NationStates Jolt Archive

I am a Christian, I'm proud of my beliefs. However, my best friend is an atheist. I don't ram my thoughts down her throat and she does not ridicule my faith. She is one of the best people I know. I thank God for her, even though she has no faith in Him. I don't believe in challenging peoples belief systems, as long as they cause no harm to others. If another Christian was using their faith as a reason to attack another person I would step in. Same if an atheist was doing it. Regardless of faith. So please stop these wasteful arguments. If you're christian and you wish to change others views then just live your life as an example. Same thing for anyone of any faith or non-faith. Once I was asked "How do you stay so calm when things aren't going for you, and why does it seem like you're so happy and there's this positive energy from you?" I told them that for ME my faith does it. I think each person needs to find what does it for themselves.:rolleyes:

I am a Christian, I'm proud of my beliefs. However, my best friend is an atheist. I don't ram my thoughts down her throat and she does not ridicule my faith. She is one of the best people I know. I thank God for her, even though she has no faith in Him. I don't believe in challenging peoples belief systems, as long as they cause no harm to others. If another Christian was using their faith as a reason to attack another person I would step in. Same if an atheist was doing it. Regardless of faith. So please stop these wasteful arguments. If you're christian and you wish to change others views then just live your life as an example. Same thing for anyone of any faith or non-faith. Once I was asked "How do you stay so calm when things aren't going for you, and why does it seem like you're so happy and there's this positive energy from you?" I told them that for ME my faith does it. I think each person needs to find what does it for themselves.:rolleyes:

Mostly because many religoins have as part of thier dogma, some crap about being the 'one true way'.

So if you are a Christain, then you should really be trying to save your atheist freind. That is according to your dogma, if you do not then what you are is not a Christain.

The majority of religoins then have the very seeds of their own destruction sown right into their very own dogma. Something I find profoundly funny.

So if you are a Christain, then you should really be trying to save your atheist freind. That is according to your dogma, if you do not then what you are is not a Christain.


Why does the Atheist need 'to be saved'?
Why can't you take what she has said (as i agree with it completely) and except her an opinion? Isnt that what you believe in?

Because not all Christians are followers of Joel Osteen. ( He preaches some happiness nonsense ) Or Unitarians. Some are dedicated to more annoying principles

And then there are the Muslims, who want to kill everyone that isn't a Muslim. Officially, anyway.

Any debate I engage in is for purely for amusement and experience, I used to care, not so much anymore. In fact I recently got into a discussion with a friend that can't comprehend why people would want to follow a religion, or how they could believe in such things, and I defended them. That point of view is still beyond her comprehension but I tried.

Because my God has a bigger dick than your God!

;)

Because my God has a bigger dick than your God!

;)

Wow, can you introduce me?

I thank God... even though she has no faith in Her.

Fixed.

God is a woman.

Why does the Atheist need 'to be saved'?
Why can't you take what she has said (as i agree with it completely) and except her an opinion? Isnt that what you believe in?

I think you missed the point.

Because my God has a bigger dick than your God!

;)
Well my god is the Flying Spaghetti Monster and he either has no penises or is a penis tentacle monster, so beat that.

Because some people are really into religious arguments. See most of NSG.

I think you missed the point.

No, i definately didn't. She is talkign about acceptance and she thinks thats what she should do. Except her friend who is Atheist. But another Christian is telling her that because she is accepting that then she isnt a true Christian, she needs to save the Atheist. I was merely asking why an Atheist needs to be saved? Why cant another Christian accept that a fellow Christian doesnt feel the need to puish her beliefs on others.

No, i definately didn't. She is talkign about acceptance and she thinks thats what she should do. Except her friend who is Atheist. But another Christian is telling her that because she is accepting that then she isnt a true Christian, she needs to save the Atheist. I was merely asking why an Atheist needs to be saved? Why cant another Christian accept that a fellow Christian doesnt feel the need to puish her beliefs on others.
The point is way over your head. Peepelonia was answering the topic question based on relevant facts and information completely separate from whatever beliefs they hold.

People attack each others' beliefs because they seek validation.

My sister used to rail on me constantly because of my decision to become a Mormon. She (and her husband at the time) sent me tracts in the mail expecting to convert me away from my new Church. I have always believed it was due to a crack in her own faith that she was looking to validate by trying to convert others.

This is the same woman who once cornered a nun in a rest stop bathroom to "witness to her."

To Those of All Faiths and Those of None: Why can't we live in peace?

I think I know the reason. One way or another, literally or figuratively, it all comes down to this:

It's because the religiophiles be stealin' our curriculums.

Why does the Atheist need 'to be saved'?
Why can't you take what she has said (as i agree with it completely) and except her an opinion? Isnt that what you believe in?

Sure that is what I belive. The point I'm making, and in answer to the OP's question, is that religous dogma tells you to do certian things.

Now of course you are free to pick and choose which parts of your religion you will abide by and which you will not, that does suggest hat you are not fully following your faith.

If the OP is happy with that, then that is the OP's desicion. It does call into question though the validity of the religion, does it not?

As one of the "none", I would say the only reason we don't leave the faithful alone is that the faithful WON'T leave us alone.

It's more than just not trying to convert us; that, if anything is occasionally nice, as long as it doesn't get too strident. It shows caring, and it's hard to be mad about that.

It's things like stop trying to tell us what to think. Moral laws based on the Bible/Qu'Ran/Bhagavad Gita/Kongfuzi do not interest us, and we will not accept them; laws based on mutual respect and protection will be. If you want to live according to your moral ideals, we will not raise word or hand - but don't try to make us live any life save what we choose.

Leave us be, and we will do likewise.

I am a Christian, I'm proud of my beliefs. However, my best friend is an atheist. I don't ram my thoughts down her throat and she does not ridicule my faith. She is one of the best people I know. I thank God for her, even though she has no faith in Him. I don't believe in challenging peoples belief systems, as long as they cause no harm to others. If another Christian was using their faith as a reason to attack another person I would step in. Same if an atheist was doing it. Regardless of faith. So please stop these wasteful arguments. If you're christian and you wish to change others views then just live your life as an example. Same thing for anyone of any faith or non-faith. Once I was asked "How do you stay so calm when things aren't going for you, and why does it seem like you're so happy and there's this positive energy from you?" I told them that for ME my faith does it. I think each person needs to find what does it for themselves.:rolleyes:

Of course we can live in peace. Take Neo Bretonnia and me. He's a Mormon, I'm an agnostic. We respect each other in religious arguments throughout the forum, even when we do not agree with each other at all. There's no need to flame or attack people's views. The key here is respect.

