Is Christianity Taken Seriously? Rating Options

[fameONE]

-United Methodist
-African Methodist Episcopal
-Missionary Baptist
-Non-Denominational
-Church of Christ
-Church of God & Christ
-Lutheran
-Church of Zion
-Etc.

Christianity is pretty busy religion. Based on interpretation, it can be a strict lifestyle or a strict business. Compared to other religions, Christianity doesn't seem to be taken as seriously. Is it the society we live in, or the fallacies found within Biblical text?

Debate.

[superstitious]

It is a combination of both. I think that people have an inherent need to feel safe. Many in society, particularly in the west, feel that to not believe in god is a condemnation. The fear of hell overrides any rational thought.

The bible is full of contradictions, which continue to get ignored without any sense of reason or logic other than "faith."

I think that Thomas Payne put it best (and I'd recommend reading "The Age of Reason" if you get the opportunity) -

"All national institutions of churches, whether Jewish, Christian or Turkish, appear to me no other than human inventions, set up to terrify and enslave mankind, and monopolize power and profit."

The idea of believing in something, not because it is true, but because society mandates that people believe it is true lest they face eternal consequences can be conceived as a mockery of what faith should be.

All that aside, one could also say that religion has capitlized on the fear of individuals of society by enforcing the tithing, donation and/or other means of financial support in order to gain favor within the church or receive blessings for their charity.

[brooklyneast05]

i'm confused by whether the question is do people outside of the religion take it as a serious religion...or do you mean do christians take their religion as seriously as others do in their religion.

[superstitious]

Hrm, I interpreted it as why we might think Christianity isn't taken seriously.

[libertie]

I think it's the second option, at least that's my interpretation. It seems to me like some Christians don't follow the "rules" as strictly because there's the promise of forgiveness that they can fall back on. I can't say much else without getting too general, because I'll be honest and say I don't know much about other religions. From my perspective, though, it seems like followers of other religions are much more willing to fully align themselves with those lifestyles than many Christians are.

However, I will say for many who identify themselves as Christian that they take Christianity VERY seriously.

[DoubleJ]

i'm confused by whether the question is do people outside of the religion take it as a serious religion...or do you mean do christians take their religion as seriously as others do in their religion.

[fameONE]

Gomen. ^_^

'Do Christians Take their Religion Seriously?' would be more appropriate.

[Tung]

No they don't. The whole Christianity religion is a total joke.

[fameONE]

^Support your claim.

[Tung]

A good debater never reveal his sources.

[fameONE]

A good debater never reveal his sources.

You made no sense whatsoever. Whatever your stance is on any given issue, you should support your rebuttal with examples, text or any other reference you can get a hold of. A spiteful one-liner doesn't prove anything in a debate, it just makes you look like you don't know what you're talking about, or you're completely biased altogether.

[Tung]

Sorry, I just finished watching an episode of Smallville, and Lois Lane was talking about how good reporters never reveal their sources. I thought I'll give that line a try with Debate.

[DoubleJ]

I personally don't think that it is as much as it maybe should be. I know people on both sides of the spectrum.

On one hand, you have those who believe in God, but aren't your typical "bible thumper." They try to follow the bible to a certain extent, but don't try to let it dictate their lives as well. I consider myself to be apart of this group. I do believe in God, and pray every day, but that also doesn't mean that I am in church on Sundays, or going to different church functions and what not. I am content with knowing that God understands my level of devotion to him.

Then you have those who are heavily into Christianity, and live their lives according to the bible. I know one girl, who always chastises me, because while I claim to be a Christian and believe in God, she says that I am a phony. She feels that those who believe in God, don't smoke or drink, and don't partake in shady activities. They are in church every Sunday, and constantly have their heads in the bible. I actually find this a lot in my life, as my mom has recently become "saved," and now her whole life is devoted to her church.

I think that 95 percent of church goers are hypocrites. It is easy to put down those who have the flaws that you don't exhibit publicly, but there is always something going on behind the scenes. The girl I mentioned previously, has pre-marital sex all the time, but yet she comes down on me for downing a few beers every now and again. I just think that as a whole, Christianity has turned into something of a joke as of late.

[coconutter]

I all the time see Christians following SOME of their beliefs, but not others? Whaaaa?! I think this is caused by churches being masked machines of conservatism, which is defeating the point of going to church anyway.

Most commonly I see Christians judging people. Which, correct me if I'm wrong, is against their beliefs. So, it's okay to judge people but not okay to be gay? Or even vote against gay rights with no clue about the actual issue except for "a marriage should be between a man and a woman"? Who declared that? Did God tell you this? Should God control a country that doesn't always believe in God? Blindly voting could be another form of judgment The only answers they have for questions like these are: my pastor told me so, or some illogical excuse of the sort.

I don't think they depend on their faith to "get them through hard times". I think they believe in a false sense of comfort, created by socialism and people who wish to control other people by means of simple, but for those who are naive not recognizable, manipulation.

[fameONE]

I all the time see Christians following SOME of their beliefs, but not others? Whaaaa?! I think this is caused by churches being masked machines of conservatism, which is defeating the point of going to church anyway.

