NationStates Jolt Archive


Questions for a Christian

Buristan
22-12-2006, 23:54
I am a Christian, and I am here to dispell the rumors that we all are ultraconservative, and support the war, in fact, any questions you have about our faith, I will answer, unless they are total flamebait. But other than that THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION!


Ask away!

Question Answerers(sounds official)

Buristan: ELCA Lutheran
Arinola: Un-Connected Lutheran
Wilgrove: Roman Catholic
Arinola
22-12-2006, 23:56
Meh I'm a Christian,and a socialist with a hint of liberalism,nor do I support the war.At all.So I'm just gunna sit back and watch the fireworks.
And,set up a taco/cookie/popcorn/fluffle stall for all who want.Could be a good show.
Buristan
22-12-2006, 23:57
Meh I'm a Christian,and a socialist with a hint of liberalism,nor do I support the war.At all.So I'm just gunna sit back and watch the fireworks.
And,set up a taco/cookie/popcorn/fluffle stall for all who want.Could be a good show.

Would you care to assist me in this Q and A session, what sect are you, I am ELCA Lutheran.
RLI Rides Again
22-12-2006, 23:57
I am a Christian, and I am here to dispell the rumors that we all are ultraconservative, and support the war, in fact, any questions you have about our faith, I will answer, unless they are total flamebait. But other than that THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION!


Ask away!

1.) Did you know that the Mods banned all "Ask a ..." threads quite a while ago?

2.) How long do you think it'll take them to lock this one?
Wilgrove
22-12-2006, 23:59
I am a Roman Catholic and would like to help.
Arinola
22-12-2006, 23:59
Would you care to assist me in this Q and A session, what sect are you, I am ELCA Lutheran.

Meh why not.I have Lutherian beliefs but I don't tie myself to a sect.

1.) Did you know that the Mods banned all "Ask a ..." threads quite a while ago?

2.) How long do you think it'll take them to lock this one?

Did they? :confused:
Buristan
22-12-2006, 23:59
1) Why did they ban them?

2) I did not know that these were banned.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:00
1) Why did they ban them?

2) I did not know that these were banned.

I suppose you could consider it flamebaiting,even with innocent intent.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:00
I am a Roman Catholic and would like to help.

Ok, you can, I would like that.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:02
I suppose you could consider it flamebaiting,even with innocent intent.

I don't really see how I could be flamebaiting with this, but if they lock it, I will understand I guess.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:03
I don't really see how I could be flamebaiting with this, but if they lock it, I will understand I guess.

Well we'll see.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:05
Well we'll see.

Did I get your religion correctly, Un-Connected Lutheran?

Anyone with questions, ask away, please.
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 00:05
In before the lock:
[stupid questions]
Can I buy your daughter?
Does my bum look big in this?
?
Should I shave?
Where did I leave my keys?
What am I getting from Santa?[/stupid questions]
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:07
Please, do not treat this as a doomed thread, and if you are going to ask questions, ask real ones please, those were funny though.:)
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:07
In before the lock:
[stupid questions]
Can I buy your daughter?
Does my bum look big in this?
?
Should I shave?
Where did I leave my keys?
What am I getting from Santa?[/stupid questions]

1.No,I don't have one,will my sister do?
2.Yes.
3.Good question,but I simply don't know.
4.No.I find stubble sexy.
5.In your car?On your table?On your mothers face?
6.A brand new set of car keys to replace your lost ones?
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 00:08
If someone has anal sex with their girlfriend(not wife) while she is chained up (with her consent) while the girlfriend is taking Plan B, is it a sin?
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:08
Why not get a Blog instead?
Infinite Revolution
23-12-2006, 00:08
what is the meaning of life? thank you, please.
Utaho
23-12-2006, 00:09
I am a Christian, and I am here to dispell the rumors that we all are ultraconservative, and support the war, in fact, any questions you have about our faith, I will answer, unless they are total flamebait. But other than that THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION!


Ask away!

Question Answerers(sounds official)

Buristan: ELCA Lutheran
Arinola: Un-Connected Lutheran
Wilgrove: Roman Catholic

Well,I am a christian,and I am a way out there rightist.:D
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 00:09
Okay, my first is question is: Why are there so many different flavours of Christianity?
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:09
If someone has anal sex with their girlfriend(not wife) while she is chained up (with her consent) while the girlfriend is taking Plan B, is it a sin?


WTF!!! :confused: :confused: :confused:




If he says no its not...well then I have doubts about his faith.
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 00:10
1.No,I don't have one,will my sister do?
How old is she and can she cook?
2.Yes.
Excellent
3.Good question,but I simply don't know.
I've been asking that for years and nobody can answer it :(
4.No.I find stubble sexy.
It's not stubble.
5.In your car?On your table?On your mothers face?
Gah, I never think to check my mother's face
6.A brand new set of car keys to replace your lost ones?
Great, just what I need. More shit to lose. Damn Santa, I wanted coal. I'm freezing.
RLI Rides Again
23-12-2006, 00:10
1) Why did they ban them?

It started off well with an informative "Ask a Muslim" thread and then descended into "ask some dude who once visited Vegas" or "ask a chicken farmer". Eventually the forum was so clogged up with them that the Mods imposed a blanket ban.

2) I did not know that these were banned.

No worries; they'll probably lock the thread fairly soon but that's about it. :)
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:11
If someone has anal sex with their girlfriend(not wife) while she is chained up (with her consent) while the girlfriend is taking Plan B, is it a sin?

If it's not his wife,then I suppose it's promiscuous.
But you have some weird,weird thoughts.
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 00:12
WTF!!! :confused: :confused: :confused:




If he says no its not...well then I have doubts about his faith.

I don't see any problem with it. Also they're filming it. And they're underaged. So the catholics might dig it.

If it's not his wife,then I suppose it's promiscuous.
But you have some weird,weird thoughts.

It's called "Fantasizing/Thinking while you masturbate" you should try it sometime. You're mind goes in FREAKY directions if you let it wander. Hell, I believe that's how I thought of my theory that Albert Einstein thought of a theory with such potential for destruction he destroyed it.
The Pacifist Womble
23-12-2006, 00:12
I am an Irish Catholic, and politically left-wing.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:13
How old is she and can she cook?

Excellent

I've been asking that for years and nobody can answer it :(

It's not stubble.

Gah, I never think to check my mother's face

Great, just what I need. More shit to lose. Damn Santa, I wanted coal. I'm freezing.

1.Medium or rare?
2.Indeed :)
3.I try :(
4.Fine.You're not sexy anymore. :P
5.Last place you think of looking!I once found my wallet on there.Not your mother,mine.Obviously.
6.You get what Santa gives.You are Santa's bitch.
Smunkeeville
23-12-2006, 00:14
I am a Southern Baptist Libertarian........does that count?
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:16
I am an Irish Catholic, and politically left-wing.


How can you be catholic and liberal? How can you be a catholic but socially left wing? Doesn't seem to match.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:17
Okay, my first is question is: Why are there so many different flavours of Christianity?

Throughout history, many people have interpereted the Bible differently, feeling that different parts needed more emphasis that others, Calvin for example, felt that the omnipotence and soverignity of God was key to His Being, thus he build his beliefs around this, believing that if God is all-seeing, and all-powerful, then man is just a insignificant, imperfect being, and that the Lord already knows our fate, thus predestination was created. Luther on the otherhand believed that the "righteous shall live by faith" meaning that the emphasis was on God's grace alone, and that this grace is the only thing that saved you from eternal damnation to hell, while Calvin's God was almighty, all-powerful, and all-seeing, Luther's God was a loving, graceful God. They both however are correct, many theologians of our age agree that God is much to complex for us to see in a single light, and that each religion brings their own side of the story into it. Sort of like a mosaic. Does that answer your question?
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:18
what is the meaning of life? thank you, please.

That is a question you are going to have to answer on you own, that is one of the most beautiful parts of life.
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:19
Throughout history, many people have interpereted the Bible differently, feeling that different parts needed more emphasis that others, Calvin for example, felt that the omnipotence and soverignity of God was key to His Being, thus he build his beliefs around this, believing that if God is all-seeing, and all-powerful, then man is just a insignificant, imperfect being, and that the Lord already knows our fate, thus predestination was created. Luther on the otherhand believed that the "righteous shall live by faith" meaning that the emphasis was on God's grace alone, and that this grace is the only thing that saved you from eternal damnation to hell, while Calvin's God was almighty, all-powerful, and all-seeing, Luther's God was a loving, graceful God. They both however are correct, many theologians of our age agree that God is much to complex for us to see in a single light, and that each religion brings their own side of the story into it. Sort of like a mosaic. Does that answer your question?



