“It takes a purely human courage to renounce the whole temporal realm in order to gain eternity,
but this I do gain and in all eternity can never renounce—it is a self-contradiction.
But it takes a paradoxical and humble courage to grasp the whole temporal realm now by
virtue of the absurd, and this is the courage of faith.”
Søren Kierkegaard
(the spent berries shriveling on the vine / Julie Cook / 2018)
Strictly for the birds…an American idiom coined just following WWII meaning worthless or something not really worth bothering with…
As in the blueberries…
they need to be literally left to the birds!
Both life and time have gotten the better of me so when I walked out this morning in
an attempt to unburden the blueberry bushes I was met with what Bourbon Street smells
like the morning following a Sugar Bowl game for the National title.
There’s that cloyingly and sickly sweet, very overpowering scent of fermentation…
as in the berries are simply overripened and now fermenting…
fermenting on the ground, on the bush…you name it, they’re fermenting…
(fermenting berries rotting on the ground / Julie Cook / 2018)
Those that are overly ripe have simply fallen to the ground which is now covered with
all manner of crawling, biting, stinging things searching for their share of a sweet
rotting juicy treat.
The birds are actually landing in the bushes, with me right there in plain sight, as they
are now so drunk from having gorged on fermented berries that they give me a no never mind.
I merely duck.
Me who is just trying to find the remaining salvageable berries.
Those berries that are not bursting at my mere touch due to being so swollen from the
copious amount of rain as of late have left me smelling like I’ve been on a three day
drunk.
The other berries are simply so small and hard that they are not worth the trouble since
they will never truly ripen.
The mercury was sitting right at 90 with the humidity being nearly the same…
And it was still well before the noonday hour.
I got what I could, overwhelmed by the rest so I simply threw my hands in the air and said
out loud for no one in particular…let them just go to the birds!!!
Much in the same way that I want to say to all those working ever so fast and furious at
creating our current state of hysteria…hysteria that is coming out of our oh so
post-Christian, uber progressive, rabid dog culture.
A couple of troubling things…
The first is obviously the recent fact that a person went into a restaurant to eat…
and because of who her boss just so happened to be, was asked to leave.
She didn’t go to push an agenda, she wasn’t on the clock, she wasn’t “representing” as so
many these days like to say…
She was just trying to enjoy a meal at a place I’m sure she has either visited before
and liked or was with someone who had previously eaten there and recommended it.
And so she left…along with those in her group.
They offered to pay for what they had ordered but were told that would not be necessary.
The owner claims that several on her staff are gay and that was why they wanted her to leave
because her boss made them feel uncomfortable and, I’m assuming, they, in turn, felt hostile
toward her simply for simply being associated with him.
Not that any of them actually even knew her or him…they’ve just assumed the worst.
And let’s remember, this gal’s boss wasn’t even there…
it was just a gal with a group of family and friends who wanted to eat
and enjoy, what I’m thinking, would have been a good meal.
That’s a troubling storm cloud upon our horizon.
As is the one big argument as to why it was ok to boot this lady out…
Many folks are comparing this incident to the bakery who, due to religious convictions,
declined to make a wedding cake for a gay couple.
Of which blew up into a nasty lawsuit which became the shot heard around the nation…
It was a lawsuit that, in the end, graciously went in the favor of the bakers.
Yay for being able to still have religious conviction in the good old US of A.
The gay couple had actually gone way out of their way to use this particular baker.
They knew upfront how things would most likely turn out when they actually could have
used many other nearby bakeries they would most likely have been more than willing
to accommodate their wishes.
The owner of the bakery is a Christian who views same-sex marriages as an affront to
a sacred God-ordained union.
I happen to agree, but I am digressing.
That incident was based on a religious conviction.
Getting booted from a restaurant because of one’s boss, well that is troubling in
a completely different direction which has nothing to do with one’s
religious convictions.
Next, there was a troubling mention made in yesterday’s post with the link to one of
David Robertson’s, aka The Wee Flea’s, post.
David was writing a post refuting a recently published book and now book tour, by a gay
Christian artist, Vicky Breeching.
In a nutshell, David tells us that Vicky’s book is about her coming out as openly gay
and how she is claiming to be actually a victim of the Christian Chruch…
so now her’s is a push for what is being dubbed as Gay Christianity.
So obviously gone now are the days of sinfulness or of upholding God’s word and tenants to man.
Because of all those sorts of things are now considered to be some sort of bullying
which produces a sense of victimization.
Yep, you read correctly…living life opposed to God’s commands is liberating because
living under those commands is to live a bullied life resulting in victimization.
Who makes this kind of thinking up???…really, I want to know….because I want
to avoid them at all costs.
A person in the UK had ticked the like button on David’s post and someway or other that simple
the action of “liking” David’s post put this person on a watchdog Governmental list…a list
of those who are being labeled as “homophobic” which, if I am not mistaken,
is now considered a hate crime in the UK.