Most commonly I see Christians judging people. Which, correct me if I'm wrong, is against their beliefs. So, it's okay to judge people but not okay to be gay? Or even vote against gay rights with no clue about the actual issue except for "a marriage should be between a man and a woman"? Who declared that? Did God tell you this? Should God control a country that doesn't always believe in God? Blindly voting could be another form of judgment The only answers they have for questions like these are: my pastor told me so, or some illogical excuse of the sort.

I don't think they depend on their faith to "get them through hard times". I think they believe in a false sense of comfort, created by socialism and people who wish to control other people by means of simple, but for those who are naive not recognizable, manipulation.

Someone needs to disagree with you. I'm waiting for the religious zealots of CB to invade this thread.

[MissFits]

Christianity is not taken as seriously as it was in the past, both by Christians and Non-Believers.
I can't tell you why everyone else takes it so lightly these days, but I find it hard to have faith in something that's money hungry, laced with contradictions, and driven by fear. I went to church as a child and they were always trying to scare me into acting the way "God wanted me to act", since they know exactly who God wants me to be. We would watch videos every Sunday about terrible things that happen to sinners. Our pastor would yell about eternal damnation for the tiniest of sins. Have you ever watched TBN or any other Christian network? They try to scare you into donating money. Does God need my money more than me? Does He need a touchdown jesus more than I need food? Does He need solid gold offering plates more than I need to pay my rent? I don't think so, but the church sure does.
I live in Ohio, here in Ohio we have a semi-famous church Called the solid rock church. Now, this church is not famous for an amazing preacher, it's not famous for how it helps our community, Do you want to know what it's famous for? This:

click to enlarge

It's shit like this that doesn't make sense to me. You spent all that money on that big ass statue of Jesus, while the whole time "Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.
Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God".

[mipadi]

It is as Nietzsche said: "God is dead. And we have killed him."

[sixfive]

Yes and no. It's not taken very seriously on a day to day basis, but should Christianity fall under attack, things would be a completely different story. I, personally, hate organized religion. I hate the idea of having to congregate to worship, hate how all these different denominations of Christianity all push different beliefs on you. I've actually taken interest in my class "The Bible in Western Culture," and we've started reading the gospels, learning about old Christian texts, the histories, etc. Wow I always go off on a tangent.

Anyway, I think the two billion Christians revere their religion, but don't necessarily feel they need to maintain it's sanctity. Because of that, plenty of people have figured out ways to profit from people feeling obligated to partake in religious actions, i.e. buying bibles, religious paraphernalia, anything to make you seem tolerant and understanding in this age of hypocrisy.

[fameONE]

General question:

So how would you contrast Christianity and it's different sects to Islamic beliefs and the various interpretations of the Qu'aran?

[sixfive]

I don't know enough to answer that. I think the only other religion I've in which I've interacted with many different sects of is Judaism. I've not discussed religion with any others, really.

[fameONE]

General question:

So how would you contrast Christianity and it's different sects to Islamic beliefs and the various interpretations of the Qu'aran?

[Comptine]

General question:

So how would you contrast Christianity and it's different sects to Islamic beliefs and the various interpretations of the Qu'aran?

I don't see that much difference between the varying sects of Christianity and the different Islamic sects. You have those who have "the good type" of faith (i.e., they try to live a virtuous life or use religion for good). You have those who don't really observe in any defined/approved way.

Then, you have the crazy extremists who think everyone but their sect is bound to go to hell and deserves to die.

I think at some level Christianity is taken too seriously. Despite what our government says about separation from church and state, the Christians and similar sects have such a hold on our government that things that legally are not suppose to be influenced by them are.

I also think religion in general is taken too seriously. How many wars were waged and how many lives were slaughtered in the name of some God?

[saintsaens]

-United Methodist
-African Methodist Episcopal
-Missionary Baptist
-Non-Denominational
-Church of Christ
-Church of God & Christ
-Lutheran
-Church of Zion
-Etc.

Christianity is pretty busy religion. Based on interpretation, it can be a strict lifestyle or a strict business. Compared to other religions, Christianity doesn't seem to be taken as seriously. Is it the society we live in, or the fallacies found within Biblical text?

Debate.

It's American Christianity that's failing. Not society, nor fallacies. The increasing secularization of America is our fault, not the Atheists who push for it.

American Christianity could be equated to Jewish-Legalistic-Hypocritical-South-Baptists. (I just made that up right now.)

Christians are not being taken seriously because of our own mistakes.

Also, there's nothing necessarily strict about Christianity. We don't have to necessarily pray once a day to get into heaven. That's legalism. Legalism is bad.

[saintsaens]

General question:

So how would you contrast Christianity and it's different sects to Islamic beliefs and the various interpretations of the Qu'aran?

Islamic belief is that Jesus Christ was a prophet, but not the Messiah. That itself is grounds for most Christians to stay away.

I think the dangerous thing about Islam is that people say it's quite similar to Christianity, but it's pretty different when we talk about the core doctrines.

Also, Islamic belief is that we all go to hell, pay for our sins, and get into heaven.

Christians believe that it is through Jesus Christ and only through his unending mercy he showers upon humanity.

Personally me, knowing I'm a pretty messed up person, I'd rather Christianity.

