Farther down this list, someone asserted that I don't know the meaning of pantheism. Well, for the record, here is a dictionary definition:
pantheism:
n : belief in multiple Gods
(Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.)
Now that We've established the meaning of pantheism, was it incorrect of me to assert in my post to Eva that her theology was pantheistic? Eva believes in a mixture of Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Hmm...let's have a look at a dictionary definition of Hinduism:
Hinduism:
n.
A diverse body of religion, philosophy, and cultural practice native to and predominant in India, characterized by a belief in reincarnation and a supreme being of many forms and natures, by the view that opposing theories are aspects of one eternal truth, and by a desire for liberation from earthly evils.
(The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition)
As we can see in the above definition, Hindus believe in many forms of god. A visit to India would confirm that they worship hundreds of gods. So, when I asserted that Eva's theology is pantheistic, I was stating the facts. Now some have called me dogmatic. Well, let's see what the dictionary says about that term:
Dogmatic:
adj.
Relating to, characteristic of, or resulting from dogma.
Characterized by an authoritative, arrogant assertion of unproved or unprovable principles.
(The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition)
Based upon the above definition, you cannot label someone dogmatic simply because they come across as authoritative or arrogant in their assertions. The assertions made must be unproven or unprovable.
I may come across as assertive or arrogant at times, but the assertions I make are not unproven or unprovable. I support my statements with the appropriate religious and secular references. Therefore, to label me dogmatic is unfair and incorrect.
Now if you want to label me as arrogant, assertive or blunt, I will admit to coming across that way at times, but just remember...judge not least ye be judged. In my opinion, some of the posts about my message to Eva have been far more arrogant, assertive and blunt than was my message to her.
Non_Christian's posts in particular were over the top, especially the one in which he/she hurled a string of expletives at not only me, but about half the people who frequent this board. This angry person seemed to be itching for a fight with Christians in general, and with me in particular. I only tried to light a candle, but NC threw gasoline on it, turning it into a firestorm. I think his angry messages amplified and exaggerated my original message to Eva, turning it into a personal attack on her, and that was never my intent.
In closing, if I've offended anyone by my postings, I sincerely apologize. Please forgive me. To those who have falsely accused me of saying things that I never said, (ex: "Alan, you said I was going to hell in a hand basket.") I forgive you as well.