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These are answers that tropicalstorm has provided in Christianity
| Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 03/15/09 - where is climate change mentioned in the Bible? I find this an interesting question, not because it isn't directly mentioned but because one would expect that if it is to feature prominently in the last days, then like earthquakes and other catastrophies of these times so clearly mentioned, we would expect it to get a more direct mention.
It begs the question; are we being decieved?
For example; will climate change bring about the new Earth?
tropicalstorm answered on 07/12/09:the fact is the climate is changing but it is not global warming. I have worn a jacket much of this summer and it is COLDER than ever for July.
The Bible does say that there will be signs in nature for the last days....earthquakes in diverse places.
Also this is very interesting.
STONY is into Perry Stone.
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=perry+stone+cosmic+signs+&search_type=&aq=f
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=perry+stone+apocolyptic+shaking+&search_type=&aq=f | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 06/05/09 - SEEMS LIKE THIS IS GETTING DESERTED AGAIN. JUST CAME BY TO CHECK ON YA'LL. tropicalstorm answered on 07/12/09:I check in every so many years | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 07/10/09 - Mark of the beast. Rev.13-16. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:
My question is this, what if the mark is entered into one's hand, or forehead, while they are uncounscious. Are they still guilty of receiving the mark? tropicalstorm answered on 07/12/09:I too believe that the RFID chip is the mark of the beast.
I do not think that they will make you get the mark. They will have camps to retrain your thinking first. The Bible says that God will put a seal on His people during that time so that no harm can come to them.
I am sure that means so they don't end up with the chip.
http://www.freedomfiles.org/war/fema.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK2g0TGaAZA&feature=related | | Question/Answer | | Ch.Petrus.82 asked on 07/22/08 - Message from ATON/DOMINO My old buddy is doing just fine and he asked me to pass on this message
"Let my friends know I miss them, and my enemies can kiss my butt."
IMO, he is needed on this board, what do you think?
Pete
tropicalstorm answered on 07/23/08:He made the board not bored!
I can't stir the gumbo as well without him :( | | Question/Answer | | frick asked on 06/21/08 - Who is an American? Suggested by Toms 777 claiming anyone living between northern Canada and the southern part of Chile is an "American" because the two continents are named North and South America.
Not so.
US citizens are called Americans because that is a shortened form of the name of their country - the United States of AMERICA. Not because they live in a certain continent.
This tradition has been so for centuries. What is so offensive about it?
Calling a person from Paraguay or Canada or Guyana an American would only serve to confuse.
"American" refers to a person from the United States. If Toms777 is ashamed of being a "Canadian" and wishes to be called "American", let him start a movement for his country to be annexed by the United States, then we can all happily call ex-Canadians Americans.
tropicalstorm answered on 07/21/08:what does it matter within 10 years we are all going to be united into one country like the EU
anyway. Shortly after the Freedom hiway is completed they will start pushing for Mexico, the USA and Canada to be one nation. | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 06/23/08 - Dont ya think??????????????????????????????????????????? It's kind of funny that Aton and Freethinker John disappeared at exactly the same time??? Not a whisper from them at any of their former forums. Methinks Aton is pushin' up daisy's and Freethinker John was an alias of Aton. Thus his disappearance too. Not exactly a "Columbo" episode, just a passing thought!!:);) tropicalstorm answered on 07/21/08:Nah I don't believe Aton and Freethinker are the same. Aton far more intelligent!!!!!
'Freethinker' is Credendovidis on askmehelpdesk.com
Check these out you WILL LOVE it!!!
http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/religious-discussions/religion-governments-control-over-people-232254-3.html?highlight=choux
http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/religious-discussions/evolution-origin-universe-religion-236939.html
Com'on over!!!
N0help4u
| | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 06/27/08 - Signs of the times??? When we see all this bad news throughout the world, ie earthquakes, floods, war, the price of oil going through the roof, sabre rattling by Israel and Iran, do you think that the Bible spoke of all these things? and isn't it amazing that these things are playing out just as Scripture said they would??? tropicalstorm answered on 07/21/08:Yep and I have been telling people for years
years before things even happened and now that they have happened people still insist it is normal. Nothing new. Yet it all lines up with
the Bible just as it says.
Nobody believed me about 9/11
Nobody believed me about the RFID
back when it was never heard of
Nobody believed any of what I have been saying.
When the anti christ is ON TV people will STILL be denying it. | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 07/01/08 - concerning Aton Why do you all rejoice so in Aton 's disbarrment. The only reason is because you feared his "belittlement" of you as you saw it. YOu gave him the power to make you feel that way. Your reactions to his words were not what a Christian'should have been. If you have faith inyour Faith, why get so upset over what he "said." JJ Dupree's silly childish spamming ws far more offenisve that words. If you all have faith in what u beieve no words can touch you. When he said"your violent desert god" , allyou had to say was "thats what e believe." No cheek turning for you all. tropicalstorm answered on 07/21/08:He sure did liven the place up!!! | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 04/04/08 - Can a person be too religious??? At my church, there are a couple of women who seem to try and run the whole church. Everything from policies to music and everything in between. They are nice enough but come off as very tight and stodgy acting. Basically they throw a wet blanket of legalism over the entire church. We have a young church that is experiencing growth and I'm afraid these 2, actually 3 Beth Moore wannabes are going to run the younger crowd off. To top it all off are preacher is leaving at the end of April, and I wonder if these women had anything to do with it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.:) tropicalstorm answered on 06/18/08:They are playing church
I used to call it playing the Holy Spirit because they want things conducted according to THEIR standards like they think they have the hot line to what God wants when actually they tend more to sabotage what God really wants to accomplish.
This is a more extreme case here but basically same difference. http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/christianity/born-again-227364.html?highlight=born+again | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 02/07/08 - 30 days in the hole!!!!!!!!........... But a "Kinder gentler outlaw" has emerged. :);) tropicalstorm answered on 06/17/08:must be so!!
I ain't no longer blocked! :D
Now Y did you do the time when I know ya couldna
dun tha crime!? | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 04/24/08 - What to do?? I am a Bluegrass Gospel Musician, I play guitar mandolin, bass, and sing. My best friend was one also. Unfortuantely his wife decided she wanted to be in the band, along with a cast of thousands so to speak. Guess what? Our Bluegrass Band became a "Contemporary Christian Band". We became "Electrified" and "Loud". But the music has no vibe to it, and basically I have to sing lead because the rest of them can't. I voiced my opinion that this music is not my style, but they keep badgering me because I have become the "Singer" and they need me. AHHHHHHH! the question please! Do you all think God will be mad at me, if I tell them to find another singer?? The fish are biting down at the river and that seems alot more fun than doing something I detest. Will I lose my friend? My Salvation? My inner sense of peace??? What would the experts here do??:) tropicalstorm answered on 06/17/08:gee of all the people to find on this site and I ain't even blocked!!! :D
Nah, if anything, God might git mad at dem for not havin' the vibe!
My suggestion is Y don't you join the Jesse James Dupree Jackyl band??? | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 06/13/08 - GOSPEL MUSIC: Dottie Rambo Other and Maggie and me, did any of you follow the illustrious career of songwriter/poet/musician Dottie Rambo, who was killed in a tour-bus accident several weeks ago?
Dottie wrote over 2500 Gospel songs,the most famous of which was "We Shall Behold Him," sung by Sandi Patti. Unexcelled in Gospel music!
If you enjoyed her talent, what was your favorite of her "classics?"
Thanks.
Bobbye
tropicalstorm answered on 06/17/08:That is really sad to hear. I admired her a lot.
I listened to her daughter Reba more than her though. I have been trying to find music by Reba but haven't been able to find any.
| | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 06/16/08 - HI to all Are domino and Tropical storm still on here? tropicalstorm answered on 06/17/08:I check in on rare occasion but find it boring with the only topics being anti mormon and anti this and anti that. I have more fun on the other site that a lot of others have gone to. | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 12/26/07 - The Global Flood -Part 1 This is the beginning of a series of articles explaining the evidences from geology for the Genesis Flood. Each article will discuss one evidence. This first article simply overviews all the evidences discussed in upcoming issues.
Have you ever been tongue-tied when asked to provide geologic evidence that the Genesis Flood really did occur, just as the Bible describes? Then what follows is for you.
This article provides an overview of six geologic evidences for the Genesis Flood, and in a series of six articles to follow, each geologic evidence will be elaborated upon. Together, they will provide you with ammunition and a teaching tool for you and others.
Why is it that many people, including many Christians, can’t see the geologic evidence for the Genesis Flood? It is usually because they have bought into the evolutionary idea that “the present is the key to the past.” They are convinced that, because today’s geological processes are so slow, the rock strata and the earth’s rock layers took millions of years to form.
Why is it that many people can’t see the geologic evidence for the Genesis Flood? Because many have bought into the evolutionary idea that “the present is the key to the past.”However, if the Genesis Flood really occurred, what evidence would we look for? We read in Genesis 7 and 8 that “the fountains of the great deep” were broken up and poured out water from inside the earth for 150 days (5 months). Plus it rained torrentially and globally for 40 days and nights (“the floodgates [or windows of heaven] were opened”). No wonder all the high hills and the mountains were covered, meaning the earth was covered by a global ocean (“the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished,” 2 Peter 3:6). All air-breathing life on the land was swept away and perished.
So what evidence would we look for? Wouldn’t we expect to find billions of dead plants and animals buried and fossilized in sand, mud, and lime that were deposited rapidly by water in rock layers all over the earth? Of course! That’s exactly what we find. Indeed, based on the description of the Flood in Genesis 7–8, there are six main geologic evidences that testify to the Genesis Flood.*
Six Evidences for the Genesis Flood
Evidence #1—Fossils of sea creatures high above sea level due to the ocean waters having flooded over the continents.
We find fossils of sea creatures in rock layers that cover all the continents. For example, most of the rock layers in the walls of Grand Canyon (more than a mile above sea level) contain marine fossils. Fossilized shellfish are even found in the Himalayas.
Evidence #2—Rapid burial of plants and animals.
We find extensive fossil “graveyards” and exquisitely preserved fossils. For example, billions of nautiloid fossils are found in a layer within the Redwall Limestone of Grand Canyon. This layer was deposited catastrophically by a massive flow of sediment (mostly lime sand). The chalk and coal beds of Europe and the United States, and the fish, ichthyosaurs, insects, and other fossils all around the world, testify of catastrophic destruction and burial.
Evidence #3—Rapidly deposited sediment layers spread across vast areas.
We find rock layers that can be traced all the way across continents—even between continents—and physical features in those strata indicate they were deposited rapidly. For example, the Tapeats Sandstone and Redwall Limestone of Grand Canyon can be traced across the entire United States, up into Canada, and even across the Atlantic Ocean to England. The chalk beds of England (the white cliffs of Dover) can be traced across Europe into the Middle East and are also found in the Midwest of the United States and in Western Australia. Inclined (sloping) layers within the Coconino Sandstone of Grand Canyon are testimony to 10,000 cubic miles of sand being deposited by huge water currents within days.
Evidence #4—Sediment transported long distances.
We find that the sediments in those widespread, rapidly deposited rock layers had to be eroded from distant sources and carried long distances by fast-moving water. For example, the sand for the Coconino Sandstone of Grand Canyon (Arizona) had to be eroded and transported from the northern portion of what is now the United States and Canada. Furthermore, water current indicators (such as ripple marks) preserved in rock layers show that for “300 million years” water currents were consistently flowing from northeast to southwest across all of North and South America, which, of course, is only possible over weeks during a global flood.
Evidence #5—Rapid or no erosion between strata.
We find evidence of rapid erosion, or even of no erosion, between rock layers. Flat, knife-edge boundaries between rock layers indicate continuous deposition of one layer after another, with no time for erosion. For example, there is no evidence of any “missing” millions of years (of erosion) in the flat boundary between two well-known layers of Grand Canyon—the Coconino Sandstone and the Hermit Formation. Another impressive example of flat boundaries at Grand Canyon is the Redwall Limestone and the strata beneath it.
Evidence #6—Many strata laid down in rapid succession.
Rocks do not normally bend; they break because they are hard and brittle. But in many places we find whole sequences of strata that were bent without fracturing, indicating that all the rock layers were rapidly deposited and folded while still wet and pliable before final hardening. For example, the Tapeats Sandstone in Grand Canyon is folded at a right angle (90°) without evidence of breaking. Yet this folding could only have occurred after the rest of the layers had been deposited, supposedly over “480 million years,” while the Tapeats Sandstone remained wet and pliable.
Conclusion
Jesus Christ our Creator (John 1:1–3; Colossians 1:16–17), who is the Truth and would never tell us a lie, said that during the “days of Noah” (Matthew 24:37; Luke 17:26–27) “Noah entered the Ark” and “the Flood came and took them all away” (Matthew 24:38–39). He spoke of these events as real, literal history, describing a global Flood that destroyed all land life not on the Ark.
Therefore, we must believe what Christ told us, rather than the ideas of fallible scientists who weren’t there to see what happened in the earth’s past. Thus we shouldn’t be surprised when the geologic evidence in God’s world (rightly understood by asking the right questions) agrees exactly with God’s Word, affirmed by Jesus Christ.
The next article in this geology series will look in detail at the geologic evidence that the ocean waters flooded over the continents, just as described in Genesis 7–8.
* I want to acknowledge that these geologic evidences have been elaborated on by my colleague Dr. Steve Austin at the Institute for Creation Research in his book Grand Canyon: Monument to Catastrophe, pages 51–52 (Institute for Creation Research, Santee, California, 1994).
tropicalstorm answered on 12/30/07:I don't know any Christians that deny the flood. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 12/28/07 - Should I do this??????????????????????????????????? I am seriously considering blocking peddler and Tom Smith because of their continuing false accusations, twisting of what I say, and their many lies about me and others here.
If they continue to do that I think I will block them and urge everyone else to do the same.
It appears to be the only way we can stop their many abuses of us all.
Do you think that we should block them?
If not, why not?
If so, why so?
tropicalstorm answered on 12/30/07:don't waste your time or breath come on over to askmehelpdesk where there is more intelligent life form. | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 11/24/07 - Fred-Is Liz as Good a Christian as Ronnie? I have said repeatedly that Liz was no Christian and now she admits it. Does that make you feel stupid? It should.
However I will bet the ranch that you will continue to call her a Christian anyway. You would call Domino a Christian if it helped your argument against me.
Clarification/Follow-up by Liz22 on 11/24/07 10:01 am:
You better wake up peddler before the year 2008, your eyes are blinded of knowing the real truth, and the lies that Christianity has spread through out the world.
You are responsible for making people of all kinds turn away from the True God
The Christians she was refering to were the Roman Catholics as the post she was refering to was copied word for word from http://www.catholic.com/library/Hell_There_Is.asp
Here is where you have to choose to follow God or lie like a dog.
Is Liz a Christian or no? tropicalstorm answered on 12/18/07:I don't bother with what I believe here because for one most people don't care and I don't see the point in wasting my breath when they have even said in so many words don't cast your pearls --because that is what it is here.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 11/24/07 - sorry about the multiple post Laptop is a pain tropicalstorm answered on 11/25/07:OH :D what sacrifice it must be typing with sticking keys to spread your love to the unappreciative :D | | Question/Answer | | Tempus-Omnia-Revelat asked on 11/25/07 - Pleasure, Jacky JesseJamesDupree ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Topic : "Thanks Pericles" by JesseJamesDupree dated 11/25/07
Pleasure, Jacky JesseJamesDupree
What a pity that you blocked me, otherwise I could have replied to your topic directly!
And I needed (to say) that too! No need to let you feel guilty about that any longer.
As long as you keep to your promise no longer to abuse and harass people ....
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 11/25/07:How touching!
PH you are right unconditional....hmmm what is the psychology word for that???? I believe it is a form of passive aggressive....BUT what is the word for it???? | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 10/24/07 - Where do they come from??? Where do fools, like the anti-Mormon bigot "server" come from????? And what is her/his/it's purpose on this board. Certainly NOT to answer questions, since, in the three months she/he/it has signed on, she/he/it has racked up 79 UNANSWERED QUESTIONS, HAS REFUSED TO ANSWER 880 public questions, and in three months has given ONLY TWO ANSWERS....And since she/he/it has not had the guts to sign up as an EXPERT in ANY category, I have to ask which of our resident bigots is using 'server' as an alias to spew Anti-Mormon venom with hoped-for impunity????????? tropicalstorm answered on 10/24/07:WHY did your movie have to be independent?
Now I have to relearn something I haven't kept up with in the past 30+ years! I haven't known where the independent theaters in Pittsburgh are since the 70's.
I guess I may be smarter than Toms I knew Spielberg is a producer not an actor and
I am not one to keep up with movies.
The last 'new' actress I remember is Ellen Hunt LOL.
I still think server might be maddawg???? | | Question/Answer | revdauphinee asked on 10/23/07 - fyi
i posted my last posting here also on an international network i would like you to readResponse:from a girl who lives under shiria law !
realy?well i grew up in the muslim town,since my country we have a number of muslim.my father work thier so we have to saty thier and i grew up thier. i think what i see is they are nice peole but the teaching that put in thier mind is horrified me.what can you do that teaching ingrave to thier mind by cencuries. its a different teaching by different preatcher.some teach good some teach verry bad.and most of the people thier they dont educate thier self, they have follow the leader step. and the leader corrupted thier minds,. by this teaching that christian are the enemy and if you are not muslim you will never see the paradise. and if you kill the enemy all of your family will be in paradise,by your sucrifising killing the enemy witch christian.you will see paradise and marry 72 virgin..well thats what i heard thier.and some of my friend thier told me that. we decide toeave the town.but i never forget the horror ive seen thier. people killing people..its a wrong teaching lead the people in the wrong way.
tropicalstorm answered on 10/23/07:come on over to askmehelpdesk the people aren't so vicious over there....even the ones from here :) | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 10/18/07 - Brigham Young: Penalty for Racial Intermarriage Reposted due to the manipulation of the board by spammer John:
"Shall I tell you the law of God in regard to the African race? If the white man who belongs to the chosen seed mixes his blood with the seed of Cain, the penalty, under the law of God, is death on the spot. This will always be so."
(Source: Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses 10:110)
tropicalstorm answered on 10/18/07:Wonder what his thoughts would be on Moses going down to Egypt to get his wife or however that went! | | Question/Answer | | Ch.Pétrus.82 asked on 10/17/07 - ladybugca is a fraud. She has no control over this board.
She can prove she is genuine by having me removed in the next 24 hours.
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 10/17/07:If you get banned from here try us over at
askmehelpdesk.com It certainly ain't as dead over there and even if you don't get banned here come on over anyway.
I am --Nohelp4u | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 10/16/07 - Another quandry!! Am I the only one who finds it strange that the user known as 'ladybugca' who, according to the postings on the expert forum, went in to surgery for cervical cancer at the end of July, should be so recovered as to waste what is left of what must be her valuable time posting silly threats against an Atheist user on this board...while ignoring the filth that continues to pour out of a self-proclaimed 'born again' christian????
And since the alleged "vijay" claims also to have been undergoing 'medical problems', does it not seem strange that, after more than a year of 'silence' he is NOW taking a re-interest in answerway?????
Two ill people who have nothing better to do with their time than try to monitor a dying board?????
What is REALLY going on???? tropicalstorm answered on 10/17/07:Try askmehelpdesk.com it ain't all that dead over there and I am Nohelp4u on there!!!
C U over there (hopefully)
and C U at the movie when it comes out
I will be the first in line at the
Dependable Drive In or Twin Hiway Drive In!!! | | Question/Answer | | holly23 asked on 10/17/07 - fighting in heaven
What is this about "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" Will there be a war betwn good and evil in heaven?
Ephesians 6:10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
what does it mean?
tropicalstorm answered on 10/17/07:That is simply talking about how your flesh fights to sin and your spirit fights to live a godly life.
The war in heaven is something totally different and in Revelations | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 10/13/07 - TOMS, DO YOU THINK JOEL OSTEEN IS SAVED? He preaches a strange doctrine (if we can call it "doctrine" in the slightest sense of the word).
You stated/implied in your rating of my response to Peddler that Ronnie is not saved, "...I hope one day he will be saved...."
Tom, that is between Him and God! Leave it there, please.
Let's get on with helping each other get to the next level in the Kingdom.
Bobbye tropicalstorm answered on 10/14/07:The whole problem with Joel (and I love the guy dearly) is that he is more of a motivational speaker than preaching the Bible. The Bible says that in the last days people will want to hear what makes them feel good rather than the word of God and they will be lead astray not hearing the truth. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 09/15/07 - Is Adam actually Michael the Archangel? Ronnie claims so - we are still waiting for any scriptural basis for this heresy though.
Perhaps he will start denying this now like he did the Mormon teaching that Adam is God (which makes Michael out to be God).
Perhaps Ronnie's cat told him this also ;-) tropicalstorm answered on 09/16/07:From what I understand I think it is in Philipians it says in so many words that Jesus was higher than any (all) angels...........
in the sense he was not an angel in any way. | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 09/04/07 - NOW THIS MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD...
HEY GUYS BETTER BE CAREFUL ABOUT MAKING THE 'hONEY'
ANGRY.
ANGER MANAGEMENT
>
> Husband: "When I get mad at you, you never fight
> back. How do you control your anger?"
>
> Wife: "Easy, I just clean the toilet .."
>
> Husband: "How does that help?"
>
> Wife: "Simple, I use your toothbrush."
> tropicalstorm answered on 09/04/07:wonder if she kisses him???????? | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 09/04/07 - A WORD TO THE WISE....... WHOEVER ANGERS YOU CONTROLS YOU. "REMEMBER", THIS IS WHERE FORGIVENESS COMES IN. LET THAT SOAK IN AND THEN TAKE IT AND RUN WITH IT. tropicalstorm answered on 09/04/07:Thats basically what I tell people all the time. I know so many people that lose their temper at others all the time and I tell them you are all angrily raging and wanting to go break stuff and beat them up and they aren't thinking a thing about you. They are going about their business and they will go have a good night sleep and even laughing that they have you all upset. Then you go do something stupid over it and get arrested and they have the last laugh.....so what is the point in letting them get the better of you!? | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 09/02/07 - Today’s Bible Lesson James Chapter 2 Part of the definition of a cult is an organization, usually tremendously wealthy and powerful, that takes selected Bible versus out of context and builds a doctrine on them that requires said organization for peace, prosperity, and salvation.
Many pagan cults use the words in James chapter 2 to deny the atoning blood of Jesus Christ as the gift of salvation and replace it with grace +works+ the sacraments, + tithing + Charity + living a good life + church attendance +_ the blessing of the priest etc. In other words you actually deserve and earn your salvation by doing what the cult tells you to do. They do this in great part by quoting James out of context and ignoring all the versus that contradict that conclusion.
Read the following versus.
Jam 2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Jam 2:15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
Jam 2:16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
Jam 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
Jam 2:18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.
Jam 2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
Jam 2:20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
Jam 2:21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
Jam 2:22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
Jam 2:23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
What James is saying in verse 14-15 is how we need to treat people, how to witness to people, not how to go to heaven ourselves.
Jam 2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Jam 2:15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
Food cannot save your mortal soul so it is obvious what James is talking about is you must have compassion on your brothers physical needs before he will listen to your message of salvation. Why should he/she believe you are concerned about their mortal soul if you leave them naked and starving?
Read 16 -17 again:
Jam 2:16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
Jam 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
What James is teaching us is how to treat unsaved people Again food and clothing do not save mortal souls. The demonstration of your faith through the physical gifts freely given out of the love of Christ that dwells within can be a witness to the unsaved that will lead them to the saving grace of Christ Jesus.
James is also telling us to treat people that show no outward appearance of being saved as lost. In case they are actually lost it may lead them to salvation and if they are it may convict them to do something for God.
Many here mock me for being a Fundamental Baptist . Fundamental Baptist go out on Saturday and build their bus route and lead people to Christ. That is not much considering what Christ did for us but it is what pleases Him most.
The cults who misrepresent James teaching to promote the ancient pagan, Stoic. belief in salvation by works seem to forget this verse:
Jam 5:20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
We are saved by grace and by grace alone and James taught that as is evident in 5:20
Heb 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. (James 2:10)
C. S. Lewis said, "…the Christian is in a different position from other people who are trying to be good. They hope, by being good, to please God if there is one; or … at least they hope to deserve the approval from good men. But the Christian thinks any good he does comes from the Christ-life inside him. He does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us; just as the roof of a greenhouse does not attract the sun because it is bright, but becomes bright because the sun shines on it." (Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis, Macmillan Publishing Company, 1943, book II, chapter 5) In this regard Christianity differs from the other formal religions (those based on a documented systematic theology).
Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
Eph 2:7 That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Faith is more than academic belief. It is a transforming commitment that always results in repentance and good works. But good works for the wrong reason are of no eternal value.
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (James 2:17)
tropicalstorm answered on 09/02/07:That is basically why I don't go to dead stagnet (stoic churches and try feeding the homeless.....the conservatives scream bloody murder that you are being an enabler!
I like the balance although it can be hard to find at times! | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 09/02/07 - Is there anyone here who seeks the place of honor? Liturgical day: Sunday 22th (C) in Ordinary Time
Today's Gospel (Lk 14:1.7-14): One Sabbath Jesus had gone to eat a meal in the house of a leading Pharisee, and He was carefully watched. Jesus then told a parable to the guests, for He had noticed how they tried to take the places of honor. And He said, «When you are invited to a wedding party, do not choose the best seat. It may happen that someone more important than you has been invited, and your host, who invited both of you, will come and say to you: ‘Please give this person your place’. What shame is yours when you take the lowest seat! Whenever you are invited, go rather to the lowest seat, so that your host may come and say to you: ‘Friend, you must come up higher’. And this will be a great honor for you in the presence of all the other guests. For whoever makes himself out to be great will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be raised».
Jesus also addressed the man who had invited him and said, «When you give a lunch or a dinner, don't invite your friends, or your brothers and relatives and wealthy neighbors. For surely they will also invite you in return and you will be repaid. When you give a feast, invite instead the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind. Fortunate are you then, because they can't repay you; you will be repaid at the Resurrection of the upright».
Commentary: Fr. Enric Prat i Jordana (Sort-Lleida, Catalonia)
«He had noticed how they tried to take the places of honor»
Today, Jesus teaches us a masterly lesson: do not choose the best seat: «When you are invited to a wedding party, do not choose the best seat» (Lk 14:8). Jesus knows we like to look for the best places: in official acts, informal gatherings, at home, at the table. He knows our trend to overrate ourselves out of vanity, or worse still, out of a poorly hidden pride. So let us therefore be careful with honors, for «the heart remains chained where it finds the possibility of delight» (St. Leo the Great).
Haven't we ever been told that there were no colleagues with more merit or better personal values than us? It is not, therefore, a question of a sporadic feat, but of an assumed attitude of considering ourselves the smarter, the most important, the most deserving, the always rightful ones; an aspiration supposing a narrow vision of ourselves and of those around us. In fact, Jesus invites us to practice the perfect humility, consisting in not judging ourselves or the others, and to be conscious of our individual insignificance, in the global cosmic and of life concert.
Thus, Jesus, proposes us, by precaution, to always choose the lowest seat, because, while we may not know the intimate reality of the others, we are fully aware that in the great show of the Universe we are totally irrelevant. Therefore, to place us in the last position is to be on the safe side. Lest the Lord, that knows us well intimately, did not have to tell us: «‘Please give this person your place’. What shame is yours when you take the lowest seat!» (Lk 14:9).
In the same line of thought, the Master invites us to place ourselves with humility beside those chosen by God: the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind, and to be at the same level than them to find ourselves amidst those God loves with special tenderness, and to overcome the repugnance and shame to share with them table and friendship. tropicalstorm answered on 09/02/07:Jam 2:1
My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism.
Jam 2:2
Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in.
Jam 2:3
If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here's a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,”
Jam 2:4
have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
Jam 2:5
Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?
Jam 2:6
But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?
Jam 2:7
Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?
Jam 2:8
If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,”[fn1] you are doing right.
Jam 2:9
But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 09/01/07 - Peddliar and Tom - especially for you .................................
Peddliar,
I said (LEARN TO READ!) the Mormon Church - that is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - has never taught that Jesus was either married or not married.
The scriptures are silent on that count.
I am aware that there have been Latter-day Saints who have believed that Jesus was married, but anyone can hold an opinion without all of Mormondom being swept along by speculative notions and them becoming thereby LDS Church doctrine.
This distinction is probably too subtle for your lax mind to absorb, so you will bang the old drum as if you have made a significant discovery. You have not! You merely confirm your inability to think outside the Blithering Baptists' Bigot's Box of nonsense. Tough on you, but of no consequence whatsoever to any Latter-day Saint, nor to God or to God's Son Jesus.
Mormons know that Jesus IS the Christ. You and your l;ittle cult or coven say he WAS the Christ, meaning that he is no longer the Christ, but that is insane, just like everything else you believe in in your little cult.
Like all children shouting in the schoolyard, you frame your arguments from unsound premises, and care nothing for the truth or accuracy of your statements. You are as stupid as Tom, and that is saying something!
Repeating a lie a million times does nothing to move it towards truth. that is something your masters, Lucifer and Lying Tom, have yet to learn. You would do well to take that lesson into what you choose to call your mind.
Other Christians besides the odd Mormon have held Jesus to have been married. I post a selection of their views, none of which are Mormon. These extracts will help you to understand what the rest of Christianity of doing whilst you are shooting Mormons out of hatred and ignorance.
In all your researches I am surprised that you have not come across an article that I penned on this very subject ten or so years ago. Try looking harder.
http://altreligion.about.com/library/glossary/symbols/bl_davinci2.htm
Whether Jesus was married or not was simply not an issue for the early Church, who simply accepted that Jesus was a married man, but offered little comment. It wasn't until the second century that the idea of marriage came into conflict with developing ideas about Jesus as a divine being. Later, ideas about the impurity of sexual behavior would make a married Jesus intolerable. So distasteful was the idea that even Jesus' mother was declared to have been a virgin her entire life.
Many early Christians believed the Old Testament Song of Solomon was prophetic of a marriage between Jesus and Mary magdalen. Two Christian authors, Hippolytus of Rome and Origen of Alexandria, subscribed to this belief.*
Unmarried Men in Judaism
One of the strongest arguments in favor of a married Jesus is that a Jewish bachelor in the first century would have been unheard of- a curse. Marriage and children were a cornerstone of Jewish theology and an unmarried man would have ordinarily have been the subject of much comment. However, there was a precedent for celibate Jewish men in the Essene community, as you will read below.
The Gospels
Read More
John Rebukes Jesus
Rabbi Jesus
The New Testament gospels are the closest thing there is to a historical record when it comes to the life of Jesus. Unfortunately, they make no mention of Jesus' marital status, and give few clues one way or the other. This does not necessarily mean that there was no wife, as the gospels are also silent on much of Jesus' life before the beginning his ministry.
Some take the silence of the gospels as evidence in favor of marriage, as an unmarried Jewish man would have been enough of a rarity at the time that it would almost certainly have been commented on.. Many assume Mary Magdalene to be that wife, as she is the only candidate mentioned in narratives about the crucifixion, and because she apparently fulfils the role of spouse in many symbolic moments in the gospels, such as the annointing of Christ with funeral unguents carried out before the crucifixion.**
On the other hand, Jesus appears to be referring to his own celibacy when he comments in the book of Mathew on "eunuchs for the Kingdom", a comment later picked up by Paul in his own arguments in favor of celibacy. In the end, there's a chicken-or-the-egg effect- did a celibate Jesus lead to a celibate priesthood, or were scriptures interpreted in accordance with Paul's teaching on celibacy?
Another note of interest is an accusation against Jesus in the scriptures of the Mandeans, namely, that he caused Jews to stop having children, an affront to Jewish doctrine:
"Thou hast lied to the Jews and deceived the priests. Thou hast cut off their seed from the men and from the women bearing and being pregnant. The Sabbath, which Moses made binding, hast thou relaxed in Jerusalem. Thou hast lied unto them with horns and spread abroad disgrace with the shofar."
Jesus the Rebel?
Read More
Roman Crucifixion and Jewish Burial
Messiah
According to the Da Vinci Code, the marriage of Jesus and Mary is a dynastic marriage, intended to bring together two royal lines. Many authors suggest that Jesus was not out to found a religion, but claimed to be the Jewish messiah- a seditious rebel who was crucified not for spiritual claims, but for threatening to overthrow Roman rule in Palestine. Scripture makes much mention of Jesus' royal lineage, and his fulfilment of messianic prophecies- but the messiah expected by the Jews was not a god, but a warrior-prophet who would defeat the gentiles and restore the throne of David and the ascendency of his people.
Crucifixion
It is often pointed out in dynastic arguments that if Jesus was executed for blasphemy, as claimed by the gospels, the punishment would be stoning administered by the Hebrew community, and not crucifixion, the Romans preferred punishment for insurrection. A trial before the ruling Romans would have been unusual, as a blasphemy against the Hebrew god would not have likely concerned them, and it was customary at the time to defer such issues to the Sanhedrin, the ruling body of the Jews.
This is not too far fetched, as Jesus makes many messianic claims at a time when the expected Messiah was not a god, but a man of the royal House of David- and the authors of the canonical scriptures take great pains to connect Jesus to David through both his mother and his 'stepfather' Joseph. Jesus is also presented in scriptural stories as quite conscious of fulfilling messianic prophecies, and surrounds himself with members of the Zealot party, rebels who opposed the Roman occupation.
<<<<<<<<<
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=23246
[Baptist Press]
So what is the evidence for a single Jesus? Ancient documents make no specific statement that Jesus was single.
...................
http://www.christian-thinktank.com/singlejesus.html
It would have been 'normal' for him to have been married
................................
http://www.namb.net/site/apps/nl/content2.asp?c=9qKILUOzEpH&b=227361&ct=2457909
So what is the evidence for a single Jesus? Ancient documents make no specific statement that Jesus was single. Is what is written about Jesus more consistent with a married or single Jesus?
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http://www.angelfire.com/or2/thelordisnear/jcmarry.html
Did Jesus marry?
"The important thing is to not stop questioning" -Albert Einstein
The book and movie, "The DaVinci Code" claim that Jesus Christ married and fathered at least one child. Although the book is fictional, it raises a good question:
Was Jesus married?
Traditional Christians -- Catholics and Protestants alike -- don't believe Jesus was married because the New Testament accounts of Jesus' life don't mention it.
But there are some overlooked biblical passages which indicate Jesus may have married and fathered children.
First, there are reportedly over 300 specific Old Testament prophecies about Jesus' human life. Of those prophecies, none predicted that he would be celibate or a virgin his entire lifetime.
Second, nothing is known about Jesus' life from age 12 to 30, except that his trade was carpentry. In those 18 years he may have married -- or not.
The books of the Catholic and Protestant Bibles we read today were included as "sacred scripture" at the Councils of Laodicea (363 AD) and Carthage (397 AD) -- by the Catholic Church. That church emphasizes celibacy as the way to holiness. Priests and nuns are celibate.
Any books which even hinted at Jesus having a romantic love interest may have been excluded. For instance, the "gospel of Thomas" includes a passage about Jesus often kissing Mary Magdalene. Mary was the first person who saw Jesus after his resurrection, showing that she was no doubt emotionally and spiritually close to Jesus. Her first reaction to seeing Jesus alive was to embrace him. (John 20:16, 17)
Isaiah 53 is a detailed prophecy of Jesus' life. Notice verse 10: "When You make his (Jesus') soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed." If you look up the word "seed" in Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, that Hebrew word always means "child" or "children" in several Old Testament passages where it is used.
So, when Jesus was hanging on the cross, if you understand this passage plainly as it is written, he saw his child or children.
........................
http://magazine.mormonfundamentalism.org/jcrefute.htm
The following treatise was written by the Director of the British Institute of Mormon Studies in response to last month’s, "A Married Messiah?", and takes a quite different view of the same subject:
WAS JESUS MARRIED?
A consideration of the evidence
By Ronnie Bray [Who is a mainstream Latter-day Saint]
Was Jesus married? An interesting question that has never been raised in the arena of scholarly Christology. [I have since learned that this is not entirely accurate] Nevertheless, it raises interest by the very act of asking the question.
There are three main schools of thought about the question: those who believe that he was not and could not have been. These are in the main from the mainstream of Christian scholarship. For them, the question is absurd. The absurdity may be seen as arising from the perspective that celibacy is the superior way of life, required by the Roman Church for several centuries.
And while the Protestant churches have cast off many of the trappings of Catholicism in their brief history, they have never entirely divested themselves of Catholic attitudes to sexuality, especially sexuality and spirituality and the bearing each has upon the other.
The second group are those who do not know whether he was or not. They are, probably quire rightly, confused by the issues, and who can fail to be confused? The issues are far from clear. The final group is that which is in no doubt that Jesus was married. This is an interesting group because of its composition. It is not found in the mainstream of Christianity. In fact, many from this group do not belong to Christianity at all, but are what may be described as side-line snipers; critics of Christianity (and most other religions), whose main purpose is to discomfort Christians by expressing volubly the unacceptable idea that Jesus was married and thereby enjoyed normal intimate relations with a woman.
Some Jewish scholars present this perspective simply from the point of view that Jesus was a Jewish man although admittedly an extraordinary one. To this group also belong some early Latter-day Saint theologians and, it should be said, some later ones. Their purpose is dictated by the need to demonstrate that Jesus must have been married.
This theological necessity is determined by the Latter-day Saint understanding of exaltation and Godhood.
These three schools of thought are engaged in some sort of a debate without communicating with one another. Their positions are firmly entrenched and they do not yield. But, what evidence is there for these discrete positions?
Tatian, a Gnostic, and Basilides, an Alexandrian theologian with Gnostic tendencies, are said by some (Joyce, Donovan The Jesus Scroll, Sphere Books Ltd. London, 1973, p. 86) to have been the founders of the idea that Jesus was not married. … What is the evidence for Jesus having been married or not married? Is there any evidence? It has to be admitted that the most often proposed argument in favour his having married is based on arguments from silence. For obvious reasons, these are never satisfactory; one has to jump to too many conclusions to accept them with any degree of enthusiasm.
Jesus the Jew
Whilst the Judaic traditions required a father to ensure that his sons were circumcised, redeemed, acquire an education, a trade, and a wife, it is by no means certain that all Jewish boys were the beneficiaries of all these. Indeed, some might have none at all. Not all the B’nei Yisrael were deeply religious at the Meridian of Time, any more than the adherents or followers of any religion are.
Sanders holds that Paul was probably a zealot who had no time for marriage.( Sanders, EP Paul, OUP, 1981, Oxford) It could be argued that Jesus, like Paul had a specific and individual mission to perform, and that his mission precluded his marrying during mortality. That is, of course, speculative and speculation is the enemy of scholarship and often leads us far from truth. …
Recognising that it was not unusual for Jewish boys to have their education and religious and social duties overlooked by parents, together with the recognition that Jesus was by no means ordinary and that his unusual destiny was known to at least one of his parents, and probably to both according to the scriptural records, there is little room to feel sure that his life would follow the normative course for other boys of his generation. The Torah (the Tanach was not in existence in Jesus’ day) laid duties upon fathers to perform certain things for their sons. About Jesus, we can only be sure about his circumcision, although his religious education does not appear to have been neglected, as the interesting vignette of the twelve-year old shows.
If Jesus was married, why is there no reference to his wife or children? References to his family are limited to his mother and his brothers and sisters, although these have been carefully interpreted by Roman Catholics to be children of the reticent Joseph by a previous marriage. This is a legal fiction. Theological necessity produces many such fictions on the grounds that "It has to be because it must be!" Similarly, if we have to have Jesus married we will read the evidence, such as it is, to reach that conclusion. This can not be done except at the cost of truth, so we need to be circumspect and honest.
Orson Hyde taught that Jesus was married, and names Mary and Martha as having been his wives.(Journal of Discourses, volume 2, 10 June 1854) The reasoning behind his opinions is the same as those sideline snipers,(Baigent, Leigh, and Lincoln Holy Blood, Holy Grail, Dell Books) who aim to embarrass Christians. What is the weight of his evidence? Are the snipers using sound judgement or creating a monster out of smoke? Both groups claim that the wedding feat at Cana was one of Jesus’ marriages. As to his others they are all strangely silent. Their reasons for Jesus being the bridegroom at Cana are slight and unsure. They point out that Jesus was summoned to the wedding, as a bridegroom would have been. However, wedding guests were also summoned or invited to the feast, as detailed in the parable of the wedding guests. This construction is less than convincing. To support their viewpoint it is pointed out that Jesus’ mother asked him to supply the wine. Since the bridegroom had the responsibility to supply the wine, it is argued that the groom must indeed have been Jesus. However, Mary approached her son in extremis, after the initial supply of wine) supplied by the real bridegroom) had dried up. Although not expressed in the narrative of the Fourth Gospel, she was clearly asking him to use his supranatural power to provide further wine. He understood the request not as a bridegroom who had failed to asses the number of guests expected at his wedding – an unlikely event – but as one who had been called upon to perform, not a mere miracle, but a sign of his divinity. The synopticists are significantly silent about this event. If it had been the marriage of Jesus is it likely that it would have failed to have been mentioned, at least By Matthew who is at pains to demonstrate the Jewishness of Jesus as the promised mashiach? …
Some scholars confine Jesus to marrying that Mary, who is identified by the Roman Church as being the penitent woman, Mary of Bethany and the Magdalene rolled into one. There is no textual or historical reason to confuse the women except, perhaps, to manufacture a type of woman who, whilst inferior to Mary the Virgin mother of Christ, is identifiable with all sinful women – and apart from the "Blessed Virgin Mary" - there are only sinful women. There are no reasons apart from doctrinal necessity that indicates anything other than that Mary of Bethany and Mary Magdalene were other than upright and righteous women. Neither is there anything to suggest that Mary of Bethany was the husband of Jesus.
It is not insignificant that the appeal is again to the Fourth Gospel, the only place where the raising of Lazarus is recorded. Much is made of the fact that Mary remained in the house until she was ‘called’ by Jesus through the voice of Martha. We do not know enough of the circumstances to determine why Mary remained in the house. It is true that a wife would not run out of the house to greet her husband until he bade her do so. However, it is equally certain that unless Mary was aware that Jesus was outside she would remain where she was unless she had good reason to do otherwise. Again, we must remember that we are not reading biography, although much of the content of the Fourth Gospel is historically accurate. Other parts may not be so accurate as to be taken as verbatim accounts of events. … Who stayed where is of little importance and is unreliable in forming an opinion as to the marital state of either Jesus or Mary. Did she call him Lord? If she did, the word has a wide semantic range. In Aramaic, the language of Jesus and Mary, it is baal, meaning, lord, master, or husband, or anything in between. The relationship between Jesus and the little family at Bethany was obviously such that they knew his mission and destiny. Calling him master was not unusual or inappropriate, even for those to whom he was not married. Men also called him master.