[fameONE]

Islamic belief is that Jesus Christ was a prophet, but not the Messiah. That itself is grounds for most Christians to stay away.

I think the dangerous thing about Islam is that people say it's quite similar to Christianity, but it's pretty different when we talk about the core doctrines.

Also, Islamic belief is that we all go to hell, pay for our sins, and get into heaven.

Christians believe that it is through Jesus Christ and only through his unending mercy he showers upon humanity.

Personally me, knowing I'm a pretty messed up person, I'd rather Christianity.

I notice a strange parallel between the two religions. After being around Iraqis, and speaking to the Muslim friends I've made since being here, I will admit that I have an extreme respect for their religion. I admire the devotion that cuh a large body of people can equally share, and still feel as though they're free.

[Tsukuyomi-No-Mok...]

Damn these church topics jus don't end huh?

well i think that this whole religion thing is taken as a joke cause people will call themselves christians as far as i've seen so far so that they can feel welcomed in the community since the majority claim to be christian.
the laws by which we are to live by and all that no body ever follows cause the way of life in america is sooo far to the opposite of that that if you were to claim to be a real chrisitian here in america then u gotta be one of those extremist kinda christians who follow the bible word for word and all the prayers and all that
not many people here live humbly or give to the poor although we hold charity events people do it for the wrng reasons
we've got enough pre marital saex goin on and abortions and all that and we are sooo full of sin that there's no way that many people could take this religion things serious nah mean

[saintsaens]

Damn these church topics jus don't end huh?

well i think that this whole religion thing is taken as a joke cause people will call themselves christians as far as i've seen so far so that they can feel welcomed in the community since the majority claim to be christian.
the laws by which we are to live by and all that no body ever follows cause the way of life in america is sooo far to the opposite of that that if you were to claim to be a real chrisitian here in america then u gotta be one of those extremist kinda christians who follow the bible word for word and all the prayers and all that
not many people here live humbly or give to the poor although we hold charity events people do it for the wrng reasons
we've got enough pre marital saex goin on and abortions and all that and we are sooo full of sin that there's no way that many people could take this religion things serious nah mean

Just because you have premarital sex or an abortion doesn't mean you're going to Hell.

And I guess I'm an extremist right-wing Christian. Anyone up for a good Bible thumping?

I notice a strange parallel between the two religions. After being around Iraqis, and speaking to the Muslim friends I've made since being here, I will admit that I have an extreme respect for their religion. I admire the devotion that cuh a large body of people can equally share, and still feel as though they're free.

Most definitely. I'm really jealous of their devotion to religion. I have a huge amount of respect for Muslims, however, I do view their religion as a very dangerous one. It threatens Christianity.

I forgot how it goes, but something something, best lies are an inch from the truth, something something.

I'm not calling Islam a religion of lies, but you know what I'm saying.

[fameONE]

I forgot how it goes, but something something, best lies are an inch from the truth, something something.

I'm not calling Islam a religion of lies, but you know what I'm saying.

The Western world, generally, lives in great fear of Islamic Fundamentalism. To the Christian majority, such narrow minded views on any religion, other than their own poses as a serious threat to the Western way of life. This isn't to say that Islam is bad, because it certainly isn't. It's a religion; a spiritual belief in an unearthly, omniscient and omnipotent beign. This is a direct contrast to Christianity. The Muslim community is overwhelmingly large, and, in fact, powerful. When something grows to be as large and as powerful, no matter what it is, corruption comes into play. Religion is, and will always be, a business in it's own right.

The radicals who believe in the extremism of the New World Order do pose as a threat to Western civiliation, but Islam does not. The difference between the two is as simple as differentiating between a man devout in practice and a full blown heretic. When it comes to extremists, their heresy involves political, ideological and financial gain. They have justified their actions by the will of Allah, finding loopholes in their religous doctrine and openly misinterpreting core Islamic beliefs. Not only does this offend Muslims tremendously, but, in turn, it makes their lives a living hell.

[Reidar]

Islam is principally vile. When my father defected from Iran - a patriotic member of the IIAF - it wasn't a fringe cult of extremism that called for his execution, but the will of mainstream Sharia law in the country that upheld the death tenet to Muslims who one day decide that they don't want to be Muslim anymore. It's written quite succinctly in the Qur'an, which I have right next to me on my bookshelf. And there's the whole women's rights deal, but we like to think that was God on one of his grumpy days.

My relatives are Muslim and I, of course, don't think they're vile people (although I had to pause for a minute on that in consideration of my douche cousin). They're simply ignoring the whole of the "pie", just as Christians must do with their holy book.

As for the topic question, which I can tie into the above: not as so, because current affairs have made the sentiments of the West uneasy and sensitive to the Muslim world. The biggest modern crisis with Christianity is probably its spawn of "intelligent design" being injected into where it should not be (i.e. anywhere). People do not feel as much a need to tread lightly when the stakes are, shall we say, less than lethal.

[fameONE]

Islam is principally vile. When my father defected from Iran - a patriotic member of the IIAF - it wasn't a fringe cult of extremism that called for his execution, but the will of mainstream Sharia law in the country that upheld the death tenet to Muslims who one day decide that they don't want to be Muslim anymore. It's written quite succinctly in the Qur'an, which I have right next to me on my bookshelf. And there's the whole women's rights deal, but we like to think that was God on one of his grumpy days.