So to disagree with homosexuality, believing that such a lifestyle runs counter to God’s word,
is to be homophobic and guilty of a hate crime.
This person wrote a comment to David explaining this sudden odd plight over merely
liking David’s post.
Let that sink in a minute.
You are a Christian, or a Jew, or a Muslim for that matter, who believes that because
of your religious convictions,
you believe homosexuality goes against the word of God and is perceived
as a sin…. and so now you are labeled homophobic and are guilty of a hate crime.
I would laugh but the fact of the matter is that that is pretty darn frightening.
This lunacy has got to stop!
Because it is absolutely ridiculous.
As in…. it is all strictly for the birds…
Yet the question remains….when and how…when and how will all of this madness end?
And those two questions are what should have each of us troubled…
But we know that in the end, come what may, we of Fatih know…
we know that yes these earthly battles will rage,
yet blessedly the Victory has already been secured.
Do not be conformed to this world,
but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,
that by testing you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
cookiecrumbstoliveby 
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging and commented:
Well said my dear!!
Thank you GW 🙂
You’re very welcome SC 😎😁
Yes, dear Julie. It is truly frightening. Thank you for your courage! ❤ ❤
Why is a consenting adult’s sexual orientation or sexual lifestyle any business of anyone else?
How on earth does it make anyone more moral, more virtuous, more righteous if they are deemed ”straight”?
Why do some people consider those who are deemed gay to be a threat to the moral fabric of society and are because they are gay are automatically unfit to raise kids?
What gives anyone the damn right to push their own sexual or moral values on anyone else?
Kind of curious how you ask questions for which you should already know the answer, as if the questions were relevant. But I suppose you just want attention.
There are good and bad ways to get attention. You actually have enough intelligence to think well. Why don’t you take the time?
This post is about what is wrong with being drunk with power, when a group of people realizes they can force their beliefs upon others and lack self-restraint. The beliefs don’t matter as much as the abuse of power. Really, the post is about the abuse power. The issue could be race, religion, politics….. Doesn’t actually make much difference.
In actuality, the LGBTQ and more “community” demands public approbation. Expecting public approbation for what is in every logical sense defective behavior doesn’t make any sense. Yet even if it did, what is the point of forcing others to applaud? The desire to persecute someone? To make them feel small? Is that a desire you would applaud? If the answer is yes, what does that say about you?
What the Bible calls sinful behavior is wrong because it hurts people. It only takes little thoughtful observation to figure out why the Apostle Paul recommended fleeing sexual immorality. Yet some people don’t. Foolishly, they run to it. We can be slaves to sin. We can find many ways to enslave ourselves to sin.
Anyway, if you want to make a sensible comment, trying reading the post again. Maybe you can think of something that is pertinent and worth saying.
“Expecting public approbation for what is in every logical sense defective behavior doesn’t make any sense.”
Care to explain how homosexuality is a defective behavior
“What the Bible calls sinful behavior is wrong because it hurts people”
Care to elaborate on how homosexuality hurts people. I’m pretty sure that the military campaign and invasion carried out by Joshua and David hurt people
“when a group of people realizes they can force their beliefs upon others and lack self-restraint.”
This is done by both sides of the spectrum. I’m not saying enforcing your beliefs on others is right, it is wrong. But this is done by both sides mostly the christian side
“the LGBTQ and more “community” demands public approbation”
I won’t say demand but gaining respect is what they are fighting for
@Jonathan
First you ignorantly attack the Bible. Then you ask a question to which you almost certainly know the answer. Next you try to establish moral equivalence. Finally, you engage deceptive word play, trying make us believe that threatening people with punishment is just gaining respect. Amazing!
You think you are on the path to enlightenment? I think you need an accurate map. The Bible would be better than whatever you are currently using.
I long ago gave up on the notion that there is no such thing as a foolish question. Supposedly, I have to dig up some study to show I know what I am talking about. Like as not you would then dig up some nonsense that shows I don’t.
I don’t see the point. There have been plenty of studies showing the problems associated with homosexuality. If you are on the path to to enlightenment, then you should be familiar with a few of them. Unfortunately, we live in an era that enjoys the luxury of disregarding those truths it finds hateful. That is not very enlightened, but if you are just going to pick and choose what you want to believe what is the point of answering a question you already know the answer to?
Fornication, and homosexuality is just one way of engaging such behavior, spreads disease and encourages us to view others as objects for amusement. The extremely sexuality confused may even try to physically alter their sex, and that is obviously nuts.
Homosexuality is plainly a disorder. In a very fundamental sense, it does not work. Why are some people that way? We don’t have a scientific explanation, just speculation.
For the sake of argument, let’s assume the problem is genetic in origin. That suggests an argument that even the godless can appreciate (https://citizentom.com/2018/06/27/voting-for-fornication-in-prince-william-county-the-sequel/). It has to do with the basic definition of a defect.
