Reply #54: You asked for sources

[Ravenseye]

So I gave you them. Yes the denominations are contradictory but I don't feel I should restrict myself to any one particular denominations interpretations.

As far as what I think, my thoughts are in line with the postings I've made.

I think that the Old Testament is interesting source material but to put emphasis on passages there above what Jesus taught is contradictory to being a good Christian. I think that Jesus taught pacifism amongst other things and while we may not agree with it, his teachings are very specific about what people should do, turn the other cheek etc. I think that the entire bible as we read it is suspect in that it has been overly translated and reinterpreted over the years so that the bible of today is not the bible of a thousand years ago in many respects. I think that because of this we need to look at the bible critically and not as the exact word of god, and look at it to discern that question 'What would jesus do?' I think the better question is 'What would Jesus want ME to do.' I think any kind of violence goes against these teachings, as well as emotional and mental violence and language.

I think that with all this said, I am not a Christian. I don't follow what Jesus said, but I also certainly don't believe that 99.9% of people who profess to be Christians do either.

I think people pick out passages of the Bible or other religious works and use them to make claims that are otherwise specifically against the teachings of Jesus.

I think that I lead my life as best I can. I try to be as good, nice and helpfull to others as I can. I don't commit acts of violence in any way if I can help it, and when I have I always feel bad about it and try to make things right.

I think that if Jesus is in a 'Jack Chick' form then I don't want to get into Heaven.

I think too much violence and evil has been committed in this world because of Christianity and other organized religions and I don't understand how people can overlook specific teachings of peace and love and instead embrace ill thoughts.

Thats just me though. Feel free to dissagree.