Answered my question...Before I even asked...:eek:
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:20
what is the meaning of life? thank you, please.

Meh we can't possibly answer that.Perhaps the meaning of life IS to find a meaning?You have to decide for yourself.
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:20
That is a question you are going to have to answer on you own, that is one of the most beautiful parts of life.


Translation ~ I have no fucking idea. :D
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:20
Answered my question...Before I even asked...:eek:

We're that good. :D
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:21
Translation ~ I have no fucking idea. :D

Do you have any idea?Hehe.
Basically that's a question no one can answer,mainly because,it's mostly up to you.No one knows.
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 00:22
1.Medium or rare?
2.Indeed :)
3.I try :(
4.Fine.You're not sexy anymore. :P
5.Last place you think of looking!I once found my wallet on there.Not your mother,mine.Obviously.
6.You get what Santa gives.You are Santa's bitch.

One of each. And how old is she?
:)
Don't worry, I still love you.
On second thoughts, no I don't
I once found my wallet in a snake in Dublin Zoo. Which is wierd cos I remember leaving it in a penguin
Santa's one mean pimp
The Alma Mater
23-12-2006, 00:22
Ask away!

The overwhelming majority of Christians posting on the internet, including these forums, seems to have very little knowledge about what they actually believe in. This varies from not even having read the Bible or not even realising that they read a translation of the Book to not knowing significant details of the history of their faith or in fact even which parts of their religion are based on Faith (no way to know if it is true, but one believes it to be) and which on tested statements (things that were actually shown to be true. Or false. With a high degree of certainty).

Why is that ?
The Pacifist Womble
23-12-2006, 00:22
How can you be catholic and liberal? How can you be a catholic but socially left wing? Doesn't seem to match.
Stop being so America-centric. I'm an economic leftist. I'm moderate/conservative on social issues. Yes, it is possible to combine the two.

I assume you're hinting at abortion, in which case I'm against it being legal.

An even greater mystery to me is how there can be Catholics, and Christians in general, who support things like the Iraq war, government-sponsored poverty and pestilence, etc...
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:22
Do you have any idea?Hehe.
Basically that's a question no one can answer,mainly because,it's mostly up to you.No one knows.


I have a clue...I am just to lazy to write it out...I was just translating his post is all.:D
Infinite Revolution
23-12-2006, 00:25
That is a question you are going to have to answer on you own, that is one of the most beautiful parts of life.

Meh we can't possibly answer that.Perhaps the meaning of life IS to find a meaning?You have to decide for yourself.

and i always thought that was the question that religions were supposed to answer for people. i've had my answer already, i just wondered what christianity said about it :p .
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:25
Stop being so America-centric. I'm an economic leftist. I'm moderate/conservative on social issues. Yes, it is possible to combine the two.

I assume you're hinting at abortion, in which case I'm against it being legal.

An even greater mystery to me is how there can be Catholics, and Christians in general, who support things like the Iraq war, government-sponsored poverty and pestilence, etc...

Stop being such an ass and ask me what I meant! I wasn't even thinking about abortion until you said it!


FYI, Just because you don't support the iraq war doesn't mean nobody can. You are not the spokesperson for religious people everywhere!:mad:
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:26
One of each. And how old is she?
:)
Don't worry, I still love you.
On second thoughts, no I don't
I once found my wallet in a snake in Dublin Zoo. Which is wierd cos I remember leaving it in a penguin
Santa's one mean pimp

1.I only have one :(
2.Beast.Love you too man :D
3.Change of heart?Hehe.
4.I once found your mother in bed with me. Ok,that was harsh,sorry.
5.Santa beats me :(
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 00:27
FYI, Just because you don't support the iraq war doesn't mean nobody can. You are not the spokesperson for religious people everywhere!:mad:

No, clearly he is.

:rolleyes:
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:27
Well,I am a christian,and I am a way out there rightist.:D
That is alright, I want to get all bases covered, would you like to be an answerer?

If he says no its not...well then I have doubts about his faith.
I would have to say that it is a sin, but it is on the same level as all other sins, on the same level of taking God's name in vain. This is a common misconception, though some Christians see homosexuality as the ultimate sin, them doubting their parents judgement is just as damning as being gay. One of my flustrations with many Christian. I hope that I do not sound holier-than-thou in my rhetoric, I just wanted to clear that up. Does that answer your question?

I am a Southern Baptist Libertarian........does that count?
Would you like to be an answerer?
I am an Irish Catholic, and politically left-wing.
Would you like to be an answerer.
How can you be catholic and liberal? How can you be a catholic but socially left wing? Doesn't seem to match.
One of the common misconceptions is that you do not have to be a run-of-the-mill conservative to be a christian. One of the only requirements (in my view) is that you truly love Jesus as your savior, and that you have a love for humanity. If one feels that humanity can be helped best through Communism, then let them believe in Communism, the only way that people can be helped is through a variety of ideas, not a bunch of same-thinking zombies. Does that answer your question?
Meh we can't possibly answer that.Perhaps the meaning of life IS to find a meaning?You have to decide for yourself.
That is what I was hinting at.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:28
Stop being such an ass and ask me what I meant! I wasn't even thinking about abortion until you said it!


FYI, Just because you don't support the iraq war doesn't mean nobody can. You are not the spokesperson for religious people everywhere!:mad:

Dude,calm down,this was meant to be a light hearted thread.Take it down a notch,have a cookie and a taco,I set up a stall at the beginning.On the house? *offers*
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:28
I have a clue...I am just to lazy to write it out...I was just translating his post is all.:D

Ahhhh come on.Tell one,tell all!Spread the love.
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:29
Dude,calm down,this was meant to be a light hearted thread.Take it down a notch,have a cookie and a taco,I set up a stall at the beginning.On the house? *offers*

I don't hold back. That is the way I act, when you are pissed just let it out! Bottling it up only leads to Mel Gibson!:D
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:29
and i always thought that was the question that religions were supposed to answer for people. i've had my answer already, i just wondered what christianity said about it :p .

Nah,we're too lazy.Find your own damn answers. :p
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:29
Ahhhh come on.Tell one,tell all!Spread the love.

Fine, but it will cost 5 million dollars.:D
The Pacifist Womble
23-12-2006, 00:30
FYI, Just because you don't support the iraq war doesn't mean nobody can. You are not the spokesperson for religious people everywhere!
I didn't make a statement any more provocative than yours questioning my ability to be a Catholic and a socialist. I'm just questioning other people's ability to be Christians and warmongers.

Would you like to be an answerer.

One of the common misconceptions is that you do not have to be a run-of-the-mill conservative to be a christian.
Yes!
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:30
I don't hold back. That is the way I act, when you are pissed just let it out! Bottling it up only leads to Mel Gibson!:D

Yeah,well,I lost all respect for Mel Gibson when he was in that atrocious movie called "Braveheart." As far as I can remember I still respect you as a fellow NSGer.I'm a lovin' kinda guy!
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:31
Fine, but it will cost 5 million dollars.:D

*pays up in the form of tacos*
That's a lot of tacos.Now talk!
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:31
The overwhelming majority of Christians posting on the internet, including these forums, seems to have very little knowledge about what they actually believe in. This varies from not even having read the Bible or not even realising that they read a translation of the Book to not knowing significant details of the history of their faith or in fact even which parts of their religion are based on Faith (no way to know if it is true, but one believes it to be) and which on tested statements (things that were actually shown to be true. Or false. With a high degree of certainty).

Why is that ?

If you ask me, one does not need to know every single part of the Bible in full, all they need to do is understand that Jesus Christ died for them on the Cross, and that he saved them from the eternal damnation they rightfully deserve. Don't get me wrong, I would love every Christian to study the Bible to a Pastor's level, but it is not vital to their salvation. Does that answer your question?
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:32
That is what I was hinting at.

I know,I read minds. :p
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:33
Stop being so America-centric. I'm an economic leftist. I'm moderate/conservative on social issues. Yes, it is possible to combine the two.

I assume you're hinting at abortion, in which case I'm against it being legal.

An even greater mystery to me is how there can be Catholics, and Christians in general, who support things like the Iraq war, government-sponsored poverty and pestilence, etc...

