not trying to be ugly. Sincerely.
God bless..
Religion has nothing to do with love, it is conditional love, which is something altogether different to love.
Hey ernest. I agree, in that is the way it appears to be put into action here. But that is not the way it is meant to be. Of course, you know that. You've studied up on the religion. Why do you think it is so difficult for people to understand that this type of behavior is a mockery of the lessons they were meant to learn? It's an ongoing mystery.
I don't think a lot of people love themselves in a way that is useful or meaningful to others.
Anything that asks for a criteria is not love, love is something we share by doing for others because we have real self love.
Sharing love is not some great deed, it is as easy as breathing!
Wanna show love??? Do the dishes!
I suppose that means my husband has a difficult time with this concept. You're right though. It's all about action. I've had that discussion a thousand times. I don't remember the song, but one came out here I absolutely loved. Something acapella if I remember. About never saying it, but showing it. They're only words otherwise.
Exactly! I described how children learn love on my hub. "love is a doing thing"
I have just returned from giving love to my little ones by reading a bedtime story, I gave some love to my daughter by helping to keep the house in shape, I gave love to my son, by helping him give love to his girlfriend by buying her a bike.
I have had a very loving day! So has my son
There isn't a SINGLE example of evolution.
Only species dying out.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ex … xtinctions
All those dead species without a single "evolution" of ONE?
More like the opposite of evolution...
By the way it shows 306 listed without even counting them. And that is only from four lists with most of the extinctions averaging within the last 2,000 years by your scientist's estimates.
The earth by your scientist's estimates is 4.54 billion years old.
At the rate of 306 species dying out every 2,000 years... (and probably more)
4.54 billion divided by 2,000 years is 2,270,000 . Times that by 306 species and you get 694,620,000.
That's 694.62 million species extinct by your scientist's numbers.
Here's a quote for you:
"The National Science Foundation’s “Tree of Life” project estimates that there could be anywhere from 5 million to 100 million species on the planet, but science has only identified about 2 million."
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20109284/
So what your trying to tell me is that in the 4.54 billion years 694 million species have died out and there is only 100 million on the planet total?? And possibly a lot less???
And you still think your evolution holds value in rational logic?
At 100 million species on the planet and 306 dying out every 2,000 years...
(and again probably a lot less on earth than 100 million... and probably more dying out than 306 every 2,000 years - I'm being generous)
100,000,000 species divided by the 306 that die out you get 326,797...
Times that by every 2,000 years and you get 653,594,000.......
You mean that with at the rate of extinction formulated by your scientist's numbers the earth has been here for 4.54 billion years but life will only be able sustain itself for another 653 million years?
Shouldn't the number of species increase with time if evolution is true???
Yes.. It should. But it doesn't.
Because there are millions dying and none evolving...
Have a good one..
go and try and fit all those animals on a wooden boat then. See if they all fit with all their food etc for nearly a year.
All those animals dying - what a cruel god you worship
I can understand why you attack God rather than address the point I made.
You have no reason to try to refute the fact that evolution isn't true.
And it wouldn't make sense anyway.
Dear me.
Did the new ones appear by majik wen god sed?
Little wonder your religion causes so much hatred.
Ahh, THIS is proof!
Why do you use drawings?
Why not pictures?
Of course, there was no-one around to take them gazillions of years ago.
VERY rational.
Reality is not blissful. What gave you that idea? Reality just is.
Did god do the majik making new species appear when old ones died out?
No dj. The horse is a good example because of the massive amount of facts we have at our disposal. Sorry you prefer to attack knowledge in favor creating conflict in the name of Jesus. This would be the main reason your religion causes so many wars.
Unless of course you have some more rational explanation as to why one species dies out and another similar, more well developed one emerges as the old one goes extinct?
We call this the "theory of evolution" to explain the proven measurable scientific facts and data we have that show animals evolving. We have even re-created the process in a laboratory.
I am all ears.
All ears?
That's a first.
So, where did the giant bones come from?
They are the same class of evidence you use for evolution of the horse.
Dear me.
There are physical reasons why it is not possible for humans to grow this size.
http://www.hoax-slayer.com/giant-skeleton.html
Please deal with one thing at a time. I asked a reasonable question - wouldn't you say?
http://www.darwinismrefuted.com/thermodynamics.html
This is FACT, so, how you deal with it is Up to you!
We could play the game all night, but sadly, whilst you are waking, I'm sleeping.
So - no reasonable, rational explanation then. Just more nonsensical religious claptrap thinly disguised as scientific opinion. I am well aware there is no shortage of peopel ready to lie for Jesus - that is not what I asked.
K.
Little wonder your religion causes so many wars.
Sweet dreams.
You are a fake!
I at least read you debunk link.
You didn't even make the attempt.
No wonder you cause so much grief on the forums.
At least have the >>>> to read my link!
I have read it before - it is nonsense dj.
Now - please offer me a reasonable, rational explanation for the instances where we see a species go extinct and a new species emerge that is more highly developed. We can recreate this in laboratory conditions also.
I am listening but do not want any more Liars for Jesus pseudo science links thanks.
Holding the Laws of thermodynamics and entropy in suspension to further evolutionary theory is the real deception, not why on species died out, etc.
Who cares why they died out. Evolution will prevail to end any way it wants.
Based on your own beliefs of evolution being correct, NOTHING matters anyway. It ALL dies. It make NO difference if EVERYthing goes extinct.
Why bother arguing the inevitable?
Great link dj..
He won't admit anything. I've got atheist friends. They all admit they're atheist because they don't want to believe in God.
He's just one still in denial.
I very much doubt you have any atheist friends who say that - but - that is OK - you can repent later.
entropy is about closed systems. Earth is not a closed system - energy enters the system via the sun.
The laws of thermodynamics do not debunk evolution
Fact? Really? It looks more like a poor understanding of that law mixed in with fabrications and disinformation. For example from the link provided:
The second law of thermodynamics is the means by which this natural process is defined, with physical equations and calculations.
This famous law of physics is also known as the "law of entropy." In physics, entropy is the measure of the disorder of a system. A system's entropy increases as it moves from an ordered, organized, and planned state towards a more disordered, dispersed, and unplanned one. The more disorder there is in a system, the higher its entropy is. The law of entropy holds that the entire universe is unavoidably proceeding towards a more disordered, unplanned, and disorganized state.
If that were true, then snowflakes and mineral crystals would be impossible as they are complex structures that formed spontaneously from disordered parts.
The law actually states that the "total entropy" of a closed system in which no energy or matter can leave or enter the system cannot decrease. Therefore, if parts of a system decrease in entropy, other parts of the system will be permitted to increase in entropy thus offsetting the decrease.
Our earth is such a system in that the sun pours heat and light onto it thus increasing its entropy allowing growth of complex structures. The nuclear fusion associated with the sun is the offset decrease in entropy of the entire system.
That's great. So, the sun adds energy to the snowflake, and it grows into a bigger snowflake.
Thanks for explaining it so well.
I always thought the sun's energy melted the snowflake.
Go figure.
I will go now, with a whole new outlook on that one.
Just how does the sun's energy prevent a car from rusting to dust in the desert?
How does everything we know deteriorate with time, All the while, the sun shines.
So, life is the only thing that bucks the system, but it too, winds down and dies.
So, life must have come from LIFE, and not from Non-life to start with.
Totally consistent with your own definition of entropy.
If it were NOT the case, we'd have spontaneous life formation all the time, but we HAVE NOT.
This would be why your religion causes so many conflicts dj.
religion says : we built this city, we built this city on rock and roll.
science says: why why why delilah? why why why delilah?
you say : potato
they say: Pohtahto.
you say : tomato
they say :tomahto.
and that's all I have to say to you.
sorry don't know any white trash where I'm from so I have no idea what you meant.
Its quite condescending.
Perhaps it just means Mark likes ya ( he reverts to babytalk when he likes ya )
That is OK - they understand just fine, Woo woo.
See, Mark - that's why your comments cause so many conflicts. LOL!! Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Why are you acting childish? Please grow up.
It doesn't, so what?
The sun is 'deteriorating' as well as it's fusion cycle continues. Again, so what?
No, life does not "buck the system" whatever that means.
That would be an uniformed opinion.
Again, a very poor understanding on your part of entropy does lead to uniformed opinions and conclusions. Entropy does not claim "spontaneous life formation".
still checking your textbooks from circa 1950...
Cool! How did they get those equine to follow in a straight line like that??
How about this then?
At least it's a picture, and not an illustration.
Was this US billions of years ago?
Or, will this be how big we'll get, it we follow your evolutionary chart on horses?
Majik!
Dear me dj - no wonder your religion is responsible for so many wars.
Dear me dj.
Would you mind answering the question? I know you do not understand why it is not physically possible for humans to grow this big, but still.
I have seen fossils. I have held them in my hand. I have touched petrified trees that no longer exist. There are millions of them scattered around the world. What is your explanation for the obvious extinction of species combined with the emergence of a new, more well developed, similar species around the same time frame?
This "Liars For Jesus" (TM) silly fake photo is what you base your faith on? Dear me - no wonder you need to start so many fights.
And yet with all you've seen I guess it all stopped once you were born so you couldn't see evolution in action?
Or maybe it just stopped in the past 150 years yeah?
And you never addressed my above point about the number of extinctions there are.
You also didn't address the link dj provided for his evidence. The whole world's evidence from your very own secular research by the way..
http://www.darwinismrefuted.com/thermodynamics.html
Here's some help:
"""" The Second Law of Thermodynamics, which is accepted as one of the basic laws of physics, holds that under normal conditions all systems left on their own tend to become disordered, dispersed, and corrupted in direct relation to the amount of time that passes. Everything, whether living or not, wears out, deteriorates, decays, disintegrates, and is destroyed. This is the absolute end that all beings will face one way or another, and according to the law, the process cannot be avoided.
This is something that all of us have observed. For example if you take a car to a desert and leave it there, you would hardly expect to find it in a better condition when you came back years later. On the contrary, you would see that its tires had gone flat, its windows had been broken, its chassis had rusted, and its engine had stopped working. The same inevitable process holds true for living things.
The second law of thermodynamics is the means by which this natural process is defined, with physical equations and calculations.