Excellent as always my friend
The bible is not my yardstick and if it yours then it is a disgusting immoral piece of filth.
Such as indoctrinating children that they will be going to hell for non belief?
Burning witches at the stake?
Teaching Young Earth Creationism?
Teaching that women are subservient to men?
The post is about so-called christian values and the right to express them to the detriment of others.
And I notice you glibly make no reference to Muslims who murder homosexuals and the ten countries that issue the death penalty for homosexual acts.
As always Tom, you are disingenuous and a hypocrite.
Consider what I said. Consider your reply. All you are doing is using this post as a platform to tell Christians how much you hate them. That’s a productive activity? Have you considered the possibility that in most Christians you just inspire pity?
All you are doing is revealing your own ignorance and your own hate. You have just illustrated the nature of the evil this post condemns. Such hatred and ignorance is lunatic; it does no one any good.
Am I a hypocrite? Jesus Christ went up on that cross for me too. So I suppose so, but what about you? When will you repent and ask our Lord to give you a new heart? When will you turn to Jesus Christ for salvation? Never? That is an awfully long time to sacrifice to a foolish pride.
Consider the irony. Instead of making your case, you just served as a demonstration of Christ’s wisdom.
“that is an awfully long time to sacrifice to a foolish pride”…Amen Tom.
And might I note who it is that is fussing as well as cussing in his comments…I see no need for such.
That is one reason why I banned him. There is a point when a commenter behaves too much like a troll.
He’s now going after Kathy and Jonathan is taking swipes at Oneta…this is not good.
How does one go about banning?
Depends what you want to do. You can just send comments to the spam bucket. That is easiest. Or you can uses some features that picks out things such as the user’s name and IP address and puts their comments in the moderation queue. Just declaring a comment spam is easiest.
I despise Christianity as I despise all religion.
And again, you failed to make answer regarding the extreme Islamic stance on homosexuals,
Do you believe it it morally justifiable to execute homosexuals?
Not germane to the topic of this post. Christianity and Islam are separate beliefs.
To defend Christianity, why do I have to defend all other beliefs? That would not be logical. When I became a Christian, I did so because I had discovered the Bible contains the Truth, that all other beliefs are wrong.
Here is something for you to chew on. Islam has more in common with Atheism than it does Christianity. Both Atheism and Islam (Allah is not God). are wrong. However, the similarities do not stop there. Both Atheists and Muslims look to themselves to find some form of salvation.
Since the Atheist denies the existence of any god, the Atheist is wholly dependent upon himself. Therefore, the Atheist is without hope. It is because you have no hope that you think Christianity and Islam are more similar than they actually are.
It is perfectly germane.
The host included Muslims as a religious group that should be allowed to express their religious convictions regarding homosexuals and as I stated to CS , certain Islamic countries prescribe the death penalty and ISIS has publicly murdered homosexuals.
So if you beleive you ned to stand uo and defend the religious perspective – respective of the religion – against homosexuals then please explain why you tacitly support the right of certain Islamic states to murder gay people in the name of their religion?
I did not.
I made the observation that the three “major” world religions each have a similar take on the notion that homosexulaity goes against God’s word.
So I’d appreciate being underdstood more clearly before you start spouting off with what I meant or didn’t mean…
It seems you are more interest in a “gotcha debate” than you are in learning anything. That’s a shame.
Not in the least, and you of all people should know that by now – you banned me for taking you to the cleaners for the disingenuity you promote.
You have absolutely no leg to stand on and never have Tom.
Shrug! I will readily concede you are too much for me. Fortunately for me you are God’s problem.
Amen!
@Citizen Tom
Other than the fact that you agree with christianity and not islam why do you say that islam is wrong
“I don’t care about the ‘opinions’ of so-called Christian sects ark. God’s word has the final say, as He does not offer opinion”
@ColorStorm
I would say that its your opinion on god’s word that have the final say as most if not all christian sect use the bible but the difference comes in interpretation
I read about 3/4 of the Koran. It is just a pathetic knockoff of the Old Testament. Muhammad had any genuine respect for or understanding of either Christianity or Judaism, it is not obvious.
Even based upon what the Koran says, there is no good reason to believe Muhammad was a prophet. However, I have no doubt he was both highly intelligent and charismatic.
What was Muhammad? He was an effective political and military leader. Islam served several purposes for him: supported his divine right to rule, established his system of governance, and motivated his warriors. Islam is clearly a warrior’s religion.
Unfortunately, Muhammad created more havoc than good. Islam provides a political/religious ideology that keeps the people obedient to their rulers, but poor. When Muhammad’s system is followed, the rulers methodically eliminate any ideology that might otherwise successfully compete with Islam. They also eliminate any motivation to innovate.
You may wish to read what Charles de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu wrote about Islam in his book, “The Spirit of the Laws” (1748).
You made an absurd assertion without offering any support. Why do you think the Koran would be better?