There's no need to flame…

*burns Nanatsu at stake for NSG heresy*

There are roughly six different steps that people take through their own faith journey. Each of us is in a different stage. You can't covert anyone, that is God's business. As the first person on this thread said, living your life as an example of your faith is the best testament you could give. Reasoned argument is fun too and God, as he is to all religions, does not want automatons but questioners so that they may grow in him, and he in them. Lovin ya all :fluffle:

Fixed.

God is a woman.

Rubbish! If God was a woman She would have multi-tasked and created the Heavens, the Earth and life on the same day, probably while holding down a full-time job and bringing up a family. She wouldn't have procrastinated for 4,000 odd years before finally sending a saviour either... ;):p

No, i definately didn't. She is talkign about acceptance and she thinks thats what she should do. Except her friend who is Atheist. But another Christian is telling her that because she is accepting that then she isnt a true Christian, she needs to save the Atheist. I was merely asking why an Atheist needs to be saved? Why cant another Christian accept that a fellow Christian doesnt feel the need to puish her beliefs on others.

Oi Oi I aint no Christian!

Has anyone pointed out yet that all UK schools are legally obliged to hold a daily act of collective worship (which must usually be Christian)? Or that Christian bishops have unelected places in the House of Lords? Or that religious advocacy groups are trying to strip rights away from women and homosexuals?

Granted, many decent believers are opposed to the current situation, but when so many political problems are directly rooted in religion is it any wonder that we attack it?

Has anyone pointed out yet that all UK schools are legally obliged to hold a daily act of collective worship (which must usually be Christian)? Or that Christian bishops have unelected places in the House of Lords? Or that religious advocacy groups are trying to strip rights away from women and homosexuals?

Granted, many decent believers are opposed to the current situation, but when so many political problems are directly rooted in religion is it any wonder that we attack it?

...and what religious groups are these that are trying to strip away the rights of women and homosexuals?.......

I think I know the reason. One way or another, literally or figuratively, it all comes down to this:

It's because the religiophiles be stealin' our curriculums.

Yes, gods seem to be a great reference to put in your curriculum. You can't get elected president of (God Bless) America unless you repeatedly end your speeches with... "God Bless America".

not really, but it is better to tackle those few who are immoral, than tackle an entire religion.
religion is more personal than anyone might think, for everyone expresses belief differently, some do it very much in a similar way, for instance:
some people follow every tiny little dogma of their belief to the point, some people just live their lives, honouring whatever faith they have, some try to passively convert people to their faith by setting an example, and others seek validation for blowing themselves up in a particularly peaceful religion.

in many religions where there is a creator, that creator created humanity to it's own form, so logically god would be sexless, or hermafroditic, for women and men were shaped to it's form.

defineing what religion you "belong to" is more based on how you personally feel on religion, and you could probably choose from several very similar religions.

end of semi-logical and semi-objectional post.

Of course we can live in peace. Take Neo Bretonnia and me. He's a Mormon, I'm an agnostic. We respect each other in religious arguments throughout the forum, even when we do not agree with each other at all. There's no need to flame or attack people's views. The key here is respect.

I am Neo Bretonnia, and I approve this message.

*Shakes hand with atheist. Remembers atheist is best friend. Plays a game of chess. talks. Ponders stupidity of most of the human race, religious or not*

*burns Nanatsu at stake for NSG heresy*

You do not burn the Spanish Inquisition!!:eek:

You do not burn the Spanish Inquisition!!:eek:

No one expects the Spanish inquisition! Our main weapon is surprise! And terror, surprise and terror, terror and surprise. Our TWO chief weapons are suprise and terror... And ruthless efficiency! Our THREE main weapons are...

You do not burn the Spanish Inquisition!!:eek:

No one expects to burn the Spanish Inquisition!

Edit: Conservative Morality, I defy your speediness with the greatest power at my disposal: MODEST ORIGINALITY! Muhahahaha! *goes on to conquer world with power of modest originality*

Sure that is what I belive. The point I'm making, and in answer to the OP's question, is that religous dogma tells you to do certian things.

Now of course you are free to pick and choose which parts of your religion you will abide by and which you will not, that does suggest hat you are not fully following your faith.

If the OP is happy with that, then that is the OP's desicion. It does call into question though the validity of the religion, does it not?

I would say that a religion that someone follows blindly, without questioning it, far less valid than one someone has developed for himself.

You are seeing religion as an outside force. For many, it is internal. I am not failing to fully follow my faith because some others who fall under the same label disagree with me. I am following my faith, not theirs.


As for the OP, we can't all live in peace because there are always some who simply won't do it. When everyone is wiling to live and let live, as it were, that is what will happen.

*burns Nanatsu at stake for NSG heresy*


*Brings more wood to add to the pire....*

No problem with Christians....except when they try to convert me...and threaten me to go to hell if I dont submit to their ridiculous religion...

thats when I get violent...

:mp5::mp5::mp5::mp5::mp5:

Because Christianity tyrannised Europe for hundreds of years and continues to ingrain fallacious and hateful principles into children all over the world, and suppresses free, logical thought to make people content to do as they're told and not question those in authority, so long as they're saying what they've been programmed to accept. That's why.
And that's just Christianity, never mind the rest of them.
Also, because you're wrong and it's perfectly clear that you are, if you take everything the Bible says a) seriously and b) literally. It's also a hateful, evil book other than very brief redeeming moments where there seems to be some kind of sensible, coherent morality driving it; and though most Christians disregard it altogether or only pay attention to the parts they like, they insist on keeping it.

I am Neo Bretonnia, and I approve this message.

;)

No one expects the Spanish inquisition! Our main weapon is surprise! And terror, surprise and terror, terror and surprise. Our TWO chief weapons are suprise and terror... And ruthless efficiency! Our THREE main weapons are...

:D

*burns Nanatsu at stake for NSG heresy*

As the fire begins to ignite in the pyre at the base of the stake, a sudden gust of wind bursts down over the assembled crowd, scattering splinters of wood, ashes and burning embers everywhere. The midnight blue painted UH-60 hovering above drops to ground level disgorging a squad of heavily armed commandos with smiley face patches on their shoulders and the national flag of Neo Bretonnia on a patch on their breast pockets.