My relatives are Muslim and I, of course, don't think they're vile people (although I had to pause for a minute on that in consideration of my douche cousin). They're simply ignoring the whole of the "pie", just as Christians must do with their holy book.

So the Islamic Juresprudence is excessively flawed? Like Christianity, I don't find that hard to believe at all. That would explain the "darker" side of a religion that demands, not requires, but demands, such devotion.

As for the topic question, which I can tie into the above: not as so, because current affairs have made the sentiments of the West uneasy and sensitive to the Muslim world. The biggest modern crisis with Christianity is probably its spawn of "intelligent design" being injected into where it should not be (i.e. anywhere). People do not feel as much a need to tread lightly when the stakes are, shall we say, less than lethal.

So would you consider that an issue within the religion itself or an issue of man's shortcomings? It seems to me that man has single handedly corrupted the integrity of religion.

[Reidar]

So would you consider that an issue within the religion itself or an issue of man's shortcomings? It seems to me that man has single handedly corrupted the integrity of religion.

Both, since I assert that man made religion.

Even if we supposed it to be true, I don't see any integrity in devotion to a celestial dictator.

[saintsaens]

So the Islamic Juresprudence is excessively flawed? Like Christianity, I don't find that hard to believe at all. That would explain the "darker" side of a religion that demands, not requires, but demands, such devotion.
So would you consider that an issue within the religion itself or an issue of man's shortcomings? It seems to me that man has single handedly corrupted the integrity of religion.

Hit it on the spot, IMO.

[fameONE]

Hit it on the spot, IMO.

I'll admit that I've been reluctant to return to religion. My mother is "you're going to go to hell" Catholic and my father is a southern Baptist. As I grew up, I also grew tired and disgusted with church, which led to my distaste in the modern interpretations of Christianity. I stopped believing in anything other than my own abilities. As a theological study, I'm becoming more and more drawn to both Christianity and Islam. I've been reading up on Christianity because maybe there's a hope that I haven't been fed bullshit my entire life. And my interest in Islam is an effort to understand the people around me. The only conclusion I've been able to draw about all the problems with religion is that man is ruining it.

[saintsaens]

I'll admit that I've been reluctant to return to religion. My mother is "you're going to go to hell" Catholic and my father is a southern Baptist. As I grew up, I also grew tired and disgusted with church, which led to my distaste in the modern interpretations of Christianity. I stopped believing in anything other than my own abilities. As a theological study, I'm becoming more and more drawn to both Christianity and Islam. I've been reading up on Christianity because maybe there's a hope that I haven't been fed bullshit my entire life. And my interest in Islam is an effort to understand the people around me. The only conclusion I've been able to draw about all the problems with religion is that man is ruining it.

It's very true. Man does ruin religion.

But let me just tell you this. It's my opinion (and I'm pretty sure you'll agree too) that no one man can know everything. The pursuit to learn every answer to every question is impossible. Man cannot comprehend it.

Christianity for me is not so much about knowing my theology as it is being able to know myself. We are taught that we cannot know ourselves without knowing God. We are also taught that we cannot know God without knowing ourselves. I believe Christianity is a religion of understanding and fulfillment of one's self.

I believe that through Christ, our Lord and Savior, we can understand the main questions to our lives. Why am I here? What am I doing? What will I do in 20 years? What can I do? What does God want me to do?

The distinguishing thing that separates West from East is that the West continues to put emphasis on "self". This, IMHO, comes from Christianity. Christ said that each man is different, and each man is meant to do something with their lives. Something that is fulfilling. Their calling and purpose in life. I believe we never have we had such an identity crisis with "self" than we do now. I believe this is because of increasing secularization of the American people.

(I think I really went offtopic)

But anyways. Just remember people all make mistakes. Sometimes they make mistakes at church. Sometimes at home. Sometimes all the time. But that's the shortcoming of man. We're flawed.

Brandon, if you really want to study what I think is the main drive and fire for Christianity all these years, I recommend you read "The Call" by Os Guinness. Probably one of the best books I've read in my entire life. I think that book pretty much sums up why all these people all these years have sought Christ. (Not other Gods, but specifically Christ.)

[Reidar]

The only conclusion I've been able to draw about all the problems with religion is that man is ruining it.

Thomas Jefferson traveled to London for a meeting with Ambassador Sidi Haji Abdrahaman to demand why American ships were being attacked when the United States had no quarrel with the Barbary nations of Africa. His answer was that the Qur'an gave them the right to kill and plunder all non-believers of Islam. The Pasha later declared outright war on the young U.S.

Seriously, there's nothing to ruin when it's already written: 4.89 : They desire that you should disbelieve as they have disbelieved, so that you might be (all) alike; therefore take not from among them friends until they fly (their homes) in Allah's way; but if they turn back, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take not from among them a friend or a helper.

Christianity is as detestable in its own way, both in the New and Old Testaments.

I have to say, though, when read as fiction, all the violence is pretty badass. The Bible was not a bad read at all.

[codyfrijole2006]

Religion is just a crock IMO.