… Phipps argument from silence is flimsy and easy to controvert. He writes as one who believes the Gospels to be biographical which they patently are not. Each of the Gospels was written for a particular purpose, the material in them being manipulated towards specific ends. This does not detract from their value; rather it ensures that readers understand the points of view of the believing community.
The title, rabbi, meant teacher. In the time of Jesus’ mortal ministry Judaism was not yet formed. … The great age of rabbinism had neither yet dawned. … Reading back present forms into ancient ones is likely to lead us further from the truth rather than toward it.
Appeal to the authority of Celsus is self-defeating. This pagan philosopher mounted a bitter attack on Christianity and would be likely to say anything that put Jesus in a bad light, such as the kissing of a woman on the lips, whether married to her or not. His True Discourse (c. 178) is the earliest known literary swipe at Christianity that we know only through fragments and through references to it in Origen’s response. To Celsus, the doctrines of Incarnation and Crucifixion were repugnant. He was the first anti-Mormon author!
The Gospel of Phillip is part of that literature – of which there is a mountain – known as the pseudepigrapha, meaning writings claiming to have been written by famous people, but which are known to be spurious. It is unreliable in the extreme as anyone familiar with it has discovered. Its main use is to show what later Christians, and sometimes non-Christians or heretics, thought the Church ought to teach. Writings in the name of some famous figure from the past were more likely to be accepted as authoritative by believers. … You need to be circumspect when appealing to them for they are not trustworthy. Likewise when relying on tombstone inscription to determine who was buried in them or what the inscriptions really mean. Martha and Jesus were common enough names and we need not imagine that because the location seems right, that these inscription refer to characters from the pages of scripture. …
Dr Udleys assertion that Simeon ben Jesus was Bishop of Jerusalem until his death in AD 106 beggars belief. One would expect that a Master of Theology would be aware that Jerusalem was destroyed in AD 70 by the Roman Army under General Sylvius, and that the Jews in Jerusalem were either slaughtered or taken into slavery, the city ploughed up, and that was the end of the Jerusalem branch of the Church of Christ. It disappeared from the stage of history. … One tends to suspect the Doctor’s academic credentials!
Well, that’s a pretty good hatchet job on your essay! It still does not address the question. Of whether Jesus was married. The answer to that question is, "I don’t know!" I do know that we should be. Section 131 makes that abundantly clear, and we have no excuse for non-compliance once we are aware of the doctrine. I know that Jesus will have to become married if he is not already. Could he have been married before he came to earth through the Incarnation? "And the Word was God." The scriptures are silent, and the inferences we may draw may give us comfort, but may not be reliable. The indices of his marital status are too slight to be safe. The argument from silence is never satisfactory. Silence can be understood in so many ways.
I hope that you find my response of interest and that it will spur you to a more profound study of a fascinating subject. I thank you for this opportunity to respond. It was the kick from behind that I needed to get writing again. I have been static too long. Feeling sorry for myself, I shouldn’t wonder. Thank you for providing the impetus to open a few books and brush away the cobwebs that have bound up my grey matter for far too long.
A response to the above article follows below -
Jesus Was Married! [written by the editor of the magazine]
Latter-day Apostles and Prophets Testify.
I have been quite surprised [writes the editor] to find that my recent article, "The Married Messiah", has proved to be so controversial, especially to another Latter-day Saint. My treatment of the subject was but a summary of some of the scriptural and cultural arguments for Jesus having been married, as have occasionally appeared in popular Mormon publications. Yet I find myself honoured that it proved to be of such interest, that someone felt it warranted a response. The arguments against the evidences I presented are well written, and pointed out weaknesses in the reasoning used and alternative interpretations, that I perhaps should have noticed before the final version was published. No doubt those who might read such different treatments of the subject, will find themselves provoked to further personal study, which I’m sure is the goal of those who stand on both sides of this issue.
Peddliar,
Get it right! It is not hard if you are honest.
tropicalstorm answered on 09/01/07:the blithering Baptists' Bigot's Bible does say avoid vain speculations which is all 'they' (Peddles) seems to peddle as his favorite past time! | | Question/Answer | | Ch.Pétrus.82 asked on 08/29/07 - Pericles Please be a good fellow & stop messing with other good peoples posts.
Thanks
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 08/30/07:Would be nice but his messing is good as far as he is concerned! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 08/29/07 - ANY TAKERS????? O.K. all you gamblers.....For the FIFTH time around, Jessica Jane Dupoop/unholy Holly claims to have FOUND JESUS AGAIN. I am offering ten to one odds that this latest round of sobriety will last no more than a week, before we find the board filled with her filth again......ANY TAKERS??????? tropicalstorm answered on 08/29/07:Like my old boyfriend use to say............
"I quit drinking, NO more, thats it I am sick of it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
AND I rightly added "UNTIL tomorrow morning!" | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/28/07 - For your enjoyment................................
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tropicalstorm answered on 08/28/07:I am patiently waiting for the day America wakes up and is fed up with "*celebs*" getting a pat on the hand (few hours in *jail* thaj mahal style!)
| | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 08/28/07 - Is Ignorance a religion?
Lately the atheists here have been claiming on one hand that science proves atheism and on the other that it has nothing to do with religion.
Perk rants and rave about nonsense like the evolution of intelligence and then proves he lacks the intelligence to defend that statement.
Domino claims scientists don’t make assumptions then goes dead silent because he assumes correctly he lacks the knowledge to defend that guffaw.
Then there is Mary Mary quite contrary who argues like John Kerry. There are 2 sides to every issue and I agree with both. One minute she says science has nothing to do with religion and the next that what she calls science proves the Bible is not true because the earth could not have been created in six days.
First she claims that science proves all religion is a myth.
No religion is FACT, Tom. None.
Religion is FAITH/BELIEF...you are a believer, Ronnie is a believer, others here are believers....scriptures are stories and myths for the most part. {note this assumes her beliefs are fact}
You claim the Bible as your scripture. It is full of myth from the first story, Creation is Six Days....and many other stories that follow. You believe because it is you FAITH. It is not fact
When presented with scientific evidence it is not she says:
Clarification/Follow-up by Mary_Susan on 08/27/07 7:57 pm:
THIS IS A ***CHRISTIANITY BOARD*** not a biology board.
And I almost forgot Freddie who says that science has disproved the Bible and made Jesus Christ a liar and a bigot who is also ignorant of science.
Apparently the only faith they have is ignorance, it has become their god,
tropicalstorm answered on 08/28/07:Peddles
I see you forget! Reminder....he has to prove NO negatives..............I wish everything in everyday life used that rule! | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 08/26/07 - Diamonds Older than the Earth? Say it ain't So! LOL! 2. LiveScience: “Diamonds Nearly as Old as Earth”
The Jack Hills region of Western Australia is home to diamonds “nearly as old as the Earth itself and considered the oldest terrestrial diamonds ever discovered,” according to a new study, reports LiveScience.
The diamonds, found trapped inside zircon crystals, were subjected to chemical analyses by Institute of Mineralogy scientist and study leader Martina Menneken, who reported the diamonds’ age at more than four billion years old—almost a billion years older than previous diamond-age reports. This “suggests the diamonds were present in material that crystallized within 300 million years of the formation of Earth,” according to the team, and led them to conclude that the “Earth had a relatively thick continental crust by 4.25 billion years ago.”
Old-earth, diamond-dating techniques are not known for accuracy, however; for a prime example, see Flaws in dating the earth as ancient, which reports on shoddy 1980s dating of diamonds from—where else?—the Jack Hills region. The article also reports on the dating of diamonds in Zaire to six billion years old, a date thrown out as invalid merely because it was too large for the widely accepted age of the earth.
Also interesting would be if these recent diamonds had been subjected to Carbon-14 dating. As part of the RATE (Radioisotopes and the Age of the Earth) project, geophysicist Dr. John Baumgardner detected 14C in diamonds—yet 14C is far too “short-lived” to have survived for the eons diamonds are supposed to have experienced.
Certainly, it seems that while the case for an old earth is weak all-around, diamond-dating is one field where it is at its weakest
tropicalstorm answered on 08/26/07:Imagine that!
If the diamonds are that old they were coal before the became diamonds so that makes the age even older. Right??? LOL! | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 08/26/07 - To Spamicles-You Choose Since you have decided to spam all my posts I will give you a choice.
I can block you from responding at all or you can stop.
It is interesting you keep harping on hypocrisy and no one says a word about you spaming my post when you bitched like old woman about JJD. tropicalstorm answered on 08/26/07:same old same old!!! Has there been anything interesting here since I got my summer life? Well, hopefully before my summer life is over ya'll will have something new and non spam to say!!!! | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 06/17/07 - you are blessed If you woke up this morning
with more health than illness,
you are more blessed than the
million who won't survive the week.
If you have never experienced
the danger of battle,
the loneliness of imprisonment,
the agony of torture or
the pangs of starvation,
you are ahead of 20 million people
around the world.
If you attend a church meeting
without fear of harassment,
arrest, torture, or death,
you are more blessed than almost
three billion people in the world.
If you have food in your refrigerator,
clothes on your back, a roof over
your head and a place to sleep,
you are richer than 75% of this world.
If you have money in the bank,
in your wallet, and spare change
in a dish someplace, you are among
the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If your parents are still married and alive,
you are very rare,
especially in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile
on your face and are truly thankful,
you are blessed because the majority can,
but most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them
or even touch them on the shoulder,
you are blessed because you can
offer God's healing touch.
If you can read this message,
you are more blessed than over
two billion people in the world
that cannot read anything at all.
You are so blessed in ways
you may never even know.
If you are feeling blessed, repay the blessings bestowed unto you and do something for others.
tropicalstorm answered on 06/17/07:Yes I am blessed as I woke up this morning and yet today may have been the last day
I ever see my son again since he left for Germany/Iraq/......today! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 06/06/07 - Mexifornia here We Come ! > Wherever you stand, please take the time to read this; it ought to
> scare the beejeebers out of you!
>
> We know Dick Lamm as the former Governor of Colorado. In that context
> his thoughts are particularly poignant. Last week there was an
> immigration overpopulation conference in Washington, DC, filled to
> capacity by many of America's finest minds and leaders. A brilliant
> college professor by the name of Victor Hansen Davis talked about his
> latest book, "Mexifornia," explaining how immigration - both legal and
> illegal was destroying the entire state of California. He said it would
> march across the country until it destroyed all vestiges of The
> American Dream.
>
> Moments later, former Colorado Governor Richard D. Lamm stood up and
> gave a stunning speech on how to destroy America. The audience sat
> spellbound as he described eight methods for the destruction of the
> United States. He said, "If you believe that America is too smug, too
> self- satisfied, too rich, then let's destroy America. It is not that
> hard to do. No nation in history has survived the ravages of time.
> Arnold Toynbee observed that all great civilizations rise and fall and
> that 'An autopsy of history would show that all great nations commit
> suicide.'"
>
> "Here is how they do it," Lamm said:
>
> "First , to destroy America, turn America into a bilingual or
> multi-lingual and bicultural country." History shows that no nation can
> survive the tension, conflict, and antagonism of two or more competing
> languages and cultures. It is a blessing for an individual to be
> bilingual; however, it is a curse for a society to be bilingual. The
> historical scholar, Seymour Lipset, put it this way: "The histories of
> bilingual and bicultural societies that do not assimilate are histories
> of turmoil, tension, and tragedy." Canada, Belgium, Malaysia, and
> Lebanon all face crises of national existence in which minorities press
> for autonomy, if not independence. Pakistan and Cyprus have divided.
> Nigeria suppressed an ethnic rebellion. France faces difficulties with
> Basques, Bretons, and Corsicans. ".
>
> Lamm went on:
>
> Second, to destroy America, "Invent 'multiculturalism' and encourage
> immigrants to maintain their culture. Make it an article of belief that
> all cultures are equal. That there are no cultural differences. Make it
> an article of faith that the Black and Hispanic dropout rates are due
> solely to prejudice and discrimination by the majority. Every other
> explanation is out of bounds.
>
>
> Third, "We could make the United States an 'Hispanic Quebec' without
> much effort. The key is to celebrate diversity rather than unity. As
> Benjamin Schwarz said in the Atlantic Monthly recently: "The apparent
> success of our own multi-ethnic and multicultural experiment might have
> been achieved not by tolerance but by hegemony. Without the dominance
> that once dictated ethnocentricity and what it meant to be an American,
> we are left with only tolerance and pluralism to hold us together."
> Lamm said, "I would encourage all immigrants to keep their own language
> and culture. I would replace the melting pot metaphor with the salad
> bowl metaphor. It is important to ensure that we have various cultural
> subgroups living in America enforcing their differences rather than as
> Americans, emphasizing their similarities."
>
> "Fourth, I would make our fastest growing demographic group the least
> educated. I would add a second underclass, unassimilated,
> undereducated, and antagonistic to our population. I would have this
> second underclass have a 50% dropout rate from high school."
>
> "My fifth point for destroying America would be to get big foundations
> and business to give these efforts lots of money. I would invest in
> ethnic identity, and I would establish the cult of 'Victimology.' I
> would get all minorities to think that their lack of success was the
> fault of the majority. I would start a grievance industry blaming all
> minority failure on the majority population."
>
> "My sixth plan for America's downfall would include dual citizenship,
> and promote divided loyalties. I would celebrate diversity over unity.
> I would stress differences rather than similarities. Diverse people
> worldwide are mostly engaged in hating each other - that is, when they
> are not killing each other. A diverse, peaceful, or stable society is
> against most historical precedent. People undervalue the unity it takes
> to keep a nation together. Look at the ancient Greeks. The Greeks
> believed that they belonged to the same race; they possessed a common
> language and literature; and they worshipped the same gods. All Greece
> took part in the Olympic games. A common enemy, Persia, threatened
> their liberty. Yet all these bonds were not strong enough to overcome
> two factors: local patriotism and geographical conditions that nurtured
> political divisions. Greece fell. "E. Pluribus Unum" -- From many, one.
> In that historical reality, if we put the emphasis on the 'pluribus'
> instead of the 'Unum,' we will balkanize America as surely as Kosovo."
>
> "Next to last, I would place all subjects off limits; make it taboo to
> talk about anything against the cult of 'diversity.' I would find a
> word similar to 'heretic' in the 16th century - that stopped discussion
> and paralyzed thinking. Words like 'racist' or 'xenophobe' halt
> discussion and debate. Having made America a bilingual/bicultural
> country, having established multi-culturism, having the large
> foundations fund the doctrine of 'Victimology,' I would next make it
> impossible to enforce our immigration laws. I would develop a mantra:
> That because immigration has been good for America, it must always be
> good. I would make every individual immigrant symmetric and ignore the
> cumulative imp act of millions of them."
>
> In the last minute of his speech, Governor Lamm wiped his brow.
> Profound silence followed. Finally he said,. "Lastly, I would censor
> Victor Hanson Davis's book "Mexifornia." His book is dangerous. It
> exposes the plan to destroy America . If you feel America. deserves to
> be destroyed, don't read that book."
>
> There was no applause. A chilling fear quietly rose like an ominous
> cloud above every attendee at the conference. Every American in that
> room knew that everything Lamm enumerated was proceeding methodically,
> quietly, darkly, yet pervasively across the United States today.
> Discussion is being suppressed. Over 100 languages are ripping the
> foundation of our educational system and national cohesiveness. Even
> barbaric cultures that practice female genital mutilation are growing
> as we celebrate 'diversity.' American jobs are vanishing into the Third
> World as corporations create a Third World in America - take note of
> California and other states - to date, ten million illegal aliens and
> growing fast. It is reminiscent of George Orwell's book ." In that
> story, three slogans are engraved in the Ministry of Truth building:
> "War is peace," "Freedom is slavery," and "Ignorance is strength."
>
> Governor Lamm walked back to his seat. It dawned on everyone at the
> conference that our nation and the future of this great democracy is
> deeply in trouble and worsening fast. If we don't get this immigration
> monster stopped within three years, it will rage like a California
> wildfire and destroy everything in its path especially The American
> Dream. tropicalstorm answered on 06/06/07:Guess what Peddles it has been their plan to do exactly what they have been doing for the past 20 to 30 years. Bush NEVER HAD ANY INTENTION OF 'CLOSING THE BORDER'
HE SAYS THAT JUST TO SHUT UP THE BUSHBOTS THAT LOVE HIM SO MUCH AND ARE BLIND TO WHAT HE IS DOING.
HE IS WORKING ON MANY THINGS THAT ARE WHAT WE EXPECT FROM THE ANTI CHRIST!!!
THE NATIONAL ID
MAKING THE USA, MEXICO & CANADA ONE NATION
YOU NAME WHAT YOU THINK THE ANTI CHRIST WOULD DO TO MAKE HIS PLAN WORK
AND IT IS ALREADY HAPPENING WITH BUSH AND IT STARTED WITH CLINTON
REALLY EVEN BEFORE THAT! | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 06/05/07 - WOW, the Dems are bringing religion to the polls again, what must we do? Clinton: Faith got me through troubles By NEDRA PICKLER, Associated Press Writer
43 minutes ago
WASHINGTON - In a rare public discussion of her husband's infidelity, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton said Monday that she probably could not have gotten through her marital troubles without relying on her faith in God.
Clinton stood by her actions in the aftermath of former President Clinton's admission that he had an affair, including presumably her decision to stay in the marriage.
"I am very grateful that I had a grounding in faith that gave me the courage and the strength to do what I thought was right, regardless of what the world thought," Clinton said during a forum where the three leading Democratic presidential candidates talked about faith and values.
"I'm not sure I would have gotten through it without my faith," she said.
The forum, sponsored by the liberal Sojourners/Call to Renewal evangelical organization, provided an uncommon glimpse into the most personal beliefs of Clinton and rivals John Edwards and Barack Obama (news, bio, voting record). The most intimate question came about the Clintons' relationship, one of the world's most debated marriages but one that the husband and wife rarely speak openly about.
Clinton said she's "been tested in ways that are both publicly known and those that are not so well known or not known at all." She said it's those times when her personal faith and the prayers of others sustain her.
"At those moments in time when you are tested, it is absolutely essential that you be grounded in your faith," she said.
Edwards revealed that he prays — and sins — every day. The crowd gasped loudly when moderator Soledad O'Brien asked Edwards to name the biggest sin he ever committed, and he won their applause when he said he would have a hard time naming one thing.
"I sin every single day," said Edwards, the 2004 vice presidential nominee. "We are all sinners and we all fall short."
Edwards, wearing a purple tie to match Sojourners' signature color, promoted himself as the candidate most committed to the group's mission of fighting poverty. He said he doesn't feel his belief in evolution is inconsistent with his belief in Christ and he doesn't personally feel gays should be married, although as president he wouldn't impose his belief system on the rest of the country.
"I have a deep and abiding love for my Lord, Jesus Christ," Edwards said, but he said the United States shouldn't be called a Christian nation.
He said he has been going to church since he was a child and was baptized as a teen. He said he strayed from his faith as an adult and it came "roaring back" when his teenage son died in 1996.
"It was the Lord that got me through that," Edwards said, along with both of his wife's cancer diagnoses.
Clinton acknowledged that talking about her religious beliefs doesn't come naturally to her.
"I take my faith very seriously and very personally," she said. "And I come from a tradition that is perhaps a little too suspicious of people who wear their faith on their sleeves."
Each candidate was given 15 minutes to appear before the packed auditorium at George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium and a live audience on CNN. They were questioned by O'Brien and by church leaders across the country.
Obama's appearance focused more on policy than the personal. Asked whether he agreed with President Bush's portrayal of the current global struggles in terms of good verses evil, Obama said there is a risk in viewing the world in such terms.
He said he believes that the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, were the result of evil. But he said that the United States' treatment of prisoners at Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo Bay is unjust.
"The danger of using good verses evil in the context of war is that it may lead us to be not as critical as we should about our own actions," Obama said to applause.
----------------------------------------------------
SO what you guys compalian about now? tropicalstorm answered on 06/05/07:You did hear the southern accent Hillary did when she preached at a black southern church a couple months ago?
The Dems are allowed to preach at churches but they said that a republican preached at a church and they have to fill out all kinds of papers about what he preached about and to validate that he wasn't 'seeking votes'
or pushing his party. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 06/04/07 - Does it work? tropicalstorm answered on 06/04/07:Here on the
Dark Side of Moon
in the land of misfit toys
if it doesn't work
I make it work
IF I can't make it work
I find someone that can make it work
IF they can't make it work
I find someone that can turn it into something else (spare parts, abstract art,.......)
IF that isn't an option
I scrap it for $$$.
MY MOTTO:
WE GIVE A CRAP ABOUT YOUR SCRAP
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/31/07 - For Tom777 Hey Tom,
You still didn't answer my question's and especially this one.
What religious affiliation do you belong to Tom, what church do you attend?
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 06/01/07:from that convention he listed and from what Mad dawg and Peddles has said I believe they are ALL BAPTIST | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/29/07 - Apparently Pericles is now the board moderator. He has ended at least two questions so that no one can answer or comment on them.
If so I request that he moderates all radial, zealous fundamentalist post and ends them.
I'm getting sick and tired of all their bigotry, lying, and heresies.
How do the rest of you feel about that?
Fred tropicalstorm answered on 05/30/07:we'll see how long everybody 'enjoys' Perk
'shutting' them down. Of course I will continue to reopen them as I feel 'moved' to. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 05/30/07 - Decisions we or our families have to make. I was always told that cremation was bad because it was a direct challenge to God to put you back together again. (Hello! What about the lions that ate the Christians, or what about people who die in fires? Like, God might not be able to put you back together again?)
Anyway, have you made arrangements for burial of your body or for cremation? If so, why did you make that choice? tropicalstorm answered on 05/30/07:The Bible does not say anything against creamation and it is not any kind of a challenge for God 'to put back together again'.
I wouldn't care if I was creamated (as long as I don't feel anything LOL) | | Question/Answer | | Ch.Pétrus.82 asked on 05/28/07 - Jesus the Jew What were the false teachings of Judaism, in the 1st century, that Jesus opposed (according to Toms777) tropicalstorm answered on 05/28/07:I don't think it was so much false teachings as rituals and traditions that Jesus came
to do away the old and show a new way.
The pharisees and saducees had made their own ritual doctrines as a pious religious show
-such as when Jesus said you cleanse the 'outer' (material) but not the 'inner'(hearts)-
just as 'religion' is doing now as you can see on this board. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/28/07 - Here is a serious question for all, please answer it seriously. Hello Everyone,
Okay here is what I want to say and without being rude or disrespectful.
Do you all on this board honestly feel that you personally have been respectuful to all here?
Do you feel that putting other down because they believe differently then you is respectful?
Some have downed others because they are different. Then they go on to attack not just the person who they are speaking with but that persons personal choice of religious or non religious affiliation.
When any person/s attack another's personal religious affiliation, isn't that abuse and disrespectful? After all are you talking with the individual person or their church or group they belong to?
Can a discussion be had without bringing up another persons religious/non-religious affiliations.
I personally believe I can disagree and not bring up other peoples religious affiliation. When someone attacks a persons religious affiliation,I personalliy feel that is rude and disrespectful. Why can't we just say "I disagree, and state why you disagree with their personal opinions? I also feel we are speaking just with them not with the group or religion they belong to. What are your views on this matter?
Please only respectful comments are welcomed. All other comments that are rude will be black stared.
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 05/28/07:I won't 'attack' a religion. I think ALL religions miss the mark-even the point to a great degree.
I will play people's games back at them and if that comes off as disrespectful, so be it.
Where I live respect is a two-cent word used by crack-heads as they steal their grandma's vital meds out of the cabinet as they say, "I would NEVA dis you grams!"
I find people with integrity very refreshing;
but all the same,I am me and I am what I am when I want to be what I wanna be and reflect the atmosphere around me.
Personally, I am content in the spiritual direction I have found for me as you are with yours and I have also found an insight to how people are and I enjoy them no matter how they act.
I am not easily offended and find it much simpler not letting others get to me.
Of course,I DO turn anything back on others when they DO TRY to get to me 0R others!
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 05/27/07 - Can Mormons cast spells? Young paid especial attention to President Taylor, who had recently died, and whose course toward the Mormons did not please them, closing this part of his remarks with the declaration, "but Zachary Taylor is dead and in hell, and I am glad of it," adding, "and I prophesy in the name of Jesus Christ, by the power of the priesthood that's upon me, that any President of the United States who lifts his finger against this people, shall die an untimely death, and go to hell." tropicalstorm answered on 05/28/07:HeY Peddles
Now I may have to open a new post just simply to ask you if your question was resolved by consulting a wizard or how
you might have went about getting it answered! | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 05/27/07 - Brigham Young or God?
Brigham Young says:
"He that confesseth not that Jesus has come in the flesh and sent Joseph Smith with the fullness of the Gospel to this generation, is not of God, but is anti-christ" Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, vol. 9, p.312
Scripture says:
1 John 4:2-3
very spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God.
NKJV
Who should we believe, Brigham Young or God?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/28/07:HERE AT ANSWERWAY.COM IT DOESN'T SEEM TO BE A QUESTION OF BRIGHAM VS GOD. THE WORLD IS A STAGE AND
HERE AT ANSWERWAY.COM PERKIE BOY IS THE DIRECTOR OF THE STAGE.
![]() | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 05/28/07 - Do Mormons say Jesus was a good man who went to hell? Their prophet and god Bringham Young did.
If as good a man as Jesus Christwent to hell, we may well expect that a wicked and ungodly man will go thereto atone for his sins
LDs-Satanic Cult
tropicalstorm answered on 05/28/07:well pha-- looks like you will have to start a new post to let us know what the article is saying in context. | | Question/Answer | Dark_Crow asked on 05/27/07 - What is the definition of religion?................
. tropicalstorm answered on 05/27/07:Yeah and look how messed up it is with all the arguing on here---prime example! | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 05/26/07 - why? I just cant understand why a site that once was so wonderfull has gotten so bad i used to love comming here we were most of us all friends who even when we dissagreed could remain civil to each other but these days its more like a complete joke fighting name calling and unintellegable stuff that has no bearing whatsoever on anything one might get from its name "the christinity board "they should now change the name from that to the conflict and confusion site " tropicalstorm answered on 05/27/07:I left the state of confusion for the land of misfit toys a few years back
![]() | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/27/07 - To All My Dear Friends and Experts,
It has been fun for over the years coming to Answerway.com and talking with you guys. I though have found that this board is depressing and a hinder to my joy each day. I have found that I need to move on to a more positive and encouraging tasks.
Just a few years ago, this board was really a joy to come to each day. I found that there were those that were so encouraging and always had something pleasant to say. Lately though this has been different and certainly not a board for discussing what each person believes, and with freedom to speak what they believe., either for or against Christianity. After all is it not the “Christians” purpose to help others to know God and to show love toward their neighbors?
Would you say this board has done that? Instead those who claim to be “Christians” chase away those who may even truly want to know God and the truth of what the Bible says.
Instead there have been those who have put shame onto the word and meaning of what “True Christianity” is and stands for. In all my life as a God fearing Christian, I have never allowed myself to go as low as I have this past year. I used to be able to give a mild answer when disagreeing with some who have a tendency to feel they are superior or better then others because they claim to be “Christians” while hounding and belittling and downgrading everyone around them because their beliefs are different those who tend to feel superior and who feel they are buddy, buddy with God and yet their actions, hate and their personal treatment of other’s, degrade God and what True Christianity is really all about. When asked a question instead of answering that question with honesty and according to the teachings of the Bible, they give their own ideas and teachings which push others away from “True Christianity “ instead of closer and closer to God.
I try conscientiously to practice what I preach, and hope that I never appear superior to others or self-righteous, especially when dealing with my neighbors. I hope that my conduct has not stumbled any on this board. I always wish to have conduct that shows my love and compassion for all people, for even Jesus said all people are our neighbors, and we should always love our neighbor. Luke 10:30. Love never looks for their own interest but for the interest and the good of the other person. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8.
My concern her is for my neighbor and that is why I write this post. Some will take this and understand my motives for writing it, while others will give nasty remarks. I though was thinking about what it really means to be a True Christian and my conduct on this board. I want to show my love to all. Then I thought, “What about my neighbors? How do they view me? I also asked myself: “Do I personally radiate the joy of the truth, or do I make it look like a burden?
If I am a true follower of Christ, then is should be evident in my speech and in my conduct. It should be clear that my worship should be happy and joyful. Why
Because God is a happy God. Not a negative or God that excludes others or thinks that they are something special while feeling that others are lower then them. Answerway.com is like a Community of my neighbors. Then this question came to my mind. “What should my conduct as a Christian be toward neighbors and strangers in the Answerway community?
Jesus laid down good rules governing this matter when he said: “All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them.” “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matt. 7:12; Mark 12:31
The apostle Paul wrote, at Romans 12:17-21; 13:8, 9: “Return evil for evil to no one. . . . If possible, as far as it depends upon you, be peaceable with all men. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to the wrath. . . . If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this you will heap fiery coals upon his head. Do not let yourself be conquered by the evil, but keep conquering the evil with the good. Do not be owing anybody a single thing, except to love one another. . . . You must love your neighbor as yourself.”
Having said this my dear Friends, I give you my sincere apologies for any bad conduct in word and in my actions while on Answerway.com. I hope you all can forgive me. I want no longer to get into any discussions where negative comments are given nor do I wish to be involved in any such conduct again on this board. I will not answer any comments against JW’s or WBTS any more. These comments will be ignored or given a black star.
Tom777, Peddler and RoseKeeper, (Joy) I apologize for any negative things I may have said to you guys. I though do not apologize for standing up for what I believe. If I find that negative comments against me or about me and my beliefs, I will stand for what I feel is right, but I will never attack or degrade anyone ever. I give this apology to these three because I truly do love all people, even if I disagree with them. I hope you three welcome my apology and know that is given with love from me to you.
As to all others on this board, please know that I appreciate the respect that some have shown towards me and if I at any time show lack of respect to any of you,what ever you beliefs or lack of beleifs,
please let me know. My apologies if I have hurt any ones feelings in the past. Now I will start over fresh and in peace with you all. I will do my very best to remain peaceful with all on this board but as of this day, I will no longer get caught up in what I feel is not proper conduct or disrespectful conduct towards anyone on this board. I will though stick up for my rights to believe as I choose and my freedom of choice. I will show my convictions by giving anyone who shows me lack of respect a black star and then leave all other matters into God’s mighty hands. If I find I can no longer have self control when under attack, I will leave this board, and wish you all good things now and forever.
Have a nice weekend,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/27/07:Well glad you are not abandoning us here at the land of misfit toys
![]() | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 05/27/07 - For those of you who are confused. Bring'em Young never actually visited the sun he just said what his god told him to say.
The elements of which this terra firma is composed, are every moment either composing or decomposing. They commence to organize or to compose, and continue to grow until they arrive at their zenith of perfection, and then they begin to decompose. When you find a rock that has arrived at its greatest perfection, you may know that the work of decaying has begun. Let the practical chemist make his observations upon a portion of the matter of which this earth is composed; and he will find, that just as quick as it is at its perfection, that very instant it begins to decompose. ...
Gold and silver grow, and so does every other kind of metal, the same as the hair upon my head, or the wheat in the field; they do not grow as fast, but they are all the time composing or decomposing. - JoD 1:219 (October 9, 1852)
tropicalstorm answered on 05/27/07:GEE PEDDLES
I have about a hundred pounds of copper from last summer that I have been saving for when the price goes back up to 2.95 per pound.
HOW many pounds do you think it might have grown in the past year?
I have a bag with about three pounds of silver too and a bag with about four pounds of gold. How many years do you think it will take for them to grow into a substancial amount to cash in????? | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/26/07 - MS, you really need to study some history........... MS, you really need to study some history.
You said: Incidentally, the Jews never had an important economic or cultural civilization…]
You don’t understand- the Jews control the largest economy and army in the world… America.
"I've never seen a president -- I don't care who he is --
stand up to them [the Israelis]. It just boggles your mind.
They always get what they want. The Israelis know what's
going on all the time. I got to the point where I wasn't
writing anything down. If the American people understood
what grip those people have on our government, they would
rise up in arms. Our citizens don't have any idea what goes
on."
-- Admiral Thomas Moorer of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,
Washington Report December, 1999, page 124, quoting from
Andrew Hurley's book "One Nation Under Israel".
He does forget Kennedy.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/26/07:I know all my life I heard jokes about 'the rich jew'
A Jewish Joke
A story is told of a Jewish man who was riding on the subway reading an Arab newspaper. A friend of his, who happened to be riding in the same subway car, noticed this strange phenomenon. Very upset, he approached the newspaper reader: "Moshe, have you lost your mind? Why are you reading an Arab newspaper?"
Moshe replied: "I used to read the Jewish newspaper, but what did I find? Jews being persecuted, Israel being attacked, Jews disappearing through assimilation and intermarriage, Jews living in poverty. So I switched to the Arab newspaper. Now what do I find? Jews own all the banks, Jews control the media, Jews are all rich and powerful, Jews rule the world. The news is so much better!".
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 05/25/07 - Doris is Coming Back Effective TODAY!!! Doris stopped by last night some hours after I had to dismiss(happy, Pete?) Wendy for lack of showing up. I asked Doris if she would come back and be my caregiver. We had a discussion and ironed out the problems that had originally forced me to get a new homemaker.
I feel so much better; the fog is lifting!!
I'm even going to let Tom666 off for his lie that he could prove the existence of GodAlmighty of the Bible.
Mary Sue :):):) tropicalstorm answered on 05/25/07:I'm glad for you Choux
I had a feeling Wendy was going to be temporary
Glad you were able to get Doris back without a problem. Hopefully all the ironing is all good. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 05/25/07 - hOPE, YOU NEED TO READ BEFORE YOU RESPOND hOPE,
You said:
--------------
I can not post them until you do. Some here are waiting for your proofs first. They want scientific and facts, not only scriptures. In order for someone to believe that God exist you need to stimulate their minds as to the facts. Know facts that prove God exists.
-----------
hOPE, this just discredited you. I would challenge you to go through the 6 or 7 proof that I gave and find any scriptures - rather I used science alone.
You need to read first, then respond.
If you want to stand with the atheists, this that is your choice. But at the moment it seems that you are also adopting their tactics - don't read, and claim that you don't see. All that does is discredit you, but the evidence is all over the board and the more that you and your atheist cohorts try to deny it, the more that the message gets posted on the board.
It is interesting how this type of back and forth helps traffic on websites. I think that I may start posting the link to the JW section on my site.
Tom tropicalstorm answered on 05/25/07:see your at it again
you want some spam????????????????
Take the code OFFFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/24/07 - "Dr Martin holds degrees from [1] Stony Brook School, [2] Adelphi University, [3] Biblical Sem
False claims of academic credentials/degrees from Martin's own literature:
[...] "Dr Martin holds degrees from [1] Stony Brook School, [2] Adelphi University, [3] Biblical Seminary, [4] New York University and [5] California Western University. [...]
[Source: Christian Research Institute Newsletter, 2nd Quarter, 1977, Vol. 1, #2, page 3.]
That makes five (5) degrees that Martin claims to have.
The first degree Martin lists in the Newsletter is from Stony Brook School. The following is an abstract from a letter sent from the school to a researcher into Martin's credentials.
THE STONY BROOK SCHOOL
STONY BROOK, NEW YORK, 11790 (516) 751-1800
September 10, 1981
[...]
The Stony Brook School is a college preparatory school which qualifies students for a high school diploma. We do not issue college diplomas.
Sincerely,
James Adare
Director of Development
JAA:elm
- END -
Adelphi University reports that:
"Walter Ralston Martin attended our university from
September 16 1946 thru January 31 1947.
Geraldine B Cosgrove Supv.
Transcript & Certification
GBC:bh
- END -
That makes his attendance at the University one of three and one half months duration. What kind of degree can you get in that time? You could SAY you got a degree and hope that no once checks up on you. That is exactly what Martin did.
So, thus far he did not receive a degree from Adelphi and he did not get a degree from Stony Brook. Two down, three to go!
Martin did receive a Master's degree from NYU, but it was not in the field Martin claimed it to be! He said at one time that it was in ‘Comparative Religion’ and another time that it was in the ‘Philosophy of Religion,’ but NYU say it was in “Pastors and Other Religious Leaders in Denominational Religious Bodies and Schools.” Perhaps it was a ‘sliding degree’ that changes according to what you want to tell an audience paying to hear how much you know and in what fields. His Masters is his only earned degree, although it was not in the field he claims it to have been.
[Source:
New York University
A Private University in the Public Service
Office of Legal Counsel
Elmer Holmes Borst Library
70 Washington Square South
New York N.Y. 10012
Telephone (212) 598-2691
Signed by Ada Meloy
Assistant General Counsel]
Martin also claimed a degree from The Biblical Seminary (now known as NY Theological Seminary)
Having received his MA in June 1956, Martin immediately registered at the Biblical Seminary for 'summer courses.’ It is laughable to imagine that anyone could get a post-graduate degree in a few months of simmer school, and the Seminary does not report Martin having received any sort of academic credential from them, although they do admit to being confused at his claims, mentioning the “discrepancies between the schools listed on our transcript and what Mr [NOT Doctor!] Martin reported in his resume: ” They say the highest degree he listed with them was his a masters degree. Had he had a doctorate it would have been recorded.
Information from NYTS received from Mrs Margaret J Rathnum, Admissions Office, NYTS.
In case #229099 in the Superior Court of the State of California, for the County of Orange - ‘Walter R Martin Plaintiff vs. Bruce A Johnson, et al, Defendants – in his deposition #1 of August 14, 1975, p. 63, Martin states that he does not refer to himself as “Dr Walter Martin.” He says that he “responds to it,” ”Publicly I have stated that I do not have an earned doctorate as yet,” and also states that he has advised people who have advertised his speaking engagements not to refer to him as “Dr Walter Martin.”
All these statements are FALSE! Almost ten years BEFORE is lawsuit which was more than ten years before his Ph.D. degree, he had himself put as informant on his mother’s death certificate as “Dr Walter Martin.” I have ample documentary evidence that he habitually called himself Dr when he had no doctorate, and that this was his customary manner of having others address him.
It has been said that Liars should have good memories, and Martin is the prime example that they should. Unhappily for Martin he does not have a good memory and that gets him into one difficulty after another as he keeps changing his stories to suit his moods.
Did Martin or did he not submit a master’s thesis? Anyone who has received their masters will not soon forget whether they did a thesis for it, but Martin forgets and so exposes himself to some the charges laid against him by those who have taken up his challenge to investigate his credentials.
Martin says he received his doctorate from California Western University. This organisation is an unaccredited correspondence school – in reality, a diploma mill with a printing press, no classrooms, no faculty, no staff, and no campus except an couple of empty offices in a shared building. CWU started out to be California State College but the state of California refused permission to Tom Neale to register his business in that name, so the following day, 11 July 1974 he changed it to California western University.
[Source: California State Dept of Education, Bureau of Schools Approvals. Preliminary Information Form, 1977, recorded in the Official Records of Orange County, CA., and Affidavit of President or other Head of Corporation in Official records of Orange County, CA. Copies may be obtained at small cost]
The following is taken from the University’s own brochure in 1976 the same year that martin ‘earned’ his doctoral degree from there:
1. No classroom attendance is required
2. Each program is self-priced
3. Each Program can, in most cases, be completed in a substantially shortened time period as compared to the traditional education system
4. Each program, is substantially less expensive than comparable Programs in other private independent Colleges and Universities.
The State of California Department of Education writes:
”California Western is a nonaccredited degree granting school which has been operating since 1973 or ’74. The school is basically a correspondence school … “
[Source: Letter from D Welty, Consultant, Office of Private Postsecondary Education, Tel: (916) 445-3427, 3 December 1981]
In the Bible Answer Man Radio Show of 16 February 1985 Walter Martin said:
”California Western … isn’t a correspondence school at all and it is accredited in the State of California
The State of California, says:
”California Western is a nonaccredited degree granting school which has been operating since 1973 or ’74. The school is basically a correspondence school … “
When contacted by a researcher checking out Martin’s credential as he has frequently encouraged listeners to do, California Western University said they could find no record of Walter Martin! When told of this, martin was furious, and a few days later a letter was sent to “Dr” Martin from CWU saying that they had reviewed his file [the one they could not find] and declared that he had been awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in 1976. This was an embarrassment because Martin claimed he had a Ph D, and they say it was a D Ph.
To be fair to Martin, CWU did claim to be accredited, but claims and realities are quite different things as Martin should know if anyone does.
However, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges are adamant that it was ’not accredited’ and that it had never even ’APPLIED FOR ACCREDITATION.’ [NB – CWU lost a name infringement suit in 1981 an is now called California Coast University.]
If you are interested in following Martin and obtaining a bogus degree from CWU, you can buy it through the post like you can from all degree mills. It cost Martin $195.00 and with the fancy certificate for his wall he also received ‘verification’ that he had attended for three years! It is doubtful that Martin ever attended once, because he could not remember the name of the city in which his three-year university was! I have no difficulty remembering the names of the universities I attended, and I am not as smart as Martin! I am, however, honest!
Why did Walter Martin lie so much and so often about his degrees, schools, colleges, etc? Millions treat him as a demigod in their supposed battle against the cults. The truth is that the horror stories Martin tells them – make that ‘sells them – about the ‘cults – are mostly manufactured by Martin to keep them on the edge of their seats. He likes them on the edge of their seats because he does not have too far to go to get his hand in their pockets!
Martin told so many lies that it became increasingly difficult to tell when he was telling the truth and when he was lying. In the end, he came to believe that the lies he told were all true. He became a millionaire out of his mendacity and prevarication.
He also claimed time and time to be a clergyman, which he was not except for a period of two years early in his career, after which he was defrocked because of his deceit.
Can we trust anything that Martin says about anything when he cannot even tell the truth about himself?
”Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” I trust the Person who said that, but do not ask me to believe anything Martin said.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/24/07:Like I said before I use to watch Martin but his clips looked too suspicious. Like how and where is he getting film footage of witches doing ritual dances and so forth?????
| | Question/Answer | madddawg asked on 05/24/07 - Mary's Month:
According to Roman Catholic mythology Mary never sinned.
“Our lady is different from us. We have sinned, but she did not.” The New Saint Joseph’s Catechism, page 35.
But according to the infallible word of God, Mary was a sinner:
For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. Luke 1:47 (if Mary was without sin she did not need a Savior!)
