The Christian Thread.

[Theland]

A thread to discuss Christianity, as it is presented in the New Testament.
Hopefully, exchanges made with Christian love, or your love based on the Higher Power you worship.
And in that Spirit, a warm appreciation of any contributions made by atheists, agnostics, or religionists.
So to begin with a question, is Christianity as it is presented in the New Testament a good blueprint for our lives, and our society?

[archibaldy]

//No, we are to accept our neighbour, not judge them.
Judgement is reserved for the Lord.//

I'm not sure I understand the message here - is it that Christians don't disapprove of behaviour that the Lord disapproves of?

[Theland]

We are not to judge anybody, but love and accept everybody.
(That's difficult for me sometimes I confess).

[archibaldy]

Yes I can imagine it's hard not being allowed your own opinion.

[vulcan42]

\\ What is worth pointing out is the correlation between the lack of belief generally, and the continuation down the slippery slope into moral decline societally.//
Theland, you seem to be making a massive assumption that the "slippery slope into moral decline societally." is caused only by atheists. Are you conveniently forgetting how many so called religious leaders have been involved in child molestation?

[Theland]

No Vulcan not at all, and your point is extremely valid in the light of scandals in every church denomination.

[Theland]

Archbaldy, yes we can have an opinion, but we must remember that we will be judged by the standards we judge others.
I want forgiveness, so I forgive.

[Canary42]

/// is Christianity as it is presented in the New Testament a good blueprint ///

Most certainly not - executing, in a cruel fashion, one for exercising free speech and two for thievery is unacceptable.

[Theland]

Canary - Good point, but I was more concerned with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

[andy-hughes]

Canary - // /// is Christianity as it is presented in the New Testament a good blueprint ///

Most certainly not - executing, in a cruel fashion, one for exercising free speech and two for thievery is unacceptable. //

Both punishments are nothing to do with Chritianity.

They are both the standard punishments of an oppresive Roman dictatorship, and both common criminals' deaths - theft and sedition being the crimes in question.

[Theland]

You took the words right out of ......... :-)

[naomi24]

Theland, //I want forgiveness, so I forgive.//

That speaks volumes. You forgive because you want something for yourself. Are you sure you want to talk about morals? How about discussing ‘sycophancy’?

[Theland]

Yes let's do that.
I'm game.

[naomi24]

Go on then, Theland, I’ve given you a start.

[Theland]

That's easy.
I love the Lord for what He has already done for me.
Not because I expect a reward for my own efforts.
I simply accept the free gift of forgiveness.

[vulcan42]

\\ I simply accept the free gift of forgiveness.//
How do you know you have been forgiven?

[Theland]

Matthew 7:21
I approach God with confidence that I am forgiven.
Its great.
Join me.

[pixie374]

Theland, what has "the Lord" done for you?

[tonyav]

I would like to know where the line is drawn on god's forgiveness ie yes I forgive you for those nasty horrible things that you have done so welcome to heaven or there is no way that I can forgive you for those nasty horrible things that you have done so you are going down to meet Satan.

[Theland]

Pixie - everything, including forgiveness.

The only unforgivable sin, is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.

[naomi24]

Theland, I'm convinced you couldn't give a straight answer to a question if your life depended upon it. Keep kidding yourself. As I said your posts speak volumes.