I refuse to let a several thousand year old book dictate my life and tell me how I should treat others etc etc. I was raised with enough common sense to know to treat everyone (whether you agree with them or not) with the upmost kindness and respect. These "Christians" claim to be loving and accepting yet they are always the ones on tv protesting in some anti-gay march or judging some other group of people all because "the Bible says its wrong" well the Bible also says eating shellfish is an abomination and that it is ok to murder your disobedient child but I guess they just conveniently choose to ignore those phrases and other non-sense rules that the Bible contains. The fact that we have people out there who really take this book literally is just frightening, are people out there really that moronic? have they actually read this garbage? I guarantee alot have not and have been brainwashed since childhood to love this "God" and obey this "Bible"

It's just sad.

[Reidar]

The Bible isn't "garbage". You cannot fully grasp the works of Shakespeare or understand a good deal of inspired poetry and other literature forms without it.

[codyfrijole2006]

The Bible isn't "garbage"

I am just calling it like I read it!

[saintsaens]

Religion is just a crock IMO.

I refuse to let a several thousand year old book dictate my life and tell me how I should treat others etc etc. I was raised with enough common sense to know to treat everyone (whether you agree with them or not) with the upmost kindness and respect. These "Christians" claim to be loving and accepting yet they are always the ones on tv protesting in some anti-gay march or judging some other group of people all because "the Bible says its wrong" well the Bible also says eating shellfish is an abomination and that it is ok to murder your disobedient child but I guess they just conveniently choose to ignore those phrases and other non-sense rules that the Bible contains. The fact that we have people out there who really take this book literally is just frightening, are people out there really that moronic? have they actually read this garbage? I guarantee alot have not and have been brainwashed since childhood to love this "God" and obey this "Bible"

It's just sad.

I think it's interesting how people have an incorrect idea of what Christianity is and then are quick to judge it and call it a "crock of shit".

Just like those so called "Christians." Good job, you're just like them.

[codyfrijole2006]

I think it's interesting how people have an incorrect idea of what Christianity is and then are quick to judge it and call it a "crock of shit".

Just like those so called "Christians." Good job, you're just like them.

Ohh did I strike a nerve?

[saintsaens]

Ohh did I strike a nerve?

No, but would you like to come back with a an intelligent rebuttal instead? So far all you've done was cry about how bad Christians were. That's not debate. Relationships/Advice thread is over there. --->

[codyfrijole2006]

No, but would you like to come back with a an intelligent rebuttal instead? So far all you've done was cry about how bad Christians were. That's not debate. Relationships/Advice thread is over there. --->

It would be pointless and a waste of my time, nothing I can say will convince you. The brainwashing has been done.

[saintsaens]

It would be pointless and a waste of my time, nothing I can say will convince you. The brainwashing has been done.

Try me.

[codyfrijole2006]

Try me.

It would be pointless and a waste of my time, nothing I can say will convince you. The brainwashing has been done.

[dosomethin888]

I think that individual Christians take Christianity seriously. Our country as a whole, the west, does not take it seriously.

In the East, with Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism (even Zoroastrianism and all the other Eastern religions), I think society as a whole takes it much more seriously.

As do the individuals over there. From what I know, Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus live their life as their religion. Their religion is their life. Muslims will spend their entire day doing rituals and what not. In the US, Christians go to church once a week and study their Bibles but we dont necessarily spend our entire day dwelling on it.
I mean, it probably varies throughout the US in different communities and with differnt people how dedicated they are to Christianity.. but not the the extent that the East does.

If that made sense at all.

[fameONE]

I think that individual Christians take Christianity seriously. Our country as a whole, the west, does not take it seriously.

In the East, with Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism (even Zoroastrianism and all the other Eastern religions), I think society as a whole takes it much more seriously.

As do the individuals over there. From what I know, Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus live their life as their religion. Their religion is their life. Muslims will spend their entire day doing rituals and what not. In the US, Christians go to church once a week and study their Bibles but we dont necessarily spend our entire day dwelling on it.
I mean, it probably varies throughout the US in different communities and with differnt people how dedicated they are to Christianity.. but not the the extent that the East does.

If that made sense at all.

It does. The question is; why?

[dosomethin888]

It does. The question is; why?

I dont know. I honestly have not researched it enough to tell you.

[karmakiller]

It would be pointless and a waste of my time, nothing I can say will convince you. The brainwashing has been done.

You do realize you are in the Debate forum? You are a terrible debater. This isn't a forum for you to just bitch and bitch about stuff when there are people here willing to discuss things. It isn't a waste of your time, it a waste of time for the people who actually here to debate and have to put up with you.

[creole]

True story of Mary Griffith, gay rights crusader, whose teenage son committed suicide due to her religious intolerance. Based on the book of the same title by Leroy Aarons. Stars Sigourney Weaver.

[emberfly]

Jesus himself preached that organized religion was bullshit.

Just thought I'd add that for fun :D

[saintsaens]

Jesus himself preached that organized religion was bullshit.

Just thought I'd add that for fun :D

Requesting source of that.

[dosomethin888]

Jesus himself preached that organized religion was bullshit.