If they believe that it is going to do good, then they ought to support it.
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 00:35
Throughout history, many people have interpereted the Bible differently, feeling that different parts needed more emphasis that others, Calvin for example, felt that the omnipotence and soverignity of God was key to His Being, thus he build his beliefs around this, believing that if God is all-seeing, and all-powerful, then man is just a insignificant, imperfect being, and that the Lord already knows our fate, thus predestination was created. Luther on the otherhand believed that the "righteous shall live by faith" meaning that the emphasis was on God's grace alone, and that this grace is the only thing that saved you from eternal damnation to hell, while Calvin's God was almighty, all-powerful, and all-seeing, Luther's God was a loving, graceful God. They both however are correct, many theologians of our age agree that God is much to complex for us to see in a single light, and that each religion brings their own side of the story into it. Sort of like a mosaic. Does that answer your question?

Yes, thank you :) The next question is related: Why do some of these groups hate each other. They're all christian, so instead of emphasizing the differences between them why not emphasize the similarities. They're all Christian and all believe in Jesus and the bible.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:36
I know,I read minds. :p

It is one of our secret Christian superpowers :D but don't tell anyone :p
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:37
Yes, thank you :) The next question is related: Why do some of these groups hate each other. They're all christian, so instead of emphasizing the differences between them why not emphasize the similarities. They're all Christian and all believe in Jesus and the bible.

I am sorry, can you give me an example?
UnHoly Smite
23-12-2006, 00:37
*pays up in the form of tacos*
That's a lot of tacos.Now talk!

No tacos, cash only!:p
RLI Rides Again
23-12-2006, 00:37
not a bunch of same-thinking zombies.

Incidentally, can zombies join your religion? If so, would they have to give up eating brains?
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:37
If they believe that it is going to do good, then they ought to support it.
Yes,but not all Christians support it,I think that's what he's hinting at.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:38
Yes,but not all Christians support it,I think that's what he's hinting at.

I know, I was just trying to defend the ones that did, I personally feel that it is wrong, but there are many who feel that it was done for the good of society
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:38
Incidentally, can zombies join your religion? If so, would they have to give up eating brains?

Yes.And I think they'd have to at least cut back,but only because of social obligation.Isn't anything against it in the Bible.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:39
I know, I was just trying to defend the ones that did, I personally feel that it is wrong, but there are many who feel that it was done for the good of society

Hehe,point taken.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:43
Yes, thank you :) The next question is related: Why do some of these groups hate each other. They're all christian, so instead of emphasizing the differences between them why not emphasize the similarities. They're all Christian and all believe in Jesus and the bible.

Arinola, I cannot give an answer to this one, perhaps you could? I do not understand the question.
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 00:43
I am sorry, can you give me an example?

Yes, Northern Ireland :) But on a more personal level: I'm technically a catholic( I was baptised) in what is technically a protestant country(The Netherlands). On this other forum I got attacked by both staunch Orthodox and Protestants for both betraying my country and for being a follower of the Roman Church. Also quite recently somebody said to me that the only way to heaven is if I join a Protestant Church. That's quite strange, being that the other flavours of Christianity are also Christians and should go to heaven, right?
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 00:45
1.I only have one :(
2.Beast.Love you too man :D
3.Change of heart?Hehe.
4.I once found your mother in bed with me. Ok,that was harsh,sorry.
5.Santa beats me :(

Then you lose. YOUR SOUL! :fluffle: Harsh for her....... Me too :(
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:46
Yes, Northern Ireland :) But on a more personal level: I'm technically a catholic( I was baptised) in what is technically a protestant country(The Netherlands). On this other forum I got attacked by both staunch Orthodox and Protestants for both betraying my country and for being a follower of the Roman Church. Also quite recently somebody said to me that the only way to heaven is if I join a Protestant Church. That's quite strange, being that the other flavours of Christianity are also Christians and should go to heaven, right?

Well, I think what you are experiencing is the quiet war between Catholicism and Protestantism. The politics of the Protestant Churches and the Pope have not modified very much in their views of each other, sadly, since the Thirty Years War.
RLI Rides Again
23-12-2006, 00:46
Yes.And I think they'd have to at least cut back,but only because of social obligation.Isn't anything against it in the Bible.

:p
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 00:49
Well, I think what you are experiencing is the quiet war between Catholicism and Protestantism. The politics of the Protestant Churches and the Pope have not modified very much in their views of each other, sadly, since the Thirty Years War.

But why is it still going on here in Europe? Even in these days, when Christianity is diminishing in many European countries. I'd figure they'd settle their differences and promote Christianity once again as a whole to the masses that are now simply not caring anymore and confused :)
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:50
Arinola, I cannot give an answer to this one, perhaps you could? I do not understand the question.

I think he means the hate between Catholics and Protestants.
Basically it's down to interpretations again.Luther wrote the 95 Theses back in the 1500s to refute the selling of Indulgences by Catholic preachers.Luther saw the Catholic church at the time as corrupt,and saw the Pope as some form of Anti-Christ;though I can never remember why.But,there is no mention in the Bible of the need for a Pope,so Luther deplored him,and saw him (Leo X was Pope at the time) only as the Vicar of Rome,which is the Pope's techical position.Anyway,in short,the Protestant church views the Catholics as corrupt,and the Catholics view the Protestants as heretics and impure.I'm probably pretty biased though,as I am in fact a Lutheran.

As a side note,Indulgences were pieces of paper that were sold all over Europe by Catholic preachers to fund a renovation of St.Peter's Basilica.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:52
Then you lose. YOUR SOUL! :fluffle: Harsh for her....... Me too :(

1.Oh noes!Fine,you have my soul.At least treat it nicely.
2.:fluffle:
3.Oooooo.Good'un that was.
4.He takes me into his Grotto and does...things...to me.....horrible,unimaginable things.....who would have thought a Toblerone bar....oh God,kill me!
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:52
But why is it still going on here in Europe? Even in these days, when Christianity is diminishing in many European countries. I'd figure they'd settle their differences and promote Christianity once again as a whole to the masses that are now simply not caring anymore and confused :)

Because of petty differences between the two sects. The forefront of both sects see them as seperate religions rather than different views of the same thing.
Kleptonis
23-12-2006, 00:52
?

!

I don't really think the mods would crack down right away, just so long as there isn't a major resurgence of the "Ask a" threads and this one keeps on track. That said, because I like hearing about what people have to say about their beliefs before things get all flamey (and let's face it, most religious threads end up with more flames than Hell), here's questions:

1. What are your opinions on private worship (prayer, making personal decisions about spirituality) vs. organized worship (church)? Is either more important? Is one absolutely necessary whereas one is optional?
2. How much do you base you personal morality off church teachings and what's in the Bible? For example, if you think A, but you find out the Bible/some religious authority (feel free to answer for both if it's different) says B, are you inclined to think B? Or, if you're neutral between A and B, but the Bible/religious authority says A, do you support A?
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:53
But why is it still going on here in Europe? Even in these days, when Christianity is diminishing in many European countries. I'd figure they'd settle their differences and promote Christianity once again as a whole to the masses that are now simply not caring anymore and confused :)

Meh corruption at higher levels on both sides often stops progress.This usually goes for any religions.
Can I have your sig space? :p
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 00:53
I think he means the hate between Catholics and Protestants.
Basically it's down to interpretations again.Luther wrote the 95 Theses back in the 1500s to refute the selling of Indulgences by Catholic preachers.Luther saw the Catholic church at the time as corrupt,and saw the Pope as some form of Anti-Christ;though I can never remember why.But,there is no mention in the Bible of the need for a Pope,so Luther deplored him,and saw him (Leo X was Pope at the time) only as the Vicar of Rome,which is the Pope's techical position.Anyway,in short,the Protestant church views the Catholics as corrupt,and the Catholics view the Protestants as heretics and impure.I'm probably pretty biased though,as I am in fact a Lutheran.

As a side note,Indulgences were pieces of paper that were sold all over Europe by Catholic preachers to fund a renovation of St.Peter's Basilica.

That and more indulgences supposedly made it more likely that you would get into heaven.
"When the coin in the coffer sings,
Then the soul to heaven springs"
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:56
1. What are your opinions on private worship (prayer, making personal decisions about spirituality) vs. organized worship (church)? Is either more important? Is one absolutely necessary whereas one is optional?
2. How much do you base you personal morality off church teachings and what's in the Bible? For example, if you think A, but you find out the Bible/some religious authority (feel free to answer for both if it's different) says B, are you inclined to think B? Or, if you're neutral between A and B, but the Bible/religious authority says A, do you support A?