Wow. I thought we could have a conversation but it certainly seems that I would be wasting my time.
You could have simply addressed the issue I raised but I guess I expected too much
That’s funny! You quoted my entire comment, but you didn’t actually read it.
To jonathan
to ark:
Ark said this of Julie when reworking this post, and I quote: exactly,and jonathan agrees
‘In the face of such vile intolerant people’.
And WHO are these vile, intolerant people if not Julie here, Ctom, lynn,, Vincent, myself, insanitybytes, etc etc etc, and all other fair minded people both at WP and beyond.
VILE and intolerant for saying lying is a character defect; VILE and intolerant for saying stealing is a character defect; VILE and intolerant for saying adultery is a character defect; and VILE and intolerant for saying homosexuality is a character defect, also known as sin?
Really, you going with that? You boys got the wrong gal to say Julie is ‘vile and intolerant.’ Intolerant jonathan? Yet you preached whether she would even release your comment, as you enjoy a sideways conversation at the cryptic blog where cement hats rule the day, with visions of death and the afterlife…………..yet you both cry because decent people actually have firm convictions?
Yes, convictions, and we have every right to have them, since we at least recognize the Creator who created the brain, and we actually choose to use it. Further, some fruit is ripe, while others are rotten and even useless, where the birds will defer to something better.
But homosexuality in this correct context? Truly, go ask a male and female dove who they prefer…………….
Wow, CS—powerfully spoken truth my friend and thank you!
It is necessary to both point out the myopia of godlessness, as well as to support one another, as we recognize the ‘jewels on the crown………….’
And as a bonus thought, God’s word has never lost a single argument. 😉
@Colorstorm
A great many Christian sects are now openly accepting and tolerant of homosexuals.
And rightly so.
But not here among those on this post it seems.
The fact that the host includes Muslims among those who should be allowed to express their religious convictions against homosexuality and homosexuals knowing full well how radical Islamic groups such as ISIS have openly murdered homosexuals and that the death penalty is prescribed in ten countries is enough to warrant the term vile and intolerant as such a remark is tacitly stating such actions are justifiable.
I don’t care about the ‘opinions’ of so-called Christian sects ark. God’s word has the final say, as He does not offer opinion.
And I also do not care about your comparisons of isis and Christianity.
I’ll defer to the berry bush. Some ripe, some rotten; nature is a grand teacher. Isil be some rotten fruit. Period.
God’s word?
Really?
Then please enlighten me as to what gods word specifically states about homosexuals, CS.
They were not my comparisons, John. The host included them among those religious sects who should be able to defend their perspective regarding homosexuals and homosexuality.
I probably would not even have raised Islam if Julie had not mentioned it first.
Specifically?
Well there is always this:
‘Doth nature itself teach you?’
then this:
‘And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: -God’s word
How any reasonable person could argue against such common sense logic is beyond me.
But this is how low humanity has sunk, that I even need to mention this………….that men want to NOT retain God in their knowledge.
Yes, wonderful prose. Now, again, John, where specifically does your god and his word prescribe against homosexuality.
Please take the blinders off your eyes and read the comment again. Slowly. Note the quotes. God’s word. Period. Biology, nature, reason, facts, logic, common sense, should all prevail.
Again, where does your god’s word specifically state anything about homosexuals?
Ah so you want me to cite the law and Leviticus? I am much smarter than the games people play………thank God.
Romans says the same thing,, except with one addition: GRACE
………but apparently you are revolting against your own conscience, which weighs heavily and is enough to indict your foolishness. Are you also listening jonathan…….
God does not have an opinion. He is God and is correct in all things. ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,’ just affirming what we already know.
So, as per spec, you balk at the hurdle of honesty and use disengenuity to promote your personal bigotry.
If the church can recognize that killing witches was not really your god’s word or that stoning children for mouthing off at parents, etc etc ad nauseum then why do you hang on to other heinous forms of hate and violence?
Do you think it might be because of your group/personal interpretation of the text which is simply based on personal fear and loathing?
I suggest you take ten years of your life and study WHY and to WHOM the law was given………
As to my balk at ‘honesty’ ark, I need not defend myself. I am rather clear, unapologetic, and I’m pretty sure the people in this zip code have my back.
Oh, I am sure they do have your back.
The blind will often hang on to the coat tails of the one in front holding the white stick.
So, instead of proving the specific evidence I ask for you do the theological two step once more.
Your bigotry and hypocrisy glares brighter than the sun.
Blind? And what pray tell is your standard besides godlessness? That is a laff a minute.
I have the trinity on my side:
-the level
-the plumb line
-the compass
All speaking the same harmonious voice of truth. And I dare you to find ONE religion in God’s creation that promotes the grace of God as found in biblical Christianity. Hint: there are none.
There is nothing worse than a blind man trying to explain the color blue to the Colormaster…………
………and that Master is God.
Simple human decency.