This famous law of physics is also known as the "law of entropy." In physics, entropy is the measure of the disorder of a system. A system's entropy increases as it moves from an ordered, organized, and planned state towards a more disordered, dispersed, and unplanned one. The more disorder there is in a system, the higher its entropy is. The law of entropy holds that the entire universe is unavoidably proceeding towards a more disordered, unplanned, and disorganized state.
The truth of the second law of thermodynamics, or the law of entropy, has been experimentally and theoretically established. All foremost scientists agree that the law of entropy will remain the principle paradigm for the foreseeable future. Albert Einstein, the greatest scientist of our age, described it as the "premier law of all of science." Sir Arthur Eddington also referred to it as the "supreme metaphysical law of the entire universe."
Evolutionary theory ignores this fundamental law of physics. The mechanism offered by evolution totally contradicts the second law. The theory of evolution says that disordered, dispersed, and lifeless atoms and molecules spontaneously came together over time, in a particular order, to form extremely complex molecules such as proteins, DNA, and RNA, whereupon millions of different living species with even more complex structures gradually emerged. According to the theory of evolution, this supposed process-which yields a more planned, more ordered, more complex and more organized structure at each stage-was formed all by itself under natural conditions. The law of entropy makes it clear that this so-called natural process utterly contradicts the laws of physics.
Evolutionist scientists are also aware of this fact. J. H. Rush states:
In the complex course of its evolution, life exhibits a remarkable contrast to the tendency expressed in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Where the Second Law expresses an irreversible progression toward increased entropy and disorder, life evolves continually higher levels of order.365
The evolutionist author Roger Lewin expresses the thermodynamic impasse of evolution in an article in Science:
One problem biologists have faced is the apparent contradiction by evolution of the second law of thermodynamics. Systems should decay through time, giving less, not more, order.366
Another defender of the theory of evolution, George Stravropoulos, states the thermodynamic impossibility of the spontaneous formation of life and the impossibility of explaining the existence of complex living mechanisms by natural laws in the well-known evolutionist journal American Scientist:
Yet, under ordinary conditions, no complex organic molecule can ever form spontaneously, but will rather disintegrate, in agreement with the second law. Indeed, the more complex it is, the more unstable it will be, and the more assured, sooner or later, its disintegration. Photosynthesis and all life processes, and even life itself, cannot yet be understood in terms of thermodynamics or any other exact science, despite the use of confused or deliberately confusing language.367
As we have seen, the evolution claim is completely at odds with the laws of physics. The second law of thermodynamics constitutes an insurmountable obstacle for the scenario of evolution, in terms of both science and logic. Unable to offer any scientific and consistent explanation to overcome this obstacle, evolutionists can only do so in their imagination.For in stance, Jeremy Rifkin notes his belief that evolution overwhelms this law of physics with a "magical power":
The Entropy Law says that evolution dissipates the overall available energy for life on this planet. Our concept of evolution is the exact opposite. We believe that evolution somehow magically creates greater overall value and order on earth.368
These words well indicate that evolution is a dogmatic belief rather than a scientific thesis. """"
But that means that "the obvious extinction of species 'combined' with the emergence of a new, more well developed similar species" is in direct opposition to the very law of nature? wow..
And you will not find any evolution happening today. They've been looking REALLY HARD for decades.. I've followed the data.
Anyone can twist old bones onto a chart.
And at least his photo proved your crayon illustration was a cheap attempt at any kind of refutation.
"Jeremy Rifkin notes his belief that evolution overwhelms this law of physics with a "magical power"
How about "Liars For Satan"...
Dear me. It's no wonder you're all the time bringing up used up outdated theories...
Dear me. Not going to refute nonsense - it has been done already. But - good cut and paste job. There are no contradictions in evolution. Nor has evolution stopped. It can be seen in action, and new species have been manipulated into being in a lab.
No wonder your religion causes so many wars.
"Liars for Jesus" (TM)
But what about the horses? They haven't changed a inch in the past 150 years..
What happened to all that growth hormone you showed they had??
Unlike your Invisible Super Being - nature is not so fast.
But - I see where you are coming from - I mean - if you have not seen it with your own eyes - it must be a lie right?
Oh - wait...........................
Well it's understandable for you to provide an illustration with no proof.
So you are admitting they die out much more rapidly than they could ever evolve?
306 die in front of our eyes.. we see none evolve...
That means there should be no life on planet earth.... By your claims..
Sorry you choose not to understand and instead attack knowledge. I know - it is scary learning stuff - I don't blame you for not bothering. Swallowing the majik pill is much, much easier. No work, no learning - nothink. Cut and paste some more biblical nonsense - I am sure that will make you feel better.
Sadly - this would be why your religion causes so many wars.
Yes Rifkin is a reform Jew. When will we start seeing "scientific" posts that have scientists instead of religionists with an agenda.
The laws of physics are not religion.
They are fact.
Nice attempt though.
Here ya go..
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entropy
"The dominant view among scientists concerning the origin of anatomically modern humans is the "Out of Africa" or recent African origin hypothesis"
"This theory has been contradicted by recent evidence, although it has been suggested that non Homo sapiens Neanderthal genomes may have contributed about 4% of non-African heredity"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_evolution
This means they still have no idea.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Entitled - "" History of the term "Anthropogeny" ""
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthropogeny
A definition of the word Anthropogeny and the origin of the "word."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolution
The word "theory" occurs 39 times in the making of this document.
The Laws of Physics are fact. Theories are not.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_descent
"Common descent" is just a branch off of the "evolution" link you provided.
More theories..
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
And as for this one:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_evolution
You need to provide information on how this came into being:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prokaryote
For the rest to be considered valid as it contradicts the Law of Physics that has just prior been pointed out.
Neanderthals were a separate species of human. Some interbred with humans before they became extinct (but after leaving africa). Some modern humans contain neanderthal genes.
You need to educate yourself on what theory means in science. You need to educate yourself full stop.
"You need to educate yourself on what theory means in science. You need to educate yourself full stop."
I don't need any instructions for someone who is addressing neanderthals when they aren't even mentioned. That is a side topic within the main focus I have fully addrtessed.
Here's your education so you can understand yourself what a theory is..
Definition of Theory:
1. rules and techniques: the body of rules, ideas, principles, and techniques that applies to a subject, especially when seen as distinct from actual practice
2. speculation: abstract thought or contemplation
3. idea formed by speculation: an idea of or belief about something arrived at through speculation or conjecture
Directly from the world wide web's search engine...
Apparently you are mistaken on what a theory is. I am fully aware and defined it correctly as it is not fact. The Law of Physics dj pointed out is FACT. Please quit wasting my time. I'm tired of looking up definitions for you...
You might go to this link to understand what Bailey Bear is trying to gently share with you. It states it pretty simply.
http://www.wilstar.com/theories.htm
That is ridiculous..
In that case there is no need to call a Law a Law....
We could just call it the Theory of Gravity huh?
Give me a break......
Your article writer has an agenda..
"So-called "theories" based on religion, such as creationism or intelligent design are, therefore, not scientific theories."
No need to bring up religion if you weren't specifically twisting things to debate against it..
[In reply to below]
"You should, at the least, read it."
I would have to read it to find the information in which I quoted..
I don't think so vector. I think it is simply trying to explain a term. But I get your point. I'm always leery of links too. You should, at the least, read it. At least you'll know where they are coming from. Gives you ammunition, if nothing else.
You brought up neanderthals on your last previous post, with the comment ' this means they still have no idea'. Maybe you should actually read what you copy & paste.
You seem to think you are clever. Sorry, to pop your bubble, but you don't need to explain to me what a scientific theory is - I have a Bachelor of Science degree so I know what a scientific theory is. I also know that the arguments anti-evolutionists rehash over & over ("just a theory" & twisting entropy) is wrong.
Since you seem incapable of finding accurate information, I have found some for you:
http://www.wilstar.com/theories.htm
PS - are you dj's more outspoken sockpuppet?
bet you have no idea what all that means. The author of that doesn't know what they're talking about either, because if they did, they'd know that entropy applies to closed systems (ie no energy in or out) & earth is an open system - gets energy from sun.
Basic science lesson:
All living things build complex molecules which go against entropy. How do they do this? They require energy. Where do they get their energy? Animals get it from eating - ultimately plants. Plants get it from the sun.
Without the sun there would be no life.
"All living things build complex molecules which go against entropy."
And they all die. Same end for every life form...
Therefore... "Entropy"
If there was no entropy.. They would live forever.
No disorder. No breaking down..
This is a very basic principle..
You're misinterpreting your science lesson..
No misinterpreting by me at all. You fail to understand that all living things are 'built up' and to do this they require energy to form bonds - the sun ultimately provides that energy.
ENTROPY APPLIES IN A CLOSED SYSTEM - ie no energy coming in from outside, which is NOT the case with Earth & our son.
Very basic principle.
Besides, did your god over-ride entropy according to you?
Ok.
That's why we live forever right?
Argue with yourself.. Everyone here knows and see we break down and DIE..
No technical points needed...
Have a good one..
you have heard of Photoshop?
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news … leton.html
A reasonable person would apologize for putting a fraudulent picture up here after reading that thread..... but I guess it's better not to read things that prove one wrong, and be prepared to bend the truth past breaking point to defend a belief that has already done the same.
Thanks Earnie.
I never actually claimed it was real, nor was it proof. So, I don't feel the need to apologise.
The reason I used this image in the first place, is to dounter the line of equine evolition, as presented by Mark.
To me, they fall in the same category of FAKE.
Although the Bible does speak of giants pr-flood, I have no knowledge as to any skeletons having been found.
As I said before, we can have some fun. Life doesn't have to be too serious, does it?
I have seen the horse pics before, they accurately portray sequence.
Here is some more simple information you may like to comment on.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolution_of_the_horse
I found another photo too..
Looks sorta like this one from your link huh?
The first one is a SHEEP... woww.. I guess that's where horses come from...
Fits right in the sequence portrayal too..
Since you've put a few skeletons up, I may as well comment on them. BTW, scientists use more than the way the bones look when figuring out what is related to what.