1.Private prayer is always a good thing,it allows you to connect on a personal level with God,which is always a great experience.However,church gatherings and the such help to bring religious communities together,and help people to share experiences,as well as connect with God as a group.Basically,both are good for spiritual wellbeing.
2.Again,it's all based on interpretation of the Bible.I'm reading through my version of the Bible and making my own decisions based on my interpretations-if some religious fella in a church said something that refuted my view that was based on his intepretation,I'd have to side with what I've read-it's all about intepretation.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 00:57
1. What are your opinions on private worship (prayer, making personal decisions about spirituality) vs. organized worship (church)? Is either more important? Is one absolutely necessary whereas one is optional?
I feel that both are vital to your spiritual development, however, without private worship you can never have a truly personal relationship with God.


2. How much do you base you personal morality off church teachings and what's in the Bible? For example, if you think A, but you find out the Bible/some religious authority (feel free to answer for both if it's different) says B, are you inclined to think B? Or, if you're neutral between A and B, but the Bible/religious authority says A, do you support A?

I do not trust religious authorities as the mouth of the Lord. I think that they are using their own beliefs to try and interpret what may or may not be the truth, I do however, agree with what the Bible says if I find that it contradicts my beliefs.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:58
That and more indulgences supposedly made it more likely that you would get into heaven.


You could also buy indulgences to get people out of purgatory.Buying dead people's sins away.Sad,eh?
It is true,at the time,there was a LOT of corruption within the Church.There probably still is-but it's the same for any large organised group.
Ginnoria
23-12-2006, 00:58
I am a Christian, and I am here to dispell the rumors that we all are ultraconservative, and support the war, in fact, any questions you have about our faith, I will answer, unless they are total flamebait. But other than that THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION!


Ask away!

Question Answerers(sounds official)

Buristan: ELCA Lutheran
Arinola: Un-Connected Lutheran
Wilgrove: Roman Catholic

Does Jesus ever date mary jane?
Arinola
23-12-2006, 00:59
Does Jesus ever date mary jane?

...Ok,what?
You referring to Mary Magdalene?
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 01:02
Meh corruption at higher levels on both sides often stops progress.This usually goes for any religions.
Can I have your sig space? :p

So, does that mean that to be a true Christian that you have to accept your fellow protestants, catholics etc as your christian brothers? And that you have to ignore whatever those figures at the top say about them?

And yes, you can have my sig space (until the 2nd of january). What do you want to do with it :p
Buristan
23-12-2006, 01:03
Does Jesus ever date mary jane?

If you are referring to Mary Magdelene, no, he did not, the Da Vinci Code is pure and total fiction. It is a novel, I read it myself, just keep in your mind as you read it that Dan Brown wrote it to create controversy, and that his is a conspiracy theory writer. The more controversy he stirs up, the more books he sells.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 01:04
So, does that mean that to be a true Christian that you have to accept your fellow protestants, catholics etc as your christian brothers? And that you have to ignore whatever those figures at the top say about them?

And yes, you can have my sig space (until the 2nd of january). What do you want to do with it :p

it means that though they mean well, they are incorrect.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 01:05
So, does that mean that to be a true Christian that you have to accept your fellow protestants, catholics etc as your christian brothers? And that you have to ignore whatever those figures at the top say about them?

And yes, you can have my sig space (until the 2nd of january). What do you want to do with it :p

I think you have to make your own decisions about people on an individual level.If you listen to the man at the top about people they don't know,that makes you a bit of a zombie.I'm a Lutheran,and I know some great Catholics,really nice people.

Just write "Arinola own's this sig.Arinola is God.And you should worship him as such.Kapeesh?"
The Blaatschapen
23-12-2006, 01:05
But will they go to heaven, even though they're incorrect? (assuming that they don't commit any major sin ofcourse)
Buristan
23-12-2006, 01:07
But will they go to heaven, even though they're incorrect? (assuming that they don't commit any major sin ofcourse)

yes, but just for the record, all sins are major, and they will not damn you unless you do not ask for forgiveness, and accept Jesus into your life.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 01:08
But will they go to heaven, even though they're incorrect? (assuming that they don't commit any major sin ofcourse)

God judges you of the things you do in the course of your life.Good deeds vs. sins,almost.I'm not sure if they'd go to Heaven or not,because I'm not God-I don't do the judging.Be good if I could though.

Yes,teh sig!It must stay unaltered until said time.
Ifreann
23-12-2006, 01:10
...Ok,what?
You referring to Mary Magdalene?

If you are referring to Mary Magdelene, no, he did not, the Da Vinci Code is pure and total fiction. It is a novel, I read it myself, just keep in your mind as you read it that Dan Brown wrote it to create controversy, and that his is a conspiracy theory writer. The more controversy he stirs up, the more books he sells.
Mary Jane=marijuana

God judges you of the things you do in the course of your life.Good deeds vs. sins,almost.I'm not sure if they'd go to Heaven or not,because I'm not God-I don't do the judging.Be good if I could though.

According to Dante, virtuous non-believers go to purgatory.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 01:13
According to Dante, virtuous non-believers go to purgatory.

Well,Dante isn't Jesus,so can't say much on who goes where.
And,purgatory doesn't exist.It isn't once mentioned in the Bible,anywhere,it was a theological theory.Pope Benedict XVI recently refuted the idea.If you don't believe in God,then,I believe,you don't go to Heaven,as undeserving that is for some people.
Infinite Revolution
23-12-2006, 01:22
does not going to heaven necessarilly mean that one must end up in hell then?
Extreme Ironing
23-12-2006, 01:25
Did you convert or have you always believed? If the former, what caused you to convert/believe?
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 02:14
Mary Jane=marijuana


Marijuana=Mary Jane=Spiderman's Girlfriend
GoodThoughts
23-12-2006, 02:47
Mary Jane=marijuana



According to Dante, virtuous non-believers go to purgatory.

Not being Christian it really doesn't matter to me, but who cares what Dante thought about heaven, hell or purgatory. He wrote a book, a book of fiction like Dan Brown's.
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 03:06
Why are you so guillible?
Buristan
23-12-2006, 06:45
Did you convert or have you always believed? If the former, what caused you to convert/believe?

I have always grown up in a Christian household, but I did not accept god until this summer. It was more of a choice than an epiphany, I simply kneeled before the cross, prayed for my forgiveness and accepted Him.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 06:46
does not going to heaven necessarilly mean that one must end up in hell then?

There are many theories out there on hell. I personally believe that hell is ceasing to exist, as in, your soul is destroyed, and is not there anymore.
Buristan
23-12-2006, 06:46
Why are you so guillible?

Um, excuse me.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 08:34
Oi, American Moderate yet non-partisan, non-Denominational Protestant here. (mouthful, eh?)

Just like to say, excellent work. Excellent representation of the faith in this thread. Definitely need more of that 'round these parts. Keep up the good work.
OcceanDrive2
23-12-2006, 11:31
How can you be catholic and liberal? How can you be a catholic but socially left wing? Doesn't seem to match.why the hell not?
My GranDad is Catholic.. and he is anti-War and anti-Bush
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:26
Did you convert or have you always believed? If the former, what caused you to convert/believe?

I converted.I was in a fair bit of emotional trouble,and back in the summer I prayed,and found my prayers answered.Because it's a wee bit personal to me,I won't describe,but basically I found God.'Twas good.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:27
Why are you so guillible?

Go play.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:27
Oi, American Moderate yet non-partisan, non-Denominational Protestant here. (mouthful, eh?)

Just like to say, excellent work. Excellent representation of the faith in this thread. Definitely need more of that 'round these parts. Keep up the good work.

Thankyou kind sir.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:29
does not going to heaven necessarilly mean that one must end up in hell then?

Well,technically,yes,because there's no in-between stage,seeing as purgatory doesn't exist-it isn't mentioned in the Bible.Personally I think Hell is simply a place without God,rather than a fiery furnace where demons rape you and have their BDSM ways with you.
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 19:33
I have always grown up in a Christian household, but I did not accept god until this summer. It was more of a choice than an epiphany, I simply kneeled before the cross, prayed for my forgiveness and accepted Him.Why? Got half of your brain surgically removed? Had an accident?
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 19:35
Well,Dante isn't Jesus,so can't say much on who goes where.
And,purgatory doesn't exist.It isn't once mentioned in the Bible,anywhere,it was a theological theory.Pope Benedict XVI recently refuted the idea.If you don't believe in God,then,I believe,you don't go to Heaven,as undeserving that is for some people.You don't have to be Jesus to know anything abou who goes where. Jesus was only a carpenter gone nuts.
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:39
Why? Got half of your brain surgically removed? Had an accident?