Just thought I'd add that for fun :D

"More Jesus, Less Religion"

[NoSex]

I think that individual Christians take Christianity seriously.

if i had a gun to your head, could you, as a christian, give me a good reason to not pull the trigger?

what i'm saying is that... no, not even christians take their religion seriously. none of them act as if this a merely a waiting room to the office of ETERNAL f*ckING HAPPINESS.

[fameONE]

if i had a gun to your head, could you, as a christian, give me a good reason to not pull the trigger?

what i'm saying is that... no, not even christians take their religion seriously. none of them act as if this a merely a waiting room to the office of ETERNAL f*ckING HAPPINESS.

Which is why I brought up Islam earlier. Muslims will die for theirs.

[saintsaens]

if i had a gun to your head, could you, as a christian, give me a good reason to not pull the trigger?

what i'm saying is that... no, not even christians take their religion seriously. none of them act as if this a merely a waiting room to the office of ETERNAL f*ckING HAPPINESS.

I don't need to give you a good reason not to pull the trigger. Either way, you can do what you want.

[*KINGdinguhling*]

Religion is just a crock IMO.

I refuse to let a several thousand year old book dictate my life and tell me how I should treat others etc etc. I was raised with enough common sense to know to treat everyone (whether you agree with them or not) with the upmost kindness and respect. These "Christians" claim to be loving and accepting yet they are always the ones on tv protesting in some anti-gay march or judging some other group of people all because "the Bible says its wrong" well the Bible also says eating shellfish is an abomination and that it is ok to murder your disobedient child but I guess they just conveniently choose to ignore those phrases and other non-sense rules that the Bible contains. The fact that we have people out there who really take this book literally is just frightening, are people out there really that moronic? have they actually read this garbage? I guarantee alot have not and have been brainwashed since childhood to love this "God" and obey this "Bible"

It's just sad.

Why do I get the feeling you have sort of a "if you don't read the bible, YOU MUST BE RIGHT" sort of motta going on

[NoSex]

I don't need to give you a good reason not to pull the trigger. Either way, you can do what you want.

way to answer a question, dummy.

[dosomethin888]

way to answer a question, dummy.

Your a type of person who thinks they are always right.. and I feel sorry for you. :(

[smoke]

Religion is just a crock IMO.

I refuse to let a several thousand year old book dictate my life and tell me how I should treat others etc etc. I was raised with enough common sense to know to treat everyone (whether you agree with them or not) with the upmost kindness and respect. These "Christians" claim to be loving and accepting yet they are always the ones on tv protesting in some anti-gay march or judging some other group of people all because "the Bible says its wrong" well the Bible also says eating shellfish is an abomination and that it is ok to murder your disobedient child but I guess they just conveniently choose to ignore those phrases and other non-sense rules that the Bible contains. The fact that we have people out there who really take this book literally is just frightening, are people out there really that moronic? have they actually read this garbage? I guarantee alot have not and have been brainwashed since childhood to love this "God" and obey this "Bible"

It's just sad.

First off, why I'm posting in the Debate thread when I told myself I wouldn't ever again years ago is beyond me. But, I'm bored, and ignorance is calling out to be bashed by my YOU'RE-A-FcUKING-IDIOT hammer. Mmmm, I love wielding this baby... Good times.

What I was going to say has already been said and you've already been made to look like a fool, so I won't pull a rewind and press play here, but I thought I'd add a little something. I'm not holding my breath for a response 'cause I'm sure you've already left running from this forum with your tail between your legs. Warning: You may want to wear a helmet before reading this so you don't make a mess in your moms basement when I blow your mind.

Have you ever stopped and thought where those morals you were instilled with from childhood came from? It's undeniable that Christianity has been the biggest influence on this country's values and structure. I know people often try to deny that fact, but it's undeniably true. I believe the reason people are kind at all stems from religions like Christianity. They teach those basic principles to be kind, considerate, and to "Love thy neighbor." These teachings have been widely accepted for generations and generations. Over time, a very, very long time mind you, this created that "common sense" you speak of. That common sense you seem to enjoy flaunting is directly related to that several thousand year old book you obviously despise.

This thought process of mine is based on my belief that people are naturally animal like in behavior. Evil, if you will. That's a different debate entirely.

I don't mean to come off as such an ass, but really kid. Oh, and tell your mom I said hi.

[NoSex]

Your a type of person who thinks they are always right.. and I feel sorry for you. :(

you're the type of person who is an idiot... and, i barely, if at all, feel sorry for you.
you want to know what would be more convincing than this crock? if you actually attempted a rebuttal.

Have you ever stopped and thought where those morals you were instilled with from childhood came from? It's undeniable that Christianity has been the biggest influence on this country's values and structure. I know people often try to deny that fact, but it's undeniably true. I believe the reason people are kind at all stems from religions like Christianity. They teach those basic principles to be kind, considerate, and to "Love thy neighbor." These teachings have been widely accepted for generations and generations. Over time, a very, very long time mind you, this created that "common sense" you speak of. That common sense you seem to enjoy flaunting is directly related to that several thousand year old book you obviously despise.

WRONG.