And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves or two pigeons. Luke 2:24. (Leviticus 12:8 says that sacrifice was to make an atonement for the sins of the mother)
Then said unto him, behold, thy mother … desiring to speak with thee. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? … And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren. For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister and mother. Matthew 12:47-50
So which is true, the Roman Catholic mythology, or the word of God?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/24/07:I DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE MARY COULD NOT HAVE SINNED OR SHE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO BE JESUS' MOTHER BECAUSE IF SHE HAD TO BE WITHOUT SIN WOULDN'T HER MOTHER HAD TO HAVE BEEN WITHOUT SIN TO HAVE MARY SO THAT MARY COULD BE SINLESS TO HAVE JESUS AND WOULDN'T IT HAVE TO HAVE GONE ALL THE WAY BACK TO EVE IF SO? SORRY, I DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT | | Question/Answer | | Chora asked on 05/23/07 - For Ttfnuas Why did you rate my answer to Toms with three single stars? tropicalstorm answered on 05/23/07:at least, that means Tif doesn't think you are Hank :) | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/22/07 - He will not drive drunk again......................... Driver Who Tested Positive for DUI Not Arrested, Dies in Wreck 3 Hours Later
Tuesday , May 22, 2007
JANESVILLE, Wis. —
A driver who was stopped for speeding and tested over the legal limit for blood-alcohol content, but was not arrested, was killed less than three hours later Monday when his car hit a tree, according to police.
Janesville police records indicate that Jason Stacy, 29, was seen speeding and driving erratically downtown shortly after 1 a.m.
According to an analysis of police records by WISC-TV in Madison, Stacy was stopped and given a Breathalyzer test that indicated a blood-alcohol level of 0.12 percent. The legal limit in Wisconsin is 0.08.
Stacy was ticketed for imprudent speed and failing to stay in the center of his lane. The officer didn't arrest Stacy but did prevent him from driving until a friend picked him up, the television station reported.
Around 3:45 a.m., Stacy's car hit a tree and burst into flames, deputies said. Stacy, who was alone and not wearing a seatbelt, was found about 50 feet away.
Janesville police declined to comment. The Rock County Sheriff's Department said it is investigating.
<><><><>
When was the last time you drove while under the influence?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/23/07:I only drove drunk once and was EXTREMELY cautious!
I was only drunk maybe three times in my life.
I 100% HATE the feeling!!!! | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 05/22/07 - Oops! I apologize for multiple posts, but for two weeks, I've had every guru in town checking my three computers. A nightmare, to say the least.
Bobbye tropicalstorm answered on 05/22/07:Just click the submit button once and it is already on the page before it changes.
I hit copy stuff, then hit the submit button and start a new page and it is already on there. If it isn't I have it copied and do it again. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 05/21/07 - Response to hOPE Part 2
hOPE's comments are in red
Man decides to either choose what is good or what is bad. Then we reap the consequences of our choices.
So far so good.
God does not threaten us,
You use the word threat, and that carries certain connotations, but God certainly does warn us:
Rev 20:13-15
13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.
NKJV
But there are yet some who choose to ignore God's warnings and to say that there is no hell, that there is no lake of fire.
we threaten others with words and things that God does not. Why? Only to control others.
Like when we tell others what we cannot or cannot say.
God would never burn people, it is unthinkable on his part.
God does not want people to burn would be a better way to put it. God created hell for Satan and his demons. Why? Out of love for mankind because it is Satan and his demons who deceive men into believing the lie, believing that they can become gods, and destroying the relationship that God desires each of us to have with Him. It is Satan and his demons who cause men to give up the hope of eternal and abundant life and instead choose to reject God.
It is for that reason that God created a special place of punishment for Satan and his demons.
If God would not even think of such a thing, it raises the question: Did Almighty God create such a place of torment?
Let's allow scripture to answer that.
Rev 21:7-8
7 He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8 But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
NKJV
Rev 14:11-12
11 And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name."
NKJV
There are those, however, who hope that there is no accounting for their rebellion against Him and who prefer to deny that there is any consequence for rejecting the true God and who deny that hell and the lake of fire exist.
Wishful thinking on their part.
Since the dead have no conscious existence, hell cannot be a fiery place of torment where the wicked suffer after death.
Really? Read Luke 16 - scripture teaches something much different.
What, then, is hell? Examining what happened to Jesus after he died helps to answer that question. The Bible writer Luke recounts: “Neither was [Jesus] forsaken in Hades [hell, King James Version] nor did his flesh see corruption.”
Again, if you look at Luke 16, it will help clear up this mis-understanding regarding Hades and Hell.
Luke 16:22-31
22 So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 Then he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.' 27 Then he said, 'I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.' 29 Abraham said to him, 'They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, 'No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' 31 But he said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.' "
NKJV
Note that there are two sides here, one is Abraham's bosom and the other is a place of torment. Jesus did not go to hell (place of torment), but to Abraham's bosom.1 Peter 3:18-21
18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, 19 by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison, 20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.
NKJV
The people to whom Christ preached were saved, not in the place of torment for the unsaved.
So please stop telling the Mormons, JW’s and the Atheists, and any who are not believing the way you do they are going to burn in hell.
It is not a case of believing the way someone else does, but it is a matter of believing in Christ, the true Christ and accepting what the word of God says.
If anyone chooses to turn away from the true God, refuse to be born again, claim that they are God or going to be God, then scripture is clear that they are facing eternal torment in hell and the lake of fire.
I can stop saying that when God chnages His word, and not before....and God says that He never changes.
Rather than denying that there is a consequence for rebellion against God, the right thing to do would be to find out how to get right with God and Jesus commanded us to be born again or we cannot see the kingdom of God.
hOPE, have you obeyed Jesus' command to be born again?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/21/07:I was thinking to on the one hand they say why would a loving God allow torment but on the other hand they refuse their dying (children or adult) to be allowed to live by refusing blood transplants. Isn't that about an oxymoron? | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 05/21/07 - Worldview Super Conference 2 . May 30th –June 2nd Ridgeville N.C.
Worldview Super Conference 2
Preparing This Generation
to Capture the Future
A Message From the Host of the Worldview Super Conference ![]()
Christianity in America was dealt a serious blow at the infamous Scopes Trial of 1925. After our hollow victory, Christians retreated from American public life with their tails tucked between their legs. Over the next 50 years, we allowed Secular Humanism to replace Christianity as the official religion of America. As a result, cherished freedoms to express our Christian faith were eroded before our eyes. The killing of pre-born babies was legalized. Violent crime rose to staggering levels in our nation's history. The quality of education plummeted to new depths. It wasn't until 1975, and the "born-again" era, that Christians began to re-emerge and re-engage the culture once again.
Thankfully, Christians have made remarkable progress since 1975. Great ministries and organizations have arisen out of the Church to debunk the theory of evolution, challenge the ACLU, disciple Christians, and minister to the needy. Home education and private education have exploded exponentially… producing godly and well-educated children. Yet, with all the ground we've taken back from the secular humanists, there's still much work to be done.
The Church has been paralyzed by an obsession with life in the Last Days and has lost sight of fulfilling the Great Commission to teach the nations to obey all of Christ’s commandments. If America is to be restored to the godly nation it was, we must prepare this generation to capture the future. Of course, American Vision’s mission goes beyond restoring America just for America’s sake. John Winthrop, the first governor of the Massachusetts colony, envision a nation that would become “a City on a Hill.”
For we must consider that we shall be as a City upon a Hill, the eyes of all people are upon us;… Beloved, there is now set before us life, and good, death and evil in that we are commanded this day to love the Lord our God, and to love one another to walk in His ways and to keep His commandments and His ordinance, and His laws, and the Articles of our Covenant with Him that we may live and be multiplied, and that the Lord or God may bless us in the land whether we go to possess it
The light from a city on a Hill shines beyond its own walls. America’s restoration will lead to a more stable social structure, a prosperous economy, and a happier nation—demonstrating to the world the blessings and glory of living in a truly Christian society. It will slao foster a more robust missions enterprise that helps America fulfill the Great Commission. American Vision is working to restore this America as well as build Christian nations around the world. Can it be done? Absolutely. Every square inch of this world belongs to King Jesus. His Kingdom extends from sea to sea (Isaiah 11:9). All authority has been given to Christ in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18-20)
you share this vision for the future, your family cannot afford to miss American Vision’s second annual Worldview Super Conference. Our theme is Preparing This Generation to Capture the Future. Please take a moment to read the brochure and discover why this conference is perhaps the most important date on your calendar in 2007.
For His Kingdom,
Gary DeMar
President of American Vision and
Host of the Worldview Super Conference
tropicalstorm answered on 05/21/07:ENJOY it! | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 05/21/07 - Joseph Smith smoking The first school of the prophets was held in a small room situated over the Prophet Joseph's kitchen.... When they assembled together in this room after breakfast, the first they did was to light their pipes, and, while smoking, talk about the great things of the kingdom, and spit all over the room, and as soon as the pipe was out of their mouths a large chew of tobacco would then be taken. Often when the Prophet entered the room to give the school instructions he would find himself in a cloud of tobacco smoke. This, and the complaints of his wife at having to clean so filthy a floor, made the Prophet think upon the matter, and he inquired of the Lord relating to the conduct of the Elders in using tobacco, and the revelation known as the Word of Wisdom was the result of his inquiry (Journal of Discourses, vol. 12, p.158).
Was Emma's displeasure that caused Joseph's Smith's revelation banning tobacco?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/21/07:could you be saying that God used Emma to speak to Joseph Smith? | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/20/07 - These are not the average photos one sees. Have you see many like them?
Go here................
http://hytaipan.home.comcast.net/different_photos.htm
tropicalstorm answered on 05/20/07:cute:) | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/19/07 - Our purpose is the Creator's purpose comments tropicalstorm answered on 05/19/07:so DC you are saying that our purpose is the creators purpose but the creator is evolution? So what is my mission to evolve to? Would be nice to know some details on my purpose here!
thanks!:) | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 05/19/07 - My neighbor is a Mormon-What should I do? After meeting Ronnie moving before he sets my house on fire might be the best move. He wants to murder his atheist neighbor. He likes atheists and hates Christians. Wonder what he has in mind for me?
Your thoughts? tropicalstorm answered on 05/19/07:Peddles
YOU have it easy my neighbors have a revolving door at the jail
![]() | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/18/07 - BTW: This is to set matters straight in a loving way. First, I only need appproval from God and as far as Jehovah Witnesse using the Internet, we are cautioned to be careful because of all the negative messages and porn on the Internet. We can use the Internet, to prove this to some who believe otherwise, the Society has a Website at http://www.watchtower.org. Why would they have a website if JW's can't use the internet? Many Jehovah Witnesses use the internet in business, do research and even speaking to people on forums like this one.
We just don't get rude and put others down because they are different. We do not have the right to judge others as to if they are approved by God or not. The Judgement should be left to Jesus Christ, not those who feel they are higher then Jesus.
As for "Fred and Hope applying what my post about being a Christian says." I just wanted to say that that post was for each one of us to apply it to ourselves, not to the other members around them.
After all NOONE is perfect, not one of us.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/18/07:I know you can use the internet with some rules (cautions) but I thought it was sort of like some Churches that say you aren't allowed to go to other churches pf other denominations.
That they don't want you mingling with what they call Christiandom. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/18/07 - Pyramid Power ........................
What place has "Pyramid Power" in Christianity?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/18/07:As far as Christianity and the Bible I don't see it there as Ceebee and Frick seem to.
BUT my understanding of the pyramids is they do have mysterious significance and powers just like the moon with the tide and the stars with their earthly influences. The pyramids were built to line up with astronomical, and I believe astrological, powers as well.
I believe they were either built during Nimrods time with the Tower of Babel.
OR
They were built before the six day creation
(which Peddles doesn't comprehend on how
I can believe in the old earth gap theory AND the six day creation and NOT evolution when it is quite simple)
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 05/17/07 - Fred,is this Christian? The birth of the Saviour was as natural as are the births of our children; it was the result of natural action. He partook of flesh and blood-was begotten of his Father, as we were of our fathers.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/18/07:Just replying so I can save it as a fine example of Perkie at his best! | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 05/18/07 - Elijah and Elias "Doctrine and Covenants, section 110 quotes Joseph Smith as saying he saw both Elijah and Elias (verses 11-13) Who were these two men? tropicalstorm answered on 05/18/07:Elias and Elijah two different people, when they are in fact one and the same.
![]() ? | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 05/17/07 - As a Christian, can I be Christ-like and still claim to be a National Socialist?.................... . tropicalstorm answered on 05/17/07:Have no idea why you would want to be
BUT where you been and How you been?? | | Question/Answer | | Ch.Pétrus.82 asked on 05/17/07 - fascinating font!! http://www.teachinghearts.org/dre09creationnotes.html
Comments tropicalstorm answered on 05/17/07:Thanks Pete
It was interesting
Peddles will love the -young earth- link | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/17/07 - Family Tree / Genealogy - good news from Zion! 80 billion family files to go online
LDS Church plans to be history 'clearinghouse'
By Carrie A. Moore
Deseret Morning News
In what officials say will be a quantum leap forward in providing family history information online, the LDS Church has announced a plan designed to eventually help provide access to as many as 80 billion family records on the Web, in addition to the tens of billions of records it is currently indexing out of its own Granite Vault microfilm archives.
The new Records Access program is being announced this week at the annual meeting of the National Genealogical Society (NGS) in Richmond, Va. The announcement details specifics of how the church is creating partnerships with various archives and other records depositories in a move to become the world's premier international "clearinghouse" for family history.
The first cooperative project under the new program will be to digitize and index U.S. Revolutionary War Pension records with the National Archives in Washington, meaning anyone with ancestors who served in that war will soon be able to access details about that family member online.
Steve W. Anderson, manager of marketing for the church's FamilySearch.org, said the church is working to arrange agreements with commercial Web sites and genealogical organizations worldwide to provide digitizing, indexing and online posting for billions of records, many of which have never been indexed at all, let alone been available online.
"Archives all have two things in mind: preservation and making records available," he said. "When push comes to shove, they would rather preserve them than share them, but most would like to do both."
The church is forming agreements with organizations to help film or digitally image their collections, which can be posted on an organization's Web site, as well as on FamilySearch.org. In some cases, FamilySearch will simply provide a link to a specific organization's Web site, where a small fee for access will be charged to view the records.
The program "recruits volunteers from around the world to index a batch of records at a time. They transcribe those pieces of information — names, dates, locations, marriage, death and birth dates — and make an index that allows the record to be searched by name or place or event," Anderson said.
The project not only will provide "vital statistics," but by imaging the documents, users will be able to pull up a digitized image of the actual record itself. "That's a whole different experience, to see an image of the original document," he said.
The program provides the flexibility necessary to work with small archives as well as giant repositories, he said. It helps those without any resources to complete the entire imaging, indexing and online posting process, and those with more resources who may simply need help posting information online or driving traffic to their Web site.
Once the church has signed an agreement to work with a specific organization, personnel there "typically want to recruit their own patrons to help them index. But with imaging the documents — taking digital photos of them — we do that for them in almost all cases. ... They want preservation-quality digital images, and we do that better than anybody. We've been doing it for decades," to produce the 2.4 million rolls of microfilm that now reside in the church's Granite Mountain near the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Anderson said.
FamilySearch can also put indexing projects in progress on its Web site, where volunteers can help index public collections of records. The Revolutionary War records are a "perfect example. We're doing the imaging, posting on our site and will recruit volunteers to help index." An online family history Web site called Footnote.com will create electronic indexes of the records and host the actual images there for public access.
The indexes and images of those records will also be viewable at LDS Family History Centers, as well as at FamilySearch.org.
Anderson said "numerous other national and international projects" of a similar nature are now under development and will be announced as agreements are signed or data is published.
As a result of the "affiliate arrangement," Anderson said FamilySearch.org will "have all the indexes for everything. You can think of it more or less like a Google — you go there to find the source of information you're looking for. Sometimes we're the source, and sometimes a third party is the source."
At least one or two similar agreements are expected to be announced this week in Virginia, Anderson said, noting several of the church's family history specialists are presenting at the conference this week.
While some Web sites may eventually use their information as a money-making enterprise, as commercial family history companies now do, Anderson said the church is not charging partners to help them make their records available.
Church officials have been looking to form such partnerships "for some time now," Anderson said, but have had to push forward the development of technology that would allow it to happen with "the way we scan, photo, transfer and archive. Because some of the necessary technology wasn't available, we had to develop it ourselves."
Working with a scanner producer, the church helped develop high-speed scanners that can scan a roll of microfilm in "a couple of minutes," as opposed to an hour or more that traditional scanners required.
New software developed to process that information into images and make it ready for processing, as well as to manage the warehousing of such huge information banks, also had to be created, Anderson said. "Almost every step of the way, there were significant engineering projects or hardware that needed to be developed."
Now that the technology is in place, the Records Access project will mean "at least 20 billion unique new names that will be in those records (to be posted online), but I'm not uncomfortable saying it could be 80 billion." That's compared with a total of about 5 billion names now online, he said.
The new technology and resulting "affiliate" agreements through FamilySearch will "fundamentally change people's ability to find their ancestors and connect with their families online. It's just going to be a real watershed event," Anderson said.
E-mail: carrie@desnews.com
-----------------
Do you have your family tree?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/17/07:I hope it works better and has more information than the other ones on the internet. I couldn't find much of anything on there just a bunch of non related people in Virginia, but I tried the free stuff so...... | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 05/16/07 - Simple Single Cells Can anyone suggest a plausible explanation as to how these came to be? tropicalstorm answered on 05/16/07:Hebrews 11:3 (NKJV) By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
2 Corinthians 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
| | Question/Answer | | frick asked on 05/15/07 - Tom777 Tom, as an objective observer (and no fan of MS), you simplyu have NOT answred her question.
Every time she (or anyone else) asks you to prove the existence of God - which you have REPEATEDLY said you could prove - you NEVER answer. You only come up with a question in response!!
You are losing ANY credibility you may have had.
Tom, if you have an answer to the question, and if you can answer the question without responding with a question, THEN DO SO.
Otherwise, admit you can't.
Many here are waiting for you, but you are disappointing all with your constant avoidance of the question.
Answer or get off the pot!! tropicalstorm answered on 05/15/07:Like I said you can not 'prove' God IF you could it would nullify faith. Either you believe or you do not and no amount of convincing can change that!
Jhn 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
| | Question/Answer | | Ch.Pétrus.82 asked on 05/14/07 - To daft Tom Tom:
Do you not yet understand the meaning of the word "agnostic"?
I have nothing to prove and a lot to learn!!
Your stiff-necked bigotry, your bullshit and your apparent blindness does not help me!!!!
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 05/15/07:That is one of the things I like about you Pete you are not one extreme or the other but question things and your simple approach right to the point when you say IDIOT
MAKES life a lot more easy than the craziness some seem to strife about!!! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/15/07 - MOSES:
Moses said the length of our days is 70 years. What's your explanation for this 'announcement?'
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/15/07:They say more people are starting to live to 100. They say that in about 30 years people will be living to about 120. SO that means ya'll stuck with me until 2070!!!!!!! | | Question/Answer | HANK1 asked on 05/10/07 -
Another Serious Question:
What is the process by which people experience religious conversion?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/10/07:for religious conversion you realize that you do not agree enough with your church doctrine and find a denomination more suitable.
For a spiritual conversion you read your Bible, pray, seek God and ask that your 'spiritual eyes' be opened to God.
(Still awaiting peddles definition of religious) | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/10/07 - Serious Question:
What is religious commitment? (Use any definition of RELIGIOUS that you wish)
HANK tropicalstorm answered on 05/10/07:Being religious is man reaching out to God
Being spiritual is accepting God reaching YOU! | | Question/Answer | hOPE12 asked on 05/10/07 - Follow up on married couple.
Hello everyone,
Here are what I see, and by the way, I know them both and know both sides of the issue.
I have been counseling them both together.
]
BTW Belle, You stated:
“
Clarification/Follow-up by belle33 on 05/09/07 12:21 pm:
seems there is an ol cliche about women lieing on the couch, eating bon bons, and reding crotch novels. I think he wants your pity or something of yours.”
My reply to your comments:
It is true belle, he and his wife came to me for counsel. He does want something,
“Counsel to help him make the right choices.”
************
Here is what I get from their situation and by what both tell me.
1- He was a drunk. He started studying the Bible and stopped drinking. While he was drinking she separated from him. Then when he stopped drinking, she saw this and invited him to come home again.
2- He felt that because of still being married said he would give it a try. He told me it is the right thing to do before God.
3- After being home for a few days, his wife still was seeing some other guy, because his 6 year old daughter brought him the telephone when it rang and it was the guy she was seeing when they were apart.
4- She feels he is owing her because of his drinking and if he had not been so drunk all the time they would have never separated.
5- He said that he take responsibility for his drinking and is doing his best to control it and even went to AA meetings for two years. I can say that is true because it is through our congregation that we all took turns going with him and gave him support. Just as we gave his wife support and helped her with the children.
6- The problem seems that she can not forgive him for getting drunk and she is showing him that she is angry by placing demands that are really very hard for him to meet. He works full time sometimes even 45 hours or more on a secular job, and does the chores around the house, and takes his responsibilities.
7- She also works full time and when she comes home feels she does not need to do anything else because he needs to pay for his actions from before. She also does not like him studying the Bible because she feels it takes away from his time to do things for her and the kids.
8- He feels that studying the Bible is what has helped him to stop drinking and has helped him to be a better husband and father. He feels that she is demanding too much of him and he is really getting stressed out.
I would like some input on how you personally would counsel someone with a problem like this and where both the husband and the wife come to you for counsel. What would you tell them? How would you direct both so as to help both. They both need help. What advice or direction would you suggest so as to maybe help them see their situation more clearly.
I have been counseling them both for 2 years now. Here are the steps they both have taken:
The wife:
1- She did not like him drunk and rightly took steps to stop it.
2- She proved to him she can manage everything with out him.
3- She does not study the bible but comes for counseling and vents her frustrations.
4- She is a good mother and loves her children and took great care of them while he was in rehab.
5- I really feel she loves him but –yet is still very angry with him and because of that she places more demands on him.
6- Is she seeing another man, I do not know, but she does speak to her friend she was seeing while they were separated.
The husband.
1- He stopped drinking
2- He studies the bible and tries to live by the counsel from it.
3- He loves his children and his wife very much..
4- Brought his girl friend that he was seeing and in front of me and my Husband, told her in a tactful way he can no longer see her because he was going back to his wife.
5- He has been in the past suicidal, he took a gun to his head and was going to kill himself when his wife separated from him, but since he stopped drinking has not mention killing himself again. Does he still have suicidal ideas? I don’t know.
Now can you see my problem as the one they are looking to help for. I do not want to hurt either of them. She is angry still, and rightly so. He was not a good husband when he was getting drunk. I can not tell if she is seeing the other man or not, because she claims to only speak to him on the phone. I can not assume she is doing anything wrong, I can only believe what she says.
As to him, well he has changed and stopped drinking. He says he loves his wife and kids, yet can’t take her demands. Should he be patient with her because it was his fault to start with which caused them to be separated? Should she be more forgiving of him? What would you tell these two to help them both?
I am walking on egg shells with this situation because I don’t know everything that takes place, only what they both say and what I can see with my own eyes knowing them both. What could I tell them that would help both of them. After all they are both important and whatever choice they make will influence the children’s well being.
You guys gave some opinions and suggests:
1)This one I really loved was AlAnon meetings.. That was a great suggestion because it will help them both.
2) Another was that she needed to be free from her boy friend and stick to her husband.
3) He needs to be patient with her.
4) They both need to talk and find forgiveness in their hearts.
Please think about this post, even read it through once or twice. I feel very responsible in giving these two the best advice I can so they both can benefit. Any suggestions would be welcomed and very much appreciated.
Thank you,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/10/07:I still stand by everything I said.
I could tell she feels bitterness and unforgiveness towards her and feels
he owes her. I know way too many women like that!
Unfortunately as long as she holds on to holding the past against him their relationship is not going to go anywhere she needs conselling for herself and her attitude on how to have a better perspective on things and to realize that she is going to drive him to drinking if she wants it to be a me, me, thing.
Maybe an ultimatium would help, like him saying,
YOU accept me like this reading the Bible
OR you DON'T have me back
OR would you rather I start drinking?
| | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/09/07 - Bigots CAN Change ..................................................
http://www.MormonConverts.com
"Something Stirred Inside of Me"
By Mark Davidson
I have believed in God my entire life. Actually, from
my point of view, I have believed in God and in Jesus
Christ longer than my mortal body has known life. But,
having grown up in a household that at least was
familiar with Jesus, and having been going to Church
all of my life, when I was 9 year old, a commercial I
saw on television peaked my interest.
It was a commercial made by the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints. I remember clearly the entire
dialog of the commercial, and I remember my dad's
reaction when I asked him if we could visit that
Church. "That's not a Church, Mark. It's a cult." Case
closed? Not really.
____________________
That Strange 'Cult'
____________________
There were numerous occasions throughout my childhood
that questions arose about that strange "cult" that I
wasn't supposed to visit. I remember watching the movie
at Church called "The Godmakers" when I was 12. If
you've never seen that movie, I don't recommend it,
unless you like spiritual pornography. It painted a
very disgusting and untrue view of the Church and of
Church members.
However, I didn't know any better than to believe it. I
became a hardcore anti-Mormon at the age of 12. I went
on to teach seminars on the subject when I was a
teenager. I would pick fights with LDS missionaries
when I saw them walking or riding their bikes down the
road.
I tried to "witness" to an LDS friend of mine when I
was 13, and he gave me a Book of Mormon. I skimmed
through it and said a half-hearted prayer, just so I
wouldn't be lying when I told him I did what he
challenged me to do.
I continued throughout high school wanting to engage
Mormons in debate. I wanted LDS missionaries to come
and give me their best shot, but my older brother said
it was a sin to even let them in your home because they
brought evil forces with them. So, as much as I wanted
to, I never got the whole message straight from the
horse's mouth, so to speak.
I was a very outspoken Christian in high school, and
went on to Free Will Baptist Bible College where I was
surrounded by lots of people who believed the same way
I did about Mormons.
______________________________________________
The Spirit Touched My Heart At Temple Square
______________________________________________
After my second year of college, I went with my singing
group all over the country, and that included Salt Lake
City. We got a tour of the temple square and Visitors
Center there, and something stirred inside of me. I was
way too scared to share that feeling I got there with
any of my friends, but it was the Spirit.
I did not act on it, though. I buried it. I returned to
Nashville and to school that fall to work on my degree
some more. After school, I took a ministerial position
in Texas. I had some very bad experiences there working
under the Pastor of the Church.
He left such a bad taste in my mouth that I packed up
in the middle of the night and went back to Nashville.
My world and my idea of what Christianity was all about
had been completely turned upside down and it was time
to regroup.
_________________
Time To Regroup
_________________
So, I went to work full time at Ford Credit in
Franklin. There, I found out that a supervisor that
worked nearby me was LDS, and he was a returned
missionary. I began having friendly debates with him,
and then one day I was prompted to ask him to send the
Missionaries over to teach me what they call the
"Discussions," which is a 6 step presentation of the
basics of the LDS faith.
I was ready to have a Bible bash with them at first,
but my friend requested that I remain respectful and
open to what they had to say. I knew that I wasn't
going to be converted. Even if I felt that what they
said was true, it would mean so many changes. It would
mean that everyone I knew and had gone to school with,
and also many family members would probably disown me.
It would mean that I would no longer be considered a
Christian by nearly all other Christians that I knew or
would ever meet, and would probably be subject to
persecution.
____________________
I Sincerely Prayed
____________________
When all was said and done, I sincerely prayed to our
Father in Heaven, in the name of His Son Jesus Christ
to know if the Book of Mormon were really the Word of
God, and if Joseph Smith had been a prophet that God
had used to restore many things that had been forgotten
and lost for a long time.
The Spirit testified to my soul that those things were
true. I then concluded that, with that foundation, all
of the rest of the teachings and doctrines must be
true. It was just a matter of stepping out on faith and
knowing that God would help me understand them.
I knew that I had to be baptized into the Church, even
though it meant all of those things that I feared. It
was the right thing to do, and it would be sin to me if
I hadn't.
The bottom line is, many Christians don't even want to
know the truth about the teachings of the Church. They
come from so many preconceived notions of what they
were taught and what their fathers and grandfathers
believed that they won't give it a fair chance. In my
opinion, that is pride and it is a sin.
If more people truly wanted to know if there was
something more for their eternal soul than what they
are already aware of, I truly believe more people would
investigate the LDS teachings and would conclude
through earnest prayer that it the Church is true.
By Mark Davidson
tropicalstorm answered on 05/09/07:I agree with the The bottom line is, many Christians don't even want to
know the truth about the teachings of the Church. They
come from so many preconceived notions of what they
were taught and what their fathers and grandfathers
believed that they won't give it a fair chance. In my
opinion, that is pride and it is a sin.
BUT ADD if it is not pride it IS complacency.
I have always said just because your grandma told you you are Christian doesn't make you one
Just like me hanging out in garages never made me a mechanic!
![]() | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/09/07 - The was poster on a blog by Jason Easley........ Bigotry in politics is nothing new, but here is the latest.
<><><>
By Jason Easley
I am sure that many people have already heard about the remark that the Rev. Al Sharpton made about Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney while he was debating atheist author Christopher Hitchens at the New York Public Library’s Beaux-Arts headquarters on Monday. During the debate Sharpton said, “As for the one Mormon running for office, those who really believe in God will defeat him anyways, so don’t worry about that; that’s a temporary situation.” A spokesman for the Romney campaign said, “It is terribly disheartening and disappointing to hear Reverend Sharpton offer such appalling comments about a fellow American’s faith. America is a nation of many faiths and common values, and bigotry toward anyone because of their beliefs is unacceptable.”
Though, instead of apologizing, Sharpton accused the Romney campaign of trying to drum up sympathy for their candidate. He accused the Romney people of engaging in a, “blatant effort to fabricate a controversy to help their lagging campaign. In no way did I attack Mormons or the Mormon Church when I responded that other believers, not atheists, would vote against Mr. Romney for purely political reasons,” Sharpton said. What? Sharpton’s explanation makes absolutely no sense at all. He said those who really believe in God will defeat the Mormon. To me, this implies that he feels that Mormons really don’t believe in God. In an interview with the AP yesterday, Sharpton backed off his comments, just a bit, “What I said was that we would defeat him, meaning as a Republican,” Sharpton said. “A Mormon, by definition, believes in God. They don’t believe in God the way I do, but by definition, they believe in God.”
Romney himself has tried to take the high road in all of this. “I don’t know Reverend Sharpton,” he said. “I doubt he is personally such a thing, but the comment was a comment which could be described as a bigoted comment. Perhaps he didn’t mean it that way, but the way it came out was inappropriate and wrong,” said Romney. tropicalstorm answered on 05/09/07:sharpton has never apologised for anything
he says he doesn't have to because he had to pay fines instead which he doesn't even pay
google
Al Sharpton and
Tawana Brawley
The Duke LaCross players
Freddies fashion mart
just to name some
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/09/07 - Can you give your opinion? Hello Everyone,
I have been working with a 33 year old man, he had a drinking problem. Recently he has gotten that under control with AA and counseling.
His wife had left him and when she noticed his drinking was under control and that he was studying the bible and trying to get his life back on track, she kept inviting him to visit her and the kids. He has one 6 year old daughter and a 13 year old son.
He decided he would try to get back with her for the sake of the children and because in God's eyes he felt it would be a good step to take. He made a date with his wife for dinner and they talked and he went back on a trial basis.
Now his wife wants him to stop studying the bible and to do the dishes and laundry and cook and take care of the kids and work a full time job as a machanic. He tries to be affectionate but she is not loving towards him at all. While they were apart, they were both unfaithful and now he knows that is wrong and he wants them to try to make it work. His wife is still speaking to some guy on the phone.
He asked for some counsel that will help him to handle the situation. I came up with a few but wanted to get some views on the matter so as to give him the correct view.
My question is, How would you all handlle such a situation if someone came to you for counsel with his problem?
All are welcome to give their opinion. I will appreciate all opinions.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/09/07:sounds like she wants him back on her terms only----HER convenience.
The Bible says what GOD put together let no man put asunder. BUT what someone told me one time was DID GOD put you together IF you got together drunk at the bar or in some other way that wasn't necessarily GOD putting it together.
He gave it a shot to get back together and God knows his heart but if she isn't going to mutually respect a give and take relationship they could get back together for maybe a year maybe two and it most likely will be rocky because she sounds like she is controlling. I have know many controlling wives or girlfriends and it isn't good for the guy.
So I say he did his part at an attempt and now he should just move on. What good is getting back together for the sake of the kids when the kids can see the tension and so forth it just gives them a bad idea/negative attitude toward relationships in the long run. I stuck with my x for the sake of the kids for about 4 years TOO long and it DIDN'T accomplish A SINGLE THING! | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 05/09/07 - The Temple of the God makers Satan's Children tropicalstorm answered on 05/09/07:sounds like rituals of man to me
(to each their own) | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/08/07 - CREDENTIALS - What "Dr" Walter R Martin said ............. ...
On one of his radio programmes, "The Bible Answer Man," Nov 14 1984, KANN, Ogden, UT, renowned anti-Mormon "Dr" Walter Martin commented on the importance of verifying credentials. One telephone caller said that a preacher had come to his town and set up a trailer across the road from his house. The preacher was making his way across the country preaching the gospel. The caller asked whether Martin had heard of him. Martins response was:
"No, I never heard of him ... There are all kinds of people like this running around the country saying that they preach the gospel. Do you know what I do when I run into people like this? I start asking them for their credentials. I want to know who they are, where they came from, what schools they went to, what their training was, and if they get very tesaty, then I say, 'Look, you can't train me and you can't teach me if you don't know anything, and I want to know where you got what you have.' Well, that pretty generally cuts them off because most of them don't know anything."
What were "Dr" Martin's credentials?
Who was he?
Where did he come from?
What schools did he go to?
What was his training?
Some years ago, I wrote to the Christian Research Institute that was founded by Walter Martin. I asked in oplain and straightforward them for the details of each of the degrees Martins claimed to have been awarded.
I received a reply from CRI stating that they couldn't understand what information I wanted.
I wrote back listing the degrees Martin claims to have, and asked them when he attended each of the schools he named, what subjects he took, and what degrees he was awarded. I was asking the same questions that Martin says he asks Christian preachers in the belief that as he expected others to present their credentials that he and his organisation would be just as free to give out information as Martin had been to demand it of others. They never responded!
The reason they did not respond is because they knew that Martin - who laid the groundwork for much of the anti-Mormon attacks, disinformation, and bigoted lies that continue today - had told lie after lies about who he was, where he came from, the schools he attended, the degrees he was awarded, and even the fact that he was an ordained Baptist minister, all of which is a matter of verifiable records available to the public.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/09/07:I watched some of, I think it was his series, on witchcraft. While I think most of it seemed right I think a good bit of it seemed exaggerated to put it mildly. | | Question/Answer | | JacquelineA2006 asked on 05/08/07 - please tell me what you think....
A friend of mine named Robert who also wrote the blood got into an argument with me last night. i am still pissed off because i know i was right but he would not stop arguing with me. he wanted me to agree with him. he told me that this co-worker that works in my department is a slut. i do not care for her very much but i told him he is not much of a christian if he is calling someone a slut. your not suppose to judge others and it says that right in the bible and he told me that i was wrong! no one else can judge you except for God and it is not for him to judge want someone else does.
he had the nerve to tell me a couple of weeks ago that i am not a Catholic because i have not been to Church in a couple of years. that does not mean i am not a Catholic. i am not a practicing Catholic but to say i am not a Catholic was just not right. i am going to start going to church again thou.:)
tropicalstorm answered on 05/08/07:It isn't worth arguing over. Everybody is entitled to their opinion and if she is a slut then he was calling a spade a spade.
Some people just tell it like it is (or at least how they think it is).
If she isn't a slut then he is wrong but arguing with him only creates more problems and all you will probably accomplish is him not talking to you or at least not telling you things he thinks might cause a problem but he most likely will still say those things to others anyway.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/07/07 - Holly Hello Holly,
Thank you for clearing the issue of me being you, holly. I had a feeling it was you but didn't want to push the issue. Your admitting the truth was really very kind. Thank you.
I wonder if I will get any apologies for being accused of being you and hiding under the name of holly?????
Thank again holly,
Take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 05/08/07:Yeah you get my apologies. If I had known Joy was getting back into JW I would have most likely figured that if it wasn't you then it might be her but I had no idea and I knew it had to be a person that is on the board.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 05/07/07 - Did God order Joseph Smith to be a whore? There is another piece of evidence you might consider in examining Joseph Smith's sexual behavior. The following excerpt is from a love letter Joseph Smith wrote when he wanted to arrange a liaison with Newel K. Whitney's daughter Sarah Ann, whom Smith had secretly "married." It reveals Smith's cloak-and-dagger approach to his extramarital affairs:
"... the only thing to be careful of; is to find out when Emma comes then you cannot be safe, but when she is not here, there is the most perfect safty. ... Only be careful to escape observation, as much as possible, I know it is a heroick undertakeing; but so much the greater friendship, and the more Joy, when I see you I will tell you all my plans, I cannot write them on paper, burn this letter as soon as you read it; keep all locked up in your breasts, my life depends upon it. ... I close my letter, I think Emma wont come tonight if she dont, dont fail to come to night, I subscribe myself your most obedient, and affectionate, companion, and friend. Joseph Smith."
- Joseph Smith Handwritten Letter,
Ann Eliza Young, who had been married to Brigham Young, charged that Joseph Smith was guilty of adultery: "Joseph not only paid his addresses to the young and unmarried women, but he sought 'spiritual alliance' with many married ladies... He taught them that all former marriages were null and void, and that they were at perfect liberty to make another choice of a husband. The marriage covenants were not binding, because they were ratified only by Gentile laws.... consequently all the women were free....
"One woman said to me not very long since, while giving me some of her experiences in polygamy: 'The greatest trial I ever endured in my life was living with my husband and deceiving him, by receiving Joseph's attentions whenever he chose to come to me.'
"This woman, and others, whose experience has been very similar, are among the very best women in the church; they are as pure-minded and virtuous women as any in the world. They were seduced under the guise of religion,...
"Some of these women have since said they did not know who was the father of their children; this is not to be wondered at, for after Joseph's declaration annulling all Gentile marriages, the greatest promiscuity was practiced; and, indeed, all sense of morality seemed to have been lost by a portion at least of the church." (Wife No.19, 1876, pages 70-71)
tropicalstorm answered on 05/07/07:Gee and here I thought my crack-ho hood invented the whos'urdaddy generation.....
are you sure about this Peddles?
| | Question/Answer | | holly_ asked on 05/07/07 - I'm A Native American? The Book of Mormon is a religious and secular history of the inhabitants of the Western Hemisphere from about 2200 BC to about 421 AD. It tells the reader that the American Indians are descended from three groups of immigrants who were led by God from their original homes in the Near East to America. One group came from the Tower of Babel, and two other groups came from Jerusalem just before the Babylonian Captivity, about 600 BC. They were led by prophets of God who had the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is thus preserved in their history, the Book of Mormon. Many of the descendants of these immigrants were Christians, even before Christ was born in Palestine, but many were unbelievers. Believers and unbelievers fought many wars, the last of which left only degenerate unbelievers as survivors, who are the ancestors of the American Indians.
Please now, lets get real, and don't hate me for asking this question, but after reading many of Peddlers Post's on Mormons, are they for real?
And as a Native American, what am I?
This stuff is frightning me, am I bad Indian or a good one, how can I tell?
And why do people believe in a simple man, because in all reality, this is who that Joe Smith was' no better that you or I?
I much rather believe in the Bible, the true word, than that of any other book.
Thank you experts.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/07/07:Holly,
It would have been nice if you had said you were Joy and were starting to believe the JW's again.
Joy you don't have to worry about what your ancestors in the past might have been because you are you and you know your heart.
Choux is right, they say the Native Americans came across the strait from the Orient to Alaska and then down through America.
God Bless you
sapph | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 05/07/07 - What do you think of this website? http://www.satansrapture.com/index.htm tropicalstorm answered on 05/07/07:He seems to have summed up the church of today pretty well. I looked through it real quick and it seems like maybe he should have a little more of what he believes and how it compares to what the church today believes.
I am saving it to read through it better cause he might just have it pretty right.
I always did believe the rapture as the church didn't seem right and if there was a pre trib rapture it wasn't for ALL THE CHRISTIANS TO ESCAPE BUT the ones that had been perfected which would be very very limited.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/06/07 - Another "famous" atheist spouts off.................... So-called freethinker Susan Jacoby atheist writes in the Newsweek/Washington Post log, “The church has still not given up trying to force its version of morality on other Americans.”
I noted that she did not mention the method or instrument used to do that forcing.
I also noted that she did not make it a balance objective statement by admitting that she and her ilk were trying to impose their secular views on the most religious nation in the developing word.
Question:
Do you think that atheists are ever going to be honest and admit that they are trying to impose their agenda on others?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/06/07:I'd reply but I have to zipper my mouth | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/06/07 - Correct and Proper:
What is your definition of RIGHT or something that is correct and proper in our Western culture? When in life did you determine the difference between right and wrong? (Don't ask me to give you a definition of either. You know what I mean)
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/06/07:IT WAS INSTINCT FOR ME FROM THE TIME I WAS LITTLE NOBODY HAD TO TEACH ME BUT WITH MANY THEY NEVER LEARN AND OTHERS THEY MAKE THEIR OWN RULES.
THEN AFTER I CAME TO REALLY KNOW GOD I REALIZED THERE WAS A BIT MORE BUT I WAS BASICALLY ON THE RIGHT TRACK :)
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 05/06/07 - Let's take a vote. I received this rating response from hOPE12 today -- "I have read them and they tell lies and false facts. hOPE12".
It sounds to me like no matter what Tom says and how well he says and proves it from the Bible, hOPE12 won't accept it 1) since it comes from Tom with whom she has always disagreed, and 2) since she has her mind already dead-set against even considering any teaching other than one that comes from the Witnesses. She doesn't even dare remark that Tom has a point or maybe wants to know more about something he said. If she does, her house of cards may be in grave danger of falling, and she would feel like she is denying everything she believes.
So, I hereby propose this for your consideration:
We here at AW's Christianity Board respect the rights of both hOPE12 and Toms777 to embrace the beliefs that most satisfy and fulfill them spiritually. We have thus come to this vote:
Vote No, if you wish this particular discussion to end, as it seems to be going nowhere and just uses up board space. Comments are welcome.
Vote Yes, if you think there are still possibilities in this particular discussion - that either hOPE12 or Toms777 might open up to each other's way of believing. Comments are welcome.