No,found God.The whole idea of this thread was that it DIDN'T turn into a flamefest.If you want to do that,then go somewhere else,and stop trolling.If you've got a serious question,ask it,if not,go play.
Unknown apathy
23-12-2006, 19:40
Why? Got half of your brain surgically removed? Had an accident?

You live for the purpose of insulting people and come with rhetorics of hatred and degradation?
Arinola
23-12-2006, 19:41
You don't have to be Jesus to know anything abou who goes where. Jesus was only a carpenter gone nuts.

Jesus was the son of God,I'm sure he has the inside scoop.Although it's true,God is the one who judges us,not Jesus.
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 19:46
Jesus was the son of GodProve it.

I'm sure he has the inside scoop.Although it's true,God is the one who judges us,not Jesus.According to Christianity Jesus is God (the Jewish deity that is).
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 19:50
No,found God.The whole idea of this thread was that it DIDN'T turn into a flamefest.If you want to do that,then go somewhere else,and stop trolling.If you've got a serious question,ask it,if not,go play.Found God? What a major bs. This god is a fabrication. There is nothing to find, sweetheart. Christianity is an empty black pit. Although human is supposed to have reason Christians are those who willingly forgo reason and rather choose ignorance in life.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 20:01
Found God? What a major bs. This god is a fabrication. There is nothing to find, sweetheart. Christianity is an empty black pit. Although human is supposed to have reason Christians are those who willingly forgo reason and rather choose ignorance in life.

What part of "avoid flamefest" went over your head?
Soviestan
23-12-2006, 20:27
I have a question for Christians.

Do the jungle people in South America burn in hell forever for not accepting Jesus even though they have never heard of him or do they get a pass like babies who die?
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 20:34
What part of "avoid flamefest" went over your head?reality is no flamefest, honey.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 20:37
I always forget this verse, so I'm going to have to find a reference later for it, but it essentially says that nature itself reveals God. So the implication is that if someone hasn't heard of Jesus, s/he still has been exposed to God on some level.

To that, I can only assume that if they believed and followed to the best of their ability and knowledge, that they would go to Heaven.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 20:38
reality is no flamefest, honey.

I never said it was, your post on the other hand...

And cut out the condescending "honey" shit.
Hydesland
23-12-2006, 20:46
Found God? What a major bs. This god is a fabrication. There is nothing to find, sweetheart. Christianity is an empty black pit. Although human is supposed to have reason Christians are those who willingly forgo reason and rather choose ignorance in life.

Care to assert anything other then baseless, uneducated assumptions?
Hydesland
23-12-2006, 20:47
I have a question for Christians.

Do the jungle people in South America burn in hell forever for not accepting Jesus even though they have never heard of him or do they get a pass like babies who die?

How would they know, they are not God.
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 20:51
I always forget this verse, so I'm going to have to find a reference later for it, but it essentially says that nature itself reveals God. So the implication is that if someone hasn't heard of Jesus, s/he still has been exposed to God on some level.

To that, I can only assume that if they believed and followed to the best of their ability and knowledge, that they would go to Heaven.Nature doesn't reveal the Christian god. Otherwise Christianity would have been around for more that just 2000 years.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 20:54
Nature doesn't reveal the Christian god. Otherwise Christianity would have been around for more that just 2000 years.

I'm not going to argue with you. Since it's obvious you have nothing but disdain for my religion, you're going to have to get a rise out of someone else. Preferable somewhere else.
United Beleriand
23-12-2006, 21:05
I'm not going to argue with you. Since it's obvious you have nothing but disdain for my religion, you're going to have to get a rise out of someone else. Preferable somewhere else.Your religion? You possess a religion?
My disdain for Christianity comes from knowing it. It's faked.
Zarakon
23-12-2006, 21:50
Care to assert anything other then baseless, uneducated assumptions?

Says the guy who believes in a magical man in the sky.
The Pacifist Womble
23-12-2006, 22:15
If they believe that it is going to do good, then they ought to support it.
Have you heard some of the justifications given for this war? "Better that it's fought in Iraq than in America", violates Luke 6:31 outright. I can't be bothered to point out the other evils of supporting the Iraq war; they're just so obvious.

Yes, thank you :) The next question is related: Why do some of these groups hate each other.
Most of them don't hate each other, merely disagree. And those that hate, shouldn't.
Rhursbourg
23-12-2006, 22:27
something for the thread
http://www.philotrust.com/christianity
CthulhuFhtagn
23-12-2006, 22:30
Explain how the Problem from Evil does not invalidate the existance of an omnipotent, omnibenevolent entity.
Oakondra
23-12-2006, 22:34
I would just happen to be a Christian of no denomination. I believe in God and I believe in Christ - that's enough for me. A bit opposed to organized religion, however I agree that Christians need to meet and be around others of faith from time to time. However, you can't go to church and be told what to believe. Your faith needs to be decided on your own.

And stuff like that.

Oh, and I'm moderate, straying a bit toward conservative.
Oakondra
23-12-2006, 22:36
Explain how the Problem from Evil does not invalidate the existance of an omnipotent, omnibenevolent entity.
Right off the bat, "evil" is a subjective word. It means different things to different people. Some people may go and call capital punishment evil while others call it justice.

However, God gave humans free will. With free will they are able to go and do 'good' and 'evil' as they please. It's as simple as that, if you ask me.

edit: I personally wouldn't call God 'omnibenevolent', but just 'benevolent'.
CthulhuFhtagn
23-12-2006, 22:37
Right off the bat, "evil" is a subjective word. It means different things to different people. Some people may go and call capital punishment evil while others call it justice.

However, God gave humans free will. With free will they are able to go and do 'good' and 'evil' as they please. It's as simple as that, if you ask me.

The Problem from Evil deals with suffering that exists that humans have no control over. Like spina bifada.
Oakondra
23-12-2006, 22:39
The Problem from Evil deals with suffering that exists that humans have no control over. Like spina bifada.
I think there's a difference between 'evil' and suffering.
CthulhuFhtagn
23-12-2006, 22:45
I think there's a difference between 'evil' and suffering.

Of course. But it's called the Problem from Evil, not the Problem from Suffering, as letting suffering occur when one has the ability to stop it is generally perceived as evil.
Sylvontis
23-12-2006, 22:47
IIRC, the Problem of Evil has to do with both of those things.
Hydesland
23-12-2006, 22:54
Says the guy who believes in a magical man in the sky.

I don't remember saying that, even an athiest can tell that his arguments are insane.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:27
Why? Got half of your brain surgically removed? Had an accident?

If you have come to flame, you have come to the wrong place.

Prove it.
I don't need too, that is why it is called faith, you need to trust in Him.

According to Christianity Jesus is God (the Jewish deity that is).

No, according to Christianity, Jesus is a part of God. There are three parts of God.
Found God? What a major bs. This god is a fabrication. There is nothing to find, sweetheart. Christianity is an empty black pit. Although human is supposed to have reason Christians are those who willingly forgo reason and rather choose ignorance in life.

If you want to talk reason, lets talk about the enlightenment, the philosphes recongnized that there was a Supreme Being, thus Deism, they simply were unsure of wheter or not He was Jesus

I have a question for Christians.

Do the jungle people in South America burn in hell forever for not accepting Jesus even though they have never heard of him or do they get a pass like babies who die?

there are two ways which Jehovah God reveals himself, through his Scripture, and through his works, meaning nature. Notice in the Bible, when Jesus is ressurected(sp?), righteous pagans rise from the dead and commune with the living as though they live themselves. This proves that God is loving as well.

Nature doesn't reveal the Christian god. Otherwise Christianity would have been around for more that just 2000 years.

It was. It was called Judaism

Explain how the Problem from Evil does not invalidate the existance of an omnipotent, omnibenevolent entity.

Without Evil(satan) there would be no Good(Lord), same thing with suffering. Without suffering, the beauty of our Communion with God in Heaven would not be as wonderful.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:28
I don't remember saying that, even an athiest can tell that his arguments are insane.

Just ignore them, they are trying to flame you.