The 2 mammals in the photos each have 7 neck bones. So do other mammals including humans, bats, giraffes & whales. Why does a giraffe have only 7 neck bones with such a long neck, when birds with short necks can have more than twice that?
what, the birds or the giraffe? My cat can lick his back - he has 7 neck bones
seems he had a problem with efficiency & engineering. The poor giraffe is rendered nearly mute, because the nerve from the larynx to the brain goes all the way down the neck (approx 2m long), around the heart & back up again
Love is such a vague word. I had a friend who waa a youth pastor, and he was always telling everybody, "Love you man. Mean it." But he would also say that he loved this movie or this particular food. He also claimed unconditional love, but anybody who wouldn't live their Christian life the way he thought they should, he tended to slowly weed his way out of their life. I have a lot of scars in reguards to Christian love. I believe that love is meant to be unconditional with no secret motives of converting people to how you believe.
Yes. And yet the man is following his Bible as he should. Although Christ said it is not the healthy that need a physician but the sick, He also doesn't want us to be influenced by things opposite of what Jesus taught us to do.
1 Corinthians 15:33
33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
This means the same thing as bad apples spoil good apples. And how many apples does it take to spoil good apples? One can spoil an entire barrel.
I don't know his heart. But I know I have friends I dearly love that I can't hang out with because of the things they do. I tried once... I began to slip at the tongue... Do I still love them and others like them? YES.. I love them so much I'd die for both of them. (they're twins) There are some people who completely hate me, and I love them dearly as well. They are PEOPLE.. They don't agree with me and have hard feelings against me, but why shouldn't I love them because they choose something different? I separate myself for the most part but I never turn a cold shoulder to someone.
And Hell is real just as Jesus Christ taught it is, with descriptions such as "everlasting fire" and "everlasting punishment" (Matthew 25:46 ; 25:41 ; 18:8)
And with Hell being real it is NOT unloving to warn others about the torments of it.
If you knew there was a cliff at the end of a road and you seen people driving in the direction of the cliff would you not try to get their attention and stop them?
Is it unloving to warn people of danger that could hurt them? What if they tell you that you're unloving and there isn't a cliff down there when they stop and talk to you? And they tell you that you're crazy because they have a brand new map printed this year...
People don't want to hear about danger if they enjoy the scenery of the road they're driving on and get to make their own decisions. You're spoiling all their fun and they think that you're saying you're smarter than they are and know something they don't.
Take things how you want. Everyone else does. But Christians aren't unloving in what they do. Things are twisted about Christians a lot.
And they claim Christians do this and that and the other. But those people are not Christians unless they back up what they are doing with the scriptures they are to follow.
God bless..
I think it is very loving to warn people of impending danger.
"Watch out for invisible fairies" doesn't seem like a warning I would respond to though.
vector, Great points in your reply. I don't think no one would say it's unloving and hateful for someone to warn them if their house is on fire.
WOC, I am not picking, this is just a comment on how it can be viewed from an non-believer type.
It is 3AM, House is on fire, a person walks by and sees house on fire, wakes occupants, everyone happy.
It is 3AM, A person walks by sees a house on fire, wakes occupants, occupants are mad because house not really on fire.
House Fires are a real thing.
Fires of hell, only apply to those who believe.
If you warn a believer of the fires of hell, they believe so that could be considered a "loving act"
If you warn a non-believer of the same...chances are, they are going to think you are harassing them and that, to them is not a "loving act".
Most people don't like being warned of future consequences to their actions, though.
Take smoking for example.
"Don't smoke. You're likely to get lung cancer, if you continue"
"Mind your own business. Don't tell me what to do".
Or,
"Do't speed. You'll kill yourself, or others. Plus you'll get a fine if you get caught".
"I'll drive the way I want!"
I think it's a rebellious spirit (or attitude) that's the problem, not the warnings given. Even if the warnings are NOT perceived as loving, they still are in the best interest of the hearer.
I agree for the most part. People, in general, don't like thier flaws pointed out to them.
As someone who smoked for over 20 years before I quit, I can tell you, it wasn't the fact that people pointed out that smoking was bad for my health...I knew that as well...It was that everyone and thier brother told me...day after day after day...
I quit smoking because I wanted to...It took alot of will power and support. Do you want to know who I asked to support my quitting? The one non-smoker who never said one word to me about my smoking. And you know, he didn't use anything negative for support options...If I wimped out and smoked one day...he would say things like..."Don't worry. Tomorrow you will not smoke at all."
Most people know what they are doing is "wrong"...Pointing that fact out to them, tends to make them feel like they are being attacked or judged.
I hear you.
In most cases I don't tell people they are going to hell. I rarely mention it as a major point. However, the consequences of sin (whether people know it or not) is that. The message is that Jesus is our saviour from ALL sin, and therefore it's consequences (hell).
Forget what I may say, look at His message. People loved or hated Him, during His lifetime also, for speaking truth.
My point in the previous post is that I am not responsible for other people's reactions to the meassage. I'm simply speaking truth. Hopefully, in a loving way, or a way that they can receive it.
All this reactive stuff like "we don't want to hear it", "keep your religion to yourself", "stop shoving it down my throat" etc is just contentious people being argumentative to further their own views anyway.
"If you don't want to hear it (in the Religion forum), what on earth are you doing here!" is my question. I have never bothered anyone with my beliefs in another forum.
I understand your point.
This forum is a good place to discuss religious topics.
Religious Truths are in the beliefs of the holder. Not everyone believes the same way.
Just the way someone may feel that the Muslim is wrong in his version of the truth, the same can be said about the Christian, Atheist, Wiccan or other belief system or lack there of.
Most non-believer types have the issue with something that is a belief system being called "truth".
And of course the believers don't understand how others can't see the "truth" that they see.
"Most people know what they are doing is "wrong"...Pointing that fact out to them, tends to make them feel like they are being attacked or judged."
Dead on there DS..
They are going to be judged, and they don't like being told that. But not by any of us. There is only one judge..
Don't stick your religion to us in that case. You are clearly uneducated and not qualified to warn anyone of anything.
Please listen to me because I know what is best for you. I am much, much better educated than you. This is obvious. Do as I say. I am right. I know. You are ignorant.
Watch out!!!! Behind you !!!!!!!!!!!!!
This would be why your religion causes so many wars.
Warnings are liable to show up in a forum designated for the people that believe in them..
Controlling little anti-Christ aren't you?
Actually Vector, Mark has a philosophy. I was calling this the Religion and Belief forum, but Double Scorpion pointed out it is Religion and Philosphy. So, I guess Mark has as much right to be here as you do. But, since you think I'm Beelzebub I know you won't trust my word for it. Look at the top of your screen.
I looked at the top of my screen. I do believe it's the same in yours..
"
* All Forums
* Religion and Philosophy
* Christianity, the Bible and Jesus
* What is Christian Love
"
copy and paste.. I love it.
He doesn't need to come telling us not to say anything regarding our beliefs in a forum designated to OUR beliefs..
I don't think anyone even addressed him directly there..
That's absurd.. He should go to all the threads that are bashing God if he doesn't want to hear about the Christian Bible's teachings on God, Jesus, and Hell..
Well, like I said, there are one or two who believe they serve a higher purpose. Can't blame them for following a dream. He's actually fun to talk to when his keyboard isn't on the blink.
Sure I can..
Mockery and intolerance is disrespectful..
I do believe your a firm believer in tolerance aren't you??
I believe in tolerance across the board vector. No one should have to lie down and take slurs, threats or insults. Although you do not choose to see how your actions fall into all three categories and is the antithesis to tolerance it does not negate the fact that others perceive it this way and not only have the right, but the obligation, to speak out against it.
You see a different point. That's what makes us different, and interested in dialogue on the issue.
dj, You have made some very good points of a rebellious attitude. I agree that the real problem is not the warning.
Double Scorpion, I see your point, but it does not mean is hell is not real simply because one denies or disbelieves it. I like your last sentence. "Unbeliever's think it's not a loving act." It doesn't mean what they think is true. One tend to think it's not loving because what is said makes them feel uncomfortable.
WOC can you not see the problem. Conversely, it doesn't make it real because you believe in it. It's OK for you to believe whatever you choose. As long as it doesn't effect others who choose differently. The only people in these forums, and life in general, sure that every one has to agree with them on their views, are those with religion. Somehow, everyone is bound for serious trouble if they don't agree. Would it make sense to you if a non believer told you there was no god, but there was a definite mud hole you would end up in, for eternity, if you didn't recant your faith? Or if an atheist made some threat to your soul? You'd think they were out of line. And probably laugh.
But christian beliefs permeate our society. Some of these people feel ostracized and strangers in a strange land in their own country. Does this seem fair and equitable?
just_curious, I am aware it does not make it real because I believe in it. Can you not see that it's not even about me? It's about God's word. ( the bible) To clarify, I have no problem when one disagree with me. You and I don't agree on many things because you reject Jesus teachings. Actually, I choose not to answer your questions. If an atheist don't want to hear a believer saying God does exist, then it would be best for them not to enter the religious forums shouting there is no God. Have a good day.
I think the forum is religion and beliefs. Also, I started this thread. I had hoped for an opportunity for people to discuss an issue. But, this is exactly what I mean by intolerance. Those with religion stamp a foot, declare the book is the end all truth and everyone must agree. It is not realistic. We don't have to agree in order to learn to be tolerant and accepting of our fellow man.
Religion and Philosophy...I am starting to see avatars of people with fingers in ears, eye closed and singing "lalalalalala, I can't hear you". It would be nice to just discuss things, in agreement or not, views other than your own can vastly increase your knowledge, if you are willing to just listen.
And other views are all so very interesting. I don't understand how anyone could possibly believe they had the final answer to things unanswerable. Everyone has a piece of the answer, I'm sure. It's just figuring out what piece it is each person has. Call me crazy.
Agreed!! And Nah...you ain't crazy...LOL
just_curious, Ok, It seems you were hoping to have an opportunity to discuss an issue without anyone stating anything from the bible on this thread you started. I am tolerant person in many things, but I don't have to be tolerant of things which is contradicting the word of God. The truth is found in the word of God, not in any of us. I have not forced anyone to agree with the word of God. Everyone choose on their own what they want to believe. I prefer not to go around in circles with this.
Just a tad too self contradictory for you?
Actually, I used that symbol, because I found it remarkable that WOC functions as an individual.
Are you saying you believed prior that she was incapable?