They make no sound, only signaling each other with a series of prearranged commands and preplanned maneuvers, experts at their work. Their helmets cover their faces with a visor but their presence radiates cold, efficient professionalism.

Of the 10, 9 of them immediately form a circle around the stake, spraying the crowd with rubber bullets with their machine guns while the tenth gets behind Nanatsu, cutting away the ropes holding her to the pole. He is quick to grab her wrist, gently but firmly, pulling her away from the stake and wrapping her in a kevlar vest and blanket. A quick check on the fleeing crowd assures him there is no immediate danger.

The helicopter orbits the drop site, firing canisters of tear gas at the crowd downwind from the pyre, and the crowd upwind is suppressed by a hail of rubber rounds fired from an M-60 mounted in the chopper.

The squad leader pulls Nanatsu away from the site as the flames begin to consume the now empty wooden pole. The commando team begins to pull together, moving toward an empty space left by the now panicked crowd having fled away. The squad leader signals the pilot.

In seconds the operation is complete, the helicopter landing quickly in the newly cleared space, hauling Nanatsu aboard and all 10 commandos before the Blackhawk lifts into the sky, disappearing in the darkness of the night.

As the fire begins to ignite in the pyre at the base of the stake, a sudden gust of wind bursts down over the assembled crowd, scattering splinters of wood, ashes and burning embers everywhere. The midnight blue painted UH-60 hovering above drops to ground level disgorging a squad of heavily armed commandos with smiley face patches on their shoulders and the national flag of Neo Bretonnia on a patch on their breast pockets.

They make no sound, only signaling each other with a series of prearranged commands and preplanned maneuvers, experts at their work. Their helmets cover their faces with a visor but their presence radiates cold, efficient professionalism.

Of the 10, 9 of them immediately form a circle around the stake, spraying the crowd with rubber bullets with their machine guns while the tenth gets behind Nanatsu, cutting away the ropes holding her to the pole. He is quick to grab her wrist, gently but firmly, pulling her away from the stake and wrapping her in a kevlar vest and blanket. A quick check on the fleeing crowd assures him there is no immediate danger.

The helicopter orbits the drop site, firing canisters of tear gas at the crowd downwind from the pyre, and the crowd upwind is suppressed by a hail of rubber rounds fired from an M-60 mounted in the chopper.

The squad leader pulls Nanatsu away from the site as the flames begin to consume the now empty wooden pole. The commando team begins to pull together, moving toward an empty space left by the now panicked crowd having fled away. The squad leader signals the pilot.

In seconds the operation is complete, the helicopter landing quickly in the newly cleared space, hauling Nanatsu aboard and all 10 commandos before the Blackhawk lifts into the sky, disappearing in the darkness of the night.

*runs to the scene loading his RPG....but arrives to late to take down YET ANOTHER Black Hawk* ahhhhh damn!

As the fire begins to ignite in the pyre at the base of the stake, a sudden gust of wind bursts down over the assembled crowd, scattering splinters of wood, ashes and burning embers everywhere. The midnight blue painted UH-60 hovering above drops to ground level disgorging a squad of heavily armed commandos with smiley face patches on their shoulders and the national flag of Neo Bretonnia on a patch on their breast pockets.

They make no sound, only signaling each other with a series of prearranged commands and preplanned maneuvers, experts at their work. Their helmets cover their faces with a visor but their presence radiates cold, efficient professionalism.

Of the 10, 9 of them immediately form a circle around the stake, spraying the crowd with rubber bullets with their machine guns while the tenth gets behind Nanatsu, cutting away the ropes holding her to the pole. He is quick to grab her wrist, gently but firmly, pulling her away from the stake and wrapping her in a kevlar vest and blanket. A quick check on the fleeing crowd assures him there is no immediate danger.

The helicopter orbits the drop site, firing canisters of tear gas at the crowd downwind from the pyre, and the crowd upwind is suppressed by a hail of rubber rounds fired from an M-60 mounted in the chopper.

The squad leader pulls Nanatsu away from the site as the flames begin to consume the now empty wooden pole. The commando team begins to pull together, moving toward an empty space left by the now panicked crowd having fled away. The squad leader signals the pilot.

In seconds the operation is complete, the helicopter landing quickly in the newly cleared space, hauling Nanatsu aboard and all 10 commandos before the Blackhawk lifts into the sky, disappearing in the darkness of the night.

I has a story written about me!!:eek:
Cool!!!:D

it helps keep the population down.

snip

The helicopter passes over New Malachite Square, whose airspace had been declared a no-fly zone following the religious turmoil. The military dispatches a dozen gunships and fighter jets to intercept the commandos, before realizing, all too late, that the government had diverted all military funding towards bubble-gum and cheap booze for the masses.
The citizens of New Malachite Square, the Prime Minister himself among their ranks, hurl small projectiles and expletives instead.

* Goes to the UN and issues a statment asking for a condemnation of the illegal intrusion of Neo Bretonnia and the intolerant interruption of sacred traditions. After hour of discussion a vote is done and the beligerant, etno-centric and intolerant actions of Neo Bretonnia is condemned by the general assamble of UN.

only to be vetoed seconds later....

Well, there are some people who use religious arguments to justify existing conditions that, as an atheist, I think should change--for example, there are some religious figures who tell poor congregations to accept their suffering on Earth, because they'll be rewarded once they get into Heaven. Sure, if you believe in Heaven, that might be fine--and you could even say that it's giving the poor hope of a better life. But to an atheist, there is no better life, and this is all we have, so that hope is false hope. Even worse, it prevents those people who accept suffering as God's plan from acting to change their circumstances and improve their lives. To the atheist, they're wasting their only opportunity by sitting around waiting for it to be better.

If I find someone who believes that, I'm likely to argue with that person--I'd feel obligated to try to persuade them to take action to improve their life (just as a Christian who believed in conversion would feel obligated to persuade me to convert, to save my soul from burning in Hell). We can both be civil about it, but the fact that we believe different things and feel the need to act on our beliefs will cause us to come into conflict. The only way not to have conflict is to all believe the same thing, which would be oh so boring.