Please, flamers, please leave us in peace. You do not need to attack Christianity just because you are unhappy with it and do not agree with it yourself.
Millemma
24-12-2006, 04:46
What, excactly, is the holy ghost?
Is it like god? Is it god? is it an actual ghost of someone, or like, a spirit thing?
If it's a ghost of someone, who?

...I've been wondering about this for a while...
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:46
Feel free to ask away my friends.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:48
What, excactly, is the holy ghost?
Is it like god? Is it god? is it an actual ghost of someone, or like, a spirit thing?
If it's a ghost of someone, who?

...I've been wondering about this for a while...

Well, the holy ghost is the being that inhabits the world around us. He is everywhere at once, particularly inside the soul of those who have accepted Christ
Riknaht
24-12-2006, 04:52
I have a request. Support your arguments with Biblical text especially if you are paraphrasing some key point of Christianity.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:54
I have a request. Support your arguments with Biblical text especially if you are paraphrasing some key point of Christianity.

I will from now on if it would make you content, would you like to join in as a fellow answerer?
Zarakon
24-12-2006, 04:56
Could the Ghost Busters take out the holy ghost?
Riknaht
24-12-2006, 04:56
I will from now on if it would make you content, would you like to join in as a fellow answerer?

My pleasure. I think the majority of the "Is Christianity credible?" questions can be answered with a study of the essence of truth. Interested?
Ginnoria
24-12-2006, 04:57
Could the Ghost Busters take out the holy ghost?

Only if their proton packs are fully charged.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:57
My pleasure. I think the majority of the "Is Christianity credible?" questions can be answered with a study of the essence of truth. Interested?

yes, I am. I wait to hear more.
Zarakon
24-12-2006, 04:58
Only if their proton packs are fully charged.

Are you sure they wouldn't have to use the statue of liberty?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:58
Could the Ghost Busters take out the holy ghost?

Please, do not fill this thread with nonsense.
Riknaht
24-12-2006, 04:58
Could the Ghost Busters take out the holy ghost?

About as much as reason or logic could influence you.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 04:58
What, excactly, is the holy ghost?
Is it like god? Is it god? is it an actual ghost of someone, or like, a spirit thing?
If it's a ghost of someone, who?

...I've been wondering about this for a while...

Does this help:

The holy realities of the Manifestations of God have two spiritual positions. One is the place of manifestation, which can be compared to the position of the globe of the sun, and the other is the resplendency of the manifestation, which is like its light and radiance; these are the perfections of God -- in other words, the Holy Spirit. For the Holy Spirit is the divine bounties and lordly perfections, and these divine perfections are as the rays and heat of the sun. The brilliant rays of the sun constitute its being, and without them it would not be the sun. If the manifestation and the reflection of the divine perfections were not in Christ, Jesus would not be the Messiah. He is a Manifestation because He reflects in Himself the divine perfections. The Prophets of God are manifestations for the lordly perfections -- that is, the Holy Spirit is apparent in Them.

(Abdu'l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 127)
Zarakon
24-12-2006, 04:59
Please, do not fill this thread with nonsense.

But this thread is already about a theoretical magical man in the sky, so it can't get much more nonsensical.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 04:59
Are you sure they wouldn't have to use the statue of liberty?

please delete your mockeries. You are insulting this thread.
Hamilay
24-12-2006, 04:59
Please, do not fill this thread with nonsense.
But it's already filled with nonsense, it's about Christianity! :D

Joking! Please don't hit me.

EDIT: Damn, beaten to it.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 05:19
Christianity is not nonsense. Some of the theolgy that has been proposed to explain certain aspects of Christ's teaching is rather nonsensical.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 05:21
But this thread is already about a theoretical magical man in the sky, so it can't get much more nonsensical.

If the Lord was just a "magical man in the sky"

1. Why has He captivated people for centuries
2. Why have the most rational men throughout history accepted that He exists
Ginnoria
24-12-2006, 05:28
If the Lord was just a "magical man in the sky"

1. Why has He captivated people for centuries
2. Why have the most rational men throughout history accepted that He exists

Perchance you have heard of the Argument Ad Populum?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 05:34
Perchance you have heard of the Argument Ad Populum?

I have. Perchance have you heard of flaming, such as calling God a "magical man in the sky" and asking if the ghost busters could zap the Holy Spirit
Ginnoria
24-12-2006, 05:42
I have. Perchance have you heard of flaming, such as calling God a "magical man in the sky" and asking if the ghost busters could zap the Holy Spirit

I don't think either counts as flaming, and I didn't do them anyway.

That doesn't have jack to do with your statement, btw.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 05:45
I don't think either counts as flaming, and I didn't do them anyway.

They do count as flaming, please as a question about the Christian faith, or leave this thread.
Ginnoria
24-12-2006, 05:48
They do count as flaming, please as a question about the Christian faith, or leave this thread.

Hey, don't go off at me, I just answered the question YOU asked.

But okay ...
Samsom
24-12-2006, 05:49
For the majority of my life I have been a devote Christian. In my recent look at the whole situation of religion in our modern world I have come to a few conclusions. Firstly, our plate is dirty, it needs to be washed. In other words, Christianity can not continue to exist to exist as Christianity any longer. Just as the early moros(missionaries) spread Jewish socialism, religion needs a new face. Christs water has been thwarted by the hypocracy of religous war, the ignorance of commercialism, and corruption of organization. The conveniences of organized religion has brought about the destruction of spirituality all together, creating a fanece hypocracy, lies, and half-truths. The only way for morality to survive we must deorganize religion all together. Go back to house churches and rhetorical discussion. Otherwise we are doomed to ignorance.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 05:52
ok here is a question for you: Who is the father of Christ mentioned in the following text?

:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

(King James Bible, Luke)
Soviestan
24-12-2006, 05:58
there are two ways which Jehovah God reveals himself, through his Scripture, and through his works, meaning nature. Notice in the Bible, when Jesus is ressurected(sp?), righteous pagans rise from the dead and commune with the living as though they live themselves. This proves that God is loving as well.



That doesn't answer my question. Will those who have never heard of Jesus go to hell forever for not accepting him even though they have never heard of him?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:00
ok here is a question for you: Who is the father of Christ mentioned in the following text?

:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

(King James Bible, Luke)


David of the tribe of David, son of Isreal. But Jesus' father is the Father
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:03
David of the tribe of David, son of Isreal. But Jesus' father is the Father


So does this mean Jesus had two fathers? Or, does the word father have different meanings given the context in which the word is used?
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 06:03
ok here is a question for you: Who is the father of Christ mentioned in the following text?

:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

God is the father.
It was traditional/common at the time the book was written to refer to ones paternal ancestors as "father", so your great-great-great-grandpa could also be referd to as your father.
Luke refers to David as Jesus "father" because Mary is a descendant of David.

i know iam not an official q/a person but saw the q so i thought I'd answer
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:04
God is the father.
It was traditional/common at the time the book was written to refer to ones paternal ancestors as "father", so your great-great-great-grandpa could also be referd to as your father.
Luke refers to David as Jesus "father" because Mary is a descendant of David.

i know iam not an official q/a person but saw the q so i thought I'd answer

Bingo, if you would like, I could make you official
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:07
God is the father.
It was traditional/common at the time the book was written to refer to ones paternal ancestors as "father", so your great-great-great-grandpa could also be referd to as your father.
Luke refers to David as Jesus "father" because Mary is a descendant of David.

i know iam not an official q/a person but saw the q so i thought I'd answer

So God is the Father of us all. Correct?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:10
So God is the Father of us all. Correct?

Adam is the father of everyone. God created Adam, but he is not his paternal father.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:12
Adam is the father of everyone. God created Adam, but he is not his paternal father.


My father and mother created me. God created me. Therefore God is my father too.
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:13
My father and mother created me. God created me. Therefore God is my father too.

Yes, we are all gods children, but Jesus was the special Son of God, the Son of Man
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:15
Yes, we are all gods children, but Jesus was the special Son of God, the Son of Man


Or, the phrase Son of God is not meant to explain a physical relationship, but a spiritual relationship.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 06:19
So God is the Father of us all. Correct?
Adam is the father of everyone. God created Adam, but he is not his paternal father.

I would say that Yes God is the father of us all, Adam could also be viewed as our father, but in a different sense.

God is our father b/c her created us, he looks after us like a loving father would.
in the traditional sense Adam is our father b/c of genealogy.

teh only sort of exampl i can think of is this.
say a Woman goes to a sperm bank and the through IVF has a child, after she has that child she marries. That man that she marries becomes the child's father , the child calls that man father and the man treats him as his own child.
That man is like God.