Vote Maybe, if you are undecided and think the discussion is at least interesting and has given you food for thought. Comments are welcome.
Abstain. Comments are welcome. tropicalstorm answered on 05/06/07:if she doesn't want to even figure out what it is others believe even if she doesn't want to believe it herself why is she wasting time asking? I understand many things others believe that I don't and
I don't act like it is something I don't understand or something I refuse to figure out cause it goes against my beliefs.
I figured it was something she was trying to make more complicated because she hated the idea to even try and figure it out. I replied to her twice that there has been enough that we have said that she should go over it and grasp some of it. If she can't even understand what I said about the Bible saying a man and a woman become one flesh and it being a mystery (yet they are one)
then she won't ever get it. She is stuck in the idea that God was not in heaven when Jesus was on earth if they are one.
so my vote is no
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/05/07 - Did they really live that long in Genesis?
According to Christian Apologetics, they did:
"So all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years, and he died, (Gen. 5:7).
So all the days of Enosh were nine hundred and five years, and he died, (Gen. 5:11).
So all the days of Kenan were nine hundred and ten years, and he died," (Gen. 5:14).
"So all the days of Mahalalel were eight hundred and ninety-five years, and he died," (Gen. 5:17).
"So all the days of Jared were nine hundred and sixty-two years, and he died," (Gen. 5:20).
"So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years, and he died," (Gen. 5:27).
"So all the days of Lamech were seven hundred and seventy-seven years, and he died," (Gen. 5:31)."
How is it possible for people to live that long?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/05/07:The earth wasn't polluted, didn't have toxins and the food was much more nutritious then. Our food now has dead enzymes for the most part.
In the sixties people laughed at the idea of people living to even a hundred years old now they say that within the next 30 years people will be living to 120. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 05/05/07 - Now here is a really profound question
How will you spend eternity?
Smoking or Nonsmoking? tropicalstorm answered on 05/05/07:![]()
BUT A course this would be nice
![]()
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 05/04/07 - NRA Against Law to Prohibit Sale of Firearms to Terrorist Suspects AP WASHINGTON — "The National Rifle Association is urging the Bush administration to withdraw its support of a bill that would prohibit suspected terrorists from buying firearms.
Backed by the Justice Department, the measure would give the attorney general the discretion to block gun sales, licenses or permits to terror suspects.
In a letter this week to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, NRA executive director Chris Cox said the bill, offered last week by Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., "would allow arbitrary denial of Second Amendment rights based on mere 'suspicions' of a terrorist threat."
"As many of our friends in law enforcement have rightly pointed out, the word 'suspect' has no legal meaning, particularly when it comes to denying constitutional liberties," Cox wrote."....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you side with the NRA? tropicalstorm answered on 05/05/07:I agree with ceebee. There are enough gun laws the problem is that they are not followed as they should be. If someone wants a gun they will get it just like people get illegal drugs.
Then you have the problem of mental health places and so forth have to keep everything confidential like with the Virginia Tech shooter. They said the school, mental health and students and others realized he had a serious problem but most of them were bound by confidentiality rules.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/04/07 - A Christian Post:
Kindness always overcomes unkindness. You cannot compel a nasty, vicious person to change his/her ways through your own kindness. Thinking you can leads only to physical or psychological abuse. In most cases, it makes more sense to walk away. But behavior is often reinforced by its immediate results. IF YOU REPAY NASTINESS WITH NICENESS, YOU'RE SIMPLY ENCOURAGING THE PERSON TO CONTINUE BEING NASTY.
EVERYONE IS ENTITLED TO COURTEOUS AND FAIR TREATMENT.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/05/07:Most people know I am a facetious sarcastic smart ass and I get along with most everybody fine.
I might get smart with people but most people know how to take me and laugh it off.
I try not to be ignorant or nasty with anybody unless they really really push me but until then I am most likely kidding around (BTW how is the air compressor working?) Life is too short to be nasty or get offended and just because someone doesn't believe the way you do or are different in some way doesn't mean you should treat them rudely.
Corinthians 9:21-23 (New International Version)
21To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. (Which does NOT mean to sin to be like the sinner)
Often I can even get away with my ethnic jokes. Like big black guys laugh and tell me you is alright girl when I tell them my jokes. | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 05/04/07 - Book Review Number One in a Series Some people here enjoy reading in a wide range of subject matter in religion. As a service, I'm going to post book reviews going forward that relate to Christianty in some manner, not necessarily against it.
The first book review is by an atheist, since I am a non-believer, so, for your pleasure:
The Atheist Manifesto by Michael Onfray.
Book review: "This tightly argued, hugely controversial work convincingly demonstrates how the world's three major monotheistic religions-Christianity, Judaism, and Islam-have attempted to suppress knowledge, science, pleasure, and desire, often condemning nonbelievers to death. If Nietzsche proclaimed the "Death of God," Onfray starts from the premise that not only is God still very much alive, but increasingly controlled by fundamentalists who pose a danger to the human race. Documenting the ravages from religious intolerance over the centuries, the author makes a strong case against the three religions for demanding faith, belief, obedience and submission, and for extolling the "next life" at the expense of the here and now. Not since Nietzsche has a work so groundbreaking and explosive appeared to question the role of the world's dominant religions."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Enjoy! tropicalstorm answered on 05/04/07:in case you don't read Toms post
here is what I posted that I read on yahoo answers, but it wasn't explained right there.
Actor Kirk Cameron and best-selling author Ray Comfort will square off with two atheists in New York on Saturday, May 5. ABC originally planned to stream the 90-minute debate LIVE on their website, but decided to reschedule the broadcast to capture a larger audience. They will broadcast the entire debate on ABC.com on Wednesday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m. EST. The debate will be moderated by Martin Bashir, and on May 9 a shortened version of the debate will be aired on Nightline also on Wednesday 9th.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/04/07 - Follow up on the Trinity for Tom777 Hello Tom777,
This is what the New King James Bible says tom. Your copy of the Bible that you use.
Please be so kind to explain just these three scriptures so they make sense. Answer just these three question. Don’t quote a whole bunch of stuff, just be simple and to the point.
1)Matthew 3:17 (New King James Version)
17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
If Jesus is God, did he use Ventriloquism to say this? How did he do this Tom777? Please explain in a logical way why Jesus if God would say: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” I did not use my copy of the Bible but yours tom. New King James Version.
2)
The disciples viewed Jesus as the “one mediator between God and men,” not as God
himself.
1 Timothy 2:5 (New King James Version)
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
Since by definition a mediator is someone separate from those who need mediation, it would be a contradiction for Jesus to be one entity with either of the parties he is trying to reconcile. That would be a pretending to be something he is not. Please explain. Also why would Jesus if God be a mediator between himself? Would he ask a question to himself and then answer it? How does this mediator part work?
3)
What about Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane? Notice the New king James Version:
Mark 14:32-36 (New King James Version)
32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. 34 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”
35 He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36 And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”
Luke 22:39-43 (New King James Version)
39 Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”
41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
If Jesus is God then why would he pray to himself? Also if Jesus was God there would be no need for him to call himself “Father, and then say: ““ if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
Now if Jesus is God why would he pray to himself to please= remove the cup from him? Could he not have removed it himself?
If Jesus is God then would not he have the same will?
And if Jesus was God why would he need an inferior spirit angle to strengthen him? After all is not God more Powerful then and angel? If we are to believe that Jesus is God, then you are saying that the angel that God created is stronger then God himself? How can that be?
Please answer these question logically and simply and to the point and from the Bible. Then maybe I might listen to you Tom777. Until then, the Bible printed pages say it all.
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/04/07:Hope from what I understand Toms is saying they ARE THREE distinct individuals with three distinct functions, but they are tri-une
just like a triangle has three corners to it BUT it is ONE triangle.
The way he explains it though sounds very confusing.
| | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 05/04/07 - Response to hOPE re Trinity
hOPE's comments in red
1)Matthew 3:17 (New King James Version)
17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
If Jesus is God, did he use Ventriloquism to say this? How did he do this Tom777? Please explain in a logical way why Jesus if God would say: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” I did not use my copy of the Bible but yours tom. New King James Version.
I already explained this to you on March 22 and then earlier today so why you are asking again, I do not know. But let me just add to what I said earlier that we have one person of the trinity speaking to another person of the trinity in various places in the Bible. Here is another:
Heb 1:5-8
5 For to which of the angels did He ever say:
"You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You"?
And again:
"I will be to Him a Father,
And He shall be to Me a Son"?
6 But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says:
"Let all the angels of God worship Him."
7 And of the angels He says:
"Who makes His angels spirits
And His ministers a flame of fire."
8 But to the Son He says:
"Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
NKJV
2)
The disciples viewed Jesus as the “one mediator between God and men,” not as God
himself.
1 Timothy 2:5 (New King James Version)
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
Since by definition a mediator is someone separate from those who need mediation, it would be a contradiction for Jesus to be one entity with either of the parties he is trying to reconcile. That would be a pretending to be something he is not. Please explain. Also why would Jesus if God be a mediator between himself? Would he ask a question to himself and then answer it? How does this mediator part work?
Let’s read 1 Tim 2:5:
1 Tim 2:5-6
For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
NKJV
Now let’s have a look at it in the wider context:
1 Tim 2:1-7
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, 7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle--I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying--a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
NKJV
Let’s look at 1 Tim 2:3 more closely:
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Yes indeed God is our Saviour. We know that Jesus is our Saviour (John 3:16) so this clearly shows Jesus is God. We find that stated elsewhere in scripture as well:
2 Peter 1:1-2
To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
NKJV
So we know that Jesus is God. How many gods are there?
Isa 44:8
Is there a God besides Me? Indeed there is no other Rock; I know not one.'"
NKJV
So Jesus is the one true God. Yet we know that there is God the father and the Holy Spirit who are also God, thus we have the three persons of the trinity. Being separate persons of the trinity, Jesus is able to mediate between God and man, and further he is uniquely qualified having walked with us on the earth as the Son of Man and the Son of God:
Heb 4:14-16
Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
NKJV
This is more than enough to make the point, but let’s yet look at the other two verses:
Gal 3:20-22
Now a mediator does not mediate for one only, but God is one. 21 Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law.
NKJV
This verse simply emphasizes what has already been said and further emphasizes that there is only one God.
1 John 2:1
My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.
NKJV
Again, this just emphasizes Jesus’ role as our high priest and advocate.
1 John 2:22
Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.
NKJV
An interesting verse. When one denies that Jesus is God, they are indeed denying the true God, and indeed denying the one true God which includes the Father and the Son as two persons. In so doing, anyone who denies Jesus is God or denies the Father and the Son are God is said to be of the “antichrist”. This is a warning that we dare not ignore.
So if we have three distinct persons, then there is no issue with respect to your concerns. One person can act as the mediator, and another as the Father.
3) color=red>
What about Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane? Notice the New king James Version:
Mark 14:32-36 (New King James Version)
32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. 34 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”
35 He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36 And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”
Luke 22:39-43 (New King James Version)
39 Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”
41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
If Jesus is God then why would he pray to himself? Also if Jesus was God there would be no need for him to call himself “Father, and then say: ““ if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
Now if Jesus is God why would he pray to himself to please= remove the cup from him? Could he not have removed it himself?
This was addressed when I answered the question about praying to himself earlier. If you want me to make this longer by copying and pasting it again, i can, but unless you ask, I will assume that you can read the answer that I gave on March 22 and then earlier today.
If Jesus is God then would not he have the same will?
This is a good question. Why would gthat be? Because again, to be a perfect man, God came to earth manifest in the flesh. As a man, He had to be subject to the same temptations as the rest of us:
Heb 4:14-16
15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
NKJV
He was fully man and fully God. While on earth as a man, He became the perfect man, a man who did what the rest of us should have done and that is submitted Himself fully to the Father. The fact that He has a distinct will is only because He is a distinct person. But in no way did His will differ from the Father because He wholly submitted His will to the Father.
And if Jesus was God why would he need an inferior spirit angle to strengthen him? After all is not God more Powerful then and angel? If we are to believe that Jesus is God, then you are saying that the angel that God created is stronger then God himself? How can that be?
Phil 2:7-9
8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.
NKJV
Note. He did come with our weakness, but humbled Himself. he chose to come with all the weaknesses of men so that He would be one of us. Don't forget that Jesus had the glory of God previously:
John 17:5
5 And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.
NKJV
But willingly humbled Himself to become a man. He did not cease to be God, but put aside His glory so that He could live and suffer as one of us.
The Bible pages do indeed say it all.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/04/07:Hope from what I understand Toms is saying they ARE THREE distinct individuals with three distinct functions, but they are tri-une
just like a triangle has three corners to it BUT it is ONE triangle.
The way he explains it though sounds very confusing. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/03/07 - Saints in Protestantism .......
Since the advent of Protestantism in the 16th century, the relations between various instituted churches and their Roman Catholic parentage has brought about the usage and regard for various historical Saints within Catholicism to be regarded as Saints within Protestantism as well. Notable is the usage of Saints in Anglicanism that combines "via media" approach with a unique concepts of apostolic succession that asserts both similarities and differences with Catholicism.
If you are a Protestant, do you use saints in your devotions, prayers, etc?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/03/07:why go THROUGH someone instead of going to the source? | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 05/03/07 - Could it be possible that some atheists go.............. to heaven?
<><><>
I just got done reading an interesting article by a self described former evangelical theologian who said that virtuous atheists may go to be with God.
Atheists who do not reject God by just live without Him virtuously that is.
Do you think that God is so loving that he would that an atheist who lived by natural law (you know, the right to life, liberty, no stealing, lying, etc.) that He would take that atheist to be with Him after death of the body?
Personally I do not know, BUT, I do hope so.
I very much favor peace and kindness.
Your comments please,
tropicalstorm answered on 05/03/07:atheists who do not reject God are not atheist that is like calling someone with NO paint brush a painter. Anybody who out right rejects God can not be with God.
what you are describing is simply someone who has never known of God.
I want to reply to this better when I find the verses, right now too busy. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 05/03/07 - Parallelism ... is any Bible expert familiar with the Hebrew ...
.... literary device known as parallelism? If so, could you/they explain it?
tropicalstorm answered on 05/03/07:Does this help?
words of two or more lines of text are directly related in some way. This feature can be found in any poetic passage, and sometimes even in narrative, although it is more common in the Psalms and Proverbs.
Recognizing parallelism as a poetic feature can sometimes aid in understanding or interpreting a passage. For example, the use of parallelism usually means that the message of the text is in the larger passage and its overall point or impact rather than individual words or single lines. Also, specific words that may be ambiguous or used in unusual ways can be clarified or more narrowly defined by seeing them in the context of a parallel structure.
The following types of parallel structure are attempts to organize this feature of Hebrew poetic writing as an aid to reading and study. It should be kept in mind that Old Testament writers were very creative, and a great number of variations and combinations of these basic types occur in the biblical text.
I. Synonymous-the second line repeats the first in different words having the same meaning.
Psalm 19:1-2The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
}
Synonymous
Day to day pours forth speech,
and night to night declares knowledge.
}
Synonymous
II. Synthetic- the second line (or following lines) adds to the first
Psalm 24:3-4
Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to what is false,
and does not swear deceitfully.
}
Synthetic
III. Antithetic- the second line contrasts with the first.
Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion for ever.
}
Antithetic
IV. Climactic- successive lines build to a climax or summary.
Habakkuk 3:17-18
Though the fig trees do not blossom,
nor fruit be on the vines,
the produce of the olive fail
and the fields yield no food,
the flock be cut off from the fold
and there be no herd in the stalls,
}
Building
Yet I will rejoice in the LORD
I will joy in the God of my salvation.
GOD, the Lord, is my strength;
}
Climax/Summary
V. Eclectic- combination of different types interwoven.
Habakkuk 1:2
O Lord, how long shall I cry for help,
and you will not hear
} Synthetic
}
Synonymous
Or cry to you "Violence!"
and you will not save?
} Synthetic
Another feature that is sometimes included within the idea of parallelism is the use of several words or a series of words to refer to the same thing for emphasis. For example, the well known passage of Deuteronomy 6:5 uses a series of three words: "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might." Here the terms heart, soul, and might do not refer to separate parts of a person, but are actually synonymous, referring simply to the person (see Body and Soul: Greek and Hebraic Tensions in Scripture). This also exhibits another poetic feature of Hebrew literature in which references to a single part of something represents the whole (e.g., "from Dan to Beersheba, " 1 Sam 3:20, means the whole country of Israel, from north to south). Here the emphasis is clearly on loving God totally and fully.
-Dennis Bratcher, Copyright © 2006, Dennis Bratcher, All Rights Reserved
See Copyright and User Information Notice
| | Question/Answer | | Professor asked on 05/03/07 - TTFNUAS -
What is Hank's modus operandi? Please be specific. I'm beginning to like this person. Seems as though he has most of you jumping through rings!
People on all Q & A sites use aliases at one time or the other. That's why I drew that conclusion, Tropicalstorm. Do you agree?
You said you want Hank to be Hank. Why should he be Hank if all that is posted about him is defamation and lies? If I was him, I'd stay away from here. I see no need to participate. Nothing constructive - just crap.
tropicalstorm answered on 05/03/07:Well I like Hank, sometimes his methods to his maddness are a little peculiar though! | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 05/02/07 - Are You an Intellectual? PriceProlix considers himself an *intellectual* per a response to paraclete. :D
Memorizing minutiae does not an intellectual make; nor does explicating volumes of religious material within a closed system unrelated to Reality. tropicalstorm answered on 05/03/07:yeah I agree I could memorize a whole book of trivia and I don't think it would make me an intellectual ---or very edumacated---
BUT you know me I prefer being a facetious sarcastic smart ass! | | Question/Answer | | Professor asked on 05/02/07 - The Third Heaven -
What does it mean when the Bible refers to the Third Heaven?
Your Professor
tropicalstorm answered on 05/02/07:What does it mean when the Bible
refers to the Third Heaven?
At the time of ancient Israel they did not have as complete an understanding of the universe as we do today. So they wrote in terms they were familiar with. The Jews spoke of three heavens. The first heaven consisted of the the earth atmosphere where the clouds and birds were. The second heaven was where the sun, stars, and moon was. The third heaven was the dwelling place of God. When Paul said he was caught up to the third heaven (2 Cor. 12:2), he was referring to the very dwelling place of God.
As a note, the Mormons erringly teach that the three heavens consist of telestial, terrestrial, and celestial. They divide them into compartments dwelt by people after they die.
The First Heaven: Earth Atmosphere
Deut. 11:17 -- Then the LORD's anger will burn against you, and he will shut the heavens so that it will not rain and the ground will yield no produce....
Deut. 28:12 -- The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands.
Judges 5:4 -- "O LORD, when you went out from Seir, when you marched from the land of Edom, the earth shook, the heavens poured, the clouds poured down water.
Acts 14:17 -- "Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons;...
The Second Heaven: Outer Space
Psalm 19:4,6 -- In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun... It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other;...
Jeremiah 8:2 -- They will be exposed to the sun and the moon and all the stars of the heavens which they have loved and served....
Isaiah 13:10 -- The stars of heaven and their constellations will not show their light.
The Third Heaven: God's Dwelling Place
1 Kings 8:30 (phrase repeated numerous times in following verses) -- then hear from heaven, your dwelling place...
Psalm 2:4 -- The One enthroned in heaven laughs; The LORD scoffs at them.
Matthew 5:16 -- In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
The highest heaven, the third heaven is indicated by the reference to the Throne of God being the highest heaven:
1 Kings 8:27 -- "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you.
Deut. 10:14 -- To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/02/07 - Money, Money, Money! Hello Everyone,
There is a list of things one might do if they where to come into a lot of money. What would you do and why? Please pick two choices because that is all you have.
1- Quit you job and see how you can help others.
2- Spend more time with the family and friends.
3- Travel and party daily.
4- Take up a career that you could not afford before and become richer.
5- Become even richer by investing and paying off debts so as to gain more money.
6- keep enough to live comfortable and give the rest to other who need it.
7-Continue with your life the way it is because of being content and satisfied with what you have, give out the money to others poorer then you.
8- Spend time and the money on helping others learn about God.
9- Bank it and live on what I already have for emergencies.
10- Be so happy I would forget who and what I stand for.
11- drink it up.
12- spend it on things I don't need but want.
13- Feed the poor.
14- Build houses for those without homes.
16- help those who are sick to get better medical care.
17- Travelto see how other live and their culture.
18- Do medical research.
19- change your values in life.
20-Would remember the harm that love of money can bring and remember to keep a simple and balance view of money and the use of it.
Remember you can only pick 2 things. This is a quiz to help each of us to know the kind of people we really are on the inside. The two choices will tell each one something about themselves.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 05/02/07:1- Quit my job and start a place where I can help others to help themselves
2- Spend more time with the family and friends.
3- Travel
4- Take up a career that you could not afford before and become richer.
5- Become even richer by investing and paying off debts so as to gain more money.
6- keep enough to live comfortable and invest the rest to help others who need it.
8- Spend time and the money on helping others learn about God.
9- Bank enough to live on and for emergencies.
16- help those who are sick
20-Would remember the harm that love of money can bring and remember to keep a simple and balance view of money and the use of it and that it is fact that most people who become millionaires on the lottery are broke within a couple years due to mismanagement of their money
| | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 05/02/07 - To the Christians on this board (if there are any left):
For the few years I've been on here, I've had occasion once in a while to post my thoughts about all the dissension, squabbling, and insulting of our brothers and sisters who share our faith. If you haven't had an opportunity to read any of those, I'll be happy to post my thoughts again.
Some revolutionary many years ago made a comment along the lines of "If we don't hang together, we'll hang separately." Or something like that, anyway.
While I believe that each and every one of us is accountable for our own actions in the eyes of God, we are also the only living, breathing examples the world sees of the power and impact that Christ has had in and on our lives.
What a pitiful example I've seen, both in the world and on this board. Before you rush to condemn me for being judgmental or hypocritical, I count myself in that group also.
In the interest of keeping this short and not boring anyone to tears, I'll leave you with a short and simple quote from Francis Schaeffer:
“Our relationship with each other is the criterion the world uses to judge whether our message is truthful—Christian community is the final apologetic.”
Think about this for a night or so, will you?
DK
tropicalstorm answered on 05/02/07:kindj
I always enjoy reading everything you have to say on here! | | Question/Answer | | Professor asked on 05/02/07 - What's going on?
I have noticed that a non-believer named Mary Susan gives black stars consistently! Why is this? Do experts on this board give her black stars when she posts or answers something anti-Christian? Isn't there an atheist board at Answerway? I don't know if I'm going to like it here! Quite a bit of disension.
Your Professor
tropicalstorm answered on 05/02/07:You know the saying, Like it or lump it?
If you wanna be here you gotta take the good, the bad, the ugly and which ever way the board goes.
Maybe she can give you one of her post meno posts to break you in!
| | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 05/01/07 - the oxygen effect: A few years ago, Tyrell Museum of Paleontology had the following information on one of their displays:
“Life as we know it depends on oxygen in the atmosphere. That oxygen wasn’t always there. We believe now that it is a byproduct of early life. In a paradoxical interdependence, life needs oxygen and oxygen itself needs life.”
Scientifically is this possible, or is this another example of, once upon a time, in a land far, far away...
tropicalstorm answered on 05/01/07:Maybe he knows something we don't?
But of course life cannot exist without oxygen!
So did you ask him if he knew which day oxygen was created CREATION DAY 2 3 OR 4 | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/30/07 - Guess What My new senior social worker from a nearby wealthy suburb social service agency asked me at her home visit today if I would write an article about seniors on the internet for their quarterly newsletter. How about that!!??
Would some of the seniors here here give me some info about what you like about being online and how it benefits your life. I can incorporate that into my article about my "friends" on the Internet. I do mention you guys to those who visit me. Surprise!! Feel free to contact me here or privately if you wish to share your feelings and opinions. :):):)
Thanks in advance!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/30/07:maybe you could include some differences/conveniences that you see from life pre internet and after the internet.
Like how it broadens your chances of meeting and sharing with more of a variety of people. Often people say to me how can you trust anybody on the internet. I tell them that you met the same on the street in everyday life because the people here are just as real with the same problems, the same feelings, the same needs etc.
In fact, I think I would trust some of you here over many people I meet on the street if it came down to it.
I can imagine you explaining this crew LOL! | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/30/07 - Are all these Christian folk Freemasons? Tom says they are!
Check out htis Christian graveyard .....
![]()
What does Tom know about obelisks?
Didn't he learn ANYTHING that was TRUE on his Coven Sabbat?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/30/07:I looked up Christian obelisks and from what I could tell at a quick glance and to me it doesn't look any different than Christians accepting Christian holidays tied in with
Pagan ones or many other things that Christians accept as 'their religious traditions' | | Question/Answer | | Delilah asked on 04/30/07 - Who might you be?
I am a Christian Goth and I would like to thank you for this site. I like Goth especially for the clothes, but also for the music and because my Goth friends are the most real people I know. Will you be my Goth friend?
Delilah tropicalstorm answered on 04/30/07:I don't know much about Goth. My daughter dressed Goth for awhile but she didn't get really into it like many people do. The Goth kids I have known were really good kids. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/27/07 - INTERPRETATION:
Worse than making a mistake is making a mistake and NOT learning anything from it. The most valuable lessons that you can learn in this life are often the RESULTS of the mistakes that you make. Be they mistakes regarding your health, your work or your heart, they only become valuable IF you learn something from them. Turn those mistakes into newfound knowledge! Mistakes that are studied and understood often grow into wisdom.
What have your mistakes taught you?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/27/07:my mistakes have taught me to stay in the house, don't answer the door, IF you do lie to whoever knocks by telling them you are fresh out or its broke and DO NOT under any circumstances for any reason go anywhere. BUT I can't live my life like that SOOOO............... | | Question/Answer | | peddler2 asked on 04/27/07 - Our rights On the first day of school, with permission of the school superintendent, the principal and the building supervisor, she took all of the desks out of the classroom.
The kids came into first period and there were no desks. They obviously looked around and said, "Ms. Cothren, where's our desk?" And she said, "You can't have a desk until you tell me how you earn them."
They thought, "Well, maybe it's our grades."
"No," she said.
"Maybe it's our behavior."
And she told them, "No, it's not even your behavior."
And so they came and went in the first period, still no desks in the classroom. Second period, same thing, third period too. By early afternoon television news crews had gathered in Ms. Cothren's class to find out about this crazy teacher who had taken all the desks out of the classroom.
The last period of the day, Martha Cothren gathered her class. They were at this time sitting on the floor around the sides of the room. And she says, "Throughout the day no one has really understood how you earn the desks that sit in this classroom ordinarily." She said, "Now I'm going to tell you."
Martha Cothren went over to the door of her classroom and opened it, and as she did 27 U.S. veterans, wearing their uniforms, walked into that classroom, each one carrying a school desk. And they placed those school desks in rows, and then they stood along the wall. And by the time they had finished placing those desks, those kids, for the first time I think perhaps in their lives, understood how they earned those desks.
Martha said, "You don't have to earn those desks. These guys did it for you. They put them out there for you, but it's up to you to sit here responsibly to learn, to be good students and good citizens, because they paid a price for you to have that desk, and don't ever forget it."
Friends, I think sometimes we forget that the freedoms that we have are freedoms not because of celebrities. The freedoms are because of ordinary people who did extraordinary things, who loved this country more than life itself, and who not only earned a school desk for a kid at the Robinson High School in Little Rock, but who earned a seat for you and me to enjoy this great land we call home, this wonderful nation that we better love enough to protect and preserve with the kind of conservative, solid values and principles that made us a great nation.
"We live in the Land of the Free because of the brave."
Please remember our Troops!
tropicalstorm answered on 04/27/07:Nowadays that teacher could have been accessory to a serious problem.....
if they happened to of needed the desks to hide under. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 04/26/07 - Bible Conference I won't be able to be on here as much over the next few days - there is a great Bible conference coming up that I will be attending this weekend. Speakers include Roger Oakland and Ray Yungen.
It should be a great conference!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/26/07:Never heard of them | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/26/07 - The lesson of Job. By Douglas W. Phillips
April 17, 2007
Today, the nation mourns the senseless murder of thirty-two men and women who were gunned down in cold blood. The slaughter of students at Virginia Tech constitutes the largest campus killing spree in American history. The murderer was a fellow student, twenty-three-year-old Cho Seung-hui of South Korea. Though little is currently known of his motive behind the murders, it is clear that his plan was calculated and carefully executed. The assault was premeditated and thorough. Doctors report that not a single victim had fewer than three bullet wounds.
Thousands will be deeply affected, probably for the rest of their lives. The most serious pains belong to the mothers, fathers, and sisters and brothers of the murdered victims. What shall we say to them? What are we to learn from these events?
First, we must remember the answer to the question “why?”
When people ask: “Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?” or “How can such a terrible thing happen?”, we must point them to the fundamentals. First, all of us deserve death and all of us will die. The only question is when will we die, and what will be the state of our eternal soul at that time. Every breath is a gift of God. None of us deserve it. We have no rights or demands we can make to our Creator. In fact, apart from Christ, we stand condemned to a fate far worse than physical death — eternal punishment. And there is a reason for all of this. God is God, and we are His creation. Understanding the distinction is everything. He sets the rules. He determines what is just. And His plan is always good, even when we do not understand it. Not only is He a loving and kind God, but He is also infinitely just. This justice has implications for man. It was God who created the world and man “very good.” But man sinned against an infinite and holy God. The penalty for this sin was physical death. Because of man’s sin, all of creation became subject to death. Our bodies and the world around us die and groan as a reminder and a punishment for our rebellion before the Lord. Everything would be supremely hopeless, but for one important truth: Though the wages of our sin is death, the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus. It took an infinite, perfect, and holy sacrifice to atone for our sin against an infinite, perfect, and holy God. Christ was that sacrifice. This means that all whom the Father calls, and who repent and believe in Christ, shall not perish but have eternal life.
Thus, the question is not, “why did God allow the tragic death of these students,” but rather, “why does He allow any of us to live.” We deserve death. Every breath of life is a gift. It is only by His grace and mercy that we live and breathe and have our very being. He is our Creator and He is just to determine the beginning and the end of our existence. Beyond this, we must remember that even the tragedy of death is part of the eternal plan of God to bring glory to Himself. The fact that we do not understand the infinite purposes and counsels of the Triune God only means that we are creatures and need to trust Him. That is why He has given us His Holy Word. The Bible is the revealed mind of Christ for man. It reminds us that all things — including the murder of the innocent — work together for good to those that are the called of God. It cautions us to flee to God while we yet have life. It reminds us that the victory of Christ is greater than the grave itself. It warns us that without Christ there is no hope whatsoever. When we see the horror of death, we must be convicted of sin and flee to God. We must be emboldened in our sense of urgency to communicate to others the only source of hope from death. We must treasure the preciousness of life as God’s sacred gift, and we must wisely invest in meaningful Kingdom work this brief whisper of an opportunity called — our life.
Second, we must acknowledge that the rise of community violence is a judgment of the Lord. Our nation has broken covenant with the God of our fathers. We have forsaken the law of God and have worshipped before false idols. We have sacrificed our children, not only spiritually and intellectually to the high priests of a new secular religion in our government schools, but have quite literally sacrificed baby boys and girls to the gods of convenience in the abortuaries of America. One out of four Americans is not here because they were aborted by their mothers.
The modern trend toward school killings must be considered in terms of the hopelessness and evil which is being communicated to the children of this generation through the music culture, the entertainment culture, the sexual culture, and the intellectual culture of evolution and meaninglessness — all of which converge in modern schools. Our children are being taught the Gospel of evolution and man. It is a religious faith that ultimately teaches that transcendent truth does not exist and that life is meaningless, being the product of chance. Why are we surprised when the present generation acts upon the logical implications of this false gospel? If we do not see the connection between this false faith and the culture of death, we are blind bats, or willingly ignorant. The answer for us as a people is repentance and restitution, which begins by turning from our sins and reclaiming the ancient paths of the Lord wherein there is hope.
Third, the worst response to school murders that our politicians could make would be to further disarm the American citizenry. The heavy death toll may in part be attributed to past legislation making it difficult for citizens to carry side arms. If even one of the students in that university had been armed, Cho Seung-hui could have been stopped. A strong case can be made that in a violent society like our own, it is the duty of every Christian man to be armed such that he is ready, willing, and able to come to the immediate aid of his neighbor in the face of the ruthless behavior of lawless men. We have one of two futures — a police state full of regulation and controls, where only the state and criminals have access to guns, thus leaving most women and children defenseless to evildoers, or an informed and well-armed population, which is, to my mind, the surest safeguard against lawless men.
Fourth, every tragedy is an opportunity God gives to reflect glory and honor to Him. We give glory to Him as we reach out to others and lead them to the great Comforter. Now is the time for Christians to reach out in love to those who are in unimaginable pain, as well as those who are just shell-shocked by the horrible news. There is a time to mourn with those who mourn, and this is that time. Let us mourn, love, and encourage — and let us give God the glory-even death.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/26/07:I have been noticing a pattern of suicide killers and how they do go to gun free areas to do their killing. Also there are many cases where someone did stop suicide killers because they happened to have a gun. The Trolley Mall is ONE of many examples. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/26/07 - Who gave Tom the authority ......
..... to pretend that he could read the Bible in Hebrew, and then make it say something it does not say just so he could try to win an argument with someone through deceit?
How does that work? Is he permitted to have a different standard of honesty than the rest of us Christians?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/26/07:I am starting to want to see them post the original hebrew/greek with definition of how it is used and the source just so I know who is twisting what. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/25/07 - I have a serious question: Hello Everyone:
My question is, according to the Bible only those who have been “born again,” can share in the heavenly prize. Does that mean that if one is not born again will see death?
Notice the below scriptures:
John 1:12-13 (New King James Version)
12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
“As many as did receive him” does not mean all humans who have put faith in Christ? Notice who is being referred to, as indicated by verse 11 [“his own people,” the Jews]. John 1:11 (New King James Version)
11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.
The same privilege has been extended to others of mankind, but only to a “little flock.”
What will they do in heaven?
Revelation 20:6 (New King James Version)
6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.
Now here is another question:
Can a person who is not “born again” be saved? What do you say according to the scriptures below:
Revelation 7:1-17 (New King James Version)
1 After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. 2 Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, 3 saying, “Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.” 4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed:
5 of the tribe of Judah twelve thousand were sealed;[a]
of the tribe of Reuben twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Gad twelve thousand were sealed;
6 of the tribe of Asher twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Naphtali twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Manasseh twelve thousand were sealed;
7 of the tribe of Simeon twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Levi twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Issachar twelve thousand were sealed;
8 of the tribe of Zebulun twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Joseph twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Benjamin twelve thousand were sealed.
9 After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” 11 All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying:
“ Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom,
Thanksgiving and honor and power and might,
Be to our God forever and ever.
Amen.”
13 Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, “Who are these arrayed in white robes, and where did they come from?”
14 And I said to him, “Sir,[b] you know.”
So he said to me, “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them. 16 They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; 17 for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters.[c] And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
Notice after John heard the number of those who would be “born again,” those who would make up spiritual Israel and would be with Christ in heaven;
Romans 2:28-29 (New King James Version)
28 For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; 29 but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.
Galatians 3:26-29 (New King James Version)
26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
After listing many pre-Christian persons of faith, Hebrews 11:39, 40 says:
Hebrews 11:39-40 (New King James Version)
39 And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, 40 God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.
Who are here meant by “us”? Hebrews 3:1 shows that they are
Hebrews 3:1 (New King James Version)
1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus,
Take note: “partakers of the heavenly calling.” The pre-Christian persons who had faith, then, must have a hope for perfect life somewhere other than in heaven, otherwise they would not have used the words “heavenly calling.” Everyone would have the hope of going to heaven. But this scripture shows that there was a different calling for some. What was that calling?
According to scriptures they speak of those who will possess the earth and reside upon it forever. Why are these scripture in the bible if everyone needs to be born again to enter into heaven. The question then arises, “Do all good people go to heave? Do all have to really be Born again” if their hope is to live on earth?
Note these scriptures:
Psalm 37:11 (New King James Version)
11 But the meek shall inherit the earth, And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
Psalm 37:29 (New King James Version)
29 The righteous shall inherit the land,
And dwell in it forever.
Isaiah 45:18 (New King James Version)
18 For thus says the LORD,
Who created the heavens,
Who is God,
Who formed the earth and made it,
Who has established it,
Who did not create it in vain,
Who formed it to be inhabited:
“ I am the LORD, and there is no other.
Notice the earth was formed by God to be inhabited. That being said my question is if everyone who is saved is going to heaven, who will inhabit the earth?
Matthew 6:10 (New King James Version)
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven
Why would God’s will need to take place on earth, if every good person is going to heaven and all bad persons are going to hell? Who and why would God’s will need to take place on earth and who will be here to do God’s will?
Is it possible for a person to have God’s spirit and yet not be “born again”?
Regarding John the baptizer, God’s angel said: Luke 1:15 (New King James Version)
15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.
And Jesus later said: Matthew 11:11-12 (New King James Version)
11 “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.
Why did Jesus say that the least one in the Kingdom of heaven is greater then he? Because John will not be in the heavens and so there was no need for him to be “born again”
The spirit of God was “operative” upon David and “spoke” by him 1 Sam. 16:13; 2 Sam. 23:2, but nowhere does the Bible say that he was “born again.” There was no need for him to be “born again,” because,
as Acts 2:34 (New King James Version)
34 “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself:
David did not ascend to the heavens.
To my understanding of the Scriptures:
Salvation and being “born again” are different and for different people; Being born again I believe allows these ones a very special privilege of being heirs with Christ, and have a heavenly calling. This is what I feel the definition of being born again means:
(Being born again involves being baptized in water (“born from water”) and begotten by God’s spirit (“born from . . . spirit”), thus becoming a son of God with the prospect of sharing in the Kingdom of God. (John 3:3-5) Jesus had this experience, as do the 144,000 who are heirs with him of the heavenly Kingdom.
Salvation is needed but different then being born again. Here is what my understanding of salvation means or being saved.
Preservation or deliverance from danger or destruction. That deliverance may be from the hands of oppressors or persecutors. For all true Christians, God provides through his Son deliverance from the present wicked system of things as well as salvation from bondage to sin and death. For a great crowd of faithful servants of God h living during “the last days,” salvation will include preservation through the great tribulation.
Just my understanding, please feel free to comment on anything said above. I will respond to all polite and respectful replies. Please don’t tell me what the Watchtower says, I am only quoting from the New King James Bible and what my understanding is. Please only comment on what I have personally stated above.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you all.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 04/25/07:hope from what I read to your reply to PHA on what does it mean to be saved it seems like you have a pretty good grasp of what born again means. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/25/07 - According to Jesus Christ .......
..................... According to Jesus Christ what does a person have to do to be saved? According to Jesus?
Back up your answer from the scriptures, and no vague 'prooftexts' or mistranslations, etc, please.
What did Jesus say a person had to do to be saved?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/25/07:Jhn 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Jhn 3:3-21 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and [of] the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you [of] heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Romans 10:9-10That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/24/07 - Rational People RESCUE THIS BOARD FROM THIS WARFARE AMONG "REAL CHRISTIANS", BWAH HA HA .....WHAT A BUNCH OF STUPID, ARROGANT BORES WITH BAD CASES OF VERBAL DIAHRRHEA AND THE **WILL TO BORE EVERYONE TO DEATH**, THAT IS, IF THEY CARE TO READ BULLSH*T.
STUPIDEST PEOPLE ON EARTH, NO DOUBT ABOUT IT.
GROW THE FUCK UP!!!!!!!!
tropicalstorm answered on 04/24/07:Is that the atheist prayer choux???:)
You deserve to be here as much if not more than many
ready fer that shuffle board game yet? | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/24/07 - Profitable Afternoon of Begging! I am happy to report that I was successful in my "begging adventure" this afternoon. My Occupational Therapist was here this afternoon checking on my progress and setting a fire under my butt to finish the work we started last month. I have to get a fancy bath bench so I can bathe often, but Medicare doesn't pay for bathing equipment. I had a freakish accident several months ago..... anyway..... :D
So, I found an agency that will pay for my sophisticated bath bench to the tune of $113.13.
I have to thank all the social agencies in my area that serve the elderly and handicapped.
Happy Day!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/24/07:more profitable than a day here.
My profitable day was I found a couple of really nice pieces of furniture that people were getting rid of.
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/24/07 - Is There Anyone Here... who doesn't hate Hope and Tom for all the stinkin' boring posts they make everyone ignore???
Wake up you two, selfish, selfish, selfish!!!!!
Mary Sue tropicalstorm answered on 04/24/07:The sad thing is it doesn't amount to OR accomplish any more than this does------>
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| | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 04/24/07 - DNA vs The Book Of Mormon! The Book of Mormon dogmatically teaches that the ancient israelites are the principal ancesters of moder day native Americans.But new discoveries in DNA researchcantradict that claim.In recent years ,thousands of native Americans from more than 150 tribes have been geneticaly tested to determine there ancestry.If native Americans as proven are not deccended from Israelites as the book of mormon claims then does not this prove that book to be untrue and unreliable .DNA presents clear and compelling evidence that even when pre columbian remains of native americans
was tested ,the DNA showed 100% asian ancestry was the origin.There is simply no indication of Hebrew or even middle eastern ancestry in the DNA of any native American s as the book of mormon claims Thus if this is a lie is not the whole book supect ??? tropicalstorm answered on 04/24/07:Most of my friends are native american and none of them are Mormon. I don't know any Native Americans that are Mormon but my guess is that if a native american is mormon it is something they chose separate from being Native American. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 04/24/07 - RESPONSE to hOPE hOPE's Comments are in red
My Comments are in blue
hOPE, You said:
Click on your Name= Tom777
it will take to to you profile.
Click on blue that says additi0nal info of tom777,
then click of "answer archive" then it will have a remove button that allows one to remove any answer to a reply given. You can not remove a post but just a reply you have given.
But you already knew that, didn't you Tom777???
No, actualy I didn't, but it is interetsing that you did. Anyway, I noted two things. First, it does not appear to include clarifications, just answers - correct me if I am wrong on that. Second, as an experiment to see if it worked, I picked a very old post and tried it. Here is the one that I tried:
http://www.answerway.com/prevquesv.php?category=262&msection=0&quesid=1434&ansid=2695
After I did the remove function, I looked again, and all it did was remove it from my directory - it did not actually remove my reply. So I think that you have mis-understood the function of the feature.
Regardless, thanks for making me aware of it.
You, Tom777, are pathetic,
Thinking that your words will make us feel small.
Nobody cares what you say,
Everybody here will stand up tall.
Your words are just that:
Pathetic, hurtful but meaningless;
We are worthy human beings;
Are to important to, yes!