And as I knew, you would not show an ounce of integrity or honesty in your response, but rather return to your gobbledygook.
Human decency? So a man or woman having relations with an animal is also decent????????? Stealing is decent?
You have long lost your argument ark. Please stop embarrassing yourself further.
What is your standard??????Why?????
It is the liberal godless mind that can not see straight.
The post is about homosexuality.
Now you wish to introduce bestiality?
Are you feeling all right, John?
There is no argument to lose.
You cannot defend the bigotry you so wantonly display.
Why not simply accept we are all people?
That is where you are incorrect. The post is about MANY things, of which homosexuality is but one crumb.
I am speaking about a standard of right and wrong, in which you have none if you are honest. All you have are your ‘feelings.’
Beastiality, lying, stealing, homosexuality are all cut from the same cloth. Period.
And I do know the difference between berries that are edible, and others not fit for compost……….
The main thrust was the right to defend ones religious conviction against homosexuality.
You truly are a despicable individual.
And you are proving to be deaf, dumb, and blind, as to what I said regarding the exquisite covering of the GRACE of God, which covers a multitude of sins, whether they be heavy, or lightweight.
Despicable is reserved for any person who does not give the Creator the courtesy of existing, and to any soul who despises the goodness of God.
I believe we have taken enough time and space here.
The grace of your god demands the execution of witches, killing children for giving their parents lip and the killing of homosexuals.
That is grace that humanity can do without.
Sadly, the bastard lovechild of Judaism and Christianity – Islam has taken some of this ”grace” and applied a more literal interpretation.
But the monster behind the texts is a monster still.
But not nearly as bad as the humans who accept this religious babble as real and true, and act upon it.
Your mom happens to claim that “bastard lovechild” as her Lord and Savior Ark—I think there has been enough ugliness from you today my friend…as I’ve said before, if you don’t like what I write about, go find what it is you do like…
The bastard love child is Islam, for goodness sake! Born out of Judaism and Christianity.
You truly struggle to understand don’t you Julie?
nope, just trying to take in all the babbling while putting away the groceries…multitasking is requiring a better pair of spectacles …
but I did mean what I said about being nice when you come here to visit.
Nice posts will produce nice comments.
Contentious, highly inflammatory posts will very likely produce a similar response.
Why not read some of the comments from posters on my blog?
In fact, why not defend your position to them?
You see Julie, it is easy to be so self- righteous when most of those you write for are like-minded regarding this topic.
Heck, there are plenty of Christians who find your stance intolerable and cruel.
So pop over and have a chat about this with some of my visitors, several of whom are gay.
Perhaps you could explain to them exactly how your position is tenable?
I don’t recall sharing the latest offering from David Robertson as being inflamatory.
It’s just that I happen to agree with him regarding his stance on homosexuality and the fact that that particular lifestyle is a sinful lifestyle.
Plus I am well aware that there are those who call themselves Christians who think homosexuality is perfectly acceptable…
of whom I do not agree with.
We cannot rewrite God’s words to suit our changing culture yet there are those who are working very hard to do just that…even within the Chruch.
I have worked with, as well as taught, numerous folks who are gay.
We knew how one another felt and that was that. We were friends. Just as I’ve been friends with those who profess to be non believers or believers of other faiths.
Agian, we’ve known how the other feels and that is that.
Personally I don’t enjoy going hopscothing around places I don’t enjoy being…such as blogs who find nothing more fun than to ridicule and malign those whom they disagree with.
I have never once, nor would I curse at you, mock you or belittle you.
But that is what you do here and do to those who come by my way.
I don’t call that very hospitable but actually unkind and acutally more sinister than anything else.
You and I will never agree on any of this Ark and you know that…yet you continue on and on beating the poor dead horse.
In a civil society, we use to say “the one thing we can do is to agree to disagree”….
sadly that seems no longer the case.
You disagree with me…no problem.
I disagree with you, no problem.
So that’s that.
Like I say, you’d drive you mom nuts if you started in on her and her beliefs like you do here.
She, as a Chrisitan, accepts homosexuality as ok—I would politely disagree with her, but that is her perogative.
Hence my departure from mainline Anglicanism. But if you jumped on her for being a Christian like you do here, well, I think she’d be hurt with you Ark.
Offer others the courtesy you’d offer your mom.
And yet you do not kill witches or kill children for verbally abusing their parents nor stone homosexuals, which is all in the bible – and yet some Islamic states execute homosexuals.
So you DO in fact reinterpret your god’s ”word” to suit your changing standards. In this case I believe it is called Cherry Picking.
As you malign homosexuals on this post.
While I firmly disagree with her religious supernatural beliefs, which she is fully aware of, she does not take her beliefs into the public sphere and neither does she expect to.
That is the big difference between you and her, and those Christians on this and similar blogs. And this point makes ALL the difference.
I generally do , but I will also speak up against those who who would cruelly malign others because of some warped religious ideal, and in this case for which quite frankly is none of your darn business!