The man who donated his sperm to the sperm bank is the child biological father, but that child does not consider him as Father, this man is like Adam.

sorry if that makes zero sense
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:27
I would say that Yes God is the father of us all, Adam could also be viewed as our father, but in a different sense.

God is our father b/c her created us, he looks after us like a loving father would.
in the traditional sense Adam is our father b/c of genealogy.

teh only sort of exampl i can think of is this.
say a Woman goes to a sperm bank and the through IVF has a child, after she has that child she marries. That man that she marries becomes the child's father , the child calls that man father and the man treats him as his own child.
That man is like God.

The man who donated his sperm to the sperm bank is the child biological father, but that child does not consider him as Father, this man is like Adam.

sorry if that makes zero sense

I understand perfectly. So it only makes sense from what you have just said that God is not the physical father of Jesus. Christ was sent by God just as a earthly father sends his son to carry out a task for him. He tells his son to speak for him and carry out the task just as he would.

God gave Jesus the mission of speaking for Him on earth because God cannot come to earth any more than the sun can come to earth because the sun's power would destroy the earth.
Rainbowwws
24-12-2006, 06:33
I have a question. What is the signif. of Adam and Eve if everyone dried in the flood anyways and decended from Noah and Wife?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:33
I understand perfectly. So it only makes sense from what you have just said that God is not the physical father of Jesus. Christ was sent by God just as a earthly father sends his son to carry out a task for him. He tells his son to speak for him and carry out the task just as he would.

God gave Jesus the mission of speaking for Him on earth because God cannot come to earth any more than the sun can come to earth because the sun's power would destroy the earth.

God the Father must stay in his kingdom in heaven, thus he must send his son, who is the right arm of God down to earth.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 06:36
Or, the phrase Son of God is not meant to explain a physical relationship, but a spiritual relationship.
personally i think it explains both

I understand perfectly. So it only makes sense from what you have just said that God is not the physical father of Jesus. Christ was sent by God just as a earthly father sends his son to carry out a task for him. He tells his son to speak for him and carry out the task just as he would.

ok the example i gave was to (try) and explain gods relationship with us, humanity.
sorry if that was confusing
once again I believe that Jesus is Gods son in both the spiritual and physical sense.

God gave Jesus the mission of speaking for Him on earth because God cannot come to earth any more than the sun can come to earth because the sun's power would destroy the earth.

right, though i think that if God really wanted to come he would but he has promised to send his son.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 06:41
I have a question. What is the signif. of Adam and Eve if everyone dried in the flood anyways and decended from Noah and Wife?

Biblical tradition states that Adam and Eve were the first people, thus Noah and his wife and sons ect. are descendants of Adam and Eve.

They are significant b/c they were the first people and were there for at the fall of man. The reason that Noah and the whole flood thing happened was b/c man had become wicked in Gods sight, so God decided that he had had enough and that he should start over. so he loaded up Noah and all the animals flooded the earth and then let them all out to start over
Rainbowwws
24-12-2006, 06:48
Biblical tradition states that Adam and Eve were the first people, thus Noah and his wife and sons ect. are descendants of Adam and Eve.

They are significant b/c they were the first people and were there for at the fall of man. The reason that Noah and the whole flood thing happened was b/c man had become wicked in Gods sight, so God decided that he had had enough and that he should start over. so he loaded up Noah and all the animals flooded the earth and then let them all out to start over

Well I know that much but we say that we are descendants of Adam and Eve and it would also be correct to say we were descendants of Noah and wife. But we never do. Why is that?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:49
Well I know that much but we say that we are descendants of Adam and Eve and it would also be correct to say we were descendants of Noah and wife. But we never do. Why is that?

Because, it is more important that we are the descendants of Adam and Eve, as it shows that we are all sinners.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 06:54
Well I know that much but we say that we are descendants of Adam and Eve and it would also be correct to say we were descendants of Noah and wife. But we never do. Why is that?

you are correct it would be fine to say that we are descendants of Noah and his wife.
As for why we don't say that, i really have no idea. I might say that because Adam and Eve were the first people we are first and for most their descendants, because Noah and His wife were their descendants as well... thats just what i say but some one else might have a different pov.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 06:56
Because, it is more important that we are the descendants of Adam and Eve, as it shows that we are all sinners.

Isn't there some deeper meaning to the story of Adam and Eve besides that of genealogy and temptation?
Hamilay
24-12-2006, 06:57
Because, it is more important that we are the descendants of Adam and Eve, as it shows that we are all sinners.
Yeah, I never understood this. Why are we all being punished for Adam and Eve's disobedience? I'm sure I have a closer relationship with Adolf Hitler than I have with Adam and Eve (assuming they exist, for the sake of argument) so should I be punished for crimes against humanity?
Buristan
24-12-2006, 06:58
Yeah, I never understood this. Why are we all being punished for Adam and Eve's disobedience? I'm sure I have a closer relationship with Adolf Hitler than I have with Adam and Eve (assuming they exist, for the sake of argument) so should I be punished for crimes against humanity?

I know that you have sinned in your life before, it is human nature.
Hamilay
24-12-2006, 07:01
I know that you have sinned in your life before, it is human nature.
What about a newborn baby?

And yes, but that's not what I said. The question was why are supposed to be punished for two random people's transgressions years ago.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:04
Isn't there some deeper meaning to the story of Adam and Eve besides that of genealogy and temptation?

yes there is, i think so any way, it tells the story of how humanity came about and it also shows that when we give our lives to God that he will "walk" with us like he used to walk with Adam and eve in the evening in the garden.

Yeah, I never understood this. Why are we all being punished for Adam and Eve's disobedience? I'm sure I have a closer relationship with Adolf Hitler than I have with Adam and Eve (assuming they exist, for the sake of argument) so should I be punished for crimes against humanity?

Adam and Eve were the first people, God created them and us with a free will, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, they sinned. Today we have the same choice, we can obey God or we can sin.

So, no you should not be punished for Hitlers crimes, he made those choices not you.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:05
Yeah, I never understood this. Why are we all being punished for Adam and Eve's disobedience? I'm sure I have a closer relationship with Adolf Hitler than I have with Adam and Eve (assuming they exist, for the sake of argument) so should I be punished for crimes against humanity?

I struggled with the very same question for many a year and then I found this.

Observe that if, according to the suppositions of the People of the Book,[1] the meaning were taken in its exoteric sense, it would be absolute injustice and complete predestination. If Adam sinned by going near the forbidden tree, what was the sin of the glorious Abraham, and what was the error of Moses the Interlocutor? What was the crime of Noah the Prophet? What was the transgression of Joseph the Truthful? What was the iniquity of the Prophets of God, and what was the trespass of John the Chaste? Would the justice of God have allowed these enlightened Manifestations, on account of the sin of Adam, to find torment in hell until Christ came and by the sacrifice of Himself saved them from excruciating tortures? Such an *126* idea is beyond every law and rule and cannot be accepted by any intelligent person.
[1 Jews and Christians.]

No; it means what has already been said: Adam is the spirit of Adam, and Eve is His soul; the tree is the human world, and the serpent is that attachment to this world which constitutes sin, and which has infected the descendants of Adam. Christ by His holy breezes saved men from this attachment and freed them from this sin. The sin in Adam is relative to His position. Although from this attachment there proceed results, nevertheless, attachment to the earthly world, in relation to attachment to the spiritual world, is considered as a sin. The good deeds of the righteous are the sins of the Near Ones. This is established. So bodily power is not only defective in relation to spiritual power; it is weakness in comparison. In the same way, physical life, in comparison with eternal life in the Kingdom, is considered as death. So Christ called the physical life death, and said: "Let the dead bury their dead."[1] Though those souls possessed physical life, yet in His eyes that life was death.
[1 Matt. 8:22.]

(Abdu'l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 125)



Question. -- In verse 22 of chapter 15 of 1 Corinthians it is written: "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive." What is the meaning of these words?

Answer. -- Know that there are two natures in man: the physical nature and the spiritual nature. The physical nature is inherited from Adam, and the spiritual nature is inherited from the Reality of the Word of God, which is the spirituality of Christ. The physical nature is born of Adam, but the spiritual nature is born from the bounty of the Holy Spirit. The first is the source of all imperfection; the second is the source of all perfection.