* Goes to the UN and issues a statment asking for a condemnation of the illegal intrusion of Neo Bretonnia and the intolerant interruption of sacred traditions. After hour of discussion a vote is done and the beligerant, etno-centric and intolerant actions of Neo Bretonnia is condemned by the general assamble of UN.

only to be vetoed seconds later....



*Gloriously arrives in Neo Bretonnia and quickly establishes the Ziggurant of Nanatsu no Tsuki in her homeland, harboring a new age of Nanatsuism (the new religion), with her as goddess.*

snip

Next on the UN's agenda is a motion to condemn the actions of one Max Barry in using the UN's name in vain. The motion is passed unanimously.

* Goes to the UN and issues a statment asking for a condemnation of the illegal intrusion of Neo Bretonnia and the intolerant interruption of sacred traditions. After hour of discussion a vote is done and the beligerant, etno-centric and intolerant actions of Neo Bretonnia is condemned by the general assamble of UN.

only to be vetoed seconds later....



...Thus cementing Neo Bretonnia's status as a rogue state, much to the delight of its people.

*Gloriously arrives in Neo Bretonnia and quickly establishes the Ziggurant of Nanatsu no Tsuki in her homeland, harboring a new age of Nanatsuism (the new religion), with her as goddess.*

*Converts to NAnatsuism... but then decided to separate himself from the dogma and form the Ortodox Nanatsuism movement*

*Converts to NAnatsuism... but then decided to separate himself from the dogma and form the Ortodox Nanatsuism movement*

The PM of New Malachite Square funds spies to schism repeatedly in the Ziggurant of Nanatsu. They are subsequently arrested for obscene behaviour, and deported.

The PM of New Malachite Square funds spies to schism repeatedly in the Ziggurant of Nanatsu. They are subsequently arrested for obscene behaviour, and deported.

*All this, to the Glory of Goddess Nanatsu and her followers.*

*All this, to the Glory of Goddess Nanatsu and her followers.*

WE are the ONLY TRUE followers of goddess Nanatsu. Repent now or we will forced to burn you alive out of pure love.

If you burn me, HERETICS, I shall rise from the Dead and smite you all with bottles of cheap wine and stinky cheese!

Do I have to send out ANOTHER helicopter?

WE are the ONLY TRUE followers of goddess Nanatsu. Repent now or we will forced to burn you alive out of pure love.

If you burn me, HERETICS, I shall rise from the Dead and smite you all with bottles of cheap wine and stinky cheese!

If you burn me, HERETICS, I shall rise from the Dead and smite you all with bottles of cheap wine and stinky cheese!

So you arent willing to die for our sins? :( ahhhhhhh

how about dye for our sins?

blonde?

WE are the ONLY TRUE followers of goddess Nanatsu. Repent now or we will forced to burn you alive out of pure love.

OOC: (On General, ha! *awaits possible move*) I find the idea of a god being executed for heresy quite entertaining.

how about dye for our sins?
blonde?

Only the Goddess's hairdresser knows for sure.

Do I have to send out ANOTHER helicopter?

This time, New Malachite Square has prepared itself. The Prime Minister hefts the Acme Helicopter Remover (patent pending) that he purchased - for the modest sum of $19.95 - on to one shoulder, and takes aim at the sky.

Do I have to send out ANOTHER helicopter?


*Loads his RPG *

And then the thread got off track REALLY fast out. And he went over and turned off his computer and changed into his normal clothes and did backflips on his motercycle and landed. (Kudos to those who remember this one)

Live in peace? Where's the fun in that?

I am a Christian, I'm proud of my beliefs. However, my best friend is an atheist. I don't ram my thoughts down her throat and she does not ridicule my faith. She is one of the best people I know. I thank God for her, even though she has no faith in Him. I don't believe in challenging peoples belief systems, as long as they cause no harm to others. If another Christian was using their faith as a reason to attack another person I would step in. Same if an atheist was doing it. Regardless of faith. So please stop these wasteful arguments. If you're christian and you wish to change others views then just live your life as an example. Same thing for anyone of any faith or non-faith. Once I was asked "How do you stay so calm when things aren't going for you, and why does it seem like you're so happy and there's this positive energy from you?" I told them that for ME my faith does it. I think each person needs to find what does it for themselves.:rolleyes:

the problem occures tho. when one's belief is perceived to be used against others.

if one believes abortion is wrong, then it's natural that they won't support it. same with Same Sex, Drugs, Sexuality, etc...

Yet should they vote according to what they, not only believe in, but according to how they live, they are accused of "shoving their religion down other's throats".

And that gives the Christians the image of others "persecuting them."

So you arent willing to die for our sins? :( ahhhhhhh

how about dye for our sins?

blonde?

No, I'm not that altruistic of a Goddess.

I'm a brunette.;)

You want to be a blonde?

Don't you know blondes (fake ones, I mean) become increasingly stupefied on account of the dye. It creates parasites that affect their brain.:eek:

No, I'm not that altruistic of a Goddess.

I'm a brunette.;)

You want to be a blonde?

Don't you know blondes (fake ones, I mean) become increasingly stupefied on account of the dye. It creates parasites that affect their brain.:eek:

:( Ahhhhhhhhh.... I wanted a blonde goddess....

So...you are brunette...you can dye for our sins! :)

:( Ahhhhhhhhh.... I wanted a blonde goddess....

So...you are brunette...you can dye for our sins! :)

I can dye your hair for your sins, Bucko-tan.

My hair looks pretty as it is. If you want a blonde goddess, buy yourself a Barbie.:D

I can dye your hair for your sins, Bucko-tan.

My hair looks pretty as it is. If you want a blonde goddess, buy yourself a Barbie.:D

No no no.... the goddess is the one that dyes for the mortals sins...

ok...how about redhead?

No no no.... the goddess is the one that dyes for the mortals sins...

ok...how about redhead?

I could go redhaired, but I ain´t dying for your sins. I´m dying because red is hawt!

I could go redhaired, but I ain´t dying for your sins. I´m dying because red is hawt!

OK... I believe we can reach an agreement.

Redhead goddess is fine.

You dont have to dye for our sins, but you have to dye.

I hear John Lennon's "Imagine" in the background

OK... I believe we can reach an agreement.

Redhead goddess is fine.

You dont have to dye for our sins, but you have to dye.

Agreed. Redhaired, I´ll just dye.:cool:

I hear John Lennon's "Imagine" in the background

What? Imagine a world with red-headed Spanish goddesses?