And yet, you continue to tread the wheel here. It is interesting how you claim you simply want to share the word. So many words to choose from, so many thoughts were shared. It's a big book, but there seems to be an unhealthy and somewhat neurotic focus only one concept contained. I asked a simple question and, instead of receiving any semblance of an answer with any depth and thought from most respondents it immediately became an'I love you, but' argument. I honestly think everyone sees it. Those who choose to continue don't appear to care about the concept of christian love that a few have been able to explain. Cagsil is right, to a degree, with his argument. Religion is a selfish act, when it is acted out in this way.
"Cagsil is right, to a degree, with his argument. Religion is a selfish act, when it is acted out in this way."
So you finally admit you agenda here is NOT a loving one.. An attempt to attack the belief rather?
This is all she said..
"Everyone choose on their own what they want to believe."
"But christian beliefs permeate our society. Some of these people feel ostracized and strangers in a strange land in their own country. Does this seem fair and equitable?" That's funny....
No they don't.. They used to.. Christians catch more crap than anyone in this country right now.
Don't believe me go to youtube and look up a few religious videos..
Look at the comments and watch the atheists and agnostics pour on the slander and names...
I will grant you there are three or four what I like to call fundamental atheists. But I'm really trying to understand what makes someone feel the need to go to those lengths. I do see emotion as the catalyst in some, but there are one or two here that I do believe consider their motives altruistic. Their tactics leave much to be desired. I don't know what the answers are, but I do know I believe in tolerance and there's precious little of that to be found here most of the time. And the problem is across the board. I've been unfair too. I've known when I did it, but most times I had a point. If someone is being difficult I'll give as good as I think they're giving. I know I've fretted you a time or two, and I'll probably do it again. I am simply a firm believer in the fact that we all have a lot to learn. If there were any firm truths the whole world would be on the same page.
The earth being round was a firm truth only held by the Bible..
The whole world rejected it.. Then uh oh........
The earth wasn't flat.. Just like the Bible said.. huh.. whatta ya know..
Hey, don't preach to the choir on that. I never found where the bible contradicted scientific discovery. The church did.
Sure.. The earth is round contradicts scientific discovery.. wow..
Whatever vector. You're looking for conflict. We'll go back to it. So, when are you going to accept the fact that you've gotten everything wrong? Seriously. Religion has run its bloody course. It's time to end the madness. You ready for it? It's coming.
your bible says earth is a circle - circles are flat
vector, They pour on the slaunder and names just like some do in these forums.
Amazing isn't it. I'm going to start collecting evidence for all the people claiming they don't.
Just for starters!!
"Actually, I used that symbol, because I found it remarkable that WOC functions as an individual.
"
-Cagsil
On this very thread.. wow..
wow - someone finding someone else acts individually is insulting?
Don't forget to add your own eg the 'controlling little antichrist' - I'm assuming you despise antichrists?
vector, That would be a very easy assignment. I can see it didn't take you very long to collect one evidence of slaunder.
here we go again - accusations that the atheists slander & call names - show me where please. So far, I see you have called MK a 'controlling little anti-christ'
He states himself he is against Christ.. That's the meaning of the word..
Please stop lying about me. I have said no such thing.I realize you have no moral code to guide you - but telling lies about me is just plain wrong. Thank you for not lying about me again.
Anti-religionist? Oh yes.
I never said you weren't against others as well Mark... My goodness it's simple..
Jesus IS the person I follow.. The cause of MY RELIGION..
PLEASE tell me you promote Him..
I'm BEGGINGGGG YOU ... PLEASE..
Then we will discuss any claims of lies..
Why are you asking questions I have answered?
If you would read what I have posted and consider the words carefully you would notice I plainly said I love everyone..
But just so you can keep attacking me and asking answered questions..
Yes.. I love him..
"You can be loved IF" is not love, religion has that if, therefore there is no love in religion, love is not conditional on believing one story, regardless of it's origins.
Jesus loved the "dregs of society." Modern-day Christians should try to emulate that.
Well I reckon that would be right. If a tired old priest can do it.
We have such a person in our town. He gives his time to the poor and needy even though he is advanced in years.
yet so many humans are denied love from another human. I just wrote a hub about a boy that never had human love & lived with chickens
It was here for about a half an hour on Saturday. It died fast.
What is Christian Love
Paul and the Church founded the Christian Religion; and it started by a fiction; the Father Killing a Son; so cruelty is the theme of the Christian Religion; not love.
Love is just to allure the common people to the fold of the Church or churchianity.
Jesus had got nothing to do with this religion that Paul and the Church founded while Jesus had gone to India after when he escaped from a cursed killing on the cross; in Jesus' absence they started this misnomer in his name"Christ", only to mislead the people.
Paul and the Church founded the Christian Religion; and it started by a fictional story; the Father Killing a Son; so cruelty is the theme of the Christian Religion; not love.
One could see the real face of Christianity or Christian love if christian fathers start killing their sons and daughters to be in the literal image of the christian-god.
Speaking of love......
How nice and kind hearted of you to drop into a Christian forum just to twist our God and slander His name..
We appreciate all the love.. We see you don't hold a grudge or anything..
Plus.. Jesus Christ is alive.. If you say He isn't then what you just said was just cruel because then you believe our God didn't do that..
Should we maybe have started a new thread for the whole Creation/Evolution debate? Just sayin'.
Actually - you were the one that bought up evolution:
http://hubpages.com/forum/topic/71883?page=3
I know that you are angry that science disproves your Invisible Super Being, but - could you not find something honest to say every now and then? It might cause less conflict.
Just sayin'
"Liars for Jesus"(TM)
God loves you... I've already been through the refutation process on this thread..
You simply throw out what you don't like.. it can be seen above.
Maybe you should quit asking irrelevant questions.
It is a very bothersome nuisance to see your picture under every post with a question that has no point in the discussion.
Love
agapao: has the connotation of judgment or deliberate choice and deliberate assent of the will to a principle, duty or propriety. Its a conscious effort.
When jesus said love your enemies, obviously it is hard to conjure up genuine feelings of love for someone who bad mouths you or has just stolen your stuff. But when christ told us to love he told us to make a mental decision to show love to these people. If a person continually comes at me and says "this is why your religion causes so many wars" over and over again like a person who actually believes they have a real point and continually sticks it in my face, I have to consciously make a decision to love that person, in spite of the incorrectness of the saying and the adamancy of the drama queen, therefore, to show love I turn to meekness and say "have a nice day".
I do not love this person but i make the attempt to turn my avarice toward love. This is not hypocrisy, although i do not have ooey gooey feelings of love and goosebumps, I have shown a form of love.
phileo: has more attachment like amongst family or friends. Its a fondness that has real emotion behind it. Personal affection, sentiment or feeling.
Summary:
phileo is more a matter of the heart than agapao which is more of the head.
So if christians say they love you, and you've been a rotten egg, remember, they have made a conscious decision not to treat you as you deserve to be treated and you can thank God for that little miracle.
Well said Brotheryochanan!
It's a choice to love everyone even when they are mean and hateful.
And Jesus summed it up well > Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
And this equals LOVE undeserved.
Thanks to all brothers and sisters in Christ. God is wonderful and in my prayers are that he keep blessing you all in abundance according to His good word that lives in your hearts. Run the race beloved, the goal is so much worth the endevour. I am edified by you.
Just out of interest, what do you mean by you hope god keeps blessing him?
Does god bless the millions of children that painfully starve to death every year?
hahaha
obviously an antagonistic post
keep thinking about God and i hope you find the revelation you need.
If you need an answer to your question, follow beelzedads post and you may discover an urgency to go to disneyland also
In other words, brothero has no explanation to the dilemma he himself puts forth and instead redirects to others for answers. Of course, there is no answer to this dilemma if gods exist and they are everything believers claim them to be.
The world has more than enough food for everyone!!!
People (yes children) starve and die ,because men are greedy. Period.
On a side note ,ever noticed the amount of food that gets thrown away every hour of everyday?
Tons!!
God provided the fertile soil ,the rivers, the forests teaming with wildlife and people starve?
C'mon people join the dots.
Yew, we heard that very fabricated tale of nonsense many times here. Notice how you just regurgitate it without thinking?
Not a tale
Its fact.
Notice how you dont like facts?
There is enough food in the world to feed everyone
Fact.
Why doesnt it get distributed?
Greed.
Why blame God, what a cop out.
Antagonistic? Why are you assuming I am being antagonistic? It is a perfectly valid question and I can only assume by your unwillingness to provide an answer for it and your instant assumption that I am only asking it to be antagonistic, that you CANT answer it.
Give it a try. If you believe god blesses people then why doesnt he bless those suffering, starving children?
When you hit "reply" or "post a reply", then you can use the formatting tools at the bottom of the box you are suppose to type into. Click on formatting tools and see what's available.
Well, I think this thread aptly demonstrates what Christian "love" is and the inevitable end result of the sharing of this "love."
hi just_curious,
i think there is no need to explain to you what love is.
St.Francis of Assisi who is called as second Christ said once "If you need to do something to someone just love them.thats all".Because true love doesnt do any harm to them that time.In all otherways there is a chance for us to go wrong.If its true love it should not harm anyone.But for that we should understand its true meaning : )
This is what exactly Christ's love
Christ's definition went a little further..
He said greater love has no man than this.. That a man lay down his life for his friends.. [John 15:13] (paraphrased)
Hey vector. No one is asking anyone to sacrifice their life. I don't know about anyone else, but I'm asking you to understand the first part of the concept. Your actions prove you haven't gotten that part right yet. And, honestly, that's the only part you'll probably have a chance to show.
Surely you wouldn't understand how a father would give his life to save his son from an attacker with a gun...
Because of how strongly he loves his son...
Wow.. simple principle huh?
I think we all get that. If that's what you're going on and on about. You can stop. Everyone knows the story.
OP:
"What is Christian Love"
Definition of Christianity:
religion that follows Jesus Christ's teachings: the religion based on the life, teachings, and example of Jesus Christ
http://www.bing.com/search?q=Christiani … mp;sc=5-17
Christ's teaching:
John 15:13
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Hence.. Christian love.
If you don't like the correct answer then don't ask the question...
Vector, if you aren't interested in dialogue, don't post. It works both ways. You are not the end all source for answers. Once you get this concept you might learn something.
I am not the source for any of that information. I provided the sources.