So take your insults, buddy,
And shove 'em where the sun don't shine!
Interesting that you accuse me of insults, and yet you cannot find any because I made none. And yet earlier you questioned my intelligence, told me that I cannot diasagree with you religion, call me pathetic, and make a rude suggestion as to what I should do.
I suspect that I used your definition of what is appropriate in how we should treat others, you would be considerably less happy with my comments.
Have you looked up the definition of the word "hypocrisy"?
Tom
tropicalstorm answered on 04/24/07:Toms
looks like when you are wrong you are wrong and when you are right you are wrong
I'd say take Doms advice and shake the dust off your sandals! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/23/07 - Ronnie-Is this a fair source for LDS doctrine? Over and over I hear the source is lying and you only present rabidly pro-mormom apologist. Would you condsider the official LDS website truthful?
LDS Scriptures
The Official Scriptures of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
© 2006 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.
Rights and use information. Privacy policy.
Fair enough?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/23/07:I couldn't find anything about becoming gods or eternally pregnant there. Didn't I look hard enough? | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 04/23/07 - How's that for an average?....................... A 2006 study found that the average American walks about 900 miles a
year.
Another study found that Americans drink an average of 22 gallons of
beer a year.
That means, on average, Americans get about 41 miles per gallon."
tropicalstorm answered on 04/23/07:so it is cheaper to be a walkin' drunk than a sober driver LOL | | Question/Answer | | powderpuff asked on 04/22/07 - What about the others? Is there something wrong with loving people even if they don't share the same faith based belief you hold for yourself? If you are sure you are right, is it ok to discard the value of those who reject your belief (since they are going to hell or you won't be seeing them in heaven anyway)? Could loving them, in spite of the differences in belief, do any harm to anyone? If you cast them aside, or try to insult them, are you increasing the chances a positive outcome? Is there a Christian answer to these questions? tropicalstorm answered on 04/22/07:Precisely! I keep saying all the downing others 'religious beliefs' only turns them off to hearing yours. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 04/22/07 - Religious Zealot Quiz
The following quiz is to test your ability to distinguish the rhetoric of Jerry Falwell, Pat Robertson and Usama bin Laden.
Below are 20 statements made by these individuals. See if you can identify who made each statement. Record your answers! I will post the correct answers in a couple of days!
- "In today's wars, there are no morals, and it is clear that mankind has descended to the lowest degrees of decadence and oppression."
- "America is polluting the whole world."
- "The government is com- mitted to supporting God's religion, the country remains a strong bulwark for religion, and the people are among the most protective of God's religion, and the keenest to fulfill His laws."
- "One-world opinion is tak- ing the side of the Palestinians, not the side of Israel."
- "There will never be world peace until God's house and God's people are given their rightful place of leadership at the top of the world."
- "The government does not cease to cry over matters affecting religion, without making any serious effort to serve the interests of the religious community."
- "We are on the brink of our destruction, and if we do not awaken now, it will be too late. We have been victimized by traitorous behavior on the part of our leaders."
- "The media strives to keep the people occupied with minor matters, and to stir their emotions and desires until corruption becomes widespread among believers."
- "There is no way that a United Nations, treaties, or any other human instrument can bring about peace. Such things mean nothing when one nation desires the land and resources of another."
- "We have allowed ram- pant secularism.... We have insulted God at the highest levels of government."
- "One particular report described the gaps and the shortcoming in the philosophy of the government, the situation of the law within the country and the arbitrary declaration of what is lawful and unlawful regardless of divine law as instituted by God."
- "Priorities of spiritual work are lost while blasphemy and polytheism continue its grip and control. We should be alert to these atrocious plans carried out by the government."
- "America is in imminent peril... rotting from within."
- "The American people have put themselves at the mercy of a disloyal government, and this is most evident in Clinton's administration. The American government is leading the country towards hell."
- "The termites are in charge now, and that is not the way it ought to be, and the time has arrived for a godly fumigation."
- "If America is not suffer- ing the irrevocable judgment of God, she is dangerously close.
- "Americans have com- mitted unprecedented stupidity. We anticipate a black future for America.
- "If the judges appointed by man will not deal with those who take innocent human life, then God is going to enter in and bring justice. And when that happens many of the innocent will suffer along with the guilty."
- "All these crimes and sins committed by Americans are a clear declaration of war on God."
- "A condition like this will bring about the destruction of your nation. It'll bring about terrorist bombs; it'll bring earthquakes, tornadoes and possibly a meteor."
tropicalstorm answered on 04/22/07:2, 5, 10, 12, 18 sounds like Pat Robertson
14, 15, 20 Bin Laden
the rest sound like Falwell
| | Question/Answer | | tomder55 asked on 04/20/07 - Quemadmoeum gladuis neminem occidit, occidentis telum est According to the most recent annual statistics from the Centers for Disease Control, there were 11,500 homicides committed by perpetrators using guns. There were 17,000 deaths committed by perpetrators using vehicles after consuming alcohol. Your chances of being killed by a drunk driver are much higher than being killed by a perp with a gun.
In the last decade, there were almost 180,000 (that’s 180 thousand) people killed in car wrecks where alcohol abuse was a key factor. In the same ten-year period, there were 110 students (including those at VA Tech) murdered on campus by psychopaths.
Perhaps the Brady Campaign and Democrats in Congress should set their sights on federal legislation mandating a five-day waiting period before purchasing alcohol. After all, many of the perpetrators who used guns instead of cars to commit homicide were also abusing alcohol.
Fact is, if we exclude gang-bangers and crack heads, the probability of being murdered in the U.S. is more in line with the oft-cited lower murder rates in Western Europe—but let’s not separate the wheat from the chaff.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/20/07:I would be interested in a post on where civilians with guns detered killings like in the trolley mall. Virginia Tech was weapon free to the point security doesn't even have them. And if you notice places that are supposed to be weapon free are where seems to attract sucide killers. One radio talk show host runs through them but I don't remember them. | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 04/20/07 - IN HIS OWN WORDS...
This is a real wakeup call. Forward it if you agree,delete if you don't. It does not matter if he said it or not, it is right on.
JAY LENO." HITS THE NAIL ON THE HEAD"T
The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true given the source, right?
The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the president. In essence 2/3s of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change.
So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What we are so unhappy about?''
Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter? Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job? Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?
Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state? Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter? I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough. Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.
Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings. Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes , an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss. This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.
How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world? Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy.
Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have , and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.
I know, I know. What about the president who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The president who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same president who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The president that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?
The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?
Think about it......are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the "Media" told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day.
Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.
They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.
So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds it leads and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells , and when criticized, try to defend their actions by "justifying" them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way......Insane!
Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.
We are among the most blessed people on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.
"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, "Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"
Jay Leno tropicalstorm answered on 04/20/07:What we (at least me and many others) are unhappy about is media lies and political figures making decisions for us that do not pertain to them.
The do as I say and not as I do when they have no idea what it is like.
Most of politicans haven't even seen the inside of a grocery store let alone the prices. They live a different life! | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 04/20/07 - A LANDSLIDE DECISION...
In This Issue...
* Evel Knievel's Salvation Testimony Spurs Spontaneous Baptisms at Crystal Cathedral—500 to 800 Commitments & Rededications on Palm Sunday
* Feminists For Life Reacts to Supreme Court Ruling Upholding the Ban on Partial Birth Abortion
* Pastors Have Happiest, Most Satisfying Job of All According to New Study
* Vice-President of National Catholic Prayer Breakfast Believes President Bush is a "True Man of Faith"
* Today's Featured Product
Evel Knievel's Salvation Testimony Spurs Spontaneous Baptisms at Crystal Cathedral—500 to 800 Commitments & Rededications on Palm Sunday
"I just got on my knees and prayed that God would put His arms around me and never, ever, ever let me go."
Brad A. Greenberg/AH (April 19th, 2007)
One man's life touches so many others. We've heard that message conveyed countless times, from the movie, It's a Wonderful Life, to messages from the pulpit. And yet it's still a wonder when you see God change one heart which, in turn, affects hundreds of others.
That probably wasn't even a passing thought this past March, however, when the Lord suddenly broke into the life of famous motorcycle daredevil, Robert "Evel" Knievel. He knew that there were Believers who were actively praying for his salvation—he cites his daughter, ex-wife and their churches, along with the "hundreds" of letters Knievel had received urging him to trust God—but for 68 years, he had resisted calling on Jesus Christ as Savior.
According to an article in Christianity Today, (CT) sometime during Daytona Bike Week last month, Knievel's resistance finally gave way to belief. "I don't know what in the world happened. I don't know if it was the power of the prayer or God himself, but...the power of God in Jesus just grabbed me. All of a sudden, I just believed in Jesus Christ. I did, I believed in him! ...I rose up in bed and, I was by myself, and I said, 'Devil, you...get away from me. I cast you out of my life.' I just got on my knees and prayed that God would put His arms around me and never, ever, ever let me go." (Photo: Rev. Robert H. Schuller with Knievel on Palm Sunday—Courtesy of Crystal Cathedral)
One thing apparently led to another, and after a visit by Rev. Robert Schuller, who baptized Knievel, he eventually found himself giving his testimony at the Crystal Cathedral on Palm Sunday.
According to the CT report, Rev. Schuller (who took over last year for his retired father) could see from the people's reactions to Knievel's testimony that this would be no ordinary service. Deviating from the normal script, and transition into the offering, Schuller went up front and said, "I believe there is somebody who needs to be baptized here. Maybe up on that balcony or by that door or by that wall. So come forward." (Photo: Knievel is baptized—courtesy of Crystal Cathedral)
Then Schuller, with the help of four other pastors and a "candy dish" of water, walked from person to person who had moved to the front, crying while baptizing them and going on to the next one. The spontaneous response went on for 30 minutes, and then continued in the next service. In all, between 500 to 800 people were estimated to have made first time, or recommitments to the Lord.
After undergoing some difficult times of late, the church had reportedly been praying for the congregation and the community, though not necessarily for revival. Schuller candidly adds, "Our congregation and church keeps saying, 'Okay, where do we go from here?' I'm not exactly sure. But I think the Holy Spirit will assist me in the doing the right thing."
The Palm Sunday service, featuring Evel Knievel's testimony and the mass baptisms, will be re-aired this week, on April 22nd.
To read the full CT article, follow the link below.
Source: Christianity Today
printer friendly versionTop tropicalstorm answered on 04/20/07:can metal make it to heaven? ;)
| | Question/Answer | clere asked on 04/20/07 - God or No God ??????????????
At a loss to understand Pericles rejection of a reply I made to his question earlier, how about this?
The believer cannot prove the existence of God.
The non-believer equally cannot prove the non-existence of God.
To say that the onus of proof is on the believer is to frame the question in a way that the believer (some believers) reject. One cannot "prove" something that is outside the parameters of "provability".
The non-believer faces the same dilemma. The argument that a negative cannot be proved is an acknowledgement that the non-believer position also cannot be proved!
If there is a God, certainly her/his existence is not subject to being contained within a human construct of logic.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/20/07:That is pretty much what I have been trying to get across to him with my dna creation question. How can they say a negative doesn't have to be proven? If it is a negative and the negative is given credit for something then how can the explanation of it be a negative that doesn't need explanation. Perk makes the rules as he goes along--to his advantage of course! | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/18/07 - Hello Everyone: Please read this post with the love and respect it was written with before jumping at me.
Just this week in Virginia Tech, a very young man of the age of 23 just lost it and killed 33 people. Why? Maybe this board has the answer to that question. what do I mean?
Well, we raise children to respect others and yet we ourselves show little respect toward those we disagree with or find to be different from what we personally feel everyone should be like. We constantly fight on this board with each other. I AM INCLUDED IN THE WE!
This board is for the discussion of Christianity and is for all people not just Christians. Some claim to be a Christian and yet the conduct is not befitting any follower that Jesus would have even near him, little lone his disciple! This board is not just for Christians but for all who wish to take part in any said discussion on this board.
Conversations on this board usually go something like this:
1- The Watchtower from 1920 's said.............blah blah blah. Are you born again yet? Did you accept Jesus as your saviour? You are going to burn in hell if you are not born again.
*************
If I did or didn't is none of anyone business, is it? My relationship with y Creator is between me and my Creator. It is not anyone business on this board or anywhere in this world how I choose to serve my God.
********
Here is another example:
2- Hey you atheists, why not go some where else to another board. We Christians need to not talk to those atheists. They curse and lie and blah, blah, =-blah.
******
I again say this board is for all people not just Christians. Infact some atheists on this board behave better then some Christians. Any claiming to follow Jesus Christ would welcome all people from all walks of life. After all didn't Jesus say at Matt 24:14 we are to speak to all people? Jesus didn't just die for Christians you know.
I will say this though, those who some argue with and call atheists such and Domino, Pericles, Pete, MarySue, are some of the nicest people on this board. So what if they choose to be an atheist. Are you going to choke them with the Bible and nasty comments. Or could it be that if those claiming to be Christians start treating them with respect and allowing them the freedom to speak their minds. I talk with Domino, Pericles and Pete and MarySue and they have always treated me fair and with respect. They have not cursed at me nor treated me half as bad as Tom777 or peddler has. Yet these two claim to be Christian.
***************
3- This forum or board is a discussion forum and should be treated that way. It is not for just one group but to discuss why those who believe in Christianity do so, and why those who believe differently, believe what they believe. Why can't people just stick to that instead of constantly putting others down because of being different? So what if the other person is different.
Give them a chance to speak and listen to them and why they believe differently. If some are different then others, SO WHAT! All are made in God's image and therefore deserve RESPECT. Not one of us came into this world with a Bible, or a belief in God. We receive what we have because we have chosen to believe the way we were taught and what we ourselves have learned to have faith in. If we feel we have the true way of life, being a JW or a Morman or a United Catholic, or a Methodist or a Jew or a Baptist or Islamic or an Agnostic or an Atheist. We all have had the freedom to choose how and if we would put faith in God or not.
Those that do believe in God, have no right to beat others in the head with the Bible, nor choke the ideas of Hell or Trinity or being born again, down another persons throat. On the other hand those that do not believe in God, have no right to curse God or to say angry comments nor bad comments about those that do believe in God.
In most cases though I have found that if a Christian respectfully states their beliefs or make a comment stating their opinion based on the Bible to a person who does not believe in God, that person is fair and treats others with respect.
The problems stems from those Claiming to be Christians shoving their beliefs and practices down other expert's throats. If those here who Claim to be Christians, why not try treating others that believe differently with respect and listen to why they don't believe and allow them the same freedom of speech that you yourself want to have. Remember not one of us is any better or superior to the other person. Only in ones mind does a person become so self rightrouse that they place themselves on a platform high above the rest so as to always look down on the other person.
Here is a suggestion that comes with my sincere love for all on this board. Yes Tom777 and Peddler even you guys. I wish to be the first one to apologize for any words that I have said towards any on this board in an angry way or for pictures I have posted that were offensive to others. I hereby admit to all that that was wrong. I am sorry.
I now wish to start over and I will converse with other but I from now on will only reply to those who treat me and others with respect and those who do not speak about another persons choice of worship or lack of worship. THE CHOICE WE EACH MAKE IS OUR CHOICE TO MAKE AND NOT ONE OTHER PERSON SHOULD SPEAK RUDLY OR AGAINT THAT CHOICE. WE ALL ARE FREE AND HAVE THE FREEDOM OF RELIGON OR NO RELIGION.
Before anyone attacks me for what I have said, first think about what happened in Virgnia and then remember those 33 dead individuals all because of hatred and anger. I really was thinking about that, and I feel things will keep taking place like that as look as there is anger and hatred and those who like to feel superior then others. Let's try locally to bring peace to a board where none of us even know what the other one looks like, all we know is that we each personally have a little bit of anger and hatred and we need to over come that in order to help event such as occured in VT from happening. I will start with my own behavior first. How about joining me in
treating others with respect and allow each one to decide for themselves what they will believe and not believe. After all,we all must live in this world but we can help it not to be a world of hatred and pain. Arn't you guys sick of hearing this nonsense day after day. We can change it, just don't reply to anymore negative and holy then thou posts.
Learn from the negative actions of others, and turn it into something positive.
Just my opinion.
Take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:As for your question of why the suicide killings
what I think )
Also if you notice these suicide killings (other than domestic violence) are done mostly on politically correct places that have gun control laws to the extent that even security is not carrying any.
as for the rest, I have tried telling some here that the way they beat people over the head with the Bible isn't how to go about it but that is like telling Perk God does exist so I resort to just being here and not expecting any miracles on the board--either way! | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 04/18/07 - Michigan State University! Another gem from your favourite bigot !!!
Tells Muslims to Leave Country...
Michigan State University!
Well, what do we have here? Looks like a small case of
some people being able to dish it out, but not take it.
Let's start at the top.
The story begins at Michigan State University with a
mechanical engineering professor named Indrek Wichman. Wichman sent an
e-mail to the Muslim Student's Association. The e-mail was in response
to the students' protest of the Danish cartoons that portrayed the
Prophet Muhammad as a terrorist. The group had complained the cartoons
were "hate speech."
Enter Professor Wichman. In his e-mail, he said the
following:
Dear Moslem Association:As a professor of Mechanical Engineering here at MSU I
intend to
protest your protest. I am offended not by cartoons, but
by more
mundane things like beheadings of civilians, cowardly
attacks on
public buildings, suicide murders, murders of Catholic
priests (the
latest in Turkey), burnings of Christian churches, the
continued
persecution of Coptic Christians in Egypt, the
imposition of Sharia
law on non-Muslims, the rapes of Scandinavian girls and
women (called by other less flattering names in your culture), the murder of film directors
in
Holland, and the rioting and looting in Paris France. This is what
offends me, a soft-spoken person and academic, and many, many of my
colleagues. I counsel your dissatisfied, aggressive, brutal, and
uncivilized slave-trading Moslems to be very aware of this as you
proceed with your infantile "protests."If you do not like the values of the West - see the 1st
Amendment -
you are free to leave. I hope for God's sake that most
of you choose
that option. Please return to your ancestral homelands
and build them
up yourselves instead of troubling Americans.
Cordially,I. S. Wichman
Professor of Mechanical Engineering
As you can imagine, the Muslim group at the university
didn't like this too well. They're demanding that Wichman be
reprimanded
and mandatory diversity training for faculty and a seminar on hate and
discrimination for freshman. Now the chapter of CAIR has jumped into
the
fray. CAIR, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, apparently
doesn't believe that the good professor had the right to express his
opinion.
For its part, the university is standing its ground,
saying the e-mail was private, and they don't intend to publicly
condemn
his remarks. That will probably change. Wichman says he never intended
for his e-mail to be made public, and wouldn't have used the same
strong
lang uage if he'd known it was going to get out.
How's the left going to handle this one? If you're in
favor of the freedom of speech, as in the case of Ward Churchill, will
the same protections be demanded for Indrek Wichman? I doubt it.
We
are in a war. This political correctness crap is getting old and
killing
us.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:There has been so much evil killing over the centuries I don't even know where anybody could even try to begin keeping score of who is worse
(CBS) This story originally aired on March 13, 2005.
60 minutes )
In Nov., 2004 a brutal murder shocked Holland and the world. On a busy Amsterdam street, in broad daylight, a prominent film maker named Theo van Gogh was shot, stabbed and mutilated in front of dozens of witnesses.
A young Muslim radical was arrested. What was described as a ritual slaughter set off alarm bells throughout Europe and the United States, where millions of devoute Muslims live as minorities in secular society.
For the Dutch who have prided themselves for centuries on a tradition of tolerance, it was a painful awakening, the prospect of a homegrown jihad in the world's most liberal state. As Morley Safer reported 18 months ago, it all began with a movie called "Submission," a 12 minute movie, which aired on Dutch television.
The images were meant to shock.
"Submission," the film depicts the Koran written on a naked Muslim woman's body, and on the body of another woman scarred from beatings inflicted by her husband.
| | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 04/18/07 - nothing has changed still at it eh?I thought eventualy yall would be tierd of the name calling and moved on i see this is not happening yet Oh well simple things amuse simple minds tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:You could brighten the board up with some pearls and gems that would reflect the type of posts you would like to see emulated at this fine specimen of an example of what it should not be whereby we could get a whole new enlightened perspective on reality outside our realm of simpleton. The more you post the broader our panorama and it could prove to be invigorating thus inspiring us to participate in the same
inspiring context of course that may be hard for the more severly challenged cognative thinkers. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/18/07 - Vacation time. Hello Everyone,
I woke up this morning and turned the news on, everything is negative and violent, so I turned it off.
I then came to the computer to see what positive events were happening here. Well, you be the judge of that one.
Then I remembered that Pericles went to Rome. Pericles can you tell those of us who have never been there something nice and interesting you saw there?
Can anyone else tell about somewhere out of the US they visited that was really nice? My family is looking for a nice place to spend our vacation this year.
Thanks,.
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:Texans claim they are not in the USA
and that is the closest I have come to being out of the USA other than a week
at Alquionquin Park Canada.
I love Texas
Living in an abandoned house, the Gulf of Mexico, the alligator pit, the marachi bands in the Fiesta grocery stores, Drag racing on I-45, hurricane Gilbert, the White Elephant Flea market on I-10, the Purple Heart junk store in Pasadena, Popeyes, Jack in the Box, the San Jacinto monument......
well you can see I don't have much of a life
LOL | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 04/18/07 - I thank Domino, Perc and whoever for caring about my soul, you all have the nicest, friendlist jestures to lead a Christian who has gone astray back to the way of Christ.
My boat is not floundering becauae I have such "spiritual" leaders as you to guide me.
I can never thank you enough!
MaggieB
BTW: My Christianity is not a pose as you call it, my God is the one who judges me.
Clarification/Follow-up by domino on 04/17/07 12:03 pm:
MaggieB:
Boring, Boring, Boring, Boring. Is vindictivness one of the commandments from your god??????
Is there something about: "thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor" that you failed to comprehend?????
Has your Christianity been a pose, all along, like Hanks??????
Get back on course, MaggieB....your Christian boat is about to flounder!!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:It's ALL your fault!!!
You devilutioned from the most Christian of Christian to a flounderin' fish-
You are in such a backslidden state BECAUSE you haven't been here enough to keep up with your spiritual guidance!
It's ALL your fault!!! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 04/18/07 - A miraculous birth????? Was Peddler7118 impregnated by Yahweh and gave birth, overnight to Peddler2?????? Or was she cloned???? tropicalstorm answered on 04/18/07:I noticed that too 2 to two!
I THINK PEDDLES PEDDLED2 EVOLUTED CONVULTIONS | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/17/07 - HUMAN EXPERIENCE:
What are the five strands of human experience? Hint: The basic factors underlying all psychological theories and methods.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/17/07:1. first To sum up briefly: The purpose of existence. To transform the material world into a home for the Divine, and draw down new unprecedented energy that expresses “the innermost aspect and essence of the Infinite Light” – the essence of the Divine.
We reach the Divine essence by accessing the essence of our own souls – the state of that lies at the core of our beings: A deep-seated reservoir of profound calm which give us an innate sense of belonging and indispensability.
WHAT MORE YOU WANT AFTER THAT!?
:)
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/17/07 - Just Wondering If ...
... we need a calculus to smooth over reality?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/17/07:NAH ALL I WANT TO SMOOTH OVER REALITY IS TO
RUN UP AND HUG THE FIRST ARIZONA CACTUS I SEE WHEN I GET THERE AT THE END OF SUMMER!!! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 04/16/07 - A friendly warning to Jacqueline J. Dupree I will continue to rectumfy your perversion, until you are so weak you may never be able to reach for another doughnut :) :) :)
For those who would like Jaqueline/Jesse/Rosekeeper to stop perverting the rating system, let me know and I will suppy her address and telephone number. You can call and demand that she cease and desist. I'm sure she will be delighted to hear from you! LOL
Don't ask how I got it...it would just start a family squabble....Oops!!!!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/16/07:HOW CAN HE REACH FOR ANOTHER DOUGHNUT!???
jjg done ate 'em ALL!!!! | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/16/07 - Is Benny Hinn an authorised Priest of God? Where does Benny Hinn stand in relation to his priesthood before God? tropicalstorm answered on 04/16/07:PARACLETE SAID HE FOLLOWS HINN
I SAY HE IS A FRAUD!!! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/16/07 - Check This:
"MarySusan 04/15/07
White men LOVE to kill black men. They have a terrible sickness called racism.
Mary Sue"
Source: German army subject
PLEASE EXPLAIN THAT COMMENT, MARY SUSAN!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/16/07:yeah Choux gets upset about 'minorities' getting verbal abuse
But it seems okay for kids to listen to all the rap crap about nigga, kill whitey, kill cops, etc...
also nobody seems to care about the hipocricy of Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson.
If you look up Twana Brawly, Freddie Fashion mart and Our breadbasket food bank
you will think an insult by IMUS is nothing. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/16/07 - Owning up to mistakes made in the past and starting new. You are correct in your findings Tom777. As a Jehovah Witness, I can say honestly that prejudice of blacks was found among Jehovah's people back in the late 1800’s and early 1900's. Blacks would sit on one side of the hall and whites on the other. But we soon learned that to be wrong thinking and not God's thinking but mans. You see we live in a very prejudice world and no matter how we try, it is all around us, hatred, bigotry, and prejudice persons. Some of us even had parents who taught their children to be prejudice and hateful. But we had the a strong love for God and we also was teachable. We did not feel that we knew everything but we loved God and we learned we needed to make changes, and we did.
How many of you individually can say, that the religion you belong to, never has a history of being prejudice at any time?
Have they made the needed changes??
Have you changed your ways and corrected any wrong thinking on your part Tom777?
Have you and your church always followed the Bible without ever making errors?
Can you own up to those errors or do you just sweep them under the rug until someone like Tom777 who is suppose to be a good Christian man finds fault with all other religions and never with his own, brings them up? Ones like Tom777, never own up to their mistakes because in their eyes they are perfect and everyone else is wrong and going to that place called hell.
Can you own up to the errors that you have made since trying to serve God in faith and truth?
We were prejudice, in the sense that we have learned God’s way not man’s way.
We did not do so at first, but we have learned to grow spiritually.
My question though is can the rest of the religions of this world own up to their mistakes????
What make us have true faith is being able to know when we are wrong and face up to it, and change it. Jehovah's Witnesses have done that Tom777,
have you?
Go into any Kingdom Hall in this world and see if you see just whites, as many churches do. White persons are a minority among many Jehovah Witness Kingdom Halls. Why? Because we have many black, Chinese, Spanish, Greek, Italian, and more.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are more than international. They are supranational, that is, transcending narrow national boundaries or racial interests. Noteworthy is the great success Jehovah’s Witnesses have had in overcoming racial, tribal, and national prejudice. Such is the case in South Africa, Israel, Lebanon, Northern Ireland, and other countries troubled by religious unrest. Blacks and whites, Jews and Arabs, former Catholics and Protestants, all now Jehovah’s Witnesses, work and worship together at their conventions and Kingdom Halls.
We all as Jehovah Witnesses come from different cultures, languages, and backgrounds, many have become united in the worship of the true God. The truth of God’s Word has successfully bridged communication gaps in this country, which many consider to be the “bridge of the world. They have overcome prejudice and hatred that many other religions can not. Why? Because they admit their mistakes and ignorance and learn from those mistakes.
Tom, have you done that yet?
What love God has demonstrated in all of this! Should we not be grateful to him? Gratitude has impelled millions of people around the world, from different races and cultures, to take action to cultivate a relationship with God and to serve him united as one race, The Human Race!
BTW Tom777 I notice your article is from 1929. Have you visited a Kingdom Hall of the JW's lately? If so you will see much prove of our spiritual growth. We do not put others down for their mistakes but we help them overcome their errors, do you?
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 04/16/07:I have to admit if Toms doesn't realize there was segration well into the late 50's early 60's he had to have been sleeping through History class. And if he is over 45 then he had his head in the sand in the 60's | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/16/07 - God confused? The God of the Bible is not a God of confusion:
1 Corinthians 14:32 For God is not the author of confusion,
But the God of Joseph Smith seems to be confused.
2 Nephi 5:15-16
And I did teach my people to build buildings, and to work in all manner of wood, and of iron, and of copper, and of brass, and of steel, and of gold, and of silver, and of precious ores, which were in great abundance. And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon, save it were not build of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land.
Does this imply that Joseph Smith worshiped a different God than the God that is described in the Bible? tropicalstorm answered on 04/16/07:sounds like he was building castles in the air?
is this it )
| | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 04/15/07 - No errors Toms777? You are right Toms777.
There are no truths.
I must live with it....but can you:):?
Pete
tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:I dunno, I have no idea BUT........
my opinion ) (quicktimeplayer) | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 04/15/07 - The unkempt, clothes-mismatched visitor to a church When we see someone like that, what do we do? Do we leave our clique and stand up from our comfortable pew to greet him? And what about everyday life? How do we treat the "least of these" who walk among us? My young niece emailed this to me today:
Shoes
I showered and shaved; I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat in a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer, as I closed my eyes,
I saw the shoe of the man next to me touching my own. I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side,
I thought, "Why must our soles touch?"
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine,
But it didn't bother him much.
The prayer began: "Our Father".
I thought, "This man with the shoes has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched.
Even worse--there are holes on the side!"
"Thank You for blessings," the prayer went on.
The shoe man said a quiet "Amen."
I tried to focus on the prayer,
But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best
When walking through that door?
"Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought,
Glancing toward the floor.
Then the prayer was ended
And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud,
Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters;
His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear
The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering
And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached
Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out
What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft "clink"
as when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me
To tears--that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man,
For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service
As is the custom here.
We must greet new visitors
And show them good cheer..
But I felt moved somehow
And wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer,
I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark
And his hair was truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming,
For being our guest.
He said, "My name's Charlie.
I'm glad to meet you, my friend."
There were tears in his eyes
But he had a large, wide grin.
"Let me explain," he said
Wiping tears from his eyes.
"I've been coming here for months
And you're the first to say 'Hi'."
I know that my appearance
"Is not like all the rest,
"But I really do try
"To always look my best."
"I always clean and polish my shoes
"Before my very long walk,
"But by the time I get here
"They're dirty and dusty, like chalk."
My heart filled with pain
and I swallowed to hide my tears
As he continued to apologize
For daring to sit so near.
He said, "When I finally get here
"I know I must look a sight.
"But I thought if I could touch you
"Then maybe our souls might unite."
I was silent for a moment,
Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison.
I spoke from my heart, not my head.
"Oh, you've touched me," I said,
"And taught me, in part,
"That the best of any man
"Is what is found in his heart."
The rest, I thought...
This shoe man will never know
Just how thankful I really am
That his dusty old shoe touched my soul. tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:when we see someone like that we treat them the same as someone with their designer purses and shoes.
In my life I met two women that have had VERY ODD style of mismatched clothing. The one was a Christian missionary that lives where I grew up.
James 2
1My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. 2Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
5Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?
8If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself,"[a] you are doing right. 9But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
| | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/15/07 - necromancy The Bible warns its readers not to get involved in any occultic practice, which includes praying to the dead:
Deuteronomy 18:9-14
9When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. 10There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 11Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. 12For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. 13Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God. 14For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so to do.
When the Roman Catholic religion tells its followers to pray to the dead, are their leaders encouraging their followers to sin?
"Hail Mary (who died), full of grace (which is a false statement), Blessed art thou among women and blessed be the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God (God has no mother), pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of death. The New Saint Joseph Baltimore Catechism, Reverent Father Kelly, Catholic Book Publishing Company, 1964, page 6
tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:They have their ways around this.
They say they are not 'praying'
That they are 'asking' Mary to pray for them just as you would ask the people in your church to pray for you.
They also say that the saints are not dead but on the other side of the curtain so to speak. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/15/07 - Why does this Atheist claim to be Mormon?
And promotes Buddhism, and Russellitis,and the Bahai Faith , and Islam and Wicca but hates Bible believing Christians as much as Satan himself ?
After sending .012 seconds investigating Ronnie's claims I found his source for Jack Chik's letter. I have no clue who this guy is but Ronnie hates him so he can't be all bad.
The source was Holy Smoke .org Ronnies Atheist Thought Controllers
I am writing a book about pro-atheism. A growing doctrine that do gooders working their way to heaven by the way of the lake of fire are adopting in droves.
For instance Ronnie made the absurd claim that the RCC is based on the doctrine of salvation by grace alone through the one time atonement of Jesus Christ. When he was corrected not only did the Catholics support that lie but one of the accused me of lying.
The pro-atheist pseudo-Christian will lie and falsely accuse anyone that dares to say God is in charge and His Bible is the rule book. They will even lie about their own religion.
What is frustrating is no matter how blatant the lie is, such as Fred supporting the salvation by grace claim or Ronnie posting lies from hategod.org, and how completely it is debunked they keep right on repeating it. Not only that but the majority of "Christians" support these lies 100% .
tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:The article you are referring to IS taken from Jack Chicks site word for word so it can't be claimed that it is wrongfuly misrepresenting Jack Chick
So that wasn't taken out of context as it seems the one about nebula orion may have been
but I did find a site where a Christian says that many Christians do believe the nebula orion thing and says there is an old Christian hymn that states that and they didn't get it from Jack Chick | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/15/07 - By their fruit Jesus warned his followers to beware of false prophets:
Matthew 7:15
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Jesus explained that we are to judge the prophets by their fruit.
Matthew 7:20
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
In the past few years, many false prophets have been exposed with their impure sexual conduct.
Is there any record of sexual misconduct in Joseph Smith's life, or was he beyond reproach? tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:I have been wondering ARE there any real prophets nowadays that ARE NOT FALSE?
Who are they?
I would really love to know! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/15/07 - QUIETUS EST:
Playtime is over. Here's why atheists give Christians and other believers harassment:
Atheists like to project humiliation because they don't like hearing the TRUTH.
Have a great Sunday. We're going to Church and then hit the golf ball at 1.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:Just being here
I can see that applies to atheists, Christians and all others.
So don't discriminate LOL
Don't knock down the church walls with that golf cart
![]() | | Question/Answer | peddler7118 asked on 04/15/07 - Before They Fly, Spiders Check the Weather”
6. LiveScience: “Before They Fly, Spiders Check the Weather”
Stunning examples of God’s awesome capacity for design abound all around us—even in the lowly spider! Research published recently in Biology Letters explains how spiders take to the air, “flying” by “casting out a ‘dragline’ of silk thread, which gets carried by the wind, along with the attached critter.” But the truly amazing aspect of spider flight, as reported in the research, is how spiders determine “the best flight weather” before casting their lines. Spiders are most likely to “soar” on cloudy fall and spring days, avoiding breezeless summer days as well as the other extreme, stormy and wintry conditions.
This is where the design aspect comes in; after all, spiders lack the tools available to meteorologists! But as lead study author Andy Reynolds explains, “The literature on spider sensing points to tarsal organs and hairs as having roles in, respectively, the detection of temperature and wind speed.” While evolutionists wonder how such an integrated weather-determining system would have evolved, creationists can recognize the wonderful mechanism as part of God’s design.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/15/07:I wonder does their arthritis set in or what? | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/14/07 - SuperChicken? Tyrannosaurus rex: a big chicken?
Laymanby David A. DeWitt, Ph.D.April 13, 2007
Perhaps one of the most exciting recent discoveries for creationists has been the report of soft tissue found in a dinosaur fossil.1,2 In 2005, a study in the prestigious journal Science documented the presence of unfossilized tissue from a T. rex.3 Since these dinosaurs are supposed to have been extinct for at least 65 million years, finding soft tissue was quite a surprise for evolutionists. The soft tissue was only partially mineralized; after the minerals were removed, the tissue was “stretchy” and had the appearance of blood vessels.
The finding of unfossilized dinosaur tissue is a serious blow to the idea of an earth millions of years old, but it is not the only example. Recently, scientists have also obtained DNA from fossil frogs and salamanders that were supposed to be 10 million years old.4
Conventional wisdom held that proteins and DNA could not survive for millions of years. Indeed, an upper limit to the preservation of a stable protein such as collagen was presumed to be about 2.7 million years at 0°C, 180,000 years at 10°C, and only 15,000 years at 20°C.5 Thus, there was much skepticism that what Schweitzer found was really dinosaur soft tissue when it was initially reported. Secular scientists were hesitant to believe that such tissue and proteins could persist for more than 65 million years.
Now for what’s new
The newest development regarding this dinosaur concerns this week’s announcement that what was found in this T. rex fossil supposedly presents strong evidence that dinosaurs evolved into birds. Here is the background.
Dr. Schweitzer has reported that the protein collagen has been recovered from her T. rex soft tissue specimen.6,7 The pair of papers are very careful and cautious studies making use of some sophisticated experiments. These findings provide confirmation that the material is in fact dinosaur soft tissue.
Researchers used several different techniques to identify the presence of collagen. First, they found that antibodies to collagen would bind to the samples, and this binding did not occur after treatment with enzymes that specifically degrade collagen. Second, they used mass spectrometry to determine the amino acid sequence of the protein. They then mapped various protein fragments and compared them against a database of protein sequences from a variety of organisms.
Of all the organisms in the sequence database, the one that matched T. rex the closest was the chicken. Now, before assuming that this would be strong evidence that birds are related to dinosaurs, it must be put into perspective. The sequence similarity between the T. rex and the chicken was 58% ,while it was only 51% similar to both frogs and newts. This compares with a reported 81% similarity between humans and frogs, and 97% between humans and cows.7 Moreover, while some of the peptide fragments showed sequence matches to chickens, others matched frog, or newt, or even fish and mice. The authors did point out that not all organisms are in the database. Although the chicken was the closest match from the database, it is possible that animals not included could be a closer match. Regardless, such similarity does not prove that the organisms shared an evolutionary ancestor.
Certainly the recovery of protein sequences from fossil dinosaurs should be applauded—and that work is solid. However, the use of such sequence data to support the idea that birds evolved from dinosaurs is a stretch.8
Interestingly, the amount of protein that they could recover decreased over time. In other words, the amount that they could recover in recent extractions was reduced compared to previous extractions. This suggested that there was degradation of the sample in its current “modern” environment. The fact that such degradation is occurring over very short time scales poses a potential difficulty for evolutionists in explaining how the material could have persisted for an alleged 68 million years.
These are very exciting papers and provide strong evidence that dinosaur soft tissue has been recovered, but they don’t reveal a dino-bird link. Unfortunately, these observations will unlikely dissuade those who are firmly convinced of molecules-to-man evolution and millions of years.
Dr. David A. DeWitt is the Director of the Center for Creation Studies and a professor of biology at Liberty University. He is a frequent speaker and writer for Answers in Genesis.
Editor’s note: see our other web article about this recent dinosaur research, which also briefly looks at the biblical significance of this story: T. rex drumstick
References
http://www.answersingenesis.org/docs2005/0325Dino_tissue.asp Back
http://www.answersingenesis.org/docs2005/0328discovery.asp Back
Schweitzer, M.H., Wittmeyer, J.L., Horner, J.R., and Toporski, J.K. 2005. Soft-Tissue Vessels and Cellular Preservation in Tyrannosaurus rex. Science 307(5717): 1952-1955. Back
McNamara, M.E., Orr, P.J., Kearns, S.L., Alcala, L., Anadon, P., and Penalver-Molla, E. 2006. High-fidelity organic preservation of bone marrow in ca.10 Ma amphibians. Geology 34(8): 641-644. News report from BBC at:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/5214798.stm downloaded April 12, 2007. Back
Nielsen-Marsh, C. Biomolecules in fossil remains A multidisciplinary approach to endurance The Biochemist June 2002 pages 12-14 http://www.biochemist.org/bio/02403/0012/024030012.pdf Back
Schweitzer, M.H., Suo, Z., Avci, R., Asara, J.M., Allen, M.A., Arce, F.T., and Horner, J.R. 2007. Analyses of soft tissue from Tyrannosaurus rex suggest the presence of protein Science 316(5822): 277-280. Back
Asara, J.M., Schweitzer, M.H., Freimark, L.M., Phillips, M., and Cantley, L.C. 2007. Protein sequences from mastodon and Tyrannosaurus rex revealed by mass spectrometry. Science 316(5822): 280-285. Back (1) Back (2)
Media have emphasized the dinosaur-bird link For an example, see: T. rex related to chickens http://www.livescience.com/animalworld/070412_dino tropicalstorm answered on 04/14/07:I read that yesterday but figured I'd leave it for you:)
I always thought T-Rex looked like the bird family but not into studying dinosaurs I assumed they had already been classified with the birds.
| | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 04/14/07 - How a person becomes Homosexual Christianity today has an interetsing article about a man who explains how he became a homosexual, and how he once again became a heterosexual.
The Road to Healing tropicalstorm answered on 04/14/07:He had desires and he gave in to them.
Why did he have these desires?
Why couldn't he control them?
Why did they intensify to where he gave into them?
Most kids have poor self esteem but it doesn't give them thoughts of turning gay.
The story left me with more why questions than it answered | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/13/07 - HONESTY:
I recently read a very interesting story in the newspaper about a study on honesty. The researchers placed a wallet on the ground and then waited to see whether or not people would turn in that wallet when they found it. In a nutshell, here are the details of what they did. “Each of the one hundred wallets contained $2.10 in real money, a fake $50.00 gift certificate, some miscellaneous items and a clearly written ID card identifying the lost wallet's rightful owner. We were curious as to how honest people would be and wanted to see how different races, genders and age groups would compare to each other.” Each person was also videotaped in the process. Overall, 74 people were honest and returned the wallet and 26 took the wallet and said nothing.
With that study in mind, let me ask you today to assess your sense of honesty. If you were one of those unsuspecting subjects, what would you have done? Would you be counted among the majority and return that wallet or would you see it as a “finders keepers, losers weepers” kind of event?
Source: LifeScript
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/14/07:IF it has a name and adress I go out of my way to return it.
IF 'n when it has NO identification
ITS MINE! | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/13/07 - Punishment? Do you think that your Christian God punishes you when you are "bad"?
Or, punishes others?
Why or why not... tropicalstorm answered on 04/13/07:I don't think it is so much punishment as consequences so you keep trying til you get it right. Just like a parent chasitises a child so they learn God says he chastises those he loves.
Hbr 12:5-10 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected [us], and we gave [them] reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
For they verily for a few days chastened [us] after their own pleasure; but he for [our] profit, that [we] might be partakers of his holiness.
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/13/07 - Why the Friday 13 Superstition?
Why Is Friday the 13th Bad Luck?
If you're one of those people who avoid traveling, going to work, eating in a restaurant or signing important documents on Friday the 13th, you have paraskevidekatriaphobia. There is no need to call the doctor. It means a fear of Friday the 13th.