What? Imagine a world with red-headed Spanish goddesses?

Woah, write that song. Like... now...:eek:

Woah, write that song. Like... now...:eek:

Imagine all the people.....
burnt to the stake...
uh huuuu!

You may say I am a fundie....
but Im not the only one
I hope some day youll join the pyre
and the world would be as one

Imagine all the people.....
burnt to the stake...
uh huuuu!

You may say I am a fundie....
but Im not the only one
I hope some day youll join the pyre
and the world would be as one

Me likey!

I think most people do live in peace, to be honest. They're too fussed with living to give that much of a damn what other people think will happen to them after they're done.:p

Agreed. Redhaired, I´ll just dye.:cool:

add some orange streaks for highlight...

add some orange streaks for highlight...

That sounds horribly protestant....I will even say adventist

*Prepares a pyre for JuNii*

add some orange streaks for highlight...

I fear that if I do as you suggest, I´ll end up looking like a Starburst. :s

I guess the reason people of different faiths have such a hard time getting along, is due to the "leaders" of the faith, who interpret the faith, tend to be braying asses. I've often found that most of the rank and file get along fairly well. Case in point: my wife is Christian, and her father is a pastor. We have a lot of respect for each other and each others faith. My in-laws pray for me, and I give them Satanic blessings. Indeed, at our wedding we had Satanist Christians, Muslims, Atheists, Hindus, Wiccans, and Agnostics (and that just the ones I know about). It was a good time for all, and it was very peacefull.

Me, I guess that it's not the people of various faiths causing problems. It's the assholes of various faiths that give everyone a bad name.

People attack each others' beliefs because they seek validation.

My sister used to rail on me constantly because of my decision to become a Mormon. She (and her husband at the time) sent me tracts in the mail expecting to convert me away from my new Church. I have always believed it was due to a crack in her own faith that she was looking to validate by trying to convert others.

This is the same woman who once cornered a nun in a rest stop bathroom to "witness to her."
So, did the nun convert? ha ha.
your not the only LDS member floating around out here. More power to ya'.

That´s why I must remit to my first post in this thread. The key to live peacefully amongst people of all religious denominations is respect. Pity that the leaders of the different creeds do not know how to respect others.

We´re all human beings living on the same planet. Respecting the religious beliefs of our kindred, even when found ludicrous, would simplify our continued existence so much...

Agreed.

I guess the reason people of different faiths have such a hard time getting along, is due to the "leaders" of the faith, who interpret the faith, tend to be braying asses. I've often found that most of the rank and file get along fairly well. Case in point: my wife is Christian, and her father is a pastor. We have a lot of respect for each other and each others faith. My in-laws pray for me, and I give them Satanic blessings. Indeed, at our wedding we had Satanist Christians, Muslims, Atheists, Hindus, Wiccans, and Agnostics (and that just the ones I know about). It was a good time for all, and it was very peacefull.

Me, I guess that it's not the people of various faiths causing problems. It's the assholes of various faiths that give everyone a bad name.

That´s why I must remit to my first post in this thread. The key to live peacefully amongst people of all religious denominations is respect. Pity that the leaders of the different creeds do not know how to respect others.

We´re all human beings living on the same planet. Respecting the religious beliefs of our kindred, even when found ludicrous, would simplify our continued existence so much...

This is the same woman who once cornered a nun in a rest stop bathroom to "witness to her."

I'd witness to her, if you get what I'm sayin'.:D ;) :p

Mostly because many religoins have as part of thier dogma, some crap about being the 'one true way'.

So if you are a Christain, then you should really be trying to save your atheist freind. That is according to your dogma, if you do not then what you are is not a Christain.

The majority of religoins then have the very seeds of their own destruction sown right into their very own dogma. Something I find profoundly funny.

Not all Christians believe that. Some believe that you get into heaven just by being a good person. One need not be a fundamentalist to be a Christian, or any other faith for that matter.

I fear that if I do as you suggest, I´ll end up looking like a Starburst. :s

and looking like a celestrial body is bad... how exactly? :cool:

and looking like a celestrial body is bad... how exactly? :cool:

I was referring to the candy but if you think I would look good as a celestial body, kudos to you!

Mostly because many religoins have as part of thier dogma, some crap about being the 'one true way'.

So if you are a Christain, then you should really be trying to save your atheist freind. That is according to your dogma, if you do not then what you are is not a Christain.

The majority of religoins then have the very seeds of their own destruction sown right into their very own dogma. Something I find profoundly funny.
and there are many methods available to 'save our atheist friends'. many which alot of Atheists won't complain about.

Too bad it's the other methods that get all the publicity. but then again, it allows us to sneak up ninja like and save them. :D

I was referring to the candy but if you think I would look good as a celestial body, kudos to you!

I was thinking celestrial body... but now, the image of me sucking and chewing on sweet, tastey, and juciy little you has dominated my brain.

:eek:

:rolleyes:

;)

:D

Me likey image!

I don't ram my thoughts down her throat and she does not ridicule my faith.


The problem is not everyone is like that. I have several religious friends all of whom have differing beliefs (Hare Krishna, Catholic, Protestant, Hindu etc), as well as atheist and agnostic friends, and while I enjoy debating topics of philosophy and religion and I often disagree with their beliefs, I don't put them down because of their beliefs. However, some people do and some people force their ideas on people. So, yeah...

Mostly because many religoins have as part of thier dogma, some crap about being the 'one true way'.

So if you are a Christain, then you should really be trying to save your atheist freind. That is according to your dogma, if you do not then what you are is not a Christain.

The majority of religoins then have the very seeds of their own destruction sown right into their very own dogma. Something I find profoundly funny.

Actually that is not a part of our dogma. You must also consider the fact that there are several different branches of Christianity each with their own dogmas. As a Baptist, it not infact a part of our dogma to actively recruit members. Rather we do prefer to live by example. So you are incorrect, and I am a Christian.

So you are incorrect, and I am a Christian.

But not a true Scotsman… er, Christian.

Sure that is what I belive. The point I'm making, and in answer to the OP's question, is that religous dogma tells you to do certian things.

Now of course you are free to pick and choose which parts of your religion you will abide by and which you will not, that does suggest hat you are not fully following your faith.

If the OP is happy with that, then that is the OP's desicion. It does call into question though the validity of the religion, does it not?