Enjoy your arguments..
Vector, as long as you see them as arguments there will always be conflict. These are not meant to be arguments. They should be discussions. I realize you don't understand this. It's like the definition you posted to Bailey Bear of theory. There are multiple definitions to the word and there is a definition of scientific theory. Everyone is looking at something differently. Always, it seems. The lines of communication haven't crossed yet. The fact that people keep coming back, again and again, to try to find a way to communicate with you speaks volumes. You can't see the forest for the trees, apparently. But someday, someone may find the angle needed to get through to you. That's why people like Mark go on and on. I actually believe in the cause and will probably keep posting too. Open your mind, and yes, open your heart. This problem is you.
hey why are you saying nobody can't sacrifice his life for any other person?what is in it so difficult to understand?How many people died for Strong reasons?Or are you saying they done that much for satisfying their own Self???
I'm at a loss here. What? I didn't say that.
i thought you found it too odd while vector said
" He said greater love has no man than this.. That a man lay down his life for his friends.. [John 15:13]"
and that so why you replied like
"Hey vector. No one is asking anyone to sacrifice their life. I don't know about anyone else, but I'm askin....."
I was joking with vector about the intensity of effort I perceive him to be putting into his mission. But, I consider the act of giving your life in defense of another, or to save another, quite admirable. Sorry if my post caused you to see otherwise.
WOW.
Things sure are quiet on the Religion Forum.
Did they all get banned?
Looks like you spoke too soon. Or, they saw your post and realized they'd fallen down on the job.
Nope..
Reading my Bible..
Rather read Jesus' thoughts..
The master of the wind and the waves.. And everything..
vector didn't answer earlier in the thread when I asked if he was your more outspoken sockpuppet. So, is he?
Another personal irrelevant question. Isn't this harassment??
Mark 12:29-34
29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.e
30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’f
31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’g There is no commandment greater than these.”
32 “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him.
33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
34 When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.
Also the Teachings of Christ.
To me, those verses said it all. End of story. Everything had to go through that sieve before it could be considered part of the message. It seems pretty self explanatory.
Jesus believed in ONE-TRUE-GOD as is evident from the above passage; yet Paul and the Church invented Trinity; they must be Anti-Christ then.
I guess you have nere heard of "progressive revelation"?
Paar, not to sounds rude but; get a life. No one is going to convert to islam. I can't speak for the christians, but I'm pretty confident they'd rather be atheists. It's the option I thought made sense.
Did I say that I want to convert the Christians or others to Islam?
I just express my thoughts as I sincerely believe them on rational and reasonable grounds.
If someone is convinced heart and soul and gets converted to the peaceful Quran/Islam/Muhammad; that is his right as a free man; that cannot be denied to him.
I learnt that most of the atheists don't believe in the mythical Jesus presented by the present day "Christianity" and "Church:; that is why they have become atheists; otherwise they believe that Jesus the Man; did exist.
Is it not true?
I think Vector and Mark feel passion and it comes out in the way they squabble.
We could always blame testosterone and not God for a change.
He used to be your God BB, so I think you already know the answer
I never got an answer for that. Like does god have a penis - after all, god is supposed to be a 'he'
God is Spirit ,so my guess is no.
Jesus however was born of man, and born of God.
I'll let you figure that out ,biologically of course.
not convinced Jesus had much in the way of testosterone either.
As for 'born of man' - shouldn't that be born of woman?
I though this thread is about love...why are you fighting?
(I'm enjoying the smileys, though it's a "frown")
This thread is about "Christian love." Hence the fighting.
You really don't like christianity
What if we create a thread "What is Atheist's love"
Do you think there would be some fighting?
Correct.
Dunno - I don't pretend to love anyone I have never met other than in a very generic sense, and I certainly cannot speak for any other atheist. Christians saying what other Christians "should be doing" is why the religion causes so many conflicts.
He is a conflict for exceptionally valid reasons you choose to ignore.
"Awww
So you are not a Warrior for Jesus? LOLOL
This would be why your religion causes so many wars.
My -how brave you are - unknown stranger hiding behind an Internet persona.
So brave of you. smile
LOLOLOLO"
So you encourage this?.. Mockery....
Didn't have to leave the thread either..
No. I've never liked it when he posts confrontationally. But, I asked myself ' is he crazy, or committed.' After reading through his posts it appeared he wasn't crazy. So I went through the tedious process of getting him to settle down and he's got important things to say. You should take the time to listen.
Are you talking about Mark or Beezle..they both need a good spanking
This is why ---yea yea yea
Well, I'm not touching that one with a ten foot pole, but if you do it, please post the pictures. We'd all enjoy seeing that.
Some people just love to argue and divide.
Tell them the sky is blue ,they will say its grey.
Maybe it is,maybe it isnt.
Truth is -Its still a sky !
But, that isn't what's really going on here, is it? In fact, what is happening is that believers are scouring the internet for whatever they can find that agrees with their beliefs and discredits science, or so they believe. When they find a site that says the second law of thermodynamics prohibits evolution, they'll post it as fact, and state that it is fact and that we deal with it.
Of course, it has been shown well beyond a shadow of a doubt that the very same believers possess little if no understanding at all of evolution or thermodynamics.
In other words, believers are the ones saying the sky is grey and calling it a fact.
Whoa ,your statement sounded very paranoid.
If Im scouring the internet it sure as heck aint to look for
thermodynamics ,not unless youre describing the new spring arrivals for gladiator sandals
Actually if you go back and read what I said again, please note I said ,its not the colour thats relevant ,but the fact it is a sky!! glorious and complete
I'm so sorry you got sucked into it... it's going to go on until you realized that life passed you by...you couldve had your nails done instead. that would have been more productive.
I was responding to Beezle ,not sure who you are talking too ,and what exactly do ya mean?
I'm pretty sure she's laughing at the futility of attempting to find reason, or logic, in the notion of responding to Beelzedad. They don't see eye to eye, from what I gather. She's being supportive of your misery.
swatting a fly would be more productive...with a book on quantum mechanics would be even more satisfying...as long as the copyright is past year 2000.
I understand exactly what you wrote and it was nonsense.
These are your words:
You are stating quite emphatically that people love to argue and divide using an example that if you tell them one thing that is true, they will say something opposite just for the sake of arguing. That is very easy to understand.
And, that's why I responded to say that it is believers who actually state the opposite of something that is true, whether they do it because they love to argue and divide is another debate.
Just to correct you Beezle this is what I wrote ,but you only grabbed some to copy and answer ,or how shall I put it out of context ,then had the audacity to say I got it wrong
Naughty man!
Some people just love to argue and divide.
Tell them the sky is blue ,they will say its grey.
Maybe it is,maybe it isnt.
Truth is -Its still a sky
Yes, I understand you are trying back peddle on this one.
One could see the real face of Christianity or Christian love if christian fathers start killing their sons and daughters to be in the literal image of the christian-god.
Mohamad is a false prophet? That what you're saying paar? I'm ready to listen.
why are you saying everytime about the same father and sons stoy.In Quaran so many things are there that all cant digest.No one is qoting those things here..
Jesus was a truthful person, Son of Man as he himself mentioned ; he was never a god or a son of god.
I love Jesus and Mary as mentioned in Quran.
I respect the Christians.
You respect the Christians?
Since when?
Every time you tell us how the Bible is wrong concept, false teaching, denigrate authors like Paul, you show ABSOLUTE DISRESPECT!
Sorry for shouting, but you are a fake!
Stick to commenting on Islam, at least we can respect you for that!!!
I don't hate Christians; it is out of their respect that I tell them the truth that they have been mislead by Paul from the path Jesus and Mary followed. NT is not auhtored by Jesus it is authored by the sinful scribes who were not even present at the scene of Cross when Jesus in agony on the Cross.
This is all out of respect and love of Jesus , Mary and the sheep that followed them.
I love Jesus and Mary as mentioned in Quran; I cannot think of disrespecting them; they are esssential part of my faith as a peaceful Ahmadi Muslim.
It is your misunderstanding; please correct it.
I love Jesus and Mary as mentioned in Quran; I cannot think of disrespecting them; they are esssential part of my faith as a peaceful Ahmadi Muslim.
I've never really understood the whole God/evolution debate. I believe in both. Evolution is evident, but I believe in a "master designer," if you will.
How can anyone deny the process of evolution? Just look at human beings. We're much taller than we used to be. Some will attribute this to better diet, and that's most likely a big contributing factor. Women's pelvises have also become narrower, however, which can't be attributed to diet.
Yes, but that's a far cry from turning into an entirely new species.
Surely, but how does a creationist explain these changes?
You mean adaptation? That wouldn't be part of the most amazingly designed machine ever built would it?
We do self repair too ya know.. Maybe there is some insight.
Think your car is going to fix that dent?
Of course there will be changes.. Weren't we designed to learn? Obviously? How is that different from small adaptations? We change something by personal choice, and our kids are like us.. Our traits become theirs.
That doesn't constitute growing gills... Or an extra eye...
clearly you don't understand what a species is. There are several species of tree frog, for example
Do you believe you descended from primates BB and if so,why do you beleive that?
You sure you havent been indoctrinated by men and women who believe in 'fairytales' and things that go bump in the night lol
evolution makes a whole lot more sense than a superbeing who talked the universe into existence & then fails to interact with humanity.
I have no problem accepting that humans are animals
I agree with you.
Adam was not a literal statue in whose nostrills life was blown .
One could see the real face of Christianity or Christian love if christian fathers start killing their sons and daughters to be in the literal image of the christian-god.
No, the real face of Christian love is shown on the cross. Would you, were you a father, be willing to sacrifice your son not only for those who love you, but also for those that hate you? Whether you believe in God or not, the Christian faith is founded on the belief that God loved us enough to sacrifice His only son on the cross for our sins. What rational person would not call that love?
The Christian love everyone is talking about probably has to do with the second greatest commandment: "love your neighbor as yourself". It is a sacrificial love. It may cost you pride, or it could cost you much more than that, but it happens because our minds, and thus our whole life, are transformed by the Holy Spirit. It is love that cannot be understood or even equalled by those who do not believe and who have not accepted the Holy Spirit.
Jesus showed us this love on the cross by sacrificing himself to save us from sin and death, and not an earthly death a spiritual one. If he was willing to die for us, how much easier should it be for us to love our neighbors?