Friday the 13th is unlucky in North America, Western Europe and Australia and has its roots in both pagan culture and Christian beliefs. In the United States, it is the most widespread superstition. The British Medical Journal reported in 1993 that on Friday the 13th, the number of hospital admissions that are due to vehicular accidents is significantly higher--by as much as 52 percent--than on "normal" Fridays.
Ever since Christ was crucified on a Friday, many Christians believe the sixth day of the week to be unlucky, reports InfoPlease.com. In addition, 13 brings bad luck because that is the number who attended the Last Supper. But such superstitions go back even further than some 2,000 years ago. Norse mythology also reviled the No. 13. Loki, the most loathed of all the Norse gods crashed a dinner party for 12. As the 13th guest, he was said to cause the death of Balder, the god of light, joy, and reconciliation....".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you superstitious? tropicalstorm answered on 04/13/07:The Christian perspective on Friday and 13 is the most relevant today, but it's only one part of the Friday the 13th tradition.
Some trace the infamy of the number 13 back to ancient Norse culture. In Norse mythology, the beloved hero Balder was killed at a banquet by the mischievous god Loki, who crashed the party of twelve, bringing the group to 13. This story, as well as the story of the Last Supper, led to one of the most entrenched 13-related beliefs: You should never sit down to a meal in a group of 13.
Another significant piece of the legend is a particularly bad Friday the 13th that occurred in the middle ages. On a Friday the 13th in 1306, King Philip of France arrested the revered Knights Templar and began torturing them, marking the occasion as a day of evil. Check out this site to learn more.
Both Friday and the number 13 were once closely associated with capital punishment. In British tradition, Friday was the conventional day for public hangings, and there were supposedly 13 steps leading up to the noose.
Ultimately, the complex folklore of Friday the 13th doesn't have much to do with people's fears today. The fear has much more to do with personal experience. People learn at a young age that Friday the 13th is supposed to be unlucky, for whatever reason, and then they look for evidence that the legend is true. The evidence isn't hard to come by, of course. If you get in a car wreck on one Friday the 13th, lose your wallet, or even spill your coffee, that day will probably stay with you. But if you think about it, bad things, big and small, happen all the time. If you're looking for bad luck on Friday the 13th, you'll probably find it.
Actually I think it is this
Alfgred Hitchcock
Born13 August 1899
which falls on Fridays sometimes
and is my good luck Friday when it does.
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| | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/13/07 - President Ezra Taft Benson (Mormon Church) February 26th, 1980 at Marriot Center Assembly, on KBYU FM radio station said:
"Keep your eye on the President of the Church. If he ever tells you to do anything and it is wrong and you do it, the Lord will bless you for it.
Will the Lord really bless those who do wrong? tropicalstorm answered on 04/13/07:I married the WRONG guy and God blessed me with my four beautiful kids, BUT we had to go through hell. Other than that
I'd say NOT! | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 04/13/07 - Milk Dudds by Rick Reilly of Sports Illustrated.
Someday you may be invited to fly in the back-seat of one of your country's most powerful fighter jets. Many of you already have . John Elway, John Stockton, Tiger Woods to name a few If you get this opportunity, let me urge you, with the greatest sincerity...
Move to Guam.
Change your name.
Fake your own death!
Whatever you do .
Do Not Go!!!
The U.S. Navy invited me to try it. I was thrilled. I was pumped. I was toast! I should've known when they told me my pilot would be Chip (Biff) King of Fighter Squadron 213 at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach.
Whatever you're thinking a Top Gun named Chip (Biff) King looks like, triple it. He's about six-foot, tan, ice-blue eyes, wavy surfer hair, finger-crippling handshake -- the kind of man who wrestles dyspeptic alligators in his leisure time. If you see this man, run the other way. Fast.
Biff King was born to fly. His father, Jack King, was for years the voice of NASA missions. ("T-minus 15 seconds and counting ..." Remember?) Chip would charge neighborhood kids a quarter each to hear his dad. Jack would wake up from naps surrounded by nine-year-olds waiting for him to say, "We have a liftoff"
Biff was to fly me in an F-14D Tomcat, a ridiculously powerful $60 million weapon with nearly as much thrust as weight. Not unlike Colin Montgomerie, I was worried about getting airsick, so the night before the flight I asked Biff if there was something I should eat the next morning.
"Bananas," he said.
"For the potassium?" I asked.
"No," Biff said, "because they taste about the same coming up as they do going down."
The next morning, out on the tarmac, I had on my flight suit with my name sewn over the left breast. (No call sign -like Crash or Sticky or Leadfoot . But, still, very cool.) I carried my helmet in the crook of my arm, as Biff had instructed. If ever in my life I had a chance to nail Nicole Kidman, this was it.
A fighter pilot named Psycho gave me a safety briefing and then fastened me into my ejection seat, which, when employed, would "egress" me out of the plane at such a velocity that I would be immediately knocked unconscious
Just as I was thinking about aborting the flight, the canopy closed over me, and Biff gave the ground crew a thumbs-up. In minutes we were firing nose up at 600 mph. We leveled out and then canopy-rolled over another F-14.
Those 20 minutes were the rush of my life. Unfortunately, the ride lasted 80. It was like being on the roller coaster at Six Flags Over Hell. Only without rails. We did barrel rolls, snap rolls, loops, yanks and banks. We dived, rose and dived again, sometimes with a vertical velocity of 10,000 feet per minute. We chased another F-14, and it chased us.
We broke the speed of sound. Sea was sky and sky was sea. Flying at 200 feet we did 90-degree turns at 550 mph, creating a G force of 6.5, which is to say I felt as if 6.5 times my body weight was sma shing against me, thereby approximating life as Mrs. Colin Montgomerie.
And I egressed the bananas.
And I egressed the pizza from the night before.
And the lunch before that.
I egressed a box of Milk Duds from the sixth grade.
I made Linda Blair look polite. Because of the G's, I was egressing stuff that never thought would be egressed.
I went through not one airsick bag, but two.
Biff said I passed out. Twice. I was coated in sweat. At one point, as we were coming in upside down in a banked curve on a mock bombing target and the G's were flattening me like a tortilla and I was in and out of consciousness, I realized I was the first person in history to throw down.
I used to know 'cool'. Cool was Elway throwing a touchdown pass, or Norman making a five-iron bite. But now I really know 'cool'. Cool is guys like Biff, men with cast-iron stomachs and freon nerves. I wouldn't go up there again for Derek Jeter's black book, but I'm glad Biff does every day, and for less a year than a rookie reliever makes in a home stand.
A week later, when the spins finally stopped, Biff called. He said he and the fighters had the perfect call sign for me. Said he'd send it on a patch for my flight suit.
What is it? I asked.
"Two Bags."
tropicalstorm answered on 04/13/07:ONE QUESTION:
WHEN CAN I GO...........
(maybe I could make the world book of Guiness and be THREE bags!:(....) | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/12/07 - LIKE OR LOVE:
Asking "Do you like God?" may help us to think about God liking us. I hope this doesn't sound too touchy-feely. But what I mean is that, for some strange reason, saying that "God likes me" has more punch than "God loves me." Maybe it's because "the love of God" is an overused phrase. Maybe it's because I think that since I am "supposed to" love God, I think that God has no choice but to love me. He's "supposed to." Yet Jesus called his disciples "friends" (John 15:15).
What say you?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/12/07:You can love someone and not like them so in a sense what you are saying does make sense. | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 04/12/07 - Blood Lev. 18, 10-14, For the life of all flesh is the blood, and ye shall eat the blood of no manner of flesh. Is a blood transfusion any different than eating blood? tropicalstorm answered on 04/12/07:No Belle they are not the same thing
Jews will even tell you that.
Ask ETW
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/12/07 - This is for you Peddler Seeing life in the abstract
is what some people like to do
Getting the facts distorted
and not caring what is true.
Living a life of fantasy
not wanting to use their mind.
Daydreaming about a better life
not willing to seek or find.
One day they'll have an awakening
at a time when they least expect.
Searching for truthful answers
and the wisdom to reflect.
The perils of living a fantasy
comes a time for one to fall.
So live your life in reality
so your world won't crumble at all.
Take care.
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 04/12/07:'Don't lump Peddles in with seeing life in the abstract. That is my domain and it would do Peddles a lot ship load of good to get out of Box 1 and forget about his box 2 and find a little abstract in his life! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/12/07 - CONCEPTS OF THEORY:
Once one has examined an ethical theory and knows what its fundamental concepts are, what kinds of factors are to be used in making moral judgments?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/12/07:yeesh Hank
you go through all that to determine moral??
| | Question/Answer | Pete. asked on 04/11/07 - Block
Hey, peddler's blocked me. That makes two,
the other being Gossy. What are they afraid of??? tropicalstorm answered on 04/11/07:Pete
It gets worse
you got blocked
AND PERK DIDN'T!
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 04/11/07 - The Don Imus thing revisited. In today's Chicago Sun-Times, a black female columnist said Imus' comment wasn't racist, but just a stupid old white guy's effort to be "hip" and "with it" (and failing miserably, since he has no experience with or understanding of black culture).
The columnist decided the insult was worse because of the "nappy-haired" adjective. Black women, she said, pride themselves on their hair, since hair control is such a challenge for most of them. "Nappy-haired" are fighting words!
Also, she wondered why Rev. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson aren't as upset over rappers' use of "bitch" and "ho" when they describe black women. It's okay, she questioned, if BLACK men call black women that--and make money doing it? What a double standard!
(There is no real question here. I just had to vent along with the columnist.) tropicalstorm answered on 04/11/07:That is what I hear from all normal average people about many racist sounding remarks.
It is the politically correct organizations that make the big deal out of it.
The radio talk shows yesterday, most of the black woman that called in said basically the same thing.
They also said he has done a lot in support of black people.
Where I live the blacks laugh at my three black jokes and tell me, "You IS all right girl"
and we get along fine.
Politically Correct groups want to create a problem so that they can sue and 'find a solution'
| | Question/Answer | madddawg asked on 04/11/07 - What is the meaning of life?
The meaning of lifeThe last words of Aldus Huxley (humanist) were:
"It is a bit embarrassing to have been concerned with the human problem all one's life and find at the end that one has no more to offer by way of advice than try to be a little kinder."
That is all there is to life for the humanist. What do you suppose the real meaning of life is? tropicalstorm answered on 04/11/07:One thing I know The meaning of life is NOT living a superifical complacent life like most people are content with.
I think a part is finding the connection of your spirit and soul in relation to God and his will. | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 04/10/07 - Flavius Josephus is not enough for such a "great" man. Please give me other historical, non-biblical references to Jesus Christ. Peddeler failed, can any of you help?
Thanks
Pete
tropicalstorm answered on 04/10/07:Pete from what I understand nobody denies that Jesus actually existed they question who he really was. I think Dom even says Jesus really existed and he has visited the Holy Land.
I don't have time right now and not sure what exactly sure what would help answer your question to your satisfaction so here is a search link to your question.
Jesus historical )
God bless you | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 04/10/07 - IMUS! After viewing myriad posts with unflattering remarks about someone or someone's wife along the lines of Imus' despicable remarks of "nappy-headed hors" (referring to the Rutgers Women's Basketball team), do you think a two-week suspension is appropriate for Imus?
WHAT WOULD BE THE PROPER DISCIPLINE FOR A PERSON OF HIS STATUE MAKING SUCH RACIST AND DEGRADING REMARKS?
============.
THE RESPONSE BY COACH C. VIVIAN STRINGER:
"These young ladies before you are valedictorians, future doctors, musical prodigies," coach C. Vivian Stringer told a nationally publicized news conference a day after the uproar over Imus´ comments led to a two-week suspension of his show.
=======================.
And we wonder why the world is in chaos? Look at what a T.V./radio icon is saying about such fine young ladies! DEPLORABLE!
Thanks for your comments.
Bobbye
P.S. "YES," THIS POST CONCERNS "CHRISTIANITY!" The majority of his audience is in America with many "Christian" listeners. WHY HAVEN'T THEY SPOKEN OUT AND DEMANDED A GREATER PUNISHMENT FOR HIS REMARKS?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/10/07:what I see as the problem is that here in the USA we have politically correct people who are over sensitive about everything and we have laws that are not defined clearly so some people lose their job for less and others get a slap on the wrist for worse. Prople should take personal responsibility of how would they want to be treated, would they want something similar said about them.
Then too we argue over freedom of speech vs not being offensive.
They claim it is the Christians that want to control speech when it is the politically correct people and not the Christians.
Christians KNOW that if there is laws on peoples freedom of speech the Christians would suffer more because they would be able to go further than separation of church and state.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/10/07 - PH are you trying to emulate juvenile atheist? meddler,
Please answer my question "what is your reference for God being born on Kolob"?
Is this the height of your intellect? To harass about something that I never said?
You and Perk both are spoiled children, without honor.
Perk called my dead Mother a whore. This you heartily endorse.
I called him a whore, and demonstrated it to be true. You support his harassing me for something I never said and now you copycat him?
If my best hope was to someday be like Perk I would go take a nap on the RR tracks.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/10/07:Peddles taking a nap on the railroad tracks is fun!!! LOL
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/10/07 - Is Mary Worship Necromancy? She is a dead person . tropicalstorm answered on 04/10/07:I believe it is.
Catholics make the distinction that they do not pray TO Mary but 'ask' her to intercede for them.
The Bible even says 1Ti 2:5 For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
Catholics say it is okay to pray to Mary to intercede because the Bible says that we are to pray and intercede for one another and they say Romans 8:35 says death can not separate us
and since the resurrection the saints are not dead but alive with Jesus in heaven so Mary and the saints can be intercessors just like we are to intercede for one another.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/09/07 - I DIDN'T KNOW!
Clarification/Follow-up by madddawg on 04/08/07 6:38 pm:
To Toms777. You raise a good question since the Bible clearly forbids the praying to the dead.
Deuteronomy 18:9-12
"Forbids the praying to the dead." Hmmm! I do it all the time. Please explain/reference your standing! Thanks!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:yeah it forbids praying to the dead and/or channeling the dead and says it is witchcraft
channeling )
1Ti 2:5 For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/09/07 - Bible questions, not questions about anyones religion: This is for those who can not simply answer my questions.
There are those on this board who insist on not answering questions in a direct and logical way. I will again ask these quesiton, please state the answers logically and to the point. Why quote a bunch of scriptures that do not answer my questions? These are Bible questions, not religion question but strickly about the Bible, please keep it that way.
Here are those scriptures and my questions. There should be no need to bring into your answer the watchtower or any other article. If you all love me as you claim, why not teach me the correct answer and as you would a new Bible student?
Just answer the question using the Bible. That is simple. If you post a whole bunch of stuff it may be because you do not know the answers. Which is it? Can you answer my questions logically and simply and direct and back it up with one or two scriptures?
*****************************************************
Notice this is the –New King James version and the King James Version:::
John 20:17 (New King James Version)
17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’”
Now for the King James Version: Not my Bible the NWT
John 20:17 (King James Version)
17Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
John 17:3 (King James Version)
3And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
Now answer these question for me Please?
1- Who is the Word? If you believe the Word was God, then How can God be with himself?
Verse 2 again, "The same was in the beginning with God>"
Are you saying that God is the Word and he was with himself?
If so, then why does the other scripture like John 17:3 speak of God sending forth his Son?
Can you answer these questions if Jesus is God? ALL SCRIPTURES ARE TAKEN FROM THE NEW KING JAMES VERSION OF- THE BIBLE
Matthew 26:39 (New King James Version)
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
Why would Jesus if he was God, pray to himself?
Why if Jesus is God would he have to ask himself the above, ““O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” And If Jesus is God, why would he say, “Not as I will, but as you will?” If Jesus is God, He would know his own will.
If the Father and the Son were not distinct individuals, such a prayer would have been meaningless. Jesus would have been praying to himself, and his will would of necessity have been the Father’s will.
*********************************************************************
John 8:17-18 (New King James Version)
17 It is also written in your law that the testimony of two men is true. 18 I am One who bears witness of Myself, and the Father who sent Me bears witness of Me.”
So, Jesus definitely spoke of himself as being an individual separate and distinct from the Father, here, didn’t he???
**********************************************************************************************************************
Mark 13:32 (New King James Version)
32 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Why would only the Father know if Jesus were God?
Would not Jesus then also know the day and the hour?
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were coequal, comprising one Godhead. And if, as some suggest, the Son was limited by his human nature from knowing, the question remains, Why did the Holy Spirit not know?
Matthew 20:20-234 (New King James Version)
20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him.
21 And He said to her, “What do you wish?”
She said to Him, “Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.”
22 But Jesus answered and said, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”[a]
They said to Him, “We are able.”
23 So He said to them, “You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with;[b] but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.”
How strange, if, as claimed, Jesus is God! Was Jesus here merely answering according to his “human nature”?
If, as Trinitarians say, Jesus was truly “God-man”—both God and man, not one or the other—would it truly be consistent to resort to such an explanation?
Reason on this, notice verse 23. and ask yourself if Jesus is God why was it not his to give?
Here is shows that the Father has reserved some prerogative for himself.
Why if Jesus is God?
********************************************************************************************
John 14:28 (New King James Version)
28 You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said,[a] ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.
Why would Jesus say this if he was God?
Was part of God better then the other part? Or is Jesus in the Bible you all use lying?
For what purpose would Jesus say this?
John 17:1-3 (New King James Version)
1 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should[a] give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
Why does Jesus pray to himself, if he is God?
If Jesus is God why would he need to be glorified?
Please in a seriousness answer these question in an orderly and logical way and in the 0rder of which I have asked them, and without books and articles and a whole bunch of stuff. If your Trinity is true you should be able to answer these quesiton simply and directly and without posting pages and pages of website information. You should be able to answer with one of two scriptures and explain it in your own words.
Tom777 especially I do not want to read your website information. I want an answer from you using JUST the Bible please.
Take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:Ditto to what Joe said.
We have no idea if you are even bothering to read what we bothered to type so what is the use of replying?
same with Peddler slacking off on rating. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/09/07 - To whom does Hilter belong? Adolf Hitler claimed he was Christian!
Evangelical Christian leaders supported Hitler greatly; even Baptists were split over whether Hitler was truly Born Again. Listen to Adolf's testimony:
"My feelings as a Christian points me to my Lord and Savior" - Speech, 12 April 1921
Adolf Hitler professed faith in Jesus Christ and claimed to be a Christian! He affirmed the Christian faith, never shut down a Christian church, and claimed that his actions during World War II were fully consistent with Biblical teaching and commandment.
Adolf Hitler claimed to be Christian. He regularly invoked the name of "God" and "Lord", he regularly called upon "faith in the Almighty", and he regularly stated the importance of the Christian faith as a foundation for the entire nation!
A German woman wrote a letter to a friend just weeks before Hitler's suicide in 1945. She expressed outrage because she finally believed the 'rumors', that the "SS" had been systematically murdering Jews all during the war. She said, "This is totally outrageous and must stop. Why, someone should tell Adolf"!
"My feeling as a Christian points me to my Lord and Savior... I am fighting for the work of the Lord." - Speech, 12 April 1921
"Hitler is reported to have spoken, glowingly, about raising the 'treasures of the living Christ,' the persecution of the 'true Christians and sanctimonious churches that have placed themselves between God and man and to turn away from the anti-Christian , smug individualism of the past,' and 'to educate the youth in particular in the spirit of those of Christ's words that we must interpret anew: love one another; be considerate of your fellow man; remember that each of you is not alone a creature of God, but that you are all brothers!" [Turner, "In Hitler-- Memoirs of a Confidant", Ch. 23;]
"In boundless love as a Christian and as a man I read through the passage which tells us how the Lord at last rose in His might ..."
"Today, after two thousand years, with deepest emotion I recognize more profoundly than ever before the fact that it was for this that He had to shed his blood upon the Cross."
"As a Christian ..."
"For as a Christian I have also a duty to my own people."
"When I go out in the morning and see these men standing in their queues and look into their pinched faces, then I believe I would be no Christian, but a very devil, if I felt no pity for them, if I did not, as did our Lord two thousand years ago, turn against those by whom today this poor people are plundered and exploited."
"The church is certainly necessary for the people. It is a strong and conservative element." ["Memoirs" Albert Speer, p. 95]
Later on this same page, Albert Speer noted that Hitler strongly believed that the Christian church was indispensable in political life.
"We don't want to educate anyone in atheism. ["Hitler's Table-Talk", p. 6]
"God is with us" - [Calic, Edouard, Ed., "Secret Conversations With Hitler," The John Day Company, p. 6:
Hitler repeated this phrase exceedingly often in his speeches, and he always drew the applause.
"We do not forget the influence of the churches"
"Hence today I believe that I am acting in accordance with the will of the Almighty Creator" [Hitler, Mein Kampf]
"The established Methodist church paper, the Friedensglocke, vouched for the authenticity of a story about Hitler where he invited a group of deaconesses from the Bethel Institutions into his home at Obersalzberg .. The deaconesses entered the chamber and were astonished to see the pictures of Frederick the Great, Luther, and Bismarck on the wall ...
One sister could not refrain from saying: 'Herr Reichkanzler, 'from where do you get the courage to undertake the great changes in the whole Reich?' Thereupon Hitler took out of his pocket the New Testament of Dr. Martin Luther, which one could see had been used very much, and said earnestly: "From God's word." [Helmreich, Ernst Christian, "The German Churches Under Hitler," Wayne State University Press, 1979, p., p. 139]
"The National Socialist State has not closed a church, nor has it prevented the holding of a religious service, nor has it ever exercised any influence upon the form of a religious service. It has not exercised any pressure upon the doctrine nor on the profession of faith of any of the Confessions. In the National Socialist State anyone is free to seek his blessedness after his own fashion...." [Hitler, a speech in the Reichstag on 30 Jan. 1939]
"I am absolutely convinced of the great power and the deep significance of the Christian religion, and consequently will not permit any other founders of religion (Religionsstifter) ... I will protect the rights and freedom of the church and will not permit them to be touched. You need have no apprehensions concerning the freedom of the church.
[Hitler, quoted from "The German Churches Under Hitler", p.241]
"Secular schools can never be tolerated because such a school has no religious instruction and a general moral instruction without a religious foundation is built on air; consequently, all character training and religion must be derived from faith. From our point of view as representatives of the state, we need believing people."
[Hitler, quoted from The German Churches under Hitler, p.241]
" 'Except the Lord built the house they labour in vain'.... The truth of that text was proved if one looks at the house of which the foundations were laid in 1918 and which since then has been in building.... The world will not help, the people must help itself. Its own strength is the source of life. That strength the Almighty has given us to use; that in it and through it we may wage the battle of our life.... The others in the past years have not had the blessing of the Almighty-- of Him Who in the last resort, whatever man may do, holds in His hands the final decision. Lord God, let us never hesitate or play the coward, let us never forget the duty which we have taken upon us.... We are all proud that through God's powerful aid we have become once more true Germans."
[Adolf Hitler, in a speech in March 1933]
"... the fall of man in paradise has always been followed by his expulsion." [Adolf Hitler (Mein Kampf)]
"...that is why the prophet seldom has any honor in his own country." [Adolf Hitler (Mein Kampf); referring to Jesus' words, John 4:44]
History records that many Evangelical, and even Baptist, preachers, teachers, and leaders went over to Hitler's "morality."
"If anyone can lay claim to God's help, then it is Hitler, for without God's benevolent fatherly hand, without his blessing, the nation would not be where it stands today. It is an unbelievable miracle that God has bestowed on our people."
[Evangelical Minister Rust, in a speech to a mass meeting of German Christians on June 29, 1933 [Helmreich, Ernst Christian, "The German Churches Under Hitler," Wayne State University Press, 1979, p. 138]
"Other pastors openly welcomed the Nazi's, believing that the reintroduction of government by Christian authorities, affirmed St. Paul that 'the power that be are ordained by God'." (Romans 13:1) ["Christianity in Europe during WWII", by Jim Walker, 1 June, 2000]
"... a number of U.S. Baptists wrote sympathetically of Hitler's Germany. I came to this conclusion while writing an article on the Baptist World Alliance congress in Berlin in 1934. An immense Nazi flag, hung where the congress met, was a vivid reminder of the bloody purge executed only a few weeks before by anti-Semitic fascists.
["U.S. Baptists said surprisingly nice things about Hitler", Baptist Standard, by Professor Lloyd Allen - Church History at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky -- May 27, 2002]
"John Sampey, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, cautioned against hasty judgment of a leader (Hitler) who had stopped German women from smoking cigarettes and wearing red lipstick in public.
The Watchman-Examiner carried a letter by Boston pastor John Bradbury. Of the congress, he wrote, "It was a great relief to be in a country where salacious sex literature cannot be sold; where putrid motion pictures and gangster films cannot be shown."
Professor Allen lists some other specific reasons these Baptist leaders gave Hitler such a pass on the clear evidences of spiritual disaster:
"This focus on [Hitler's] personal piety resulted partially from a frontier religious ethic. On the American frontier, where Baptist strength arose in the Second Great Awakening, the most crucial ethical decisions were personal--alcoholism, spousal abuse and violence. Few complex social structures existed on the frontier to attract a sustained moral critique. Baptists equated eliminating the sins of the flesh with Christian living."
"Mass evangelism was a second factor in Baptist blindness to the Nazi evil. Some Baptists believed that evangelism and the world order were two circles that never intersected ... "Evangelical Christianity transcends all political and social systems," according to an Alabama Baptist article that appeared that same year. As long as governments, even fascist governments, did not interfere with soul-saving, they could be tolerated." [Ibid.]
What would Jesus say in response to this nonsensical line of argument? "Ye blind guides, filtering out a gnat, and gulping down a camel." Matt 23:24; Parallel Bible, KJV/Amplified Bible Commentary]
Professor Allen explains in another article, "How Baptists Assessed Hitler, written in September, 1982:
"Surely a leader who does not smoke or drink, who wants women to be modest, and who is against pornography cannot be all bad, or so the reasoning went. As M. E. Aubrey of England observed in the Baptist Times, Hitler had “brought almost a new Puritanism, which makes its appeal to our Baptist friends, and for the sake of which they can overlook much that cuts across their natural desires.” Baptists from the United States ignored the fact that interpreters were barred from even rendering the word “democracy” in Aubrey’s speech. Priority was placed on personal habits, to the detriment of larger, more vital issues."
M.E. Aubrey admitted there was much about Hitler that was of great concern to Christians, but he smoothed that problem over by stating that Hitler's "new Puritanism" is so strong that Christians can "overlook much" about him that gives them great concern! In other words, Christians who had personally compared Hitler's spiritual fruits against Bible doctrine, and had concluded he was evil, could "overlook" their conclusions because of Hitler's supposed "new Puritanism"!
Professor Allen records for posterity that the numbers of Baptists who felt positive about Hitler was far more than a few radical fringe types:
"“Quite a number of correspondents of our Southern Baptist papers writing about the BWA seemed to have a kindly feeling and a good word for Hitler and his regime,” Wrote R. H. Pitt in "Religious Herald."
Victor I. Masters of the Western Recorder went even further, writing, “Most of the testimony we have from our brethren who went to the [1934] Baptist World Alliance in Berlin has seemed with great spontaneity and readiness to accept the opinion that all is well in Germany."
Did you catch that phrase, uttered even as Hitler was beginning to secretly murder Jews: "all is well in Germany".
Professor Allen drops a bombshell in identifying the major issue blinding Baptists to Hitler: he had them focussing on one major issue:
"A final reason for Baptist vulnerability to Hitler’s 1934 policies was a single-issue criterion for appraising foreign governments: anticommunism. In 1934, if a government was anti-Communist, it deserved recognition and support. Dr. Leek wrote:
'Our observation is, that while Hitlerism is doubtless not the ultimate end, for Germany directly or Europe indirectly, it is for Germany a safe step in the right direction. Nazism has at least been a bar to the universal boast of Bolshevism'
[Alabama Baptist XCIX 36 (September 6, 1934)]."
Another Baptist leader, Dr. Daddy, stated: "Hitler was not perfect, but at least he was anti-Communist."
Therefore, because Hitler strongly opposed Communism, as did international Baptists, it was all right to ignore all the spiritually rotten fruit coming from Hitler and his National Socialist regime!
"I do not remember even a single occasion when Hitler gave any instructions that ran counter to the true Christian spirit and to humaness.
[Wagener, quoted in "Turner, Jr., Henry Ashby, "Hitler-- Memoirs of a Confidant," Yale University Press, 1978, p.147]
Hitler wanted to combine all the regional Protestant churches into a single and united Reich Church. In 1933, a few Protestant Pastors, namely Martin Niemöller, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Karl Barth and others formed the "Pastors Emergency League" which later became known as "The Confessing Church" to oppose the state controlled Nazi Church.
"It bears some importance to understand that Germany did not recognize the Confessing Church as an official Church. Not only the Nazis, but all other Protestant Churches condemned the Confessing Church. They thought of it as a minority opposition that held little power. The vast majority of German churches supported Hitler and his policies against the Jews."
["Christianity In Europe During World War II, by John Walker June 2002].
Many Evangelical and Baptist leaders supported Hitler, especially during the early years, 1921-1939, when their determined opposition might have made a difference.
Evangelical and Baptists supported Hitler because he claimed Jesus as his Lord and Savior.
Adolph Hitler was never a Mormon. Tomsmeddlingdawg can have him back.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:Sitting in a garage swearing you are a car or a mechanic doesn't make you one. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/09/07 - Pericles asked an excellent question that should be posted upon this board. Is there any record of the fulfilling of the Christian claim of Resurrection , the claim of Armageddon, the claim of the existence of an Antichrist, the claim of the Rapture, the claim of the Revelation / Apocalypse, etc?
What is good for the goose .....
Concerning the resurrection there are several secular sources:
My response:
The Jewish Talmud speaks of the death of Jesus: “On the eve of Passover they hanged Yeshu (of Nazareth) and the herald went before him for forty days saying Yeshu of Nazareth is going forth to be stoned in that he hath practiced sorcery and beguiled astray Israel. Let everyone knowing aught in his defense come and plead for him. But they found naught in his defense and hanged him on the eve of Passover.” (Babylonia Sanhedrin 43a). Evidence that Demands a Verdict, Josh McDowell, Here’s Life Publishers, 1979, page 85-86.
Josephus wrote, “Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man, for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him both many of the Jews, and many of the Gentiles. He was the Christ, and when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men among us, had condemned him to the cross, those that loved him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive again the third day; as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning him. And the tribe of Christians so named from him are not extinct at this day.” Antiquities. XVIII.33
There are no records of the battle of Armageddon, the antichrist, the translation of saints, because they are still future events.
One future event still to come is the judgment of all those who die in their sins!!!
Revelation 20:11-15 11And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Any other comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:Like you say there can't be records of things
before they happen but the Bible is full of
end time prophecy.
Matt 24:36 begins with "No one knows about that day or hour that does not mean that we can not know we are approaching the end times tribulation.
I hear people say well Hitler was anti christ, and this already happened and there have always been earthquakes etc...
BUT none of these things have lined up according to how the Bible says the end times will be.
These are just a few of end time prophecy
The Bible says the fig tree would bloom and then the beginning of the end.
Luke 21:29-31, Jesus said that when the fig tree blooms again, people will know that the End Times and Kingdom of God is near. Some Christian scholars believe that the fig tree represents the nation of Israel. This passage is sometimes interpreted to mean that the End Times would not begin until sometime after the nation of Israel regains sovereignty. When Jesus delivered this prophecy about 2000 years ago, Israel was ruled over by the Roman Empire. The people of Israel did not have sovereignty over their own land during that era. But, after centuries of exile, the Jews were able to return to Israel and reclaim sovereignty, in 1948.
Matthew 24:7 "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes." This is meaning something out of the 'norm' Like earthquakes and so forth happening where they never happened before.
The Bible speaks of gog and magog going against Israel. That is Russia and China and
within the past year I heard that Russia and China are funding Iraq.
the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple.
-------------
Rapture
Many say they will be raptured away because God would not let Christians go through something as horrible as the tribulation. They use Noah being 'lifted' from the earth as an example. BUT the Bible has many stories of God bringing his people through. Like
Daniel and the lions den and Meshack and the fiery furnace. Also why would God allow Paul and the apostles to die horrible deaths for their faith and yet 'save' us from going through the tribulation. The Bible says in the tribulation God will have his seal on his choosen. Christians say that means the people who accept God after the rapture but I don't see that being what it means. I see more that does not support pre-trib rapture.
Matthew 24:8-9 "But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs. Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations on account of my name."
Matthew 24:22) "And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved"
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/09/07 - The Fairy Tale Of The Vanishing Snowpack. Kerry's Lies tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:I have heard many things on scientists that are not allowed to say anything about global warming being a lie (at least man made global warming) and I still say if it is that bad why are Gore, Pelosi, John Travolta and others not concerned enough to quit contributing enough to global warming for 20 people?
global warming swindle )
| | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/09/07 - Lorenzo Snow Is there any record of the third Mormon President reaching the moon or any of the planets?
Joseph Smith prophesied,
"Thou (Lorenzo Snow) shalt have power to translate thyself from one planet to another; and power to go to the moon." Ed Decker and Dave Hunt The Godmakers, Harvest House Publishers, 1984, page 80. tropicalstorm answered on 04/09/07:Never heard anything on that but the CIA has a multi million dollar program of remote viewers that 'saw' water on the moon before it was possible to ever know.
government remote viewers ) | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/08/07 - EASTER SUNDAY IS ABOUT REBIRTH!! It is a happy holiday, rebirth. Plants start growing again after the cold death of winter, animals reproduce and continue life a reminder that human beings can be born again spiritually onto the road to happiness from the dead end of misery!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:AND
ol' sapph is coming out of hybernation....
s-low--ly since it keeps getting COLD again! | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 04/08/07 - John 17:3 Who is the Only True God? hOPE12 put forward the following challenge:
"(John 17:1-3) 17 Jesus spoke these things, and, raising his eyes to heaven, he said: “Father, the hour has come; glorify your son, that your son may glorify you, 2 according as you have given him authority over all flesh, that, as regards the whole [number] whom you have given him, he may give them everlasting life. 3 This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ.
Most translations here use the expression “the only true God” with reference to the Father. NE
reads“who alone art truly God.” He cannot be “the only true God,” the one “who alone [is] truly
God,” if there are two others who are God to the same degree as he is, can he? Any others referred
to as “gods” must be either false or merely a reflection of the true God.
If the Trinity were true, it should be clearly and consistently presented in the Bible. Why? Because,
as the apostles affirmed, the Bible is God’s revelation of himself to mankind. And since we need to
know God to worship him acceptably, the Bible should be clear in telling us just who he is." (4)
First, the Bible is very clear in telling us who Jesus is and that He is God. I cannot imagine any doctrine
more clearly presented in scripture. To repeat the details would make this a very long document, thus
for the purposes of keeping this document short, I will simply recommend that the reader check out these
documents which provide consider information and references from scripture which show without any
possibility of doubt, that Jesus is God.
1) Is Jesus God? by Tom Smith
2) Is Jesus God? by Larry Mitchell
3) Who is Jesus? by Tom Smith
4) The Trinity by Larry Mitchell
These documents are not exhaustive on the evidence for the deity of Jesus. Indeed, the evidence is so
overwhelming from Genesis through to Revelation that I doubt that anyone in their lifetime to write a book which could exhaustively document the evidence for the deity of Jesus from scripture alone.
Now to the verse mentioned in this quote - let's look at what John 17:1-3 has to say.
John 17:1-4
17:1 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: "Father, the hour has come.
Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all
flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life,
that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.
NKJV
Interestingly, the person who posted this message did not carry on to the next two verses, which read:
John 17:4-5
4 I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.
NKJV
Note that Jesus and the Father shared the same glory together before the world began. Jesus is therefore
not, as the Watchtower Society claims, a created being. Indeed, it was Jesus who created everything that is:
Col 1:16-18
16 For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible,
whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and
for Him. 17 And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.
NKJV
John 17:3 says that God is the only true God. This raises a question. The Watchtower Society translates
John 1:1 as follows:
"In [the] Beginning the Word was, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god" (1)
If God the Father is the only true God, and Jesus is a god, then the Jehovah's witnesses have a bit of a
quandry. Is Jesus there a false god? There interpretation of these verses are contradictory. On the other hand, scripture is clear that God is a trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Here we have no problem in saying that there is one true God, and that Jesus is God.
Scripture is clear.
References:
(1) New Word Translation (NWT), Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, 1961
(2) Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1979, 1980, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights
reserved.
(3) Reasoning from the Scripture with the Jehovah Witnesses, Ron Rhodes, Harvest House Publishers, 1993
(4) Message from "hOPE12"on Answerway.com, Christianity Board, Sept 30, 2006. tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:I hope I didn't complicate things I asked Hope if she would do a post to explain how you can say Jesus is 'a god' and at the same time not be worshiping more than one God which would make you a polytheist.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/08/07 - For Rosekeeper:
Hello Joy,
Anything I say here I do so with respect and hope you take it in the same manner in which I give my understanding. Always be sure of all things Joy. If you can answer the below question after the information on John 1:1, I certainly would be enlightened.
John 1:1
There are few passages in the Bible have received more attention in many
churches John 1:1. The way it reads in many Bible versions is similar to that of the King James Version: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God [ο θεός], and the Word was God [θεός].”
Many who accept the Trinity point to this passage in support of their doctrine. The verse, however, has been rendered differently in some translations, with the acknowledgment that the original Greek reveals a difference that is hidden in renderings such as the above.
If a passage can grammatically be translated in more than one way, what is the correct rendering? One that is in agreement with the rest of the Bible. If a person ignores other portions of the Bible and builds his belief around a favorite rendering of a particular verse, then what he believes really reflects, not the Word of God, but his own ideas and perhaps those of another imperfect human.
John 1:1, 2:
RS reads: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.” (KJ, Dy, JB, NAB use similar wording.) However, NW reads: “In the beginning the Word was, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god. This one was in the beginning with God.”
Which translation of John 1:1, 2 agrees with the context? John 1:18 says: “No one has ever seen God.” Verse 14 clearly says that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us . . . we have beheld his glory.” Also, verses 1, 2 say that in the beginning he was “with God.” Can one be with someone and at the same time be that person? At John 17:3, Jesus addresses the Father as “the only true God”; so, Jesus as “a god” merely reflects his Father’s divine qualities.—Heb. 1:3.
Is the rendering “a god” consistent with the rules of Greek grammar? Some reference books argue strongly that the Greek text must be translated, “The Word was God.” But not all agree. In his article “Qualitative Anarthrous Predicate Nouns: Mark 15:39 and John 1:1,” Philip B. Harner said that such clauses as the one in John 1:1, “with an anarthrous predicate preceding the verb, are primarily qualitative in meaning. They indicate that the logos has the nature of theos.” He suggests: “Perhaps the clause could be translated, ‘the Word had the same nature as God.’” (Journal of Biblical Literature, 1973, pp. 85, 87) Thus, in this text, the fact that the word the•os´ in its second occurrence is without the definite article (ho) and is placed before the verb in the sentence in Greek is significant. Interestingly, translators that insist on rendering John 1:1, “The Word was God,” do not hesitate to use the indefinite article (a, an) in their rendering of other passages where a singular anarthrous predicate noun occurs before the verb. Thus at John 6:70, JB and KJ both refer to Judas Iscariot as “a devil,” and at John 9:17 they describe Jesus as “a prophet.”
John J. McKenzie, S.J., in his Dictionary of the Bible, says: “Jn 1:1 should rigorously be translated ‘the word was with the God [= the Father], and the word was a divine being.’”—(Brackets are his. Published with nihil obstat and imprimatur.) (New York, 1965), p. 317.
In harmony with the above, AT reads: “the Word was divine”; Mo, “the Logos was divine”; NTIV, “the word was a god.” In his German translation Ludwig Thimme expresses it in this way: “God of a sort the Word was.” Referring to the Word (who became Jesus Christ) as “a god” is consistent with the use of that term in the rest of the Scriptures. For example, at Psalm 82:1-6 human judges in Israel were referred to as “gods” (Hebrew, ’elo•him´; Greek, the•oi´, at John 10:34) because they were representatives of Jehovah and were to speak his law.
Joy Reason on these please and explain them to me. If you are not sure please ask those who are teaching you that there is a Trinity to explain them to you.
I respect you Joy, so reason and think about what is said here and then ask those who believe in the Trinity and that Jesus is God, to explain so you can make a informed choice as to how you will worship God.
Notice this is the –New King James version and the King James Version:::
John 20:17 (New King James Version)
17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’”
Now for the King James Version: Not my Bible the NWT
John 20:17 (King James Version)
17Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
John 17:3 (King James Version)
3And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
Now answer these question for me Joy:
1- Who is the Word? If you believe the Word was God, then How can God be with himself?
Verse 2 again, "The same was in the beginning with God>"
Are you saying that God is the Word and he was with himself?
If so, then why does the other scripture like John 17:3 speak of God sending forth his Son?
Joy also can you answer these questions if Jesus is God? ALL SCRIPTURES ARE TAKEN FROM THE NEW KING JAMES VERSION OF- THE BIBLE
Matthew 26:39 (New King James Version)
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
Why would Jesus if he was God, pray to himself?
Why if Jesus is God would he have to ask himself the above, ““O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” And If Jesus is God, why would he say, “Not as I will, but as you will?” If Jesus is God, He would know his own will.
If the Father and the Son were not distinct individuals, such a prayer would have been meaningless. Jesus would have been praying to himself, and his will would of necessity have been the Father’s will.
*********************************************************************
John 8:17-18 (New King James Version)
17 It is also written in your law that the testimony of two men is true. 18 I am One who bears witness of Myself, and the Father who sent Me bears witness of Me.”
So, Jesus definitely spoke of himself as being an individual separate and distinct from the Father, here, didn’t he???
**********************************************************************************************************************
Mark 13:32 (New King James Version)
32 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Why would only the Father know if Jesus were God? Would Jesus then also know the day and the hour?
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were coequal, comprising one Godhead. And if, as some suggest, the Son was limited by his human nature from knowing, the question remains, Why did the Holy Spirit not know?
Matthew 20:20-234 (New King James Version)
20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him.
21 And He said to her, “What do you wish?”
She said to Him, “Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.”
22 But Jesus answered and said, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”[a]
They said to Him, “We are able.”
23 So He said to them, “You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with;[b] but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.”
How strange, if, as claimed, Jesus is God! Was Jesus here merely answering according to his “human nature”? If, as Trinitarians say, Jesus was truly “God-man”—both God and man, not one or the other—would it truly be consistent to resort to such an explanation?
Joy now reason on this notice verse 23. and ask yourself if Jesus is God why was it not his to give? Here is shows that the Father has reserved some prerogative for himself. Why if Jesus is God?
********************************************************************************************
John 14:28 (New King James Version)
28 You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said,[a] ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.