The only problem is that Dogma is man-made. Many Christians choose to reject so-called dogma simply because it is by man and not God. The only true requirement to being a Christian is accepting Jesus as one's savior and following his word and his word alone. Dogma is man's word and following it is not required, but rather a choice, that does not determine being a christian, but may determine what specific branch one claims to belong to.

Why can't we live in peace? To answer that we have to go way back. It all began 75 million years ago. Back then there was a galactic federation of planets which was ruled over by the evil Lord Xenu. Xenu thought his galaxy was overpopulated, and so he rounded up countless aliens from all different planets, and then had those aliens frozen. The frozen alien bodies were loaded onto Xenu's galactic cruisers, which looked like DC-8s, except with rocket engines. The cruisers then took the frozen alien bodies to our planet, Earth, and dumped them into the volcanoes of Hawaii. The aliens were no longer frozen, they were dead. The souls of those aliens, however, lived on, and all floated up towards the sky. But the evil Lord Xenu had prepared for this. Xenu didn't want their souls to return! And so he built giant soul-catchers in the sky! The souls were taken to a huge soul brain-washing facility, which Xenu had also built on Earth. There the souls were forced to watch days of brainwashing material which tricked them into believing a false reality. Xenu then released the alien souls, which roamed the earth aimlessly in a fog of confusion. At the dawn of man, the souls finally found bodies which they could grab onto. They attached themselves to all mankind, which still to this day causes all our fears, our confusions, and our problems.

But not a true Scotsman… er, Christian.

What?

Why can't we live in peace? To answer that we have to go way back. It all began 75 million years ago. Back then there was a galactic federation of planets which was ruled over by the evil Lord Xenu. Xenu thought his galaxy was overpopulated, and so he rounded up countless aliens from all different planets, and then had those aliens frozen. The frozen alien bodies were loaded onto Xenu's galactic cruisers, which looked like DC-8s, except with rocket engines. The cruisers then took the frozen alien bodies to our planet, Earth, and dumped them into the volcanoes of Hawaii. The aliens were no longer frozen, they were dead. The souls of those aliens, however, lived on, and all floated up towards the sky. But the evil Lord Xenu had prepared for this. Xenu didn't want their souls to return! And so he built giant soul-catchers in the sky! The souls were taken to a huge soul brain-washing facility, which Xenu had also built on Earth. There the souls were forced to watch days of brainwashing material which tricked them into believing a false reality. Xenu then released the alien souls, which roamed the earth aimlessly in a fog of confusion. At the dawn of man, the souls finally found bodies which they could grab onto. They attached themselves to all mankind, which still to this day causes all our fears, our confusions, and our problems.

LOL. Ok I do have to say the only belief system I do have a problem with is Scientology. ONLY because you have to pay to play. In other words they sent me a pamphlet and to attend the first level or whatever they call it they wanted 200 bucks! I was like, uh no thanks, so not a religion. You can be Christian, Muslim, Buddhist whatever for free. So in Scientology only the rich get saved...thanks. I guess no college students in their heaven.

What?

My reference to the No True Scotsman fallacy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No_true_Scotsman). On this forum, it can be savoured like a rich wine on a cool autumn evening. Along with all of its fellows.

Why can't we live in peace? To answer that we have to go way back. It all began 75 million years ago. Back then there was a galactic federation of planets which was ruled over by the evil Lord Xenu. Xenu thought his galaxy was overpopulated, and so he rounded up countless aliens from all different planets, and then had those aliens frozen. The frozen alien bodies were loaded onto Xenu's galactic cruisers, which looked like DC-8s, except with rocket engines. The cruisers then took the frozen alien bodies to our planet, Earth, and dumped them into the volcanoes of Hawaii. The aliens were no longer frozen, they were dead. The souls of those aliens, however, lived on, and all floated up towards the sky. But the evil Lord Xenu had prepared for this. Xenu didn't want their souls to return! And so he built giant soul-catchers in the sky! The souls were taken to a huge soul brain-washing facility, which Xenu had also built on Earth. There the souls were forced to watch days of brainwashing material which tricked them into believing a false reality. Xenu then released the alien souls, which roamed the earth aimlessly in a fog of confusion. At the dawn of man, the souls finally found bodies which they could grab onto. They attached themselves to all mankind, which still to this day causes all our fears, our confusions, and our problems.

so, if the brain-washing facility was built on Earth, where is it? or has it disappeared in the sands of time? or maybe Benjamin Gates can find it in his next National Treasure hunt!
I also have a feeling that Lord Xenu should be taken to task for violating alien rights, cuz honestly, freezing them and then dumping them in a volcano, that's just cruel

so, if the brain-washing facility was built on Earth, where is it? or has it disappeared in the sands of time? or maybe Benjamin Gates can find it in his next National Treasure hunt!
I also have a feeling that Lord Xenu should be taken to task for violating alien rights, cuz honestly, freezing them and then dumping them in a volcano, that's just cruel
I hope you realize I was being sarcastic.

so, if the brain-washing facility was built on Earth, where is it? or has it disappeared in the sands of time? or maybe Benjamin Gates can find it in his next National Treasure hunt!
I also have a feeling that Lord Xenu should be taken to task for violating alien rights, cuz honestly, freezing them and then dumping them in a volcano, that's just cruel

I propose the foundation of PETE-T (People for the Ethical Treatment of Extra-Terrestrials) to prevent future tragedies of this nature.

I hope you realize I was being sarcastic.

lol, yes I did. I just thought it was funny, so I was trying to get you to continue the story. It was quite fascinating.

oh, and actually, there are some people who believe in things like that, so I wasn't 100% sure you weren't kidding...maybe about 90%. anyway, good to be 100% now!

I propose the foundation of PETE-T (People for the Ethical Treatment of Extra-Terrestrials) to prevent future tragedies of this nature.

I applaud your wisdom.

I applaud your wisdom.

I am often applauded for my wisdom. Sometimes, the applause takes the form of cat-calls and thrown objects, but I know it is applause nevertheless. :)

I would say that a religion that someone follows blindly, without questioning it, far less valid than one someone has developed for himself.

You are seeing religion as an outside force. For many, it is internal. I am not failing to fully follow my faith because some others who fall under the same label disagree with me. I am following my faith, not theirs.


