Why did you choose your religion? or lack there of?

[Hillman]

Originally Posted by leadarrows

GOD...it can not be disproved that is sure.

Originally Posted by samfloor

Cannot be proved either.

Circular debates/arguments about the existence of an infinite being by finite beings serves only to expose what little both parties profess to "know" and "not know" about GOD.

The human condition allows comfort in expressing views that have no impact in our here and now.

The true impact of such discussions manifest itself when we personalize the debate outside of, "I think or I know or I feel". Responsibility for our words, actions and thoughts, concerning GOD, take on a more personal impact when we consider statements like; "I can or I cannot (believe)" or "I will or I will not (believe)".

GOD either has or has not done His divine work. It is how we respond to it or not respond to it that matters. It is about relationship and that relationship will dictate what we we say, do and think about GOD.

Those that are offended by the proposal of a relationship w/ GOD must consider they either can not or will not believe. Those that grasp the concept will hold on to can and will. The degree of any of these positions is based in relationship (or the lack of).

As for me, I can and will. Those that can not or will not....I understand.

[samfloor]

God was created by man, not the other way around. As far as what I posted about the Bible being a compilation of books by Constantine's priests, that is history. Many if not most of the clergy don't know the Bible's history and teach things that aren't in there.
My favorite example of that, is preaching that Mary Magdalene is a prostitute. That is not in the Bible, and in fact wasn't taught that way until an edict by a Catholic Pope said so.
The church wanted to differentiate between her and Jesus' mother Mary. If you do believe in a God, read up on the history of your religion, so you know what you are talking about.

[Hillman]

Originally Posted by samfloor

God was created by man, not the other way around. As far as what I posted about the Bible being a compilation of books by Constantine's priests, that is history. Many if not most of the clergy don't know the Bible's history and teach things that aren't in there.
My favorite example of that, is preaching that Mary Magdalene is a prostitute. That is not in the Bible, and in fact wasn't taught that way until an edict by a Catholic Pope said so.
The church wanted to differentiate between her and Jesus' mother Mary. If you do believe in a God, read up on the history of your religion, so you know what you are talking about.

Since you can rationalize the concept of GOD....you must fall into the "will not" category. Those that "will not (believe)" will find good company in which to base their beliefs. The Catholic Church, misguided preachers....even the HISTORY CHANNEL are often quoted as factual examples.

Thanks for making my point so eloquently by focusing on "other's" failings. The free will to reject what others profess as truth is one's choice. Those that have misguided others into dis-belief will be held accountable. Those that allow themselves to be mis-guided will be held accountable as well. Intellectual honesty dictates an understanding of the 2 sides (at least) of any debate. To focus only on what one wants to believe is a wobbly crutch for unbelievers and believers alike.

[samfloor]

Originally Posted by Hillman

Since you can rationalize the concept of GOD....you must fall into the "will not" category. Those that "will not (believe)" will find good company in which to base their beliefs. The Catholic Church, misguided preachers....even the HISTORY CHANNEL are often quoted as factual examples.

Thanks for making my point so eloquently by focusing on "other's" failings. The free will to reject what others profess as truth is one's choice. Those that have misguided others into dis-belief will be held accountable. Those that allow themselves to be mis-guided will be held accountable as well. Intellectual honesty dictates an understanding of the 2 sides (at least) of any debate. To focus only on what one wants to believe is a wobbly crutch for unbelievers and believers alike.

You must be a preacher. You never actually respond to what anyone says.

[Hillman]

Originally Posted by samfloor

You must be a preacher. You never actually respond to what anyone says.

No, I'm not a preacher.

I was not "answering" you anyway. I was just not letting your understanding not be challenged. Your understanding may mis-guide others and I'm called to challenge that. I am sure there are more than 2 people on this forum and my submissions are for them. You've made clear your beliefs and I'm doing the same. But, if you actually have questions...ask away. I'll do my best.

If your goal is to continue to mis-guide others and show enmity toward my GOD....I'll be of little use to you. You might want to stick to the HISTORY CHANNEL!

[samfloor]

Don't know how I mislead anyone. I just posted historical facts. And the facts came from many books, not the history channel.

[Hillman]

Originally Posted by samfloor

Don't know how I mislead anyone. I just posted historical facts. And the facts came from many books, not the history channel.

Sure you do. Its an insult to yourself to say otherwise.

In some circles the "fact" that the Holocaust did not happen....is a historical fact.

.....Was that your question?

[samfloor]

Why do you deny history? Do you also think that the Earth is only 2000 years old?

[Hillman]

Originally Posted by samfloor

Why do you deny history? Do you also think that the Earth is only 2000 years old?

Ahhh... two questions.

1. Why do you deny history?...I do not deny history. I do reject what you claim is historical truth.

2. Do you also think that the Earth is only 2000 years old? ....No

[samfloor]

You deny the written history of the Roman Empire? That is where the story is of the Bible being compiled.