No cherry picking here Ark because with the coming of Christ there was a bridge placed between the old and new.
Forgiveness and salvation entered into the equation.
But Jesus too was very specific about the word of God and following it…something about goats and sheeps being seperated.
There is Grace and it is offered freely.
I am a product of that Grace…thankfully.
Sinfulness is sinfulness and the ego is at the center of that…as in I or me or us…
God requires it be of Him and Him alone.
He doesn’t share us…He wants all of us.
Either you follow or you don’t.
You can’t have one foot in and one foot out (that’s the hokey pokey by the way and I’ve written about that too)—it’s all or none and it is a sacrifce of self to a worldly life.
And no, no maligning here, merely stating that the homosexual lifestyle is a sinful lifestyle. No public executions or stonings…yet, as I’ve stated before in other posts, that does still happen in other parts of the world sadly.
For those folks foolishly choose to ignore that whole forgiveness / grace business.
I know your mom has raised an intelligent young man, who I’ve gleaned when reading through the comment section is a married man who is most likely an equally loving husband.
I can’t say father in all of that as I don’t know if there are children but I suspect there would an equal amount of love there as well.
For you see Ark, I do try to see the good…unlike your assummptions to the contrary.
So I would expect for you to be the gentleman your mom raised and stop with the public ridicule and bravdo hurled at folks that you really don’t know.
And stop trying to turn and twist everything around.
We live in a fallen world.
All of us are sinners.
All of us are in need of a Savior.
To live thinking otherwise seems to me to
a life being lived solely for self…and a bit empty really.
Becaue when it’s all said and done, then it is indeed all said and done.
I for one am grateful there is more.
And I’m sure that that little notion actually keeps your mom on her knees a bit more as she, as I would for my own son, pray that God would open his heart.
That you would resort to quoting scripture to me tells me you have now run out of excuses for at least apologizing or even acknowledging that you included extreme Muslims in your brief regarding religious conviction.
As with all Christians, and especially those of a more fundamental evangelical leaning, to which you would likely align yourself, you pick and choose the parts of the biblical text that will fit your personal interpretation, or that of the church you are a member of.
Thus, you deftly hand wave all the vile doctrine listed in the Old Testament – the Laws commanded by YOUR god, Yahweh.
That is blatant hypocrisy, and more than likely why there are over 30,000 different christian sects.
You all treat your religion like a smorgasbord.
”Oh yes, definitely revile the gays, but we can ease up on burning witches and I suppose we should accept divorce these days because we are more modern. Oh, and stoning the kids too, I suppose, even if little Johnny told his Mum to shut up ove breakfast because she didn’t give him Cheerios!”
Sin is a religious concept in reference to a god I have no belief in; it has no meaning for me and thus holds no sway either.
Maybe I missed it, but I haven’t actually seen where you have identified where I have twisted anything. I have quoted you honestly and accurately.
In truth , I just don’t believe you actually thought this post out enough, and this continual avoidance of the central issues of my comments would bear out this belief
If some Christians can extend a greater level of tolerance and understanding toward homosexuals then there is no reason why you shouldn’t either.
actually I wasn’t quoting or spouting off scripture…merely referencing.
And there was no mention of “extreme” Muslims—merely the three main religious faiths.
And who says but you that things weren’t thought out well?
And like I’ve said, I think your mom raised a better guy then the one who’s sounding way too angry as a guest here.
I’ve been a gracious hostess but your boorish rants are, again, very unbecoming of a gentleman.
Why don’t you ask your mom about “her” Yayweh…as a refresher course just might be in order…why she believes what she believes.
Or is it just safer here, ranting at someone you don’t know?
If you say they were carefully thought out, then one can only presume you knew exactly what you were writing and what you set out to do with regard the Islamic position and their view on homosexuals.
And I can also presume you are perfectly aware that at least ten countries prescribe the death penalty for homosexuals as well.
This then, makes your post all the more vile and cruel, as it suggests that being aware of the extreme Islamic position you felt it unnecessary to distinguish.
My comments are in response to the discriminatory and hateful topic of this post.
Furthermore, as you have no practical knowledge of my mother or my family I can assert with the utmost confidence that my mother would not only defend her son and every member of her family in this regard but take you to the proverbial cleaners for your blatant bigotry and utterly un-Jesus like behaviour.
thought out yes but remember I didn’t know what that young creationismnish was all about and I never said a darn thing about Muslims stoning or executing gays just that they were one of the three major religions that do not condone homosexuality.
This was not a debate about stoning or killing but rahter about the sinfulness of a lifestyle…and whereas a mother will always defend her son, I’m sure her heart weighs heavy when thinking about eternity.
“Despicable is reserved for any person who does not give the Creator the courtesy of existing, and to any soul who despises the goodness of God.”