How is it a sacrificial love? There is no sacrifice offered.
I think one should not hesitate to mention that it starts from wrongful and cruel killing of son by the Christian-god. It it denotes the Christian love; will the Christians kill their sons and daughters.
I think they should not.
It never happened; the Creator-God never had a wife or a son or a daughter in the first place.
I sacrificed 16 hrs of peace and joy for pain and agony when I gave birth to 3 gorgeous sons and on reflection that was just the beginning of sacrifice.
Of course I suspect you are speaking of a more divine sacrifice
This is not a debate about whether or not it happened, this is about what is the Christian view of love. However, i do blieve it did happen.
Second, there was a sacrifice offer; Jesus Christ! How is him dying for others not a sacrifice? The reason he was sacrificed was because God is Just, and so He must punish sin. "The Wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).
let me give you a little background; back in ancient times, hebrew sacrificed animals to God, and they did this because sin is death. So by sacrificing there animals for there sins, they imbued their sins onto the animal and thus the animal was sacrificed as a payment for their sins so that they could be reconciled to God.
When Jesus came and sacrificed himself for us on the cross, he took our sins upon himself, and became our sin. This sacrifice made the sacrifices no longer necessary for being in very likeness God his sacrifice was suffient to reconcile us to God. God reconciled us to himself, for in order to be a just God He must punish sin, and so used his son for this punishment to save us.
It's a love that cannot be equalled or fathomed
Jesus did not die on the Cross for anybody's sins; he did not die there but delivered alive in near-dead position.
The Christians shall have to take care of their sins themselves; Jesus is not going to help you; he had no such authority.
Ok so based upon that, you must have some kind of opinion on Jesus. What exactly do you believe about him?
Oh, so you believe in the near death.
I would first recommend that you look up the Romans and their executions. They were professionals at killing people slowly and painfully, they would not have made the mistake of leaving him alive. espescially not with someone whom the people hated so much and wanted dead. They had killed thousands before him by death on the cross, this was nothing new. And they made sure every victim was dead before they removed him from that cross, for example, the way they checked if victims were dead on the cross was to pierce his side and look for a water blood mix, which would be in this sac around the heart. If blood and water did pour out of the wound, the victim was dead because he had essentially drowned from his own body fluids, and the trauma ruptured the heart.
Second, when you look at the grave, the romans had guards posted at the grave site. Had Jesus still been alive and attempted to escape, he wouild have been killed. The roman guards would not have been caught napping either, because the punishment for allowing someone to escape was death. Neither could the apostles have overpower well-trained fully armed guards and "broken Jesus out".
Still Jesus escaped death on the Cross and went to India; the Creator-God did it against all odds; no doubt it was a miraculous escape as Jesus had prophesied to show the Sign of Jonah.
lol still? thats not a very good argument... unless you have evidence im goin to have to say your argument is invalid...
paarsurrey, ive noticed some of your comments on other forums, and im kind of confused, why do you try to provoke poeple? Lets be honest here, now your just tryin to provoke me to argue since you dont have any evidence. Why do you do that? and its an honest question, not rhetorical
What is your evidence that he majikally came back to life? Or even existed?
You are part of that evidence Mark, fearfully and wonderfully made.
Surely even you cannot deny that.
Call it magic ,call it whatever you like ,but you are the evidence!
I am evidence that Jesus came back to life by majik? How so?
Reely? People that refuse to believe garbage? He predicted that? Must a been the sun of god in that case.
Little wonder you religion is so popular with those who have never been to school.
Good for you Vector man.
My evidence that he existed comes from outside the Bible... He definatly existed, atheist, Christian, Muslim, or whatever.
And my evidence that he came back to life is because of the unlikeliness of any other possibility
Show me the evidence he existed.
The second is silly nonsense.
Where is the evidence for the 'supposed' primate ancestors? family, or even one individual?
Real evidence ,not a theory.
Jesus has a family line that can be traced.
God created it all ,thats a good way to finish too.
You see, you aren't looking for any answers at all from science. Why do bother bringing up the subject?
Same reason you bother posting , I believe in what I say.
You're not looking for evidence or theories as you haven't the capacity to understand them. Please just stick to your beliefs.
Perhaps then you should stick to science topics,and stay away from anything with the word 'Christian' in it
But, the difference is that I have an understanding of Christian doctrines, in fact, more so than many others here, yourself included.
So, if you would take the time to understand something about science, then I would have no problem responding to your posts in kind.
Do you see the difference?
Deleted
Not really. She writes hubs asking that mandatory bible reading be re-introduced by law into public schools and wants creationism taught alongside evolution by law as a comparable "theory."
This I find an offensive doctrine that needs to be dealt with.
Child abuse such as this is unacceptable to me. Sorry. I am not tolerant of child abuse - mental or physical.
Hey. I deleted that. Darn you're quick. I thought about something another atheist told me. I realized Beelzedad already knew the point and was banking on it. I didn't want to argue over something that couldn't end.
And I knew nothing about the hubs. I'll go read them. I guess if you believe another generation is going to take that as gospel, you're right. It is a problem. I simply find it difficult to believe this isn't the last one that will have members who see it as fact. Call me crazy.
What Mark doesnt like ,he makes up!
Christianity and Athiesm as comparable theories???
Crazy man says crazy things.
Wish he would quit.
Actually, I would assume they are both philosophies. I believe Mark is simply attempting to show that the philosophy of atheism, taken to the opposite extreme of fundamental christianity, can be just as irritating. I could be wrong.
Ok ,fair point ,but maybe Mark will respond too ,just to clarify how he meant it as well.
I took comparable to mean , they compared ,which I dont see that they do. ie
1. able to be compared or worthy of comparison
2. conforming in every respect
I see your point, but from where I'm standing the hard line fundamental christian and the hard line fundamental atheist can be compared and are worthy of comparison. And, in many ways, they conform in how they act out their philosophies. They're both somewhat pushy, fairly egotistical in that they, alone, are right and have an unfortunate habit of insinuating those that don't agree with them are somehow ignorant and in jeopardy of inflicting harm. The fundamental christian thinks you harm your soul, the fundamental atheist, society. I see a great deal of similarities in the two. People such as you and I are tragically caught in the middle. I think you're pretty moderate, with the exception of the one hub I read.
Ok gotcha ,yes I can see from your explanation how the parallels are comparable.
You know its a funny thing ,but I can still remember about 5yrs ago when my youngest was in High school and they had beagn looking at religions ,from the point of view What is a Hindu , What is a Catholic , What is a Fundamentalist Christian etc?
I helped him do a little research and it really annoyed me how pushy and aggressive some people can be,down to obnoxious and extremely controlling.
So even though I have my own mind and own beliefs I would never stand alongside any one (even if I was baptised with them) if they contravened Gods laws, like Respect ,Love, Honor etc.
God doesnt say Love each other ,only if they agree with you
Then again he does say later How pleasant (peaceful) it is when brethren dwell in unity- yes we are similarly optimistic that way
Yes. Respect, love, honor. It is entirely possible to display all of these outside of the confines of religion. I don't see why religion has to oppose the ability to see this. It should promote it, but it doesn't, for the most part.
I see your point now, though. A well rounded study of all religions could certainly help a person pinpoint these unifying factors in all philosophies. But, the drawbacks would make me leery of letting another person choose the course such a study might take.
Exactly, so you are indoctrinating your son into your religion, and by your very own words, you would never stand with him if he decided not to share your beliefs.
He was hardly indoctrinated if he didnt chose Christianity,now was he?
But hey before anyone jumps to conclusion or has a knee jerk reaction ,Im quite open if you want to ask a question.
That won't stop you from continuing to indoctrinate him.
And, if he has rejected Christianity, will you stand by his decision and think nothing different of him? Or, will you do what you say you would do?
Yes I have accepted his decision and I still love him 100%.
The indoctrination thing ,just like on here is a two way street ,cept I call it a healthy exchange of ides and opinions.
Can I add he drives me nuts ,but I know he is so much more than this one dimension, so we continue some debates and we leave others.
One thing I will add though ,I will not accept or give any putdowns,or insulting behavior.
But, by your posts here, it is clear you have no concept of what entails a healthy exchange of ideas and opinions as you have been caught many time fabricating stories and perpetuating lies.
Then, please desist with your insulting behavior when you talk about science and reality. Thanks.
So even though I have my own mind and own beliefs I would never stand alongside any one (even if I was baptised with them) if they contravened Gods laws...
Ok this seems to be the part that was misunderstood:
I have ammended it.
So even though I have my own mind and own beliefs I would never stand alongside any other believer(even if I was baptised with them) if they contravened Gods laws
I am truly saddened to see a mother stating that her UNFOUNDED belief in a god and what she thinks he wants, will make her not stand by her own son should he not share those beliefs.
Really saddened.
What do you mean how did I get that from what you posted? You said you will not stand by anyone who does not abide by gods rules or somethng to that effect.
If your son doesnt believe in god and does not abide by those rules that you believe in then what of him?
No thats not what I meant to imply ,not for a second. I did ammend it. Will see if I can scroll back and find it.
Allow me:
Do you even know what you are saying?
Good show of unconditional love. You would never stand by your son if he was homosexual or ate shell fish.
So if your son contravened gods laws you would not stand by him.
I dont have kids but that even makes me sad. Very very sad.
Thats exactly what you said? Are you smoking crack? You said you wont stand by ANYONE who contravenes gods laws.
What if your son contravenes gods laws?
On crack
No believers who have stood with me while being baptised and then reject the values called respect ,honor ,etc.
Another words I hate hypocracy.
By the way are you a duck or a duck wanna be
If my son contravenes Gods laws ,I will leave that up to God,but if he doesnt beleive in God then it hardly matter now does it?
I will love him ,no matter what!!!!
You'll love him but you wont stand by him?
Its a polar duck if you were wondering.
Wont stand by his values,doesnt mean I cant love him.
Perfect love casts out fear .thats what that means (to me)
Not standing by his values and not standing by him are two very different things.
Matthew 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Leviticus 20:9 For every one that curseth his father or his mother shall be surely put to death: he hath cursed his father or his mother; his blood shall be upon him.
Exodus 21:17 And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.
Proverbs 1:8-9 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.