1. secular societies with fewer religious believers tend to be less dysfunctional, less violent, & less crime ridden. more religious societies are more violent, suffer greater youth mortality, see more instances of teenage pregnancy & abortion, & are more crime ridden. [1]
2. our judicial system is based on british common law. british common law predates any introduction to christianity in the west. thus, exists independent of christian ideology.
3. the treaty of peace & friendship, passed by the senate & signed by our second president, john adams reads: "As the government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian Religion." [2]
4. many of our founding fathers & brothers (including our first five presidents) were not christians. [3]
5. thomas hobbes introduced the idea of the social contract. essentially, our "moral character" is based entirely on pragmatic principles of self-interest. if i agree not to kill anyone, people will agree, in return, not to kill me. if i refuse to steal from others, in return, others will agree not to steal from me; this secures society as well as your individual person. [4]
6. evolution can rather easily explain the most basic foundations of moral behavior. even further, altruism is apparent in many animal species, observed both in laboratories & nature. if non-human animals can posses altruism, what does this say for religion as a necessary foundation in morality, or as a foundation at all? [5]
7. what came first, the social norm, the instinct? do you think that religion has been "revealed" to man for all of time? is there a greater explanation for the seemingly cohesive foundation of moral character within all of humanity? don't kill, don't steal, etc?

if we received anything at all from religion, it is only vicarious. society constructs religion, then religion enforces the norms and mores of society. what happens, however, when you give these norms and mores mystical connotations & metaphysical powers, you suffer the pains of social lag [6]. you see, the only things we're "getting from religion," right now... are homophobia, sexism, racism, ethnocentrism, bigotry, & popular insanity. we get a feeling of guilt from the act of masturbation, we get the fear of sexual contact before marriage, and we get banks & liquor stores closed on sundays. if christianity disappeared, those things would, likely, disappear. however, with or without christianity, america stands more or less as it was (the constitution & declaration of independence) & we still don't kill one another, & we still don't steal from one another (consider further, atheists are less likely to commit crime).

[Tsukuyomi-No-Mok...]

I don't need to give you a good reason not to pull the trigger. Either way, you can do what you want.

ok so when u look at the phrases people use now a days
isn't on them "Oh my God" or "Jesus Christ"
what kinda of devotion to religion is that if you jus holla your gods name for any little thing.

also if you threaten any christians life i'm sure u'll get something like "you're goin to hell" or something along those lines. Christians seem to be afraid to die even thought they KNOW if they do they're jus goin to a better place. if that's the case then why trip on it.
Muslims certianly are heavily devoted to their religion if they are willing to die for it.

[Comptine]

First off, why I'm posting in the Debate thread when I told myself I wouldn't ever again years ago is beyond me. But, I'm bored, and ignorance is calling out to be bashed by my YOU'RE-A-FcUKING-IDIOT hammer. Mmmm, I love wielding this baby... Good times.

What I was going to say has already been said and you've already been made to look like a fool, so I won't pull a rewind and press play here, but I thought I'd add a little something. I'm not holding my breath for a response 'cause I'm sure you've already left running from this forum with your tail between your legs. Warning: You may want to wear a helmet before reading this so you don't make a mess in your moms basement when I blow your mind.

Have you ever stopped and thought where those morals you were instilled with from childhood came from? It's undeniable that Christianity has been the biggest influence on this country's values and structure. I know people often try to deny that fact, but it's undeniably true. I believe the reason people are kind at all stems from religions like Christianity. They teach those basic principles to be kind, considerate, and to "Love thy neighbor." These teachings have been widely accepted for generations and generations. Over time, a very, very long time mind you, this created that "common sense" you speak of. That common sense you seem to enjoy flaunting is directly related to that several thousand year old book you obviously despise.

This thought process of mine is based on my belief that people are naturally animal like in behavior. Evil, if you will. That's a different debate entirely.

I don't mean to come off as such an ass, but really kid. Oh, and tell your mom I said hi.

Nate pretty much said it all.

Human behavior existed before religion did. When religion came along, they didn't magically make up new morals or ideas. They were based on already there human behavior and religion's purpose is to emphasize the need for those behaviors. Religion is just a guide/purpose for being a well behaving human by promising some sort of reward in life or afterlife.

As for our country's beliefs based off Christianity, most of the core morals: don't steal, don't cheat, don't murder... can be found anywhere. In countries that weren't based off Christianity. Which shows that those morals are inherently instilled at some level in humans and religion is only a reason to stick to them.

[Tsukuyomi-No-Mok...]

Nate pretty much said it all.

Human behavior existed before religion did. When religion came along, they didn't magically make up new morals or ideas. They were based on already there human behavior and religion's purpose is to emphasize the need for those behaviors. Religion is just a guide/purpose for being a well behaving human by promising some sort of reward in life or afterlife.

As for our country's beliefs based off Christianity, most of the core morals: don't steal, don't cheat, don't murder... can be found anywhere. In countries that weren't based off Christianity. Which shows that those morals are inherently instilled at some level in humans and religion is only a reason to stick to them.

case and point

[*BOSS*]

Christians seem to be afraid to die even thought they KNOW if they do they're jus goin to a better place. if that's the case then why trip on it.

“Man would indeeded be in a poor way if he had to be restrained by fear of punishment and hope of reward after death.”