As for the OP, we can't all live in peace because there are always some who simply won't do it. When everyone is wiling to live and let live, as it were, that is what will happen.

Ohhh I agree, relgion is totaly personal, or at least I belive it should be. That thoughis in sharp contrast to what major relgious bodies belive.

If it is written as a rule in the 'good book'(any good book) then the big cheifs of that religoin could certianly claim you are not of thier faith if you do not follow all of the rules.

So in answer to the OP's question, as long as any religion states that our way is the one true way, we can never live and let live, no matter how many liberal religous people there are out there, those who follow their dogma to the letter are going to out number us.

Please be aware that I am not making a judgment here, just answering the OP's question.

I was thinking celestrial body... but now, the image of me sucking and chewing on sweet, tastey, and juciy little you has dominated my brain.

:eek:

:rolleyes:

;)

:D

Me likey image!

:eek:

I, perhaps, could make millions with this idea of yours.

:cool:

Not all Christians believe that. Some believe that you get into heaven just by being a good person. One need not be a fundamentalist to be a Christian, or any other faith for that matter.

Yeah the point is though, that is not what the Christian Bible says. So by the very words of their holy scripture they are wrong, and the body of the church can call them so.

Actually that is not a part of our dogma. You must also consider the fact that there are several different branches of Christianity each with their own dogmas. As a Baptist, it not infact a part of our dogma to actively recruit members. Rather we do prefer to live by example. So you are incorrect, and I am a Christian.

A Baptist huh, and you have your own Bible, or do you use the same one as the Catholics?

A Baptist huh, and you have your own Bible, or do you use the same one as the Catholics?

They use different editions.

The only problem is that Dogma is man-made. Many Christians choose to reject so-called dogma simply because it is by man and not God. The only true requirement to being a Christian is accepting Jesus as one's savior and following his word and his word alone. Dogma is man's word and following it is not required, but rather a choice, that does not determine being a christian, but may determine what specific branch one claims to belong to.


Exactly, how though do you know which parts of the bible are mans, and which are Gods? Also when one finds contradictions in the words of Jesus, what does one do?

It all highlights the fact that not even members of the same faith can agree, so how are members of differant faiths going to agree?

Don't get me wrong, I admit I do not have a great love for Christianity of any ilk, but even within my own faith (Sikhi) I often meet those whose understanding of our Guru Granth Sahib differ.

Yeah the point is though, that is not what the Christian Bible says. So by the very words of their holy scripture they are wrong, and the body of the church can call them so.

Believing the bible to be utterly infallible factually is not prerequisite for being a Christian. Almost all the Christians I know think that biblical literalists are total morons.

And which "the church" do you mean? There are dozens, maybe even hundreds of different denominations of Christianity.

Your posts seem to demonstrate a very poor and shallow understanding of this particular faith and of religion/faith in general.

A Baptist huh, and you have your own Bible, or do you use the same one as the Catholics?

Depending on the denomination, there as different editions of the Bible. There are some books of the canon used by Catholics, that Protestants, Baptists and other churches do not use.

Can't speak for anybody else, but the only reason I give a shit about other people's religious beliefs is because they make their beliefs my problem. I'd be only too happy to stop caring about the religious practices of strangers, if only they'd stop trying to legally compel me to share their values and practices.

They use different editions.

Bwahahah what you mean like the Baptists use the one with the new picture in the softback cover?

Believing the bible to be utterly infallible factually is not prerequisite for being a Christian. Almost all the Christians I know think that biblical literalists are total morons.

And which "the church" do you mean? There are dozens, maybe even hundreds of different denominations of Christianity.

Your posts seem to demonstrate a very poor and shallow understanding of this particular faith and of religion/faith in general.

By 'the church' I mean what ever the governing body of whichever denomination we care to discuss.

Again I agee, but the point I'm making, and agian only in answer to the OP's question, is not all of those who call them selves 'Christian' will agree. We can't all 'just live in peace', because our religous dogma, will not let us, and even if the OP views his faith ina differant light to those of a more fundemental nature, these fundemental, dogmatic fools are still there, and can point to their scripture and say ' look you are wrong, how can you call yourself a Christian?' Gods hates fags, anybody?

And all the while that they can do this, point to scriputre as a way of justifing their thoughts and actions, then will will never all 'just live in peace' because it is written down in a book they call holy, and the word of God.

Bwahahah what you mean like the Baptists use the one with the new picture in the softback cover?

Read Nanatsu's post. She explains more thoroughly.

Bwahahah what you mean like the Baptists use the one with the new picture in the softback cover?

Translations of the Bible have been a source of discussion and controversy over the years. The Catholic Bible, New American Translation, King James Version, and many, many more, are all current translations of the Bible. What are the differences between the Catholic Bible and the King James Version, for example?

The Catholic Bible, for example, contains books that the Protestant Bible translations do not. These books contained in the Catholic Bible are called the "hidden books" and were accepted as part of the Catholic Bible at the Council of Trent, which occurred in 1545. There are fourteen hidden books, and they were rejected by the Protestants as they are of unknown authority. The Roman Catholic Church considers these books to be inspired. Because of this belief, the Roman Catholic Bible includes them.

Not including the hidden books, how were the books of the Bible selected among all of the ancient religious writings. Through much prayer and discussion, a group of godly people just after the time of Christ were given the insight to determine which books were true and inspired. There were strict rules about the authorship of the books, the date of the writings, and which language they were written in. Through studying these criteria, this group of dedicated believers determined which books were divinely inspired and included them in the Canon of the Bible. For the New Testament, this decision was made at the Council of Carthage, which occurred in 387.

Many people feel that it is of utmost importance to spread the Bible as cost-efficiently as possible. By forming a non-profit organization, called a Bible society, many groups are able to attain this goal and distribute the Scripture to many people who cold not afford to purchase one. Bible society editions usually do not contain any notes, but simply the words of the Scripture. Protestants tend to support Bible societies, as they believe that through reading of the Scripture, people can come to know Christ as their Savior. This is from the verse in Romans that says "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God."

Today, many churches take staunch stands as to which Bible version they use in their church. All of the English translations of the Bible are exactly that-translations. They do not contain any of the original words, since the original Scriptures were written in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. However, there are translations that did what they could to stay true to the meaning of the original texts. These are the best translations. While paraphrased translations have their place in Bible study and discussion, it is important to use the direct translations when formulating doctrines.

http://www.syl.com/articles/whatisthedifferencebetweenthecatholicbibleandtheprotestantbible.html

Depending on the denomination, there as different editions of the Bible. There are some books of the canon used by Catholics, that Protestants, Baptists and other churches do not use.