Proverbs 20:20 Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.
Proverbs 30:17 The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.
Whats the question, or what didnt you get ?
Honour your parents?
My son ( or anyone for that matter doesnt dishonor me by NOT thinking like me
I have re-edited my post that seemed to confuse ,so if anyone accuses me of otherwise you are simply telling lies.
No I dont see the difference ,because your arrogance keeps getting the way !
Im trying too ,but youre making it extremely difficult for me
*joke* go on laugh a little-good for the soul -oops body.
Psalm 139 You knit me together in my mother’s womb
Sorry Kiwi - this is probably beyond you but - bible nonsense does not count as "evidence. " Go look the word up.
Still at it?
Christian love cannot be fully explained in a few words, but roughly it is being motivated by christian belief to sacrifice for one another.
Go ahead and pick it apart, tell me I believe nonsense, and demand proof!!!
No - I would be happy if that is what most Christians did. In fact - I would go so far as to say I would have no issue with your religion at all if most Christians did this.
Sadly - they say it and do something else.
He isn't looking for the evidence just like any of the rest.. Unfortunately...
"He who is not with me is against me,"
Matthew 12:30. Luke 11:23
Always took those words as good insight,ways to avoid conflict.
Seriously? That helps you avoid conflict???
Just because someone doesnt agree with you doesnt mean they're against you.
Love is when you can be one with others, despite your differences.
Wonderful. Please take it up with the most influential and powerful person in history who taught it. The Son of God..
I'm but a humble follower doing as I'm told. We all choose to follow one thing or another, as we weren't the first to live here.
I also use other teachings along with such verses to guide me. And they are against Christ.. just look at this forum and tell me the ones that don't believe in Christ being the Son of God aren't against Him..
It's understandable that many would disagree on such a simple thing Christ says. They try to use His words out of context all the time.
I'm not explaining the whole issue though, because like many of these people have said the Bible is there to search for themselves.
And they beg me not to post scripture and plus I don't have time for such a large lesson. So they get what they want this time..
Please do consult the rest of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John before condemning Christ Jesus' words..
kiwitom, I encourage you to read Matthew 12:30 and Luke 11:23. Those scriptures are the words spoken by Jesus. If one does not believe in Christ, then they are against him. You are free to make your own choice.
oh my, those look yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmy!
pass the butter and call me glutton, err gluten...
James.
no gluten for me, unfortunately. Gluten makes me terribly sick - stuffs up my immune system. Looks like my body isn't 'fearfully & wonderfully made'
Nope. I am celiac. Need to avoid gluten. Was undiagnosed for years. All that time people were telling me I was possessed or wasn't praying hard enough.
I would find that quite offensive and be extremely annoyed too.
I am definately not perfect,(nobody is) and sure some (well meaning),Christians have been quick to point out why something didnt work out in my life.
Somehow if my faith was lacking ,that must mean Im doin soemthing wrong.
Guess I saw it as them being the problem and not God ,just me.
I used to say 'Look until God notifies me that YOU, are on the throne, we are all in this together my friend.
We all have different experiences that affect us one way or another in our lives.
kiwi, Agreed. It's between God and us why something does not work out in our lives.
I can tell you what love isn't.
Love isn't someone telling you they love you despite that they think they are better than you are, as they have the truth cos they read it in a magic book and you don't have the capacity to understand it or are unable to read it to draw your own conclusions!
Are you speaking of his post, or yours? I'm confused.
i don't think so, mike. christian love even encourages loving the enemy and tolerance. according to jesus, there will be false prophets whom shall call to his name and tell him they also did great signs in his name. but jesus said he's gonna draw them away, calling them evildoers.
my point is, not all so called christians are closely walking in christ's ways. they proclaim themselves christians, but their acts prove otherwise.
How many times do you people need to be told that some people are hypocrites?
God will sift the liars that claim Christ when they stand in front of Him..
You should know a man that doesn't play in the NBA but says so is a liar..
In the same way IT IS NOT HARD to recognize someone who ISN'T following the Bible..
If people would use some logic instead of being hateful toward Christ they would see who follows Christ and who doesn't.
But origin of Christian Love is just hypocracy; it starts with killing.
Not sure I should be flattered Im being analysed or not ,aww ok I am
Yep I wrote one hub( the one Mark is refering too) ,months ago now and it was something on my heart.
I felt and still do quite strongly that children (and adults) should be offered all kinds of education for the betterment of society.
In a nutshell ,but not limited too ,I also feel the 10 Commandments are reasonable standards to live by.
I mean 10 laws. Come on.
Without them ,well the news is full of effect of no/low morals etc.
Some people didnt like my views ,some did.
Tis the way the cookie crumbles dont ya think.
Child Abuse -Mark you are quite silly to suggest that.
( I was an advocate against Sexually abused children in NZ) and believe me ,those acts are committed by sick individuals ,who say all kinds of crap to justify their heinous acts)
Hey. I'm glad you posted this. I didn't really feel comfortable bringing it up. You don't honestly think schools should include religious classes do you? I know you basically said all religions, but why? Why would we want that as part of our educational system?
I don't mean to be argumentative.
As far as the ten commandments go, I would think a reasonable person could probably live reasonably well within the laws of the land if they stuck to them, but we're not set up to let religion rule our laws. For good reason. I wouldn't comment, but you referenced America, not New Zealand in your title so I assume you want to change the way I live, and I'm curious why.
I think Christianity (not Religion) should be offered ,but you know what JC, I assumed that the USA in their pledge of alligence included 'Under God' meant just that.
I also believe strongly is holistic education ,along the lines of Montessori ,where the child dictates subjects or topics he/she wants to learn about ,instead of being force-fed any subject, Christianity ,Atheism ,or any other Religion.
The best teacher (IMO) is one who teaches or encourgaes a child to want to learn. Its a valuable lesson for life.
This statement of 'This is why your religion causes war' is becoming quite the scapegoat for todays ills and general toxic environments people around.
Yes my hub had a reaction,it was not my intention to point the finger at any country or group of people ,but a look at morals and why they have declined.
Ok if one doesnt want religion telling them what to do,does that mean we all do whatever the hell we want?
This me ,me ,me attitude is prevalant ,look at me ,serve me, me is important ,I will do whatever I want to do,because Im more important than you etc etc.
And no I do not wish to change the way you live (or anyone else for that matter) BUT it seems to me ,that America has asked Christ to leave the classroom and thats not fair either.
That is why the Homeschooling system is huge in the U.S.
True democracy is presenting a balanced choice of educational topics, not handpicked to suit the sponsors ,if you get my drift.
Wow. Lot of points.
You are correct. Our pledge does say one nation under god but, not to be rude, I'd prefer those of us who live, and vote, here determine how we will handle this.
You might want to do some study on the Montessori approach. I've seen studies that say good and bad about it. I will say that a child home schooled by someone without a degree in education, using this as their approach to teaching can very easily raise a child whose education is extremely unbalanced. And balance is the key to depth of knowledge.
I don't know where you live, but I've seen ample examples of pious people home schooling their children and private schools corraling their kids in an environment that reflects their fear of diversity in color. All have one thing in common. Rigid christian values. Few have 'graduated' any child that didn't mirror their prejudices and problems; and, unfortunately, their test scores reflect a poor education.
Encouraging a child to learn is important, but if you are not qualified to teach the child it is little more than encouragement.
Your comment about morals declining is well received but that, too, will not be resolved with religion unless that is how the individual decides to act out their understanding of their religion. To suggest otherwise is laughable. The United States is, if one is to blindly take surveys at face value, about 50% christian. My neighbors are all Christian. They go to church each and every Sunday. Their moral values are shown to include each and every one of the'deadly sins'. The only thing morally superior I can find is their attitude. 'Do as I say and not as I do' is not morally superior, or a philosophy I would want to pass on to any generation.
And you are not alone in your frustration with the argument that religion causes war, but it is a disturbing part of the equation. Religion does divide people in a highly emotional way. We all can see this. I don't see it as an argument directed at christianity alone, but while christianity stands against Islam and tries to forge a delicate balance on the side of Israel as it is doing, it causes war. When the philosophy is used as justification for military action it is divisive and people die because of this.
And, no. Absence of religion does not mean do whatever you like. It does not make one an animal. People within the structure of an enlightened society can quite easily come to the same conclusions on how to live that the good lessons of religion offer. Without the need of fear of future punishment. We are not children. The concept of hell is corporal punishment taken to an insane extreme. It would be laughable if it were not believed by so many.
And true democracy is determined by the will of the people living within that democratic system. Not by anything else. As long as I am registered to vote I will vote my conscience which includes shoving any particular religion out of the legislative arena. Religion is a can of worms I would have no problem with, if it would extend me the same courtesy, but it doesn't. It shoves its opinion down my throat by the fact that it can't win referendums but buys elections and then legislates its brand of morality, which in turn forces my tax dollars to go to fighting it in the courts when reasonable people oppose it. Christianity was intended to be a personal philosophy. How it ended up the way it is is a mystery, but one I am, quite frankly, fed up with trying to figure out.
Jc
Thanks for taking the time to express your views.
You are correct. Our pledge does say one nation under god but, not to be rude, I'd prefer those of us who live, and vote, here determine how we will handle this.
No I dont think youre rude, and I hope you dont think Im rude by responding how confusing that 'tokenism' is to new residents
Kinda like God is in the house ,kinda ,sorta lol
But yep,if a politician said it ,probably is suspect.
I also dont doubt for a second that non-beleivers have morals or a good standard of living ,but my hub at the time was saying ,look people (all of us) the moral fences are down, whether we call in sin or crime its all getting worse.
We need accountability.
Everyone knows this, mankind always seems to need some kind of reforming and while we play in the sandpit and whine and throw hissy fits ,nothing much changes in reality.
I play well with others and if they dont love God or reject anything that hints of religion,thats ok too. I like people and 99% time find other things to yak about
Edit: I take your point about Montessori ,I guess Ive always been involved with my childrens early education and some primary (elementary) because I enjoyed seeing and helping them learn, my passion was working with special needs ,but since streamlining spec.ed into mainstream schools, I could quite happily achieve both.
My kids are adult kids now ,enjoy University and a wide range of interests.
We have lively discussions about EVERYTHING from time to time ,including religion.