(Abdu'l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 118)
Hamilay
24-12-2006, 07:06
yes there is, i think so any way, it tells the story of how humanity came about and it also shows that when we give our lives to God that he will "walk" with us like he used to walk with Adam and eve in the evening in the garden.



Adam and Eve were the first people, God created them and us with a free will, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, they sinned. Today we have the same choice, we can obey God or we can sin.

So, no you should not be punished for Hitlers crimes, he made those choices not you.
Then why should I be punished for Adam and Eve's crimes?
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:08
Then why should I be punished for Adam and Eve's crimes?

If you mean original sin, relax there is no such thing.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:09
Then why should I be punished for Adam and Eve's crimes?

you aren't punished for them, you, like them are given a free will to make your own choices.
Hamilay
24-12-2006, 07:10
If you mean original sin, relax there is no such thing.
Yeah, but the OP seems to think so.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:12
Yeah, but the OP seems to think so.

Interesting thing about Original Sin is that you never see Christ make a reference to it.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:13
If you mean original sin, relax there is no such thing.Yeah, but the OP seems to think so.


i think that there is a point in our lives where we have no sin.
as for the original sin, i think that yes it did happen, Adam and Eve were human, it was in there nature to sin, so it had to happen at some point
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:17
i think that there is a point in our lives where we have no sin.
as for the original sin, i think that yes it did happen, Adam and Eve were human, it was in there nature to sin, so it had to happen at some point


But that is different from the thelogy that states we are doomed to hell because of the sins of Adam and Eve. This is nonsensecial and is only found in Christian dogma. It is not found in Jewish teaching or Islamic teaching which recognizes the divinity of Christ.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:24
But that is different from the thelogy that states we are doomed to hell because of the sins of Adam and Eve. This is nonsensecial and is only found in Christian dogma. It is not found in Jewish teaching or Islamic teaching which recognizes the divinity of Christ.

That is where you have to be careful, the bible does not state that because of Adam and eve we are doomed, while they were the first to sin, it is in our nature, it is arguable that b/c we are there descendants that we have inherited that nature from them.

The point is that if Adam and Eve had not sinned, there probably would be no other people and God would have had no reason to send his son ect.

God know that he gave his children a free will but he also knew that they would disobey him at some point so he set things so that we would have need of a savior, Jesus.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:35
That is where you have to be careful, the bible does not state that because of Adam and eve we are doomed, while they were the first to sin, it is in our nature, it is arguable that b/c we are there descendants that we have inherited that nature from them.

The point is that if Adam and Eve had not sinned, there probably would be no other people and God would have had no reason to send his son ect.

God know that he gave his children a free will but he also knew that they would disobey him at some point so he set things so that we would have need of a savior, Jesus.

Ok, so in order to save time I wrote in code. Doomed is too strong a word. The theology says (if I remember correctly) that until Christ comes all those who were alive before His sacrifice are in hell or some place like hell. Go back and read the previous post that references the Baha'i response to this. What was the sin of Moses, of David, Joseph and many others? I am sorry but Christ did not preach is. It came from the human imagination.
Ohshucksiforgotourname
24-12-2006, 07:45
An even greater mystery to me is how there can be Catholics, and Christians in general, who support things like the Iraq war, government-sponsored poverty and pestilence, etc...

WTF????

Government-sponsored poverty? What are you talking about? WHO would support government-sponsored poverty? That just sounds asinine and absurd.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:46
Ok, so in order to save time I wrote in code. Doomed is too strong a word. The theology says (if I remember correctly) that until Christ comes all those who were alive before His sacrifice are in hell or some place like hell. Go back and read the previous post that references the Baha'i response to this. What was the sin of Moses, of David, Joseph and many others? I am sorry but Christ did not preach is. It came from the human imagination.


Thats what i meant by you have to be careful, there is a difference between the bible and the compilation of mans works regarding the bible. most theology is biased off of the latter.

Moses did sin, he killed a man. David committed adultery. Joseph sinned at some point in his life- we all have and we all do.
God has given us a free will

As for where those that died before Christs sacrifice where they are, i don't know, i have a few theory's, i know that as Christ died on the cross he told the thief next to him "today you will be with me in paradise."
after the final judgment those that do not believe in God will be committed to hell, but where they are before that time, i don't know so i am not going to claim to know.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:52
Thats what i meant by you have to be careful, there is a difference between the bible and the compilation of mans works regarding the bible. most theology is biased off of the latter.

Moses did sin, he killed a man. David committed adultery. Joseph sinned at some point in his life- we all have and we all do.
God has given us a free will

As for where those that died before Christs sacrifice where they are, i don't know, i have a few theory's, i know that as Christ died on the cross he told the thief next to him "today you will be with me in paradise."
after the final judgment those that do not believe in God will be committed to hell, but where they are before that time, i don't know so i am not going to claim to know.

No, you are avoiding the question. What of the child who dies at or near birth. What was that child's sin? The theology of Original Sin is what we are talking about, not the sin of individuals. Where is Original Sin mentioned in the teachings of Christ?
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 07:57
No, you are avoiding the question. What of the child who dies at or near birth. What was that child's sin? The theology of Original Sin is what we are talking about, not the sin of individuals. Where is Original Sin mentioned in the teachings of Christ?

the original sin is not mentioned in the teachings of Christ, the"original sin" is a doctrinal construct. It was created by man, it is one persons idea of what might be, it is not actual, the fact that it is 'theology' is because a lot of people agreed with that guy or were forced to and then every one else agreed cuz they didn't know what else to do.

As for that child? that is one you have to ask God, its a question that i struggle with and it is one that i do not have the answer for.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:58
Thats what i meant by you have to be careful, there is a difference between the bible and the compilation of mans works regarding the bible. most theology is biased off of the latter.

Moses did sin, he killed a man. David committed adultery. Joseph sinned at some point in his life- we all have and we all do.
God has given us a free will

As for where those that died before Christs sacrifice where they are, i don't know, i have a few theory's, i know that as Christ died on the cross he told the thief next to him "today you will be with me in paradise."
after the final judgment those that do not believe in God will be committed to hell, but where they are before that time, i don't know so i am not going to claim to know.

It's been fun, but I gtg.
GoodThoughts
24-12-2006, 07:59
the original sin is not mentioned in the teachings of Christ, the"original sin" is a doctrinal construct. It was created by man, it is one persons idea of what might be, it is not actual, the fact that it is 'theology' is because a lot of people agreed with that guy or were forced to and then every one else agreed cuz they didn't know what else to do.

As for that child? that is one you have to ask God, its a question that i struggle with and it is one that i do not have the answer for.

The answer is clear and simple. There is no original sin and the child goes into the good graces of a loving God.
Antikythera
24-12-2006, 08:00
The answer is clear and simple. There is no original sin and the child goes into the good graces of a loving God.
i agree about the original sin, and as for the child that is what i believe happens, but what i struggle with is why not every one sees the same thing...

It's been fun, but I gtg.

agreed:)
have a good night and merry Christmas and happy holidays :)
Buristan
24-12-2006, 18:35
It is christmas eve day, Hurray!
Millemma
24-12-2006, 19:35
Thanks for answering my question, I have a few more:

If I believe that God and Jesus exist and love everyone and stuff, but don't really know anything about them, or the bible and stuff, and what I do know is mostly half-remembered bible stories for children, and hardly ever go to church, don't even understand the bible when I try to read it, disagree with 90% of what your local priest says (gays=satan, sex before marriage=hell, sex before marriege with contraception=hell with extra fire and so on) and live in sin...
...do I count as a christian?

If you put your baby up for abortion, will you go to hell?


OK, thanks again, Merry christmas!
Buristan
03-01-2007, 04:42
Thanks for answering my question, I have a few more:

If I believe that God and Jesus exist and love everyone and stuff, but don't really know anything about them, or the bible and stuff, and what I do know is mostly half-remembered bible stories for children, and hardly ever go to church, don't even understand the bible when I try to read it, disagree with 90% of what your local priest says (gays=satan, sex before marriage=hell, sex before marriege with contraception=hell with extra fire and so on) and live in sin...
...do I count as a christian?

In my opinion yes.

If you put your baby up for abortion, will you go to hell?

If you ask for forgivness.
BackwoodsSquatches
03-01-2007, 04:46
The answer is clear and simple. There is no original sin and the child goes into the good graces of a loving God.

Not really.

An unbaptised child goes to hell with the rest of the Heathens.
"No man shall enter Heaven except through me".

Not baptised = no ticket to Heaven.