NCBloodhound - I wasn't other Christians who drove me away at all. It's just that I chose to think for myself and started asking some tough questions. Well, the only response I got was - HAVE FAITH! .. When I stated I needed more - I was told - HAVE FAITH DAMIT!! ... and it went downhill fro there.

About your JOHN Ch3 quote... may I paraphrase? ... "Do what I say or die!!" That's not what I would call the most pleasant way to gain converts.

The "humble" Jesus said that he was "greater than the temple" (Matt 12:6), "greater than Jonah" (Matthew 12:41), and "greater than Solomon" (Matthew 12:42). He appeared to suffer from a dictator's "paranoia" when he said, "He that is not with me is against me" (Matthew 12:30). Again - does this really sound like an honest socially beneficial organization to belong to?

In reference to your 'do my will' quote. The following quote was responsible for the burning of uunbelievers during the inquisition - "If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned." (John 15:6) Does that qualify for god's will?

You suggested reading the whole chapter for the reference. I can sympathize with you there. That usually is a good idea. I just figured would would follow standard religious elder practice and quote single verses in the context of my choosing. Just as did the religious leaders during the inquisition and as they continue to do today.

I have done a lot of research. Did you know that little in Christianity is original. Most of it is borrowed, just as the celebration of Christmas was borrowed from Roman and earlier pagan times. Even the Discovery channel did a 4 hour about the history of religions.

If you choose to believe because you WANT to - that's kewl! If you believe because you fear an alleged unproved enternal death?


Anyways.... Did ya get any this weekend??? .. Deer that is?


Clark

Houston, TX