[Tsukuyomi-No-Mok...]

you're the type of person who is an idiot... and, i barely, if at all, feel sorry for you.
you want to know what would be more convincing than this crock? if you actually attempted a rebuttal.
WRONG.

1. secular societies with fewer religious believers tend to be less dysfunctional, less violent, & less crime ridden. more religious societies are more violent, suffer greater youth mortality, see more instances of teenage pregnancy & abortion, & are more crime ridden. [1]
2. our judicial system is based on british common law. british common law predates any introduction to christianity in the west. thus, exists independent of christian ideology.
3. the treaty of peace & friendship, passed by the senate & signed by our second president, john adams reads: "As the government of the United States of America is not in any sense founded on the Christian Religion." [2]
4. many of our founding fathers & brothers (including our first five presidents) were not christians. [3]
5. thomas hobbes introduced the idea of the social contract. essentially, our "moral character" is based entirely on pragmatic principles of self-interest. if i agree not to kill anyone, people will agree, in return, not to kill me. if i refuse to steal from others, in return, others will agree not to steal from me; this secures society as well as your individual person. [4]
6. evolution can rather easily explain the most basic foundations of moral behavior. even further, altruism is apparent in many animal species, observed both in laboratories & nature. if non-human animals can posses altruism, what does this say for religion as a necessary foundation in morality, or as a foundation at all? [5]
7. what came first, the social norm, the instinct? do you think that religion has been "revealed" to man for all of time? is there a greater explanation for the seemingly cohesive foundation of moral character within all of humanity? don't kill, don't steal, etc?

if we received anything at all from religion, it is only vicarious. society constructs religion, then religion enforces the norms and mores of society. what happens, however, when you give these norms and mores mystical connotations & metaphysical powers, you suffer the pains of social lag [6]. you see, the only things we're "getting from religion," right now... are homophobia, sexism, racism, ethnocentrism, bigotry, & popular insanity. we get a feeling of guilt from the act of masturbation, we get the fear of sexual contact before marriage, and we get banks & liquor stores closed on sundays. if christianity disappeared, those things would, likely, disappear. however, with or without christianity, america stands more or less as it was (the constitution & declaration of independence) & we still don't kill one another, & we still don't steal from one another (consider further, atheists are less likely to commit crime).

damn you did your homework lol
damn good points there too

[illriginal]

For those who want to know why Christianity is a dying religion, or in other words why so many people are leaving is because simply put... Look up 'Horus'. Now don't think because the Christian Jesus is exactly the same as the Egyptian mythologies, that Jesus never existed, because that's definitely not the case.

And WarMachine, don't let these others discourage you. They're stuck inside the box and don't see the whole picture.

[fameONE]

Religion in the western world is becoming a less and less relevant topic. The only religion that seems to be garnishing any attention whatsoever is Islam. Any thoughts on why this is?

[ley]

I all the time see Christians following SOME of their beliefs, but not others? Whaaaa?! I think this is caused by churches being masked machines of conservatism, which is defeating the point of going to church anyway.

Most commonly I see Christians judging people. Which, correct me if I'm wrong, is against their beliefs. So, it's okay to judge people but not okay to be gay? Or even vote against gay rights with no clue about the actual issue except for "a marriage should be between a man and a woman"? Who declared that? Did God tell you this? Should God control a country that doesn't always believe in God? Blindly voting could be another form of judgment The only answers they have for questions like these are: my pastor told me so, or some illogical excuse of the sort.

I don't think they depend on their faith to "get them through hard times". I think they believe in a false sense of comfort, created by socialism and people who wish to control other people by means of simple, but for those who are naive not recognizable, manipulation.

You are looking at christianity in a very sterotypical way. Do you call all athelets junkies only because some of them use steroids? Their are many christians that are very true to their faith. They live thier lives by the teachings of their faith and there is nothing wrong with that. We are all human and we will all someday sin, this does not mean we cannot be forgiven for our sins. We all at times give into temptation christianity teaches that when you do fall god will be there for you if you ask for forgiveness you will be forgiven. I may be going through good times or bad i may have done something that im not proud of, but i will still go to church. Church is where i can express my beliefs with others who believe the same. It is like a sanctuary where i can feel part of something greater than myself. its where the good can outweigh the bad. I am not in anyway brainwashed or manipulated by the church. We all make our own decisions.

[iExquisite]

yeah. well at least in my school it is...

[fameONE]

yeah. well at least in my school it is...

Fool.

[-DressYourEyelid...]

i can't take it seriously. i wish i could, but i cant hold any faith in something that has been manipulated by humans through the centuries.

generally, i do think religion is taken quite seriously.

[kryogenix]

I can't take a lot of Christians and a lot of Christian denominations seriously. A lot of them like to pick and choose what rules they want to follow. A lot of them have random superstitious beliefs that have no basis whatsoever. If Christians won't take their own religion seriously, how can they expect others to?

[Uronacid]

I can't take a lot of Christians and a lot of Christian denominations seriously. A lot of them like to pick and choose what rules they want to follow. A lot of them have random superstitious beliefs that have no basis whatsoever. If Christians won't take their own religion seriously, how can they expect others to?

Do you think I take my religion seriously?