Right despicable is reserved for the person who does not give the flying spaghetti monster the courtesy of existing and to any soul who despises the goodness of Odin
Ark, you rampage around making great claims to your great theological prowess. yet when presented with scripture you suddenly claim ignorance.
@Jonathan. Same comment different name.
You two, despite my insistence that you are…are not actually morons. You are just blind, ingnorant, and agenda filled.
Claim ignorance of scripture?
I never said any such thing.
You telling porky pies again, Wally?
You know a bit about those don’t you Ark? See? Even now you are suddenly struck illiterate and unable to read English. Yes. On one hand you claim to be a literate theologian, then in another comment you suddenly don’t understand a word.
Never have I said I was a ”literate theologian.”
I have often written that I have an interest in religion and in particular Christianity, because it is the culture I am more familiar with.
So, once more, where did I claim ignorance of scripture, Wally?
“I suggest you take ten years of your life and study WHY and to WHOM the law was given”
So you are now moving to the law was made for a specific people at a specific time.
Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; What was considered right at a certain time in the bible cannot be considered wrong now. I don’t know about you but many christians I know see “right” as what god wants and “wrong” as what god does not want. I can’t seem to understand why the issue of
“WHY and to WHOM the law was given” is as important as the law
as most are now fermenting and we know what too much indulgence of fermentaion can do….
Your interpretation of god’s word has the final say
obviously you have never read any of my posts denouncing ISIS or as to why the Muslim faith is so dangerous
Maybe I have , I cannot recall offhand.
But in light of the death penalty against homosexuals in at least ten countries, this only makes your post including Muslims in your belief about freedom to express their religious convictions against homosexuals even more baffling.
Amen!
Quick, make room for me in that closet of yours!
“@Jonathan. Same comment different name.
You two, despite my insistence that you are…are not actually morons. You are just blind, ingnorant, and agenda filled.”
@Wally Fry. You could have used the time typing that comment in addressing the issue at hand
Jonathan. Your comment was addressed. You just chose to ignore it.
Typical militant atheist blather. I shall translate: Unless a commenter agrees with me, they have not addressed me.
I speak atheist LOL.
“Jonathan. Your comment was addressed. You just chose to ignore it.
Typical militant atheist blather. I shall translate: Unless a commenter agrees with me, they have not addressed me.
I speak atheist LOL.”
You can point me at where they were addressed, if it is what @Citizen Tom wrote you are referring to…………………………….. That was him avoiding the subject
And I’ll add that some Muslim factions murder homosexuals.
Being identified as homosexual is a criminal offence in some countries.
And this is because of religious convictions.
Truly, being gay is not a problem. But being religious most certainly is.
Great post. Whenever we take a stand it seems the termites come out of the woodwork. Our morality is upside down and Christians are now the bad guys. Sad.
are you finally out of the closet being alone?? 🙂
Not quite. I need a little more time in the closet.
😛
@atimetoshare
You will note, I hope, that Muslims and Jews were also included in the right to make a stand for their religious convictions regarding homosexuals. One can presume on this basis that such ”rights” should be extended to every one who has a religious conviction against homosexuals.
I will remind you that the death penalty for homosexuality is law in ten countries across the globe and certain Islamic sects publicly execute (murder) homosexuals.
Do you believe executing people because of their sexual orientation is the height of moral rectitude?
If, for example, you discovered one of your family, grand children for example, or friends was gay would you consider hanging or beheading the right thing to do? Would be justifiable in the eyes of your god?
It seems to me that you are saying the same thing on both sides. As a Christian I prefer not to watch movies, or tv shows demonstrating the gay life. The f my grandchild was gay, it wouldn’t stop me from loving them. Those are personal choices which I make because of what I believe. Being in the arts, I have many gay friends. I don’t talk about my sex life. Why is it so difficult mportant for them to flaunt
Not all gay people flaunt their sexual status and I’ll bet there are a considerable number you may well be acquainted with that are gay and you would never know.
Why is it so difficult for you to simply let people be?
Why is their sexual orientation any business of yours inn the first place?
Im not pushing my beliefs on anyone. I’m only sharing with those who want it. It’s a gift. Of course if you believe you’re perfect and don’t need fixing, I wouldn’t think of pushing my beliefs on you, but I definitely will pray for you.
You are commenting in an open forum that has a potentially world wide audience. Therefore what you write has consequences.
Likewise I’m sure
Indeed.
And while you will consider your comments are completely devoid of any sort of bigotry, how do you think the average gay person would feel about your beliefs?
Do you think you might be hurting them terribly with your views?
Do you never consider the stigma a young gay person suffers knowing there are people such as you who feel so morally justified in demeaning their lifestyle solely based on a bigoted religious text?
I suppose those gay people who are also Christian you would likely not consider proper christian either?
I do consider how my words affect others. Do you? Have a nice weekend.😀. And lighten up .