I chose the outfit I want for my cheerleader in the other thread. I'm heading off to drool warmly on a cheap pillow.

By 'the church' I mean what ever the governing body of whichever denomination we care to discuss.

Again I agee, but the point I'm making, and agian only in answer to the OP's question, is not all of those who call them selves 'Christian' will agree. We can't all 'just live in peace', because our religous dogma, will not let us, and even if the OP views his faith ina differant light to those of a more fundemental nature, these fundemental, dogmatic fools are still there, and can point to their scripture and say ' look you are wrong, how can you call yourself a Christian?' Gods hates fags, anybody?

And all the while that they can do this, point to scriputre as a way of justifing their thoughts and actions, then will will never all 'just live in peace' because it is written down in a book they call holy, and the word of God.

Not all Christians think that any old thing in the Bible is true. Some go based solely on what Jesus said, some go even further and question it if it seems inconsistent with the rest of his messages. And Jesus is the core of what it is to be Christian. Everything else is relatively minor in importance. You seem to have trouble understanding that. Faith doesn't come from what other people say about a book, it comes from within.

Which is why I left Christianity years ago. I think Jesus was a pretty cool guy at times, but I just didn't believe he was divine.

One could say that the Christians who believe only the things that Jesus actually said are more Christians than Fred Phelps is. The latter focuses on comparatively irrelevant details of Judaic tribal law and the writings of Paul, while entirely missing Christ's message.

It's more complicated than simply reading a book and believing the whole thing to be true or untrue.

Not all Christians think that any old thing in the Bible is true. Some go based solely on what Jesus said, some go even further and question it if it seems inconsistent with the rest of his messages. And Jesus is the core of what it is to be Christian. Everything else is relatively minor in importance. You seem to have trouble understanding that. Faith doesn't come from what other people say about a book, it comes from within.

Which is why I left Christianity years ago. I think Jesus was a pretty cool guy at times, but I just didn't believe he was divine.

One could say that the Christians who believe only the things that Jesus actually said are more Christians than Fred Phelps is. The latter focuses on comparatively irrelevant details of Judaic tribal law and the writings of Paul, while entirely missing Christ's message.

It's more complicated than simply reading a book and believing the whole thing to be true or untrue.

Indeed. I personally completely reject Paul, and the old testament (Except for Genesis) Christians come in many different flavors and sizes :D:p.

I chose the outfit I want for my cheerleader in the other thread. I'm heading off to drool warmly on a cheap pillow.

Dream with the little deviled angels of mine.;)

Read Nanatsu's post. She explains more thoroughly.

Joke man, it was a joke!

Not all Christians think that any old thing in the Bible is true. Some go based solely on what Jesus said, some go even further and question it if it seems inconsistent with the rest of his messages. And Jesus is the core of what it is to be Christian. Everything else is relatively minor in importance. You seem to have trouble understanding that. Faith doesn't come from what other people say about a book, it comes from within.

Which is why I left Christianity years ago. I think Jesus was a pretty cool guy at times, but I just didn't believe he was divine.

One could say that the Christians who believe only the things that Jesus actually said are more Christians than Fred Phelps is. The latter focuses on comparatively irrelevant details of Judaic tribal law and the writings of Paul, while entirely missing Christ's message.

It's more complicated than simply reading a book and believing the whole thing to be true or untrue.

Naaa man you don't get it. Not all Christains belive the same thing, yes of course, which again highlights what I have been saying in answer to the OP's question.

We can live in peace. I have no problem with people of faith. Problems arise, however, when those of faith start taking themselves too literally and too seriously. This usually leads to some attempt to legislate or dictate their faith's tenets as law for everyone. That's where I start getting offended.

Most people of faith are live and let live kind of people who understand that literalism is not what holy texts are about. The incredibly loud and wealthy minority seek and wield influence in order to make the world as much like their fantasy as possible, selling literalism to those too intellectually lazy to reject it.

I think the world is too large and too diverse for any one of these domineering faith types to ever take over, but they do tend to make life more annoying for those who aren't into their game. My only beef with those of rational faith is that they seem to stand by and allow the whack-jobs to misrepresent them.

My post, had it been more concise:

Can't speak for anybody else, but the only reason I give a shit about other people's religious beliefs is because they make their beliefs my problem. I'd be only too happy to stop caring about the religious practices of strangers, if only they'd stop trying to legally compel me to share their values and practices.

Thanks, B.

So, did the nun convert? ha ha.
your not the only LDS member floating around out here. More power to ya'.

As far as I know she didn't. I think she was on a tour bus filled with nuns from a convent on their way to wherever.

I'm just trying to imagine the mental image of my sister and a nun standing at the sinks in this gas station ladies' room with my sister going "You know you're praying to a false god, right?" With the nun standing there thinking to herself "WTF is up with this weirdo?"

I'm not the only LDS? W00T!

Naaa man you don't get it. Not all Christains belive the same thing, yes of course, which again highlights what I have been saying in answer to the OP's question.

So what about all those posts in which you were basically implying that Christians who don't take the bible literally aren't 'true' Christians?

So what about all those posts in which you were basically implying that Christians who don't take the bible literally aren't 'true' Christians?

Naaa man, I'm saying that is what some other Christians could, and would say. I used it only as an example of how even members of the same faith cannot agree.

Naaa man, I'm saying that is what some other Christians could, and would say. I used it only as an example of how even members of the same faith cannot agree.

Ah. I see. carry on then.

I notice it only took a half-hour from the original posting for the first "we're fine, it's all the other side's fault argument to surface. Which:

A) Answers the question embodied in the original post and

B)human nature being what it is, took about 28 minutes longer to appear than I figured it would.

So what about all those posts in which you were basically implying that Christians who don't take the bible literally aren't 'true' Christians?
That's a solid position. A religion has its doctrine, and it seems unreasonable to me to count yourself a follower of a religion without believing what it has to tell you.

Oh, you haven't heard? God is dead. We've killed him.

Because religion is praticed by humans, with all their greedy, exploitive, and corruptive ways. As long as people use religion as a tool of control or power, there won't be any peace.