My thoughts on religion

[Kathryn]

Cow farm -

I'm really enjoying this discussion, so I hope you don't take this reply as a challenge. I know in the end, we can only agree to disagree, however...

I can't tell you how many times I've read on this forum that people have been driven out of their church because they believe in PM. In the end, a person must live by their convictions, and I believe that's more important than submission.

As for rejecting religion, I did that a long time ago. I realize that makes me the minority here and I'm sorry if you weren't aware; but don't expect me to bow to any church's "authority". Ages ago, when I was active in the church, I saw things very differently from my leaders. Every church I attended had a habit of pulling verses at random, putting them together in a way that suited their needs, and presenting it as the truth. That didn't sit right with me, so I began to question things. Since I was young and female (I suppose I still am! ) that didn't sit right with them. Rather than try to reconcil my problems, they simply cast me out for not submitting. I studied the Bible and other religions on my own and discovered there are MANY different versions of the Bible. the KJV (incorrectly) translated words in a certain way that have forever changed our culture. There are also points in the Bible that I could not accept into my heart. Like Lev. chapter 15, which calls the menstral cycle sinful and unclean. Or Lev. chapter 20, which calls for the death of homosexuals. There are many, many incidents in the Bible where it's supposed philosphy of love and forgiveness is directly contradicted with actions of "god" or his people. I finally dismissed it as it is - a giant mess of outdated allegorical teachings.

The origional poster calls himself a messianic Jew. His ancient forefathers wandered the wilderness, heeding the will of god as it was presented to them. At what point did that become heresy? When did everyone have to join a club? I'll tell you when - when the Roman Empire got too large to sustain itself and its leaders decided it needed to monitor what everyone believed and prayed to. You may believe the Bible was written by god, but it was proofread, edited and published by Constantine: a man who cashed in big time from the early church.

I am here for the same reason and agree whole-heartedly with what he says:

I do however respect other peoples rights to be a christian, and do not knock them for it. I attend a messianic church, but at the same time I am my own person and study for my self. Yet it is good too be amongst even if it is for debating purposes so I stay on my toes and study the word to see if they say right or not. I have often read things and had a totally different interpretation then others. Then I have read some and it was the same. So yes am I just sick of religion sure! Am I anti fellowship most def not! I will fellowship with any faith just because I can gain knowledge by studying what they say! It keeps me to an open mind to learn and though I may not believe as they do I can find common ground. I have even seen it said on here and other places calling it "messy antics" and so forth. To me what ever you just had to say went down the drain as soon as you make a remark about who I am and what I believe like that. Most Christians are all about gaining numbers. But the hatred some show have turned them into nothing more than bullies! When you insult what someone believes they will go on the defensive and everything you had to say not matter how right or wrong will be met with a hard heart. Just saying religion is a sensitive subject for a lot of folks because it has become a game of who can out do who? When we are all meant to fellowship. I have been on here for a while and left and then came back after a break. I have always just shared my views but was also careful to respect the views of others, but then get attacked for my views. Same every where else. I just come for fellowship not conversion. I know there is much to learn, but I am secure in what I believe and honestly think most other people are as well. Trust and believe when someone is ready to ask questions they will. More so online. Remember Yah gave people free agency to try to prevent that would be going against Yah. Be an example by the life you lead and others will follow! If not you are not part of the solution, you are part of the cause!

PS Even Thomas the Doubter had a place with Christ!

 

[Gillfam]

Amen!

 

[ChrisM]

I have yet to throw anyone off the site. Just keep it profitable and on topic. If posts mock Christianity or attack others, they will be deleted but disagreeing with me is common, LOL