Why would Jesus say this if he was God? Was part of God better then the other part? Or is Jesus in the Bible you all use lying? For what purpose would Jesus say this?
John 17:1-3 (New King James Version)
1 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should[a] give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
Why does Jesus pray to himself, if he is God? If Jesus is God why would he need to be glorified?
Take care joy,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:Can you do a post to explain how you can say Jesus was 'a god' and at the same time not be worshiping more than one God which would make you a polytheist. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/08/07 - Questions for Hope. If you die today do you know you will go to heaven?
If not why?
How are the 144,000 chosen and where is this in scripture? tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:Peddles
Of course they have their explanations to those questions. They believe their religion is the right one and as I THINK it was Joy said they
treat you like you are going totally against the Holy Spirit if you leave their congregation.
From what JW's explained to me, they believe that nobody knows if their ancestors were from the 12 lost tribes and God has somehow supernaturally brought them together as JW's.
They believe that the 144,000 chosen are JW's and that the JW's that are not in the 144,000 chosen get to have eternal life here on earth because this earth never ends. They believe everybody gets a second chance and comes back to life for the millenium to restore it back to paradise and if you are disobedient during the millenium you are annilated into non-existence. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/08/07 - CANDY & EASTER:
When it comes to Easter, the name of the game is sugar. From chocolate bunnies to marshmallow chicks, the amount of candy Americans scarf down to celebrate this holiday is enough to send anyone into sugar-shock. Not only will Americans shell out 1.9 billion dollars for Easter candy this year, they’ll also pay the price in terms of calories. The not-so-sweet truth is that candy is not a nutritious food, and its calories stack up fast…
According to the National Confectioner's Association, nearly 80% of people celebrating Easter plan to buy candy. Not only are we eager for Easter confections, but many of us have pronounced Easter candy rituals. For instance, more than three-quarters of all Americans eat the ears on their chocolate bunnies first. Continue nibbling all the way to the toes, and you’ll be getting 230 calories.
Compliments of LifeScript
Are YOU saying NO to sugar today? Hope so!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:I gotta have my daily dose of Pepsi
other than that I don't eat much sugar.
UNLESS someone tempts me with pie, baked cheesecake or extra chocolaty brownies.
AND I told my kid he is old enough to do without the Easter Bunny LOL.
My daughter did say she was buying her boyfriend an Easter Basket because he didn't get to have Easter when he was a kid.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/08/07 - Okay Perk I am very sorry for your wife.
BTW I found a picture of you.
![]() tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:Next time you consider suggesting to Perk that he should divorce to marry a whore
THINK TWICE!!! ;) | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/08/07 - What is Easter mean to you? Hello Everyone,
This being a holy weekend for many, a question comes to my mind.
Did Early Christians Celebrate Easter?
Although this holiday is supposed to commemorate Christ’s resurrection, note what secular authorities say regarding it:
“Easter. Originally the spring festival in honor of the Teutonic goddess of light and spring known in Anglo-Saxon as Eastre. As early as the 8th century the name was transferred by the Anglo-Saxons to the Christian festival designed to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.”—The Westminster Dictionary of the Bible (Philadelphia, 1944), by John D. Davis, page 145.
“Everywhere they hunt the many-colored Easter eggs, brought by the Easter rabbit. This is not mere child’s play, but the vestige of a fertility rite, the eggs and the rabbit both symbolizing fertility.”—Funk & Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of Folklore Mythology and Legend (New York, 1949), Volume 1, page 335.
Having read this my question is,
What does it mean to you?
When did Easter start to your knowledge?
Where in the Bible does it tell us to celebrate Easter and how should a person celebrate Easter?
Take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 04/08/07:Personally I do not celebrate holidays or birthdays (EXCEPT the 4th of JULY)
I don't simply because because (NO religious reason).
To me Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter you are to remember and give thanks
but you are suppose to do these things daily so
it is just a matter of a little more thought and recognition going into the day than anything else.
When the Bible says not to observe or esteem one day over another it is not saying you should not celebrate. It means the day itself is no better than any other day. It means do not get into the pagan traditions the day may symbolize. That does not mean we can no have a
day set aside to honor or remember something within that day.
The Bible also says
1Ti 4:8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
Does that mean we are not to excercise?
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 04/07/07 - THE CRUCIFIXION; GOOD FRIDAY; MARY; KINSMAN (Go'el) REDEEMER (1) Does the "Kinsman-Redeemer (Go'el) Principle," as demonstrated in the Book of Ruth, apply to Jesus' leaving Mary in the care of John The Apostle (first cousin to Jesus: his mother Salome was a sister to Mary, the Mother of Jesus)?
(2) Does Jesus' leaving Mary in the care of John (who was yet a young, young man by the standards of the day) prove that Mary bore no other children?
(3) Would Jesus have left Mary in John's care (and it is believed that she lived out her life in Ephesus with the elder John. Ephesus was the church/group who put John on the Isle of Patmos) if there were other "blood" siblings?
I'm well versed in the Scriptures that refer to Jesus' brethren and sisters. However, the Kinsman-Redeemer Principle continued in effect in N.T. times, as the Jewish nation, as a whole, did not come under "grace" in N.t. times. Also, just as we refer to our brothers and sisters in Christ as "Brother" or "Sister," so it was in N.T. times. Nephews (Lot, for example was called a "brother" to Abraham); cousins, etc., were referred to as "brothers."
Thanks,
Bobbye
P.S. "Kinsman-Redeemer Principle:"
THE KINSMAN-REDEEMER WAS "THE DEFENDER OF FAMILY RIGHTS." This individual was a close relative who had financial resources to rescue a poverty-stricken family member, stepping in to save that relative from slavery or from having to sell the family's ancestral land.
In the story of Ruth, Boaz redeemed the land that Naomi was about to sell. He also took on another of the Kinsman-Redeemer's responsibilities; i.e., "the obligation to provide an heir for Ruth's deceased husband, Mahlon." THIS WAS CALLED A "LEVIRATE MARRIAGE."
THE KINSMAN-REDEEMER (Go'el):
(1) Must be nearest of kin: Leviticus 25:48
(2) Must be able to redeem (Ruth 4:4-6). He must be free of any calamity or need of redemption himself.
(3) Must be willing to redeem.Ruth 4:6
(4) Redemption completed when the price was paid. Leviticus 25:27; Ruth 4:7-11
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:The only explanation I have come up with is that Mary and John both believed whereas Jesus' brothers and sisters did not. Jesus looked down from the cross and in a sense
In saying those words, Jesus did not disown his family. Rather, Jesus told them and us that there is a higher allegiance, there are higher ties than even family ties. The highest, most important allegiance we have is to the family of God that is characterized by doing his the Father's will. And just as it is so often said: "If there is anybody you can depend on its family," Jesus was telling us that if there is anyone we can depend on it ought to be the family of God, brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers that do the God's will. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 04/07/07 - What does the "easter bunny" have to do with Easter? This I found which explains quite a bit of the question.
The Easter bunny has its origin in pre-Christian fertility lore. The Hare and the Rabbit were the most fertile animals known and they served as symbols of the new life during the Spring season.
The bunny as an Easter symbol seems to have it's origins in Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500s. The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800s. These were made of pastry and sugar.
The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s. The arrival of the "Oschter Haws" was considered "childhood's greatest pleasure" next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve. The children believed that if they were good the "Oschter Haws" would lay a nest of colored eggs.
The children would build their nest in a secluded place in the home, the barn or the garden. Boys would use their caps and girls their bonnets to make the nests . The use of elaborate Easter baskets would come later as the tradition of the Easter bunny spread through out the country.
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:YEAH AND here is the Easter egg part of the equinox.
The Easter egg
For many cultures the egg has long been a symbol of new life. The ancient Egyptians, Persians, Hindus and others believed that the world began with a giant egg.
Because the egg was considered a symbol of new life by many ancient cultures, it was celebrated during springtime. In ancient Rome, for instance, eggs were decorated and given as part of the equinox celebration. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 04/07/07 - Must we believe False Prophecy? Maddawg's last questions raised an interesting question regarding false prophecies. On the court record of the Douglas Walsh trial, held in the 1950's in Scotland, we read the following excerpt from the testimony of Haydon C. Covington, legal counsel for the Watchtower Society. (I can provide a scanned copy of the page upon request):
Q. Back to the point now. A false prophesy was promulgated?
A. I agree that.
Q. It had to be accepted by Jehovah?s Witnesses?
A. That is correct.
Q. If a member of Jehovah?s Witnesses took the view himself that that prophesy was wrong and said so he would be disfellowshipped?
A. Yes, if he said so and kept persisting in creating trouble, because if the whole organisation believes one thing, even though it be erronious and somebody else starts on his own trying to put his ideas across then there is disunity and trouble, there cannot be harmony, there cannot be marching. When a change comes it should come from the proper source, the head of the organisation, the governing body, not from the bottom upwards, because everybody would have ideas, and the organisation would disintegrate and go in a thousand different directions. Our purpose is to have unity.
Q. Unity at all costs?
A. Unity at all costs, because we believe and are sure that Jehovah God is using our organisation, the governing body of our organisation to direct it, even though mistakes are made from time to time.
Q. And unity based upon an enforced acceptance of false prophecy?
A. That is conceded to be true.
Q. And the person who expressed his view, as you say, that it was wrong, and was disfellowshipped, would be in breach of the Covenant, if he was baptized?
A. That is correct.
Q. And as you said yesterday expressly, would be worthy of death?
A. I think - - -
Q. Would you say yes or no?
A. I will answer yes, unhesitatingly.
Q. Do you call that religion?
A. It certainly is.
Q. Do you call it Christianity?
A. I certainly do.
My question is:
Is unity so important as to require that we believe false prophecy or be deemed worthy of death and if so, where would we find support for this position in the Bible?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:I don't think we are to believe false prophets for unity's sake and the Old Testament does say that false prophets are to be put to death.
I have often wondered about false prophecies because the churches such as Pat Robertson's followers warn against false prophets yet Pat Robertson and others have falsely prophesied
yet they overlook that or make excuses.
false prophets ) | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/07/07 - Just Wondering ...
if we are punished for our parents' sins?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:N0
BUT we do have a tendency to follow our parents
which ends up being our parents ourself.
Like people always swearing they will never be an alcoholic or beat their spouse or kids like their parents did and then they turn around and do the exact same thing.
I always hear people saying, "Oh no, I am becoming my (mother)(father) when they catch themselves acting like something their parents would do. I guess it is the nuture aspect of repeating learned behavior no matter how much you hated it in your parents. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/07/07 - Jehovah Witness flip flop Can anyone explain why the Russelites changed the highlighted statements listed below?
** Thy Kingdom Come (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.3) (1908) p.228 ***
That the deliverance of the saints must take place some time before 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place at that time, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah's Anointed. Just how long before 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished. With these two thought in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.
** Thy Kingdom Come (Studies in the Scriptures Vol.3) (1937) p.228 ***
That the deliverance of the saints will take place some time after 1914 is manifest, since the deliverance of fleshly Israel, as we shall see, is appointed to take place thereafter, and the angry nations will then be authoritatively commanded to be still, and will be made to recognize the power of Jehovah's Anointed. Just how long after 1914 the last living members of the body of Christ will be glorified, we are not directly informed; but it certainly will not be until their work in the flesh is done; nor can we reasonably presume that they will long remain after that work is accomplished. With these two thought in mind, we can approximate the time of the deliverance.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:Hope and JW's will tell you what their leaders in the past said is irrelevant because they have no control over what is past. The verses in the Bible about false prophets doesn't apply.......
...for what ever reasons? | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/07/07 - Joseph Smith - the way to God? Brigham Young stated,
No man or woman in this dispensation will ever enter into the Celestial Kingdom of God without the consent of Joseph Smith.
From the day that the priesthood was taken from the earth to the winding up scene of all things, every man and woman must have the certificate of Joseph Smith as a passport to their entrance into the mansion above where God and Christ are - I with you and you with me.
I cannot go there without his consent. He holds the keys to rule in the spirit world and he rules triumphantly, for he gained full power and a glorious victory over the power of Satan while he was yet in the flesh. Journal of Discourses, Ed Decker and Dave Hunt, The Godmakers, page 41
But the infallible word of God says
Jesus said unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father, but by me. John 14:6
Who should we believe? Jesus or Brigham Young?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:meet the 72 virgins
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(its as believable as Smith helping St Peter
at the Pearly gates) | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 04/07/07 - CAN ANYONE ANSWER MY ? IN MANAGEMENT.. NOBODY HAS VISITED THERE IN SO LONG THERE IS DUST ON THE FLOOR? tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:well they will see the foot prints of anybody that breaks in while they are on their extended indefinite vacation then. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/06/07 - FREE ASSOCIATION:
This is the device idiots use when they say whatever comes to mind. Hoping some earthlings improve is an illegitimate infringement on their autonomy. Simply stated, they have self-defeating habits and repetitive problems. These chronic patterns are hard to unravel, if not impossible. But, we all know this, don't we?
Since this is Good Friday, at least we can take a little time to be thankful and grateful for all that we have. I would like to read YOUR definition of APPRECIATION.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/07/07:My definition of appreciation is every time
I have a good day.
But then on my bad days I appreciate them when they are over.
Then my bad times I can usually-sometimes find something to appreciate except for the fact that it was a bad day in general.
I just have to keep remembering the verse about everything working out for the good and usually somewhere along the way it does --usually. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 04/06/07 - Man can see God. Man Has seen God, and lived.
The board should express their thanks to Toms777 for pointing out a Biblical truth: that man and men have seen God and lived. God is only invisible when he wants to be, but is visible also when he wants to be.
Did you know that?
tropicalstorm answered on 04/06/07:Basically and definitely Gods choice AND NOT mans. Man can't even grasp God in his truest form from what is in the Bible so how is man going to 'see' God when they often create him in their own image and interpretations.
You can't recognize a stranger can you? | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 04/06/07 - God of Kolob Is the God that was born on a planet near Kolob the same as the God of the Bible?
The false gods of Kolob are described in this famous hymn.
If you could hie to Kolob.
If you could hie to Kolob in the twinkling of an eye,
And then continue onward with the speed of light to fly,
D’ye think that you could ever, through all eternity,
Find out the generation where Gods began to be?
Or see the grand beginning, where space did not extend?
Or view the last creation where Gods and matter end?
Methinks the Spirit whispers, “No man had found pure space,”
Nor seen the outside curtains, where nothing has a place.
The works of God continue, and the worlds and lives abound;
Improvement and progression have one eternal round.
There is no end to matter; there is no end to space;
There is no end to spirit; there is no end to race.
But the God of the Bible is described as everlasting.
Psalm 90:2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/06/07:I heard Jimmy Swaggart do a sermon on how he believes God lives on a literal planet.
God could live on a planet if he choose to that is his perogative. BUT to me people saying that sound like they are creating God to their limited comprehension. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/06/07 - Evolution and Racial Hatred 
Ota Benga
The Pygmy in the Zoo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ota Benga, or Otabenga, pictured above, was an African Forest Person, said to be of the Bachichiri, a family of "Bushmen" originally living in the forests along the Kasai River in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He was captured in a raid by the Baschilele, who were said to have killed his family and burned his house, then turned him over to the Zappo-Zap, a tribe of African natives loyal to King Leopold II, of Belgium, absentee owner of the Congo Free State. He was held captive until acquired by Samuel Phillips Verner, a Missionary-Explorer from South Carolina who was looking for "Pygmies" who would come to be exhibited at the St. Louis Exposition of 1904.
Ota helped Verner convince other Africans, who lived in and around the village of Chief Ndombe to come to St. Louis and build a representative and "authentic" native African village for the World's Fair visitors to see, alongside thousands of other native tribesmen from all over the World.
After they returned to Africa, Verner and Ota spent 18 months exploring and collecting artifacts in Central Africa. Once Verner was ready to return to America, Ota asked to join him on his trip to New York in the summer of 1906. Once in New York City, Verner was bankrupt and the Guardian Trust Company seized his collections, which Verner had hoped could be sold to the American Museum of Natural History. Verner left Ota in the care of the Museum while he went back to South Carolina seeking family support. Motivated by good intentions, Ota's caretakers transferred him to the Bronx Zoo where he was made into a sensation as an exhibit of evolution, residing in the primate house with an Orangutan as a roommate.
The letter, shown above, was written to Ota (Otabenga) in an a phonetic transliteration of Ota's language by Verner (known to Ota as "Fwela"), while Ota was at the Museum. The letter begins with the greeting "Moiyo"
It was widely believed at this time, even by eminent scientists, that blacks were evolutionarily inferior to Caucasians, but caging one in a zoo produced much publicity.10 In Bridges’ words:
‘On September 9, a genuine African Pygmy, belonging to the sub-race commonly miscalled “the dwarfs,” … Ota Benga is a well-developed little man, with a good head, bright eyes and a pleasing countenance. He is not hairy, and is not covered by the “downy fell” described by some explorers … He is happiest when at work, making something with his hands.
Extricated by well-intended ministers of religion, Ota was transferred through several eleemosynary institutions of learning, while Verner was kept busy with new plans for African empire building with backing from New York millionaires.
After Ota Benga left the zoo, he was able to find sympathetic care at a succession of institutions and with several sympathetic individuals. But he was never able to shed his ‘freak’ label. Employed in a tobacco factory in Lynchburg, Virginia, Ota Benga grew increasingly depressed, hostile, irrational, and forlorn. Concluding that he would never be able to return to his native land, in 1916 Benga committed suicide by shooting himself with a borrowed pistol.
The story of Ota Benga is one of the many tragic fruits of evolutionism. But it is one which contains a lesson in helping us to realize the importance of the Christian teaching that all men are brothers, all descendants of Adam and Eve. If all Christians had stood up for creation at the outset of the Ota Benga incident, this horror story of evolutionary racism might have been averted.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/06/07:that is sad and depressing!
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 04/06/07 - Peddler comes a cropper...AGAIN. In responding to PrinceHassem, Peddler Loudly declaims: 'THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS BIBLICAL HEBREW'......so how do we explain the encylopedic entry: BIBLICAL HEBREW: sometimes called Classical Hebrew is an Archaic Form of the Hebrew Language, in which the Hebrew Bible, the "Tanakh" was written, and which the Ancient Israelites spoke"!!!!
Is this one on a par with her claim: "No one knows who built the Great Pyramid"....Or "The evolutionsist killed the Aborigines and boiled them to pass off their skulls as Neanderthals"????????????
AND WE ARE SUPPOSED TO TAKE HER INTERPRETATIONS OF SCRIPTURE SERIOUSLY??????
tropicalstorm answered on 04/06/07:gee how can Peddles believe the Bible literally if he is right about that? Is it possible?
What translation does Peddles use?
Does Toms need to start preaching against Peddles 'religion' as a cult?
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![]() | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/05/07 - I say this again. Hello everyone,
Belle is correct I have said I will use "Toms" choice of Bible versions and it will say the same thing. The Bible the Jehovah's Witnesses use is different in that we use God's name "Jehovah" in Hebre YHWH. JW's have just used the vowels which Hebrew faith did not use vowel. The Bible we use is in modern day language, like we speak in todays world. This add to better understanding.
If someone wishes to post one scripture on the board, I will post what the New World Translation Says at that same scripture. You all then can make a conscientious choice as to if our copy of the scriptures say the same or not. All one needs to do is use common sense and discernment.
I though if any feel comfortable with the Version they use, please tell me that version and I will explain my comment with that version. The truth never changes no matter what Bible is used. Why? God never changes and the Bible over the many years has not changed. Only mans interpretation has changed.
Please feel free to quote me, "I will use whatever Bible Tom777 chooses to use. One scripture at a time and from the version that Tom wants to and nothing else. No articles, and no church doctorine, Just that version of the Bible. I feel so confident that the Bible does not change and that the Copy of the Bible that JW's use does not change in meaning, I have made myself obligated to use Tom777 copy of the Bible.
I think that is fair, don't you guys?
Take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 04/05/07:I think it would be a good idea to post both side by side because there are little differences with little two and three letter words that can give a whole different meaning.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 04/05/07 - The Best of America Person of the Week tropicalstorm answered on 04/05/07:I was just thinking the other day we need someone like Bob Hope to do something nice for the soldiers to show they are not sent over there and forgotten.
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 04/04/07 - Hallelujah!!!! Have just learned that 273 of my dear friends and business associates have left fundamentalist Christianiy and converted to Islam!!!! Allah does, indeed work in mysterious ways!!!
But they need ALL of your prayers... their fundamentlist Christian families have threatened to spread the rumour that they are all 'undercover' ARABS for Jesus!!! tropicalstorm answered on 04/04/07:Are their families still stuck in fundism?
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 04/03/07 - Mary Susan (and others) .................................
Dear Mary Sue (and others) :
That would make a good and interesting topic, I think ...
When you return in full, just tell of your wishes and desires !!!
:)
.
tropicalstorm answered on 04/04/07:here I was going to ask her if she wanted to play some shuffle board at this senior citizens board. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 04/03/07 - What physical element is necessary for Baptism? The Bible says "water". Could Kool-Aid or oil or even saliva be used in a pinch? or nothing, just the Word? tropicalstorm answered on 04/03/07:only if you don't mind being dunked in a vat full of koolaid or oil or saliva. | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 04/01/07 - SUPERSTITION Apparently, the Christians here don't know the meaning of superstitious, so here is the dictionary definition-in the interest of education for the ternimally stupid. :)
su·per·sti·tion /ˌsupərˈstɪʃən/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[soo-per-stish-uhn] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun
1. a belief or notion, not based on reason or knowledge, in or of the ominous significance of a particular thing, circumstance, occurrence, proceeding, or the like.
2. a system or collection of such beliefs.
3. a custom or act based on such a belief.
4. irrational fear of what is unknown or mysterious, esp. in connection with religion.
5. any blindly accepted belief or notion.
[Origin: 1375–1425; late ME < L superstitiōn-
Thanks to on-line dictionary.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, superstition is pretty much the definition of the Christian religion. :):):)
I specially like "any blindly accepted belief or notion". tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:Does that nullify or mean that Peddlers alien/Pyramid theory that it is *superstition* is or isn't superstition TO HIM?
INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW!!!
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/01/07 - SAPPHIRE:
I couldn't get my clarification to work. So, the following:
Ain't this a hoot?
Yardage, Course Rating, and Slope are from the back tees. (I play from the back tees)
Ancala Country Club, 11700 E Via Linda St, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, (480)391-2777, private, 18 hole, 6841 yds, Par 72, CR-73.6, S-152
Camelback Golf Club
Club Course, 7847 N Mockingbird Ln, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, (480)596-7050, resort, 36 hole, 7014 yds, Par 72, CR-72.6, S-122
Resort Course, 7847 N Mockingbird Ln, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, (480)596-7050, resort, 36 hole, 6903 yds, Par 72, CR-72.3, S-131
Continental Golf Course, 7920 E Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)990-3286, public, 18 hole, 3766 yds, Par 60, CR-57.7, S-78
Coronado Golf Course, 2829 N Miller Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257, (480)947-8364, public, 9 hole, 3700 yds, Par 62, CR-56.7, S-75
Country Club at DC Ranch, The, 9290 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)502-6905, private, 18 hole, 6872 yds, Par 71, CR-72.4, S-130
Cypress Golf Course
Long Nine Course, 10801 E McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, (480)946-5155, public, 18 hole, 3369 yds, Par 36, CR-72.6, S-124
Short Nine Course, 10801 E McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, (480)946-5155, public, 18 hole, 1470 yds, Par 30, CR-56.9, S-77
Desert Highlands Golf Club, 10040 E Happy Valley Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-8521, private, 18 hole, 7072 yds, Par 72, CR-73.9, S-151
Desert Mountain
Apache Course, 10333 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1362, private, 90 hole, 7211 yds, Par 72, CR-73.9, S-137
Chiricahua Course, 10333 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1362, private, 90 hole, 7424 yds, Par 72, CR-76.1, S-154
Cochise Course, 10333 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1362, private, 90 hole, 7048 yds, Par 72, CR-73.8, S-136
Geronimo Course, 10333 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1362, private, 90 hole, 7414 yds, Par 72, CR-75.2, S-152
Renegade Course, 10333 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1362, private, 90 hole, 7515 yds, Par 73, CR-76.6, S-138
Estancia Club, The, 9801 E Dynamite Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)473-4400, private, 18 hole, 7146 yds, Par 72, CR-73.7, S-135
Gainey Ranch Golf Club
Arroyo/Lakes Course, 7600 Gainey Club Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, (480)483-2582, resort, 27 hole, 6800 yds, Par 72, CR-71.9, S-128
Dunes/Arroyo Course, 7600 Gainey Club Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, (480)483-2582, resort, 27 hole, 6662 yds, Par 72, CR-70.7, S-124
Lakes/Dunes Course, 7600 Gainey Club Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, (480)483-2582, resort, 27 hole, 6614 yds, Par 72, CR-71.0, S-125
Grayhawk Golf Club
Raptor Course, 8620 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)502-1800, public, 36 hole, 7135 yds, Par 72, CR-74.0, S-136
Talon Course, 8620 E Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)502-1800, public, 36 hole, 6973 yds, Par 72, CR-73.6, S-143
Legend Trail Golf Club, 9462 Legendery Ln, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-7434, public, 18 hole, 6845 yds, Par 72, CR-72.3, S-135
Marriott's Mountain Shadows Resort & Golf Club, 5641 E Lincoln Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, (480)951-5427, resort, 18 hole, 3081 yds, Par 56, CR-56.9, S-87
McCormick Ranch Golf Club
Palm Course, 7505 E McCormick Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, (480)948-0260, public, 36 hole, 7044 yds, Par 72, CR-73.7, S-137
Pine Course, 7505 E McCormick Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, (480)948-0260, public, 36 hole, 7187 yds, Par 72, CR-74.4, S-135
Orange Tree Golf & Conference Resort, 10601 N 56th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, (480)948-3730, resort, 18 hole, 6762 yds, Par 72, CR-71.3, S-122
Pavilion Lakes Golf Club, 8870 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, (480)948-3370, public, 18 hole, 6515 yds, Par 71, CR-70.1, S-120
Phoenician, The
Canyon/Oasis Course, 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)423-2449, resort, 27 hole, 6258 yds, Par 70, CR-70.1, S-130
Desert/Canyon Course, 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)423-2449, resort, 27 hole, 6068 yds, Par 70, CR-69.4, S-131
Oasis/Desert Course, 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)423-2449, resort, 27 hole, 6310 yds, Par 70, CR-70.3, S-130
Pinnacle Peak Country Club, 8701 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-0385, private, 18 hole, 7030 yds, Par 72, CR-72.8, S-130
Scottsdale Country Club
North/East Course, 7702 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, (480)948-6000, semi-private, 27 hole, 6292 yds, Par 71, CR-69.7, S-119
North/South Course, 7702 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, (480)948-6000, semi-private, 27 hole, 6085 yds, Par 70, CR-68.6, S-125
South/East Course, 7702 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, (480)948-6000, semi-private, 27 hole, 6335 yds, Par 71, CR-69.6, S-118
Talking Stick Golf Club
North Course, 9998 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, (480)860-2221, public, 36 hole, 7133 yds, Par 70, CR-N/A, S-N/A
South Course, 9998 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, (480)860-2221, public, 36 hole, 6833 yds, Par 71, CR-N/A, S-N/A
Terravita Golf Club, 34034 N 69th Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, (480)488-1333, private, 18 hole, 7186 yds, Par 72, CR-74.4, S-139
TPC of Scottsdale
Desert Course, 17020 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-4334, semi-private, 36 hole, 6423 yds, Par 70, CR-69.9, S-119
Stadium Course, 17020 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-4334, semi-private, 36 hole, 7216 yds, Par 71, CR-74.6, S-138
Troon Golf & Country Club, 25000 N Windy Walk Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-0540, private, 18 hole, 7041 yds, Par 72, CR-73.7, S-148
Troon North Golf Club
Monument Course, 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-5300, semi-private, 36 hole, 7028 yds, Par 72, CR-73.3, S-147
Pinnacle Course, 10320 E Dynamite Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, (480)585-5300, semi-private, 36 hole, 7044 yds, Par 72, CR-73.4, S-147
Villa Monterey Public Golf Course, 8100 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)990-7100, public, 9 hole, 2035 yds, Par 30, CR-56.7, S-85
Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, The
Acacia/Mesquite Course, 15636 Clubgate Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, (480)922-9283, public, 27 hole, 6913 yds, Par 72, CR-72.6, S-133
Ironwood/Acacia Course, 15636 Clubgate Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, (480)922-9283, public, 27 hole, 6974 yds, Par 72, CR-72.9, S-130
Mesquite/Ironwood Course, 15636 Clubgate Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, (480)922-9283, public, 27 hole, 7017 yds, Par 72, CR-73.3, S-133
* AZ climate and golf courses is why we settled in Scottsdale.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:My bosses dad is a golf fanatic and he told me
Phoenix is the golf capital. I will ask him if I ever get to see him which is the best. He told me a couple years ago but me not being
into golf don't remember.
AZ's climate is one reason WHY I want to move to Phoenix but this past winter was cold there.
I heard the crime is getting bad too.
I CAN'T WAIT TO GET THERE!!! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/01/07 - Our New Church ... I Think:
Bethany Lutheran Church
4300 N 82nd St
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Anyone familiar with this Church?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:Hank I hear there are loads of golf courses in Phoenix. Everybody tells me that Paradise Valley is a nice mall.
I'll help you look for a good church in Sept
when I get there.
In the mean time if you run across a cheap place for rent that allows large dogs that will be available in Sept let me know. | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 04/01/07 - Fred Phelps I have just watched a TV film about Fred Phelps, made by Louis Theroux.
What is your opinion on Fred?
I would love to see your comments.....Remember I am in the UK!
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:He got a degree in law and religion and started his church with the sole purpose of going to
gay rallies and later military funerals with the sole purpose of getting publicity and suing if he wasn't given a permit or suing if he did get the permit and anybody tried to stop him at the rallies or funerals.
He is 100% scam. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/01/07 - AUTHOR UNKNOWN:
1. If I like it, it's mine.
2. If it's in my arms, it's mine.
3. If I can take it from you, it's mine.
4. If I had it a little while ago, it's mine.
5. If it's mine, it must never appear to be yours in any way.
6. If I'm doing or building something, all the pieces are mine.
7. If it looks just like mine, it's mine.
8. If I think it's mine, it's mine."
Glad to be back. What a happy time this is for the two of us. Let's straighten out ALL of the problems in the World. Where should we start? As Fred says, "Peace and kindness." Hope all of you are well and happy. (Everything went better than planned)
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:hope you plan to stay :) | | Question/Answer | arcura asked on 04/01/07 - Have you heard this on the TV or radio?????????????
HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT THE TWO DUCK HUNTERS FROM WISCONSIN?
ABSOLUTELY A TRUE STORY HEARD ON A WISCONSIN RADIO STATION REPORTING
ON THE INCIDENT.
A guy buys a new Lincoln Navigator for $42,500.00 (with monthly
payments of $560.00).
He and a friend goes duck hunting in upper Wisconsin. It's mid-
winter; and of course all of the lakes are frozen. These two guys go
out on the ice with their GUNS, a DOG, and of course the new NAVIGATOR.
They decide they want to make a natural looking open water area for
the ducks to focus o n, something for the decoys to float on.
Now making a hole in the ice large enough to invite a passing duck is
going to take a little more power than the average drill auger can
produce.
So, out of the back of the new Navigator comes a stick of dynamite
with a short 40 second-fuse. Now our two Rocket Scientists, afraid
they might slip on the ice while trying to run away after lighting
the fuse
(and becoming toast, along with the Navigator), decide on the
following course of action: they light the 40 second fuse; then, with
a mighty thrust, they throw the stick of dynamite as far away as
possible.
Remember a couple of paragraphs back when I mentioned the NAVIGATOR,
the GUNS, and the DOG...???
Let's talk about the dog: A highly trained Black Lab used for
RETRIEVING; especially things thrown by the owner. You guessed it:
the dog takes off across the ice at a high rate of speed and grabs
the stick of dynamite, with the burning 40-second fuse, just as it
hits the ice.
The two men swallow, blink, start waving their arms and, with veins
in their necks swelling to resemble stalks of rhubarb, scream and
holler at the dog to stop. The dog, now apparently cheered on by his
master,
keeps coming.
One hunter panics, grabs the shotgun and shoots the dog. The shotgun
is loaded with #8 bird shot, hardly big enough to stop a Black Lab.
The dog stops for a moment, slightly confused, then continues on.
Another shot, and this time the dog, still standing, becomes really
confused and of course terrified, thinks these two geniuses have gone
insane. The dog takes off to find cover, UNDER the brand new Navigator.
The men continue to scream as they run. The red hot exhaust pipe on
the truck touches the dog's rear end, he yelps, drops the dynamite
under the truck and takes off after his master.
Then " "" "" "" "" " BOOOOOOOOOOOOM " "" "" "" "" "" " ! ! ! !
The truck is blown to bits and sinks to the bottom of the lake,
leaving the two idiots standing there with "I can't believe this just
happened" looks on their faces.
The insurance company says that sinking a vehicle in a lake by
illegal use of explosives is NOT COVERED by the policy. And he still
had yet to make the first of those $560.00 a month payments.
The dog is okay...doing fine. And you thought Rednecks lived in the
South......
-- tropicalstorm answered on 04/01/07:That is absolutely the best of the best of dumb people stories I ever did hear!
Can you imagine every time they see their dog they must wanna kill it! | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/31/07 - Could the Apostle Paul's "thorn in the flesh" have been that he was a homosexual?
Whether your answer is no or yes, please give Biblical, historical, cultural, or any other evidence/documentation you deem useful. tropicalstorm answered on 03/31/07:The Bible doesn't say. 'Thorn,' could be a physical ailment of some sort ('in the flesh'), a harassing 'demon', or the constant harassment of Jewish persecutors. Through the history of the church no agreement has been reached among hundreds of commentators. The "thorn" of Paul's experiences is probably not identified
so we could more readily apply it to a variety of trials faced in our life. Few of God's servants have been free from at least some kind of hindrance, weakness or opposition.
Whatever it was, being an affliction implies it is something the person wishes they didn't have. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/31/07 - Lack Understanding
I am writing to you to ask for your help in shedding light on a
perplexing situation I find myself contemplating.
I have selected you as a group to aid me because some of you have known
me for at least quite a few years and I value your opinion.
Your religious experiences are varied and that is important to the
problem I am faced with.
Over the years, we have all observed the seemingly random factors that
affect all of our lives, sometimes without apparent rhyme or reason. We
have seen some marriages dissolve over nothing and others grow stronger under
adverse conditions.
We have seen fate play a role in who survives critical illnesses and who
succumbs to them.
We have all seen good people suffer great misfortunes while some people
of low character thrive.
In our lifetime, we have seen Churches and Religious institutions all
around the world become revised, televised, energized and even scandalized.
We are all well aware that a higher power has control of nearly all
things.
Personally, I have stood in the doorway of a Seven-Eleven in Atlanta,
amid a shootout between the police and a gunman and walked away unscathed.
On a golf course, I saw a lightning bolt strike a man dead while those
of us nearby where untouched.
We all watched as Hurricane Katrina ravaged some areas of the coast and
left other nearby homes standing intact. The enormity of these random and
seemingly unfair applications of good or bad fortune is at the core of
my dilemma.
I have studied sacred writings of all major religions searching for an
answer, and now I pose the question to you ....
I cannot fathom that the highest power in this universe could take Anna
Nicole from us and leave Hillary behind.
Respectfully,
Bill C.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/31/07:I find one problem with this on the logic side...
IF Hillary died how would old Bill have a chance at a third term in the White House!?
| | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 03/31/07 - Were JWs Persecuted? No one has denied this.
But as stated before, the historic record shows that they stated their alignment with the Nazi movement and pleaded for Hitler's help to protect them. He chose not to do so. the same is true of many other groups, Jews, gypsies, etc., but simply being persecuted does not prove anything. Being persecuted is not a choice that we have, but a choice made by the persecutor.
Others willingly chose to put themselves in harms way even though they were not in any direct danger. Some may also have been JWs, but this does not take away from the reality of history and the efforts of the JWs to appease Hitler to save themselves. tropicalstorm answered on 03/31/07:I think I am having the similar disagreement with Peddler about Hitler in relation to Catholics and other Christians. And I think Peddler hit it right on one point, most of it was politics vs who personally went against
Hitler RATHER than the religion itself and the agreements the Pope or the JW organization itself might have made politically speaking.
I remember back in the seventies reading the letters that tied JW's with Hitler just like
I remembered that news article I googled from
.....the atheist site.. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/30/07 - Interesting Study! architect claims to solve pyramid secret By LAURENCE JOAN-GRANGE, Associated Press Writer
PARIS - A French architect claimed Friday to have uncovered the mystery about how Egypt's Great Pyramid of Khufu was built — with use of a spiral ramp to hoist huge stone blocks into place.
The construction of the Great Pyramid 4,500 years ago by Khufu, a ruler also known as Cheops, has long befuddled scientists as to how its 3 million stone blocks weighing 2.5 tons each were lifted into place.
Ending eight years of study on the subject, architect Jean-Pierre Houdin released his findings and a computerized 3-D mockup showing how workers would have erected the pyramid at Giza outside Cairo.
The most widespread theory had been that an outer ramp had been used by the Egyptians, who left few traces to help archeologists and other scientists decode the secret to the construction.
Houdin said he had taken into account the copper and stone tools available at the time, the granite and limestone blocks, the location of the pyramid and the strength and knowledge of the workers.
According to his theory — shown in a computer model available at http://www.3ds.com/khufu — the builders put up an outer ramp for the first 141 feet, then constructed an inner ramp in a corkscrew shape to complete the 446-feet structure.
Houdin said he based his theory partially on work by fellow Frenchman Gilles Dormion, who has studied pyramid construction for more than 20 years.
Houdin also postulated that King's Chamber, situated 43 meters above the pyramid's base and capped with granite ceilings, was hoisted into place through a system of counterweights.
Houdin said he plans to verify his theories through non-invasive tests on site
tropicalstorm answered on 03/31/07:On George sNoory they have been saying for over a year that they believe the pyramids were most likely built by ramps or by pouring a concrete type mixture right where they want them.
I think the pyramids are really interesting how they were built in line with the stars and astrology. | | Question/Answer | | PrinceHassim asked on 03/30/07 - A question for Christians who believe they must share the gospel with others.
Please give this some thought.
If you ask me for a piece of cake, would you prefer to receive it from me
(A) served on a silver platter with social niceties and a wish for your enjoyment, or will you be satisfied
(B) if I grasp a handful of Black Forest Gateaux, squish it between my fingers, and smear it all over your face?
Is it preferred for Christians to share the gospel with others using method A or method B?
What would Jesus do? References to Jesus cleaning the temple and/or slagging off the Pharisees for their hypocrisies must not form part of your answer.
How do you think (chapter and verses please) Jesus wants his Gospel Gateaux presented to make it attractive to those yet to decide for him?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/30/07:I got me a piece of the black forest cake and it wasn't squished or anything,
but the one puttin' that icing on the cake sure can make
one bitter icing....and icing is my favorite piece of the cake...........................
when done RIGHT!!! | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/30/07 - First Amendment and Christianity Storm Over Chocolate Jesus
"A New York gallery has angered a US Catholic group with its decision to exhibit a milk chocolate sculpture of Jesus Christ.
The six-foot (1.8m) sculpture, entitled "My Sweet Lord", depicts Jesus Christ naked on the cross.
Catholic League head Bill Donohue called it "one of the worst assaults on Christian sensibilities ever".
The sculpture, by artist Cosimo Cavallaro, will be displayed from Monday at Manhattan's Lab Gallery.
The Catholic League, which describes itself as the nation's largest Catholic civil rights organisation, also criticised the timing of the exhibition.
"The fact that they chose Holy Week shows this is calculated, and the timing is deliberate," Mr Donohue said.
He called for a boycott of the gallery and the hotel which houses it.
'Overwhelming response'
The gallery's creative director, Matt Semler, said the gallery was considering its options in the wake of angry e-mails and telephone calls.
"We're obviously surprised by the overwhelming response and offence people have taken," he said. "We are certainly in the process of trying to figure out what we're going to do next."
Mr Semler said the timing of the exhibition was coincidental.
Mr Cavallaro, the Canadian-born artist, is known for using food ingredients in his art, on one occasion painting a hotel room in mozzarella cheese.
He used 200 pounds (90 kg) of chocolate to make the sculpture which, unusually, depicts Jesus without a loincloth." BBC website.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you think religion in America deserves special treatment regarding the First Amendment...Freedom of Speech??? Why, why not? tropicalstorm answered on 03/30/07:ALL I can say is they do these 'pieces of art' of Mary and Jesus but if a Christian did a piece of art work that was offensive to Buddists or Muslims or blacks using a Buddah or Allah or Martin Luther King it would be a whole different story. | | Question/Answer | peddler7118 asked on 03/30/07 - The Christian Atheist
Although this may seem an oxymoron to some it makes perfect sense to its followers. At home their parents told of Jesus and the Bible and at school millions of years and atheism. In order to avoid conflict the Christian Atheist simply accepts both.
Of course seeing as only Atheists are honest and smart the Atheist Christian gets all her important information from Skeptic websites
One of the great advantages to being a Christian Atheist is that one is never forced to choose. As a Christian it is important to accept Noah’s Flood as a literal historic event and therefore one must dismiss the idea of millions of years of slow gradual buildup of the sedimentary rock layers. The Christian Atheist simply says she’s open minded and believes both can be true. The somewhat annoying fact they are mutually exclusive ideas and therefore logically and scientifically impossible is not a problem for the Christian Atheist for obvious reasons.
Seeing as the Bible is impossible to understand and all interpretations are fine the Christian Atheist also is a follower of Nietzsche and his post- modernist philosophy and therefore has her own truth all to herself.
The difficult problem for the Christian Atheist is deciding to go to church on Sunday or to the demonstration to ban prayer in public restrooms.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/30/07:gee Peddlers
that one is so piddlin easy!!!
She gets her pastor to announce at church the previous Sunday about the demonstration.
The church makes their counter-protest signs
to the effect of
We need all the prayer we can get
The church goes to protest the morning protest,
then spends the afternoon at the church
bar b que and ends with a night time church service.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 03/30/07 - Which house belongs to an award winning environmentalist? LOOK OVER THE DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FOLLOWING TWO HOUSES AND SEE IF YOU CAN
TELL WHICH BELONGS TO AN AWARD WINNING NVIRONMENTALIST.