Amen…to may we lighten up 🙂
I refuse to lighten up. Uptight and tightly wired is my middle name! LOL
Sorry your post has to be a forum for
Mr. A. I’m going back to my closet now😳
I’m right behind you!
Always!
Maybe you will have something to think about over the weekend and perhaps you will reflect on how awful religious bigotry truly is?
and I appreciate her commenting…but she does so in kindness and freindship.
She does not repel or curse at those who comment or visit.
She is genuine and gracious.
I’d appreicate you being the same.
“Im not pushing my beliefs on anyone. I’m only sharing with those who want it. It’s a gift. Of course if you believe you’re perfect and don’t need fixing, I wouldn’t think of pushing my beliefs on you, but I definitely will pray for you.”
@atimetoshare.me
I wish many were like you myself included
I really hate typing on my phone. What I’m trying to say is, I have the right to express my opinions, just as every other American. If my opinion ranks as hate speech, isn’t it the same for those who put me down for stating my beliefs? It’s a two way street. You don’t see straight people parading around with signs that tell others what I do in my bedroom. My God loves all people and gives them the opportunity to Become heirs of his kingdom by simply following him. My savior was executed so I could live with him in eternity. God justified all of us through his death and resurrection. Even those who don’t believe that.
Yes, you do. I never suggested otherwise. However,it is worth noting that the most important freedom is the freedom to accept the consequences. Something that is so often overlooked, wouldn’t you agree?
Could you please answer the question regarding the religious conviction of some Islamic countries that they have the right to execute homosexuals.
Is such action morally justifiable in your view?
I am not part of the civilizations you speak of. Therefore my opinion would carry no weight.
Aah … I am afraid you truly are part of the global civilisation.
The comments on these types of posts are always so fascinatingly revealing. I don’t have much to add except to say the lunacy will eventually stop, but not for awhile in my opinion. Unfortunately I think we will see increased violence and tribalism as the Left is really becoming unhinged with their constant street protests, public shaming and now openly calling for mob rule ala Maxine Waters. People will get hurt and Democrats will lose more elections. Then who will they blame?
Couldn’t have said it better myself Tricia
Well stated Tricia.
Bingo! Let’s hope you have it right. Best outcome we can expect. If certain state governments go off the deep end trying to protect their Liberal Democrat majorities, what a mess that could become!
I’m looking for that lost island someplace with my name on it— for a while I thought that was Ireland but then even they went off the deep end
Be patient. The Kingdom of God is here, and heaven awaits.
“Please take the blinders off your eyes and read the comment again. Slowly. Note the quotes. God’s word. Period. Biology, nature, reason, facts, logic, common sense, should all prevail”
Nothing said in the comments have presented any facts, talk on biology, nature, and just give us the bible passages. I asked @Citizen Tom to explain how homosexuality is a defective behavior and how it hurts people and he ended up writing an entire epistle ranting about what, I don’t know without addressing what I raised
“Ah so you want me to cite the law and Leviticus? I am much smarter than the games people play………thank God.
Romans says the same thing,, except with one addition: GRACE”
Can you please just send the bible verse
Most people would read that comment realize I answered you question.
😆
You just proved why I did not see the point of doing it.
The Theory of Evolution is not scientific?
“but apparently you are revolting against your own conscience, which weighs heavily and is enough to indict your foolishness. Are you also listening jonathan”
If I am revolting against my own conscience because I’m speaking against this bigotry and asking that once sexual orientation should not affect the way we treat each other. Then shame on you, maybe you should leave the passing of judgement to the god you worship and take lessons from the gospel on the need to treat everyone with love and kindness and not be so judgemental as I have seen this post and it’s comments are
“God does not have an opinion. He is God and is correct in all things. ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,’ just affirming what we already know.”
Are you implying god is a mindless robot. Nah don’t think that what you mean.
Saying that god does not have an opinion is not scriptural, as in the bible on different occasions god have commanded the Israelites to do this or don’t do that (at least that’s what the bible says) this shows god has an opinion
“All speaking the same harmonious voice of truth. And I dare you to find ONE religion in God’s creation that promotes the grace of God as found in biblical Christianity. Hint: there are none.”
@ColorStorm
I’m seeing this to mean that you don’t know what religion is because if you did you won’t be talking about finding a religion that says what the christian religion says better than christianity
They fact that almost all if not a christian denominations disagree with each other in one issue or another speaks volume about your “harmonious voice of truth”
God is infinite. We are finite. We each of a different point-of-view. Therefore, we each see a different aspect of God. That means it would be surprising if all Christian denominations agreed about everything. Yet the vast majority of Christians uphold the same Bible.
Don’t understand? There is an old poem that may help.
None of us have seen God. Can you imagine what would happen to a man if he did see God. God does not exist within our universe. He created our universe from nothing. If any of us saw our Creator would blow our little mind up.
So beautiful
I agree. Nice Ctom.
Just to show you how little thought you have given the matter, I will deal with your last statement. If God existed within our universe, then where was He when He created it?