So,sure they were involved in Sunday school,and taught all the things I hoold special in my heart ,but I also encouraged them to learn many things ,for accepting Christ is a personal one and it would be wrong to force or coerce my kids to think just like me ( God helps us all ,if they did) trust me they dont ,but they are caring individuals and think outside the square on many issues.
That's a reasonable response. To be honest, I bristled as soon as I went into your hub. That picture depicting science as satan was somewhat offensive. I'm with you, for the most part. Do your own thing as far as religion goes, but there's a group of rabble rousers in this country that aren't as nice. I get offended by their pushy need to insist that America isn't simply the land of the free. I can't embrace any philosophy that doesn't insist on equality and freedom across the board. We are a diverse people and that is what makes our country more unique than most.
The fastest way to push me away is to try to shove me into a box. Christianity, as it is practised in my neck of the woods, is a miserable little box. My values are just fine, in my opinion. I do my own thing, don't bother anyone in the process and try to help people when I can. But that isn't good enough. I've never minded the fact that I pretty much don't agree with any of it and the christian community sort of looks down on me for turning my back. Never gave it much thought. But when I was forced to face it head on, I realized it really isn't fair.
I still could care less, from a personal stand point. I honestly never put much thought into what anyone thinks of me. But, I'm odd. It disturbs me deeply now that I see how miserable they make other people. I just don't see how anyone could think they had that right.
kiwi, I love your response. Very good points.
Thankyou W.O.C you indeed are loved and appreciated.
Just curious made some good points earlier ,that didnt come out right ,she often does ,and it was so refreshing to commuincate without the usual jeers and repeated insults..
You are welcome kiwi. Yes I noticed. I am happy you felt refreshed. I appreciate you also. God bless you.
The 10 commandments are biblical doctrines and can be studied along with the other mythical religions and superstitions.
The fact that you believe they are reasonable standards to live by does not mean they should be taught in schools as such.
No, the news is not full of the effect of those commandments, that is pure hearsay on your part.
It is the effects of no lawlessness that is evident,don't you think?
No, there are laws. There is no lawlessness, as you put it. Certainly, there is a very small minority of the population that break laws.
But, I do understand that you would like biblical laws to rule our world and be taught in schools. Yeah, I get that.
Everything you say is hearsay Beelzebub.
And it's it's easy to rip off the original author and try to write a similar story and mix things up by passing them through word of mouth as well.
I suppose you never realized this? Then again. You hold true to your "faith" in atheism. You have a religion.. I know you don't want to admit it, it's ok...
Keep mixing those words up and make yourself look good now ok?
Really? Does that include when you are exposed and caught in a lie?
Yes I did find it
So even though I have my own mind and own beliefs I would never stand alongside any one (even if I was baptised with them) if they contravened Gods laws...
Ok this seems to be the part that was misunderstood:
I have ammended it.
So even though I have my own mind and own beliefs I would never stand alongside any other believer(even if I was baptised with them) if they contravened Gods laws
Family members with this 'conditional' affliction do not talk to each other forever.
Jesus was a straightforward person.
But origin of Christian Love is just hypocracy; it starts with killing.
That's not a fair statement paar. The origin of christianity is the message of Christ. The murder by crucifixion pales to a shadow against the reality and meaning of the willing sacrifice. God's love for the world and Man's ability to connect to that Love was all that was meant to be shared. This has nothing to do with murder. What anyone does when they interpret the way religion has acted out its understanding has nothing to do with the facts of the beginning. In my opinion.
The whole philosophy of Paul- the founder of "Christian Religion" is based on father killing his son; so it is fair to state that the Christian religion is founded in killing.
Love starts when they hypocritically adopted it as a strategy to allure other nations into their fold; Jesus did not want that ; his message was for the Jews only.
I would disagree. I won't explain fully, since I prefer my statements not being hijacked into threads; but I will say that the message pertains to the ability of all people to connect. I suppose, if there had been planes, trains and automobiles in the first century the message might have been spread further. Hoofing around on foot limits your scope of influence. There were a lot of Jews in the area. Jesus was Jewish. If you remember correctly, he spoke to a Sumerian woman, as if an equal; he used a roman officer as an example of faith, and a gentile woman also. He interacted with all he came across. The message pertains to all. I see the message as hope for all, with no qualifiers attached. Thats just me. That's what I do with the message. What anyone else does with it is their business.
You have to internalize anything and fit it into how you see the world. I prefer to see hope for us all. I don't tend to seek a 'what's in it for me' philosophy. Why would any of us be more special than the next person? Am I wrong? That is always a possibility.
[21] And Jesus went from thence, and retired into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. [22] And behold a woman of Canaan who came out of those coasts, crying out, said to him: Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David: my daughter is grieviously troubled by the devil. [23] Who answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying: Send her away, for she crieth after us: [24] And he answering, said: I was not sent but to the sheep that are lost of the house of Israel. [25] But she came and adored him, saying: Lord, help me.
[26] Who answering, said: It is not good to take the bread of the children, and to cast it to the dogs.
Matthew Chapter 15
It is a lone incident and would it be wrong to infer from it generally that Jesus was sent to others ; Jesus states unequivocally that he had been sent to the lost sheep of Israel; and none others.
Disagree. But that's to be expected. I don't have an agenda paar. I'm simply seeking unifying threads. I don't see any religion as having any answers, or being the short road to any nirvana. I think religion is a road block to enlightenment. Always have. I don't have a problem with anyone taking what I see as the well trod path. I've never been drawn to that type of thing. I see religion as a need for personal gain. I consider the mystery something that we will all be connected to, in the final analysis. This is the message I get from reading the entirety of the gospels of a Jesus's words and other enlightened ones.
I don't know anything about the quran and I don't care to. I don't think (and I don't say this to be unkind) it's a piece of the puzzle. They say you're a peaceful guy and if you have found peace within your faith that's grand. But attacks on christianity mean nothing to me. I've got the message I needed. I consider a piece of the puzzle. Nothing more.
The Truthful Religion is for enlightenment; sure; but enlightenment comes from the Truth and only from Truth and it creates unification. When the scribes, who never were in Converse with the Creator God, bring about wrong perceptions that must be sifted and only the truthful part should be retained; the rest is to be rejected as a junk.
Jesus was alright; he was in receipt of the Converse with the Creator-God; anything from Jesus in the exact words revealed and in the language it was revealed on him originally is acceptable. Jesus words must be preferred on the words of the sinful scribes; that is my point.
Beelzedad wrote:
Matthew 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Leviticus 20:9 For every one that curseth his father or his mother shall be surely put to death: he hath cursed his father or his mother; his blood shall be upon him.
Exodus 21:17 And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.
Proverbs 1:8-9 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.
Proverbs 20:20 Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.
Proverbs 30:17 The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.
Looks like I have a lot of murdering to do! We don't have any young eagles to eat my children's eyeballs though. will gulls do?
The bible has such lovely things in it to "instruct" children! .
You've got an amazing talent to continuously post the same thing repetitively..
This is the extent of your argument. Hence the billion posts of the same material..
As usual you did not address the matter at hand.
Making snide remarks about other posters who don't share your myth is contributing nothing.
Like I said. It has been addressed whether it be to your or my satisfaction is not the issue.
The repetitiveness of the material you post on every forum regardless of the OP is the issue.
You are beating dirt, as the dead horse you were beating has rotted to nothing and you're still attempting to beat it..
You should write a hub and copy and paste that in it and link to it every time you post.
Then you wouldn't take up so much thread space on chewed up information.
And aren't these:
"Looks like I have a lot of murdering to do! We don't have any young eagles to eat my children's eyeballs though. will gulls do?"
Snide/sarcastic remarks..
Which were made by you?
As you can clearly see, I was addressing the meaning of the scripture.
No, they were made by your bible! I just commented on all the love that was displayed in it.
Iter-faith dialogue is very interesting and educative if one believes in multi-cultural society; then it is a must.
Hey, Paarsurry, I wonder if you are aware that the LDS church has hosted public Inter-faith dialogue forums several times in the last few years? I was happy to attend two of them at a couple of branches of my church - the first had the faiths scheduled to attend, give a "talk" introducing the aspects of their religion, and then answer audience questions following all the speakers. Here is an excerpt of a document I have recorded:
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Brampton Stake of
The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Cordially invites you to a unique Religious Founders’ Day Seminar
"Establishing Peace" What do Religious Founders say?
On Sunday, March 8, 2009
6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Registration starts at 6:00 pm
Venue: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Bramalea
Hindu Perspective (***NO SHOW***),
Christian Perspective,
Sikh Perspective,
Islamic Perspective.
Online: www.islamevents.ca/register
Email: contact@IslamEvents.ca
Later, in another city, another Inter-faith Seminar was held with the LDS, Catholic, Baptist, and Presbyterian (who last-minute switched their own speaker), which I also attended.
It was all very interesting, but the Islam speaker had trouble (and displayed frustration) answering my question re. reconciling peace when they always complain about past (as he did in his speach). All very interesting stuff to witness.
I think in a multi-cultural society inter-faith symposiums should be held very frequently; even atheists should be invited to participate in it.
by haj3396 14 years ago
only Christian answer this question.
by charlie 11 years ago
God says we are to love the person and hate their sin. Can a Christian love them IN their sin?Today many say that all we have to do is love everyone. God says we are to love them and hate their sin. Can we love them in their sin and still please God or are...
by mischeviousme 13 years ago
You should be absolutely christian or the christians will absolutely chastize you. They talk about love, but they seem to hate more.
by EncephaloiDead 11 years ago
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/f … lic-exodusThousands of Muslims tried to flee the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR) on Friday, only for their mass convoy of cars and trucks to be turned back as crowds of angry Christians taunted: "We're going to kill you...
by paarsurrey 14 years ago
paarsurrey wrote:What is Christian LovePaul and the Church founded the Christian Religion; and it started by a fiction; the Father Killing a Son; so cruelty is the theme of the Christian Religion; not love.Love is just to allure the common people to the fold of the Church or churchianity.Jesus had...
by just_curious 14 years ago
There is a God. There is no God. Except for one or two people, most everyone agrees it would be futile to try and prove their position is right.Many people seem to have a problem with Christianity. I get it.But it seems to me that Jesus' words on the commandments wouldn't be such a horrible...
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