A Modern Inquisition

[Theland1]

If we rleligionists are to fight back against the tide of atheism, should we campaign for a modern Inquisition?
Such a movement would of course have to politically correct, and not cross the boundaries of the Strasbourg laws.
So, what sticks could we adapt to go with our carrots?

[naomi24]

Hi Theland, Want to borrow a few of my custard pies? ;o)

[Zacs-Master]

Pooh?

[Theland1]

That's the spirit!

[mike11111]

Forget the carrots, just keep to the sticks, the sort that are bound into faggots and are easily flammable. Oh, for the sweet smell of the fires of Smithfield!

[naomi24]

Theland, spirit is something I have plenty of. ;o)

[Theland1]

Some measures to get 'em flocking to the alter rails.

[Theland1]

So what modern coercion might swell the ranks in churches?

[jomifl]

Just believe..with perhaps a little self-righteous smugness and leave the atheist hordes to their well deserved end in perdition. Does that sound OK to you? yes ? then you must be a christian :-)

[ludwig]

You could always try the comfy chair.

[ludwig]

[LazyGun]

Amazing - Theist response to non belief and challenges to their fairy tale mythology? The stick - coercion.

Where would you draw the line Theland? Auto da Fe, like the first inquisition?Or perhaps just mild in comparison correctional beatings by the religious police? Paid informers maybe? Snatch squads to abduct infidels in the middle of the night?

Stock answer of those of religion - "God is Love" - Where is the love in your post above?

Fear, Xenophobia, irrationality - all exhibited in your post, and increasingly those characteristics seem to define the mindset of fervent faith-heads.

[naomi24]

LG, Theland's tongue is often set firmly in his cheek. Others I would not vouch for.

[wildwood]

//So, what sticks could we adapt to go with our carrots?//

Are you advocating to portray your belief with a more attractive smoke screen?

Indeed, it is the religionist that thinks outside the commonsensible square, so simply supply some unadulterated scientific proof of your faith and many irreligionists will be persuaded to reconsider.

[mibn2cweus]

//...supply some unadulterated scientific proof of your faith...//

Theland's faith is not in question . . . therein lies the problem.

[FredPuli43]

Yes, 'twas ever thus. Just look at the fuss there was when somebody produced a bible in the native language of the people! Reminiscent of 1066 And All That on the peasants in revolt chanting 'When Adam delved and Eve span, Who was then the gentleman?' "The answer was, of course, Adam,but the Church had concealed this dangerous knowledge"
Churches like their mysteries to be known and explained only by the Churches.
How about forcing those who don't attend church to attend Colchester's home games instead ? (Choose a local team of similar attainment, to suit) Of course, that leaves the Summer, but it's a start.

[LazyGun]

@ Naomi - I havent read enough of Thelands posts to know when they are speaking in jest.Having recently read Careys article, I took Thelands words to be a genuine response.

One of the many reasons why discussions on the internet can get so heated - very little visual or tonal clues to allow one to determine whether or not a poster is being serious or not :)

[naomi24]

LG, just thought I’d mention it. Theland is a very devout Christian - and I’ve no doubt he would convert us all if he could – hence his question. However, he has a brilliantly ridiculous sense of humour, and in amongst the wrangling, we’ve had a lot of fun here in the past. I’ve been telling him for years he ought to try writing comedy – and I mean it. He has a real talent for it.

Sorry, Theland, we’re talking about you. ;o)

[Davethedog]

naomi if one didn't convert there is plenty of wood and pious to light it.

Freedom of will doesn't appear to be a very Theist trait, makes you think they are scared of something.