In Reply to: Re: I don't see the problem with Paul posted by Perry on May 09, 2005 at 14:27:13:
Hey Perry! Hope you are well.
I don't see real christianity to be negative in light of the weight of applied free will in our actions. I think intent and usage makes a thing negative or positive{ I am not talking about things like plutonium or napalmn[sp]lol. When I said simple side I was refering to how a person boils down inner views and manifests belief as they follow their faith, plus or minus.
Upon reflection I think many people would agree with your point to Jesus having a "dark" side in that his views were basically incompatable with most world values. As far as I am concerened cruelty in religion is quite alive and well in current systems as well as in the older civilizations. Consider casuality counts in the modern age as the numbers overshadow the sum of all previous wars combined. Organized religion is a scary thing to me as it seems someone always gets worked over for the bad.
In spite of all the problems with belief and faith I believe there has to be a source for creation and the circle of life and death. For me that source is the creator as demonstrated by Jesus. It is a belief of mine and a personal act of faith. I do not feel I have any right to force anyone to agree with me or to not accept their friendship or equal association.
After a career in social services I have a pretty jaded view of human nature. Contrary to popular opinion I don't accept that deep down inside everyone generally has some 'good' in them. I think that the planet has turned to shit in many areas of life.
Jesus is a hard act to follow as loving enemies and those that hurt is something that is difficult to keep in heart and through actions. My natural instinct may tell me to carve out my pound of vengence first when someone offends me.
I appreciate your views and I do agree with some of them.