HOUSE # 1:
A 20-room mansion (not including 8 bathrooms) heated by natural gas. Add on
a pool (and a pool house) and a separate guest house all heated by gas. In
ONE MONTH ALONE this mansion consumes more energy than the average American
household in an ENTIRE YEAR. The average bill for electricity and natural
gas runs over $2,400.00 per month. In natural gas alone (which last time we
checked was a fossil fuel), this property consumes more than 20 times the
national
average for an American home. This house is not in a northern or Midwestern
"snow belt," either. It's in the South.
HOUSE # 2:
Designed by an architecture professor at a leading national university, this
house incorporates every "green" feature current home construction can
provide. The house contains only 4,000 square feet (4 bedrooms) and is
nestled on
arid high prairie in the American southwest. A central closet in the house
holds
geothermal heat pumps drawing ground water through pipes sunk 300 feet into
the ground. The water (usually 67 degrees F.) heats the house in winter and
cools it in summer. The system uses no fossil fuels such as oil or natural
gas,
and it consumes 25% of the electricity required for a conventional
heating/cooling system. Rainwater from the roof is collected and funneled
into a 25,000
gallon underground cistern. Wastewater from showers, sinks and toilets goes
into
underground purifying tanks and then into the cistern. The collected water
then irrigates the land surrounding the house. Flowers and shrubs native to
the
area blend the property into the surrounding rural landscape.
HOUSE # 1 (20 room energy guzzling mansion) is outside of Nashville,
Tennessee.
It is the abode of that renowned environmentalist (and filmmaker) Al Gore.
HOUSE # 2 (model eco-friendly house) is on a ranch near Crawford, Texas.
Also known as "the Texas White House," it is the private residence of the
President of the United States, George W. Bush.
So whose house is gentler on the environment? Yet another story you WON'T
hear on CNN, CBS, ABC, NBC, MSNBC or read about in the New York Times or the
Washington Post. Indeed, for Mr. Gore, it's truly "an inconvenient truth." tropicalstorm answered on 03/30/07:That is what I was saying about a month ago
why is Gore using so much energy if he is so
concerned about global warming? Why does he have to buy carbon credits from his own company? Why does he fly around in a jet that costs thousands of dollars an hour to run?
With the environmentalist organizations, they say many ride bikes while others 4 wheel through parks they restricted others from driving through because they want to preserve nature. Which sounds more believable the bike rider or the four wheeler? If Gore wants to sound like there is a serious concern why is he not living like it is a serious concern? | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 03/29/07 - New religion invented in Australia Pauline's said it so it must be true
'Christian Muslims' welcome
By Ben Packham
March 30, 2007 12:00am
Article from: Herald-Sun
PAULINE Hanson has invented a new religion where Muslims and Christians can pray together.
The former One Nation leader, who is having another tilt at politics, said she was wary of allowing Muslims to settle in Australia.
But she would welcome some Muslims, she said.
"There are Christian Muslims - there is no problems about that," she told ABC radio yesterday.
"But if people believe in the way of life under the Koran, that concerns me greatly."
The comment - an apparent reference to Arab Christians - revives memories of her famous "Please explain" gaffe during her early days in Parliament.
In another curious statement, Ms Hanson said Malaysia had been "taken over by Muslims, despite a long history of Islam in that country".
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
So there you have it the solution to all our problems, now tell me which direction do Christian Muslims face when they pray, perhaps they face each other? tropicalstorm answered on 03/29/07:0R WHERE
It wouldn't work in the USA since Christians are not allowed to pray in many places that Muslims ARE allowed to pray or Is she starting a Mosque/Church building? | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/28/07 - What does this well known saying mean to you personally? Hello Experts,
We all live in this world and have heard this saying over and over. It has been called the golden rule.
It states:
"Do onto other what you would want them to do to you."
With Bible scripture but just what is in each person heart, please explain what this mean to you and what it does not mean to you personally. Each persons reply will prove a point.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 03/29/07:you reap what you sow and
what goes around comes around
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 03/28/07 - Does hell really exist???????????????????????????????? March 27, 2007
The fires of Hell are real and eternal, Pope warns
Richard Owen in Rome
Hell is a place where sinners really do burn in an everlasting fire, and not just a religious symbol designed to galvanise the faithful, the Pope has said.
Addressing a parish gathering in a northern suburb of Rome, Benedict XVI said that in the modern world many people, including some believers, had forgotten that if they failed to “admit blame and promise to sin no more”, they risked “eternal damnation — the Inferno”.
Hell “really exists and is eternal, even if nobody talks about it much any more”, he said.
The Pope, who as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was head of Catholic doctrine, noted that “forgiveness of sins” for those who repent was a cornerstone of Christian belief. He recalled that Jesus had forgiven the “woman taken in adultery” and prevented her from being stoned to death, observing: “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”
God had given men and women free will to choose whether “spontaneously to accept salvation . . . the Christian faith is not imposed on anyone, it is a gift, an offer to mankind”. tropicalstorm answered on 03/29/07:here is a site Peddler will absolutely LOVE on hell
hell
) | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/27/07 - What is the Holy Grail? . tropicalstorm answered on 03/28/07:And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. - Matthew 26:27-28 | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/27/07 - Fred-is Jesus realy needed? Fred seeing as you defend Mormons as Christians on their way to Glory whose wives can only be saved if their husbands are lucky enough to be promoted to god of their own planet and chooses to call them in the temple. And then lucky her she gets to spend eternity pregnant with spirit babies.
You defend atheist as if they were God;s best friends not His enemies.
You support anyone who hates Bible believing Christians and call them {believers} "radicals".
Your Church calls them ignorant pagans and you defend the church.
Here is my biggest question. Do deist ,such as Domino claims to be,got to heaven or hell?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/27/07:No Jesus is not needed for salvation in
Jehovah witnesses
mormons
buddist
and many other religions
or atheism
--according to their teachings or belief-- | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/27/07 - Perillous” Days for British Christians
by Paul Taylor, AiG–UK
March 26, 2007
Before we get too many emails, I am well aware that ‘perillous’ should be spelt with only one l on both sides of the Atlantic. However, the double l spelling is the one used by John Foxe, in his 1653 book Actes and Monuments of these Latter and Perillous Days, touching Matters of the Church, better known to us as Foxe’s Book of Martyrs.1 Foxe catalogued the persecution and, in some cases, execution of leading English Christian figures, such as John Wycliffe, William Tyndale, and John Bunyan.
An old chestnut of a wayside pulpit sign reads “If you were arrested for being a Christian, how much evidence would there be against you?” Although I haven’t noticed the rekindling of the execution fires, recorded by Foxe, that ended the lives of Bishops Latimer and Ridley, during the reign of England’s most wicked monarch, Queen Mary I, the British press is beginning to debate whether certain tenets of the Christian faith are, or should be, illegal. Such discussions led conservative journalist Melanie Phillips to record her views on “How Britain is turning Christianity into a crime.”2 She reported on a number of recent incidents, which would have been considered bizarre just twenty years ago. One such case was that of elderly preacher Harry Hammond. Admittedly, Hammond’s techniques were eccentric to say the least. In October 2001, he travelled into Bournemouth, wearing a placard, which stated “Stop Immorality, Stop Homosexuality, Stop Lesbianism.” A crowd soon gathered, including a number of gay activists. These liberal campaigners for human rights proceeded to pelt Hammond with soil and water, at one point knocking the 70-year-old to the ground. The two police officers who attended the scene actually disagreed about what to do; the older, more experienced officer favouring protecting Hammond, with the younger, more politically-correct officer suggesting Hammond be arrested and charged under the Public Order Act. Guess whose opinion prevailed? Shortly after Hammond’s trial and conviction, he died.
Such news items are currently receiving a fresh hearing, following the publication of a poll, taken by BBC Religious Affairs programme, The Heaven and Earth Show, which suggested that 25% of people, who call themselves Christians, feel that they suffer discrimination at work.3 Furthermore, 33% feel that the Christian faith is portrayed on the media in a way which is discriminatory. The BBC article quotes Rev Malcolm Duncan, of the campaign group Faithworks, saying: “The Christian church is suffering more than all other faiths in the UK. There is an aggressive secularist agenda that says it's OK to support any group ending in 'ism', but it's not OK to support anything connected to Christianity.” The BBC also report that churches are beginning to complain that “the Christian values which underpin law-making in Britain are being eroded.”4
Nowhere is this issue of the undermining of Christian values in lawmaking seen more clearly than in the so-called “gay agenda.” In September 2006, evangelical speaker, Stephen Green, was arrested in Cardiff, for peacefully giving out leaflets at the entrance to a gay rally. The words deemed offensive by the arresting police officer (from the “Minorities Support Unit”) were all quotations from the Bible. Melanie Phillips opines: ”The Bible is the moral code that underpins our civilisation. Yet the logic of the police action against Mr Green surely leads ultimately to the inescapable conclusion that the Bible itself is ‘hate speech’ and must be banned.”5
In June 2006, nine firemen were ordered to take part in a “gay pride” march in Glasgow, as part of the fire service’s safety awareness campaign. Because they refused to take part (though they agreed to hand out leaflets), they were disciplined and the crew manager was demoted, losing £5000 salary. They were all ordered to attend a “diversity awareness” training course.
Less well reported is the fact that an increasing number of Christian voluntary groups are finding funding from local authorities being dropped, due to the opinion that a Christian organisation must, by definition, be opposed to “diversity.”
Where this impinges on our ministry is in the cases where our views are not heard, but ridiculed. We find schools that host meetings with creationists put under pressure to reverse their decisions. We find prominent academics, who are creationists, such as Professor Andy McIntosh (who is one of our associate speakers), treated with an appalling and disgraceful lack of respect, merely for pointing out that his own area of expertise is problematic for those who believe in evolution.6 See also the vitriol posted in comments to my own columns on the website of the Christian radio station, Crossrhythms.7
Don’t get me wrong—this is all pretty trivial, compared with being burned at the stake. I am big enough and ugly enough to stand being ridiculed. Slightly more worrying are the circumstantial reports of people, such as Christian obstetricians concerned that their career paths are blocked, because they take a biblical stand on abortion.
Such reports of discrimination obviously do not yet amount to the need for the compilation of a Foxe’s Book of 21st Century Martyrs. But where will it end? Have we seen the start of a trend that will lead ultimately to British Christians once again paying with their lives for their faith? Am I being melodramatic even to ask the question? What is certainly not in doubt is that British Christians need your prayers, and we, in AiG–UK, would particularly value your prayers, that those who would silence the Gospel message in the UK may be thwarted and that the word of God might be proclaimed freely and powerfully throughout this land.
References
The full text of this important book can be found online at
www.ccel.org/f/foxe/martyrs/home.html. Return.
Phillips, M., How Britain is turning Christianity into a crime. Return.
news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6463527.stm. Return.
Ibid. Return.
Op. cit. Return.
McIntosh, A., Just Add Energy… . Return.
For example, see
www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/life/Two_Sorts_of_Science/21916/p1. Return.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/27/07:Sean David Morgan said that these things will get worse.
Here are some of the things he has said and the Japan earthquake just happened like he said on March 14 2007
# Within 90 days, there will be a 7.0+ earthquake in the Japan region.
# Also within 90 days, the area northeast of Seattle, going into Alaska and Canada, will see a series of quakes.
# November 2007 will kick off a year-long cycle of financial meltdowns. Millions will go bankrupt. Economic focus will shift from the United States to Germany and the EU.
# There will be controversy over inducting foreigners into the US military.
# Pope Benedict is very ill, with problems that MAY involve the pancreas or kidneys. His health will deteriorate rapidly in the next few months.
# Fidel Castro could be gone soon, and the US is ready to move in to Cuba with $60 billion to invest.
# Silver is a good buy now and may double in the next two years.
Morton also mentioned that he's become interested in the company that manufactures Bryomixol, an alternative cancer treatment that is said to boost the immune system.
He also said he has inside information that Laura Bush stays at the Mayflower Hotel most of the time because Pres. Bush is getting unbearable.
| | Question/Answer | | Itsdb asked on 03/27/07 - Existence of God You may be a fundy atheist if....
# You became an atheist when you were 10 years old, based on ideas of God that you learned in Sunday School. Your ideas about God haven't changed since.
# You think that the primary aim of an omnibenevolent God is for people to have FUN.
# You believe that extra drippy ice-cream is a logical proof against the existence of God, because an omniscient God would know how to stop the ice-cream from being extra drippy, an omnipotent God would have the ability to stop the ice-cream from being extra drippy, and by golly, an omnibenevolent God wouldn't want your ice-cream to be extra drippy.
# Although you've memorized a half a dozen proofs that He doesn't exist, you still think you're God's gift to the ignorant masses.
# You believe the astronomical size of the universe somehow disproves God, as if God needed a tiny universe in order to exist.
# You think questions like, "Can God create a rock so big that He cannot lift it?" and, "Can God will Himself out of existence?" are perfect examples of how to disprove God's omnipotence and ultimately how to disprove God. When someone proves to you the false logic behind the questions (i.e. pitting God's omnipotence against itself), you desperately try to defend the questions, but then give up and go to a different Christian site to ask them.
# Related to the above, you spend a great deal of your spare time writing to Christian websites asking them these very questions.
# You declare on a public forum that you are "furious at God for not existing."
# You spend hours arguing that a-theism actually means "without a belief in God " and not just " belief that there is no god" as if this is a meaningful distinction in real life.
# You consistently deny the existence of God because you personally have never seen him but you reject out of hand personal testimony from theists who claim to have experienced God as a reality in their lives.
# You can make the existence of pink unicorns the center-piece of a philosophical critique.
# You insist that "the burden of proof is on he that alleges/accuses", and "it's impossible to prove a negative", then state "That's what Christians do. They lie. Their most common lie is that they were once atheists." When reminded about the burden of proof bit, you reply with, "Well, prove Christians don't lie!"
# You adamantly believe that the "God of the gaps" idea is an essential tenet of orthodox Christian faith espoused by all the great Christian thinkers throughout history.
# When you were a child, someone came down with a deadly disease and prayed and prayed for God to take it away. God did not remove the disease and your friend died. You ask other Christians why they had to die when they were such a nice person and never harmed anyone. Dissatisfied with their answers, you suddenly decide that there is no God and that all Christians are nothing but lying, conniving con artists and hypocrites....all that is except for your friend who died.
# You call a view held by less than ten percent of the American public "common sense".
# You're a spoiled fifteen year old boy who lives in the suburbs and you go into a chat room to declare that, "I know there is no God because no loving God would allow anyone to suffer as much as I...hold on. My cell phone's ringing."
# You attack your fellow atheists, who hold the "belief that there is no god", calling them "liars," and state that, "I do not deny the existence of any god. I just don't believe in any." Then you tell someone that their God is "made up." When someone calls you on this, you state, "I never made such a claim."
# Going with the definition of "without a belief in God", you insist that all people are born atheists, and that dogs, cats, rocks, and trees are as well. You make statements like, "My dog is an atheist. Ask him about his lack of belief."
# You believe that if something cannot be touched, seen, heard, or measured in some way, then it must not exist, yet you fail to see the irony of your calling Christians "narrow-minded".
# You say that there is no God and that those who believe in God do so in blind faith, yet your claim that there is no God also rests on blind faith.
# While you don't believe in God, you feel justified on bashing God or attacking those who believe in something that you KNOW doesn't exist, fighting against or even discussing about a non-existent being are the symptoms of mental illness!
# You complain when Christians appeal to their emotions when justifying their belief in God yet you feel justified on appealing to your emotions for lack of belief in God.
# You blame God for the starvation, sickness, pain and suffering in the world...when, indeed, it is MAN's greed, politics, selfishness and apathy that not only causes, but also ignores the sick and the starving masses. We aren't our brothers' keepers....but we should be.
# When asked where the big ball of matter (that started the "Big Bang") came from, you insist that it popped out of nowhere.
# You say that the existence of God is a "blank idea", since no one knows the universe's secrets, yet you continue to state your opinion of God not existing as a "fact".
# You believe in many things about history (the culture of the ancient Mayans, egyptians, etc.), yet you refuse to accept personal modern-day testimony from someone who has personally experienced God.
# You ask Christians to come on to your forum to address issues you raise. When you don't like the answers or can't accept them, you proceed to delete the conversation.
(with thanks to Tektonics)
Comments? tropicalstorm answered on 03/27/07:Comments?
Are you trying to purposely further confuse
Peddler's idea of what an atheist is??????????? | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 03/27/07 - SEVEN Is there a significant importance to the number seven in Christianity? tropicalstorm answered on 03/27/07:Just two examples of numbers in the bible
bible prophecy numbers )
numerology in the bible )
| | Question/Answer | belle33 asked on 03/27/07 - strangers in the daytime
stangers in the daytimeWhat do you all do when you are approached for money by strangers. In the past few m onths I have been asked for money while in the lobby of a dentist, at walmart, two different department stores, service station, on the street, grocery store two days ago. I always do fork the m oney over, but my friends say I am being scammed. But is it better to give just in case it is not a scam, or what do you all do when you are asked? tropicalstorm answered on 03/27/07:If I am going into a store I tell them
I barely have enough to get what I HAVE to get
if coming out of the store I say
I JUST spent it all.
If it is a neighbor or someone I know I say
I was getting ready to ask you the same thing
OR
You lend me $5.00 and I will lend you the $2.00 out of that.
I have watched the supposed homeless and
they give you sob stories that aren't even true. Like in one late night in December I watched this one lady say her kids and her were living under the Roberto Clemente bridge (two blocks away)and she needed money to go to McDonald's which is right next to the bus stop I was at. People were handing her ten and twenty dollars. Then the lady went up and caught a bus at another bus stop.
I don't usually do favors or lend people money because often they have more money than I have and they manage to find someone to lend them money or help them out. And I have WAY TOO TOO many stories of things people pulled to get you to do for them
One time I watched this one guy ask my neighbor
for a cigarette she gave him one of her last two cigarettes. As him and his friend walked away I saw him show his friend his pack of cigarettes and say to him I am saving these ones for later.
One time a guy asked me to pick up his pregnant 14 year old girlfriend from the hospital he said nobody was available to.
I told him I was low on gas. He said she would give me gas money. I got to the hospital and ran out of gas. His girlfriend gave me three dollars for gas and then my car still wouldn't start after I got the gas,
so he calls his dad to come pick them up and they leave me there broke down.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/26/07 - To all who feel that I am not defending my beliefs:
Belle and Peddler, this is for you two especially.
First of all for those who fell I have not defended my beliefs, I will say this.
Not all comments need defending and as to the truth of the God I know and the Bible I read, it does not need to be defended by me. Many, many far superior have already defended my beliefs. I do not need to throw stones in order to have my beliefs defended. All things come to their end and false lies and hypocorsy and especially lying and twisting the truth of God's word, this too will end. I do not need to fight for my God, He can deal with liars himself.
As to those who need to always feel they must defend everything they say, why do you have such a need. People should be able to see the difference between the liar and the truthful person. A liar must always justify what they say, because they have trouble believing it themselves. A person who tells the truth, waits, because eventually the truth comes to those who wait patiently. You see a liar will always get caught in their lies. That is why they must always be right and everyone else is wrong.
Have a nice day,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 03/26/07:Hope everybody leaves this board believing what they came here believing anyway so don't stress about it. | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/25/07 - Pope Chides White Europeans VATICAN CITY — "Europe appears to be losing faith in its own future, Pope Benedict XVI said Saturday, warning against "dangerous individualism" on a continent where many people are having fewer children.
"One must unfortunately note that Europe seems to be going down a road which could lead it to take its leave from history," the pontiff told bishops in Rome for ceremonies to mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome, a major step toward the creation of today's European Union.
Benedict said he was concerned about Europe's "demographic profile" _ though he did not describe the trends that have alarmed the continent for decades.
In countries like Italy, where many married couples have one or no children, the population is expected to shrink dramatically in a generation or two unless fertility rates quickly increase.
Benedict expressed concern that Europe's population trends, "besides putting economic growth at risk, can also cause enormous difficulties for social cohesion, and, above all, favor dangerous individualism, careless about the consequences for the future."
"You could almost think that the European continent is in fact losing faith in its own future," Benedict said.
A recent Eurostat survey showed Poland's fertility rate to be the lowest in the EU, at 1.23 children per woman.
Sociologists and economists blame the economy, particularly the unemployment rate _ at 14.9 percent the highest in the EU. Worried about losing their jobs, many women in Poland put off having children, often until it is too late.
Earlier this month, Polish Prime Minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski proposed a new program of tax exemptions and support for working mothers in the hope of encouraging births and ensuring that Poles "continue as a nation."
Italy's fertility rate steadily plunged to a low of 1.25 children per women of childbearing age in 2001, with the last few years seeing a small turnaround, mainly due to births to immigrants.
Italian experts cite Italian's desire for an easier lifestyle, but they also blame shortages of day care centers, expensive housing and a sluggish job market which sees many Italians living at home until well into their 30s as reasons for the country's relatively few children.
Antonio Golini, an Italian demographer, told The Associated Press recently that unless the retirement age is raised, Italy will have more people drawing pensions than it will have workers in 2050.
Spain also has a low fertility rate, while France, with family friendly policies such as cheap day care and generous parental leave, has experienced a baby boom.
France had more babies in 2006 than in any year in the last quarter-century, capping a decade of rising fertility that has bucked Europe's graying trend. Its fertility rate in 2006 was 2.0 children per woman.
A rate of 2.1 children per woman is considered the minimum necessary to keep a population from shrinking."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Comments?
I think the only way to approach this problem is to make life better for mothers who have the hardest job in the world, if done properly!! Free daycare, and I'm sure brainstorming could come up with lots of good ideas that didn't involve solely handing out money which is no answer. tropicalstorm answered on 03/25/07:maybe they should make an agreement with China to adopt the babies that China makes women abort because of their one baby law. That way the babies wouldn't have to be aborted and Europe could have a growing population.
Don't know if that would solve anything or create more problems. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/25/07 - More on Hitler and religion
For those who still refuse to call a spade a spade ....
"Secular schools can never be tolerated because such a school has no religious instruction and a general moral instruction without a religious foundation is built on air.
Consequently, all character training and religion must be derived from faith ... We need believing people."
Adolf Hitler, in a speech on April 26, 1933, during negotiations towards the Nazi-Vatican Concordat of 1933.
Any further questions on Hitler's religious views?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/25/07:at first I thought that the italics was Peddlers then I realized it didn't start out saying clarification by Peddler or anything like that | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/25/07 - How many have chosen to deny responsibility for sin? So you are saying sodomy is a disease now?
It was considered to be a mental disease up until 1971 I believe.
I don't agree it is a mental disease but it is insane to try to mate with one of your own sex.
Now that humanist philosophy/evolutionary psychiatry has replaced the belief in God a psychiatrist will use his/her license for suggesting to a sodomite that their depression is caused by their sin.
You can post a thousand red herring like “would you choose to have bad teeth” if you like but God says it is sin and Paul saved souls from its grip and the guarantee of hell by leading them to Jesus by leading them to Christ.
As a Christian that is good enough for me. Why not you? Are modern sodomites different?
The more I see the desperation that you and TS go to trying sell this idea the more the evidence is that sodomy is the work of the evil one.
1Co 6:9 Or don't you know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't be deceived. Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor male prostitutes, nor homosexuals,
1Co 6:10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor slanderers, nor extortioners, will inherit the Kingdom of God.
1Co 6:11 Such were some of you, but you were washed. But you were sanctified. But you were justified in the name of the Lord Yeshua, and in the Spirit of our God.
That says it all. It is a damnable sin and the Messiah will save you from it if you repent. How can you deny this and call yourself a Christian instead of a humanist?
Think about the insanity of some of the arguments? If we are just animals and if animals can practice sodomy it justifies it for us why not feed the old people to the pets?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/25/07:You have NO idea what I am saying or what I believe and to prove me wrong one minute you are saying we are born in sin and we are born evil then you are denying that anybody can be born with alcoholic, gay, sexual, or criminal tendencies. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/24/07 - Why have each of you chosen to be heterosexual? When did you make that choice? tropicalstorm answered on 03/25/07:personally I prefer being -asexual- but
once I decide to change my mind LOOK OUT! | | Question/Answer | belle33 asked on 03/24/07 - Estate sale
Estate SaleEarly this morning I was dragged to an estate sale. As I ws lolligagging udner a magnolia tree, an anciet man cme and started telling me about his experience with an angel. This is true not a story I'm makeing up. He said he used to make furnitre by hand In SAvannah and couldnt solve a problem with the lathe turning, it subtracted or added somehow, my eyes glazed over at this part, but I just said "how ennnntreesten." While he was in bed praying on the problem, an angel, 8ft tall, white as snow hair and beard appeared to him and said< I am THE OnE sent to tell you how to do this thing you need to knw. The angel told him to make two egg shaped thingamuhjigs and ect. He said he is the first man to make an automated lathe to round soemthing or other. He said he remembed the angel from childhood but had forgotten about it. He went on to say, that he went into a diabetic coma and died while driving his car, the angel appeared to him and when he awoke and ( here, if not for hearing my GM saying "wrench for rinse" or "arn for iron" or "pneumornyuh for pneumonia, I may have done more than just rapidly bat my eyes) from being dead, they were givin him artificial insemination. LOl I swear though I'm not supposed to this is a true story and only happened about 3 hours ago. tropicalstorm answered on 03/24/07:sounds like someone from Pittsburgh Pa drinking their Arn City beer while their laundry is in the wrench cycle and they are redding up their house and getting ready to go eat a chipped ham sammich on the So' Side. Je wanna here more?
![]() | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 03/24/07 - God's Will We've all heard it said that something is "God's will." How does one know what God's will is? (Please, no biblical quotations; if you must reference the Bible, state your understanding of what the Bible says in your own words.) tropicalstorm answered on 03/24/07:I think it is a learning experience
because all too often I did something
because I thought that is exactly what
I was suppose to do and it turned out
not good, but then I think even with that
it could still be a learning experience
and maybe even God's will.
If we have the easy religion that many try to teach now does it make us strong and effective or does it make us lazy and complacent and leaves us in a false lull waiting on some rapture to take us out of our problems.
One example is,
My kids and others always get on me about buying junk cars and then they break down
but I have never had money to buy a decent vehicle and need a vehicle to make money.
So then my kids say they are going to buy
a car and I tell them let me go with you
to help. They reply, "MOM ALL the junk cars
you have had WHY would we trust you to help
pick out a car for us!????"
Simple! I have had so many junk vehicles that
I can diagnois what every hummm, pop, crunch is.
ALSO, often I get a feeling that lasts for a split second and IF I catch it and I follow it it usually turns out to be what you would call God's will. Like I could be driving down the street and I want to go straight down the street, my son is screaming at me to turn left and something tells me to turn right.
IF I catch that and turn right something often happens that I am glad that I listened and turned right.
Fate, to me, is basically the consequences of our actions and how it relates to if we followed 'God's will' or did what we wanted
even though we might have had a bad feeling about it.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/24/07 - Whose side is God on? Hello Everyone,
This is to help us really reason on war and to help some face the reality of life and justice, and to separate a loving God from what some might feel is a God who love war.
******************************************************
Columnist C. L. Sulzberger said in 1976: “It is a dismal truth that probably half or more of the wars now being fought around the world are either openly religious conflicts or involved with religious disputes.”
Point here to think about. (God did not make the different religions of this world, man did. Having said that, we must conclude that a religious war is not from God but from the people who are part a religious group).
In view of what John 13:34,35 says as a command to those who are truly followers of Jesus and who claim serve God, how would you answer this question when it comes to war, and killing in the name of God. “Whose side is God on?”
Those claiming to be Christian’s would claim that ‘God is on their side.” Yet the other side would claim that God is on their side. Yet in view of the command found at John 13:34.35, in war, is God truly on the side of those who are killing others?
. As Ernest Lefever, president of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C., put it: “If you feel God is on your side, you can justify any atrocity.”—U.S.News & World Report.
The question then arises: When it comes to war, does God really take sides?
Please do not quote scripture of Bible wars and wars the Israelite’s fought. They are not the same as the unjust wars of today. Also, God as supreme being had the right in Bible times to declare war. God can read the heart, Man can not. So, if your country commands you to go and kill another, and yet God’s command is to not kill and Jesus even said to love other’s, “Whose side does God take?” Is God partial as to who is better and they should win at all kind of horrendous killings and torture??
Or do you believe that God is on the side of people who really love one another?”
What say you??? Please give reason for your answer.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 03/24/07:It is up to us each individually to be on God's side. Whether as a nation or religion. God is on the side of the ones who have the right motives. Did they join the war because they want 72 virgins? Did they join because they "want to go blow up some commies"? Did they join because their mother was killed on 9/11?
It's all about an individuals motives and so forth.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/23/07 - Government Ignores Religious Discrimination Introduction
It is now well documented that discrimination against creationists is serious and widespread.1–20 In the words of Hull:
‘Most scientists are only dimly aware of the various “anti-science” systems of belief now widespread [including] … politically dangerous movements such as creationism … . We protect ourselves by never letting these mutually exclusive beliefs surface at the same time. For example, the constellation of religious fundamentalism and creationism is often combined with a high regard for high tech. Many creationists’ tracts are tapped out on extremely expensive personal computers. Creationists are able to accept and reject the physics that makes these machines possible as the occasion demands. There is no God, and Mary is His mother.’21
Braun summarised the problem as follows:
‘… hardy believers in creation … have been heaped with scorn and ridicule. Evolutionists dominated the field so securely that creationists were fired, denied tenure and denied advanced degrees with impunity in public schools and universities.’22
A 1979 Civil Rights Commission report concluded that, although religious discrimination is serious and widespread, little is presently being done to ameliorate this problem.23 Aside from this report, most civil rights and governmental agencies have done little or nothing to remedy what has developed into a nationwide problem. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has not until recently even published guidelines for dealing with religious discrimination. The current guidelines deal primarily with reasonable accommodation.24 This agency, set up to deal with concerns of racial, religious, and other minorities, has done little to help creationists facing discrimination, even declining to hold public hearings on the problem. Creationists and conservative Christian educators are now a persecuted minority, often with little recourse but to endure the discrimination. Admittedly, though, some of their problems stem from conflicts over specific issues, such as concerns over their proselytizing or the teaching of creationism in the public school classroom.
In addition, little if any effort has been expended by most other American institutions to enforce the section of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which outlaws discrimination based on religion (page 29, Section 703). It is a law which currently exists largely on paper only.25 As Roberts concludes:
‘America has a new bigotry. Traces of it have been around for a long time, glimpsed only fleetingly and in widely-scattered places. But in 1983, it assumed nationwide proportions. This is bigotry against evangelicals. Two things are particularly frightening about this bigotry. Few recognized it, and nobody … [has so far done] anything about it. It is difficult to say which is more disturbing. Any religious group that defies public opinion and practices nonconformity runs the risk of ridicule and rejection. This can quickly turn to persecution in time of crisis, particularly if such persecution is advantageous of those in power.’26
Novak, in a study of this problem,27 called ‘antievangelical bigotry’ the least understood and ‘most painful’ hate in America today. He concluded that the 1980s
‘revealed more bigotry against evangelicals, without anybody leaping to denounce it, than against any other group … . The attacks have been public, without introducing evidence, often by association.’
Scientific creationists are facing the most serious attack, especially in academia. Haney reports that:
‘It appears from various reports reaching this office, that a trend is developing in the halls of Academe … that Liberalism’s great contribution to American education, namely “Academic Freedom” has become a victim of incest, having been raped by its own sires … . [A] former Louisiana State Senator … said instances [of] … pro-creationism professors and teachers … being dismissed have begun to proliferate in the past ten years … highly-qualified educators denied tenure or otherwise discriminated against simply because they hold views or engage in activities which oppose the tenets of … [evolutionism].’28
Extensive legal research by the author has revealed that, as of yet, not a single court case of employment discrimination has been decided in favour of a creationist.29 Nor has the writer been able to find even a single case of non-‘reasonable accommodation’ religious discrimination in employment successfully litigated by a religious believer in an American court. Surveys indicate that thousands of cases of employment termination occur each year in which the plaintiff feels clear evidence of religious discrimination exists. As Bergman found, the judicial system has also done virtually nothing to remedy this problem:
‘The only conclusion that can be reached … is that the American courts are not serious about enforcing the rights of religious minorities. Although many of the better cases are likely settled out of court, nonetheless the situation is such that employers are generally aware that they can exercise even blatant religious discrimination with little or no fear or reprisal. This conclusion was supported by a recent report by the U.S. Civil Rights Commission.’30
The extent of the discrimination
The writer, as part of an ongoing research project, has interviewed over 100 active self-labelled creationists who are, or were, employed in academia. He specifically asked if they had faced religious discrimination and, if so, to delineate their experience. Almost all believed that their creationist beliefs caused at least some career problems. These ranged from open derision to outright firings, and even attempts to rescind earned degrees. Some cases were tragic in their extent, blatancy and consequences.31 The discrimination experiences discovered were grouped in the following general categories:
(1) Derogatory and clearly inappropriate comments
Examples range from placing obscene or anti-creationist cartoons in the workers’ mailboxes to open, blatant, inappropriate direct name-calling. Bolyanatz32 noted that evolutionists often assume that
‘anyone holding the creationist viewpoint must be illogical, backward, subversive, uneducated, and stubborn.’
Gross name-calling, even by eminent scientists, is commonly found in the secular literature.33,34 A typical example is Isaac Asimov’s statement that all
‘creationists are stupid, lying people who are not to be trusted in any way.’ And that all of their ‘points are equally stupid, except where the creationists are outrightly lying.’35
(2) Refusal of admittance to graduate programs
It was found that it was not uncommon for a creationist to be denied admission to a degree program even if he/she clearly exceeded published admission standards. In some cases the person denied was able to locate letters of recommendation which recommended against admission specifically because of the candidate’s creationist worldview.
(3) Refusal to award degree
Some creationists interviewed, although they clearly met all of the requirements, were openly denied a degree (usually a Ph.D. in the sciences) because of their creation orientation and/or publications.
(4) Denial of promotion
Many creationists claimed that they were not promoted even though they clearly exceeded the written standards for promotion (high student ratings, more than an adequate number of publications, etc.). In several cases this was openly because of their creationist publications.36,37
(5) Denial of tenure
Many cases of tenure denial clearly based mainly on the creationist activities of the candidate were encountered. It was often obvious that bias existed because of active involvement in the creationist movement. Research has well documented that a known scientific creationist who does not experience some bias in this crucial decision is a rare exception.38 This view was fully supported by the interviews with creationist professors and others.
In many cases of religious discrimination, the university was open and blatant about such, either claiming immunity or citing various laws or precedents which they felt either rendered them unaccountable, or the law ineffective in rectifying their illegal behaviour. In one case the university did
‘not deny either religious discrimination or [lack of] university specified due process. Its entire case rests on immunity (as a State institution, immune from lawsuits unless plaintiff is given permission by the State to sue itself).’39
In this case, the university claimed that
‘as a whole, whatever wrongdoing occurred, it is not liable to damages’.40
Research on discrimination
The writer surveyed 28 professors at a recent science convention about discrimination against creationists. All those interviewed stated that they doubted very much if their department would ever hire an out-of-the-closet creationist for a faculty position. Some claimed that they themselves were not opposed, but felt that because a creationist would likely encounter serious problems in their department, it would be best if they not support their hiring. One added that it would not be objectionable to defend creationism on philosophical grounds, but an attempt to do so using biology would preclude hiring.
Although some prominent creationists have experienced little discrimination, or discrimination for which they could prove a prima facie case, almost 70 percent of those Bergman41 interviewed claimed to have faced discrimination, and close to 40 percent believed they had evidence to demonstrate their claims. The thousands of creationists with tenure in science departments usually achieve it by one of two ways. One survey found that the most common method is to stay in the closet—not openly identify oneself as a creationist (43 percent); and the second method (38 percent) is to become a creationist after achieving tenure.42 This study did not locate a single out-of-the-closet conservative creationist awarded tenure in any state university in the last ten years, and very few before. These results take on more meaning in view of the fact that two decades ago tenure was usually automatic.
Discrimination against creationism and creationists is not only widespread, but often irrational. Fully 12 percent of those interviewed stated they had received death threats, and/or highly emotional, non-verbal feedback and irrational verbalisations against their persons.
The literature’s discussion of the problem
The author reviewed all published articles that discussed creationism printed from 1973 to 1995.43 All of the standard periodical indexes were used, including those that covered the science, social science and popular journals. It was found that almost all of the articles published in the scientific, secular and/or liberal mainline religious journals, failed to condemn the current wave of discrimination against creationists. Many of the exceptions related to the Mims and Bergman cases.44 Almost none condemned what often amounts to vile name-calling which now characterises articles published in the public press, or even the many employment terminations and degree denials. All articles were either silent on the issue, or openly advocated discrimination in various forms, although a few letters did condemn this form of disparate treatment.
This is in marked contrast to both ‘fundamentalist’ journals, and/or those which openly and actively support creationism. Of these, the author located 143 papers that discussed the problem, but some discussed the issue only briefly or in passing. All either condemned or discussed methods of dealing with the problem of discrimination against creationists, although some letters published in these journals encouraged discrimination. This source was more difficult to research because even the better indexes, such as the Christian Periodical Index, or the Catholic Periodical Index, were incomplete, not listing many of the smaller or local religious magazines.
A survey of the journals which would be likely to publish articles specifically discussing discrimination against creationists, such as the Journal of Church and State or Church and State, the monthly published by Americans United for Separation of Church and State, found that, with few exceptions such as the Mims case, none of these journals has ever published even so much as a brief note relative to discrimination, degree denial, or firing of a creationist. On the other hand, almost all the so-called new right or conservative religious journals, such as the Moral Majority Report, Christian News and Christian Inquirer, have published articles about this problem. This is ironic in that many of the visible, active ‘creationists’ with graduate degrees in science are not charismatic or politically on the so-called ‘far-right’, although many belong to conservative Protestant churches—such as Lutheran, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, and Seventh Day Adventist.45
Further, many of the creationists that the writer interviewed would not be classified as far-right, but were closer to historical mainline protestantism. Although some were independent Baptists, a slight majority were either Lutheran or affiliated with non-denominational churches. In addition, several were Jews, and many were unchurched. It also became apparent to the writer that, although all of those interviewed considered themselves creationists, they were by no means a homogeneous group in their interpretation of creationism. They were as a whole religiously conservative, but some were middle-of-the-road or even left on some issues. Regarding racial/sexual discrimination and war issues, some would clearly be politically left (the writer did not specifically assess political attitudes, but they were at times discussed in the interviews). A fruitful area for future research would be to explore more fully the political and other beliefs of self-labelled creationists. Many were raised in the so-called ‘peace churches’, which historically have always been involved in social issues and historically have been connected to various social causes such as the anti-slavery movement. Several creationists interviewed were Free Methodists, a church formed partly because of opposition to slavery, and which still actively supports the black, women’s and other movements.
The scientific community’s cry for open discrimination
A major trait of anti-creationist literature is its over-generalising, labelling, and the problem that those who advocate discrimination rarely define even basic terms such as ‘creationist’ or ‘scientific creationists’. Those who attempt to, not uncommonly define them inaccurately. Many of those who classify themselves as creationists object to the term scientific creationists. Some prefer simply creationists, others abrupt appearance theorists, or even anti- or non-evolutionists. Still others are most comfortable with simply, a believer in creation, as opposed to a creationist. Some of the many positions on creationism include progressive, deistic, theistic, ex nihilo, and directive creationism. The only common thread that runs through all of these positions is that ‘God did it’; the major difference between them is ‘how’.46–49 These problems with the term creationism were summarised by Hick, a theistic evolutionist, who concluded
‘… that the word “creationist” has become a label not only for people who believe that the universe is God’s creation but also for those who insist that biological evolution has not occurred. I too am a creationist in the sense that I believe that the universe is God’s creation, but I believe that God’s creative work is progressive and continuous and that biological evolution is a part of it. And so I am sorry that the word creation has become linked with the obscurantist rejection of evolution. The kind of creationism that I and other liberal Christians espouse is neither scientific nor antiscientific. The purview of science only goes back some fifteen billion years to the big bang. And, if the big bang should turn out to have been an absolute beginning, then science has nothing to say beyond it, though of course religion does.’50
The term as used in this paper refers specifically to those who deny evolution and are open about either criticising or denying most gross biological changes. Most of the creationists who experience difficulty would be more closely identified with the position advocated by the Institute for Creation Research, or the Creation Research Society and other groups who stress a universal Noachian flood, creation in six literal 24-hour days, etc., although many by no means identify with this position. Actually, the most important element in causing problems is simply being labelled a creationist.51
Many, if not most, professionals who are generally in harmony with biological creationism and are not openly identified with this position, consequently experience fewer problems. If few of one’s colleagues are aware of one’s beliefs in this area, one is far less apt to have difficulties. Nonetheless, many writers have actually openly advocated discrimination and even the immediate termination of all ‘creationists’. Fezer pens that;
‘… in hiring teachers, or in certifying them as competent … consideration of various factors is appropriate. Where religious beliefs can affect job performance, it is appropriate to enquire as to what such effects are likely to be. [And] … those … who call themselves “scientific creationists”, by that very self-designation and all that goes with it, demonstrate incompetence [and therefore should not be hired].’52
Fezer is advocating what is in America an illegal, but common practice. It is not only illegal to terminate an employee on the basis of religion, but even to ask in an employment interview the interviewee’s religious affiliation, the name of his or her church, parish, or even the religious holidays that he or she observes because this indicates religious affiliation.53
Those who are active in promoting religious discrimination are often open and blatant about their goals.
‘Creationists often complain that their theories and their colleagues are discriminated against … as a matter of fact, creationism should be discriminated against … no advocate of such propaganda should be trusted to teach science classes or administer science programs anywhere or under any circumstances. Moreover, if any are now doing so, they should be dismissed.’54
Patterson, although he does not define his use of the term ‘creationists’, concludes that no one that this label fits is qualified to be a scientist or educator. After calling their worldview ‘propaganda’, he openly concludes that those who advocate this position should be terminated. At the least, he stresses, creationists’ transcripts should be ‘marked’ so that schools and employers can easily discriminate if they elect to do so.55 All of this, although blatantly illegal, has in general been tacitly approved by our courts, educational establishment and government. Although most Civil Rights legislation clearly specifies that employees must be evaluated only on the basis of job criteria that are specifically relevant to the position, Civil Rights agencies have done little or nothing to stop these illegal practices. Patterson advocates employment evaluation openly based on one’s religious beliefs, concluding that:
‘creationism is discriminated against, but this is precisely as it should be. It is the responsibility of teachers and school officials to discriminate against … anyone who advocates … [creationism]. I’m glad this kind of discrimination is finally catching on, and I hope the practice becomes much more vigorous and more widespread in the future.’56
This is exactly what is now commonly occurring.57,58 This is why the writer, after extensive research, has been able to locate so few active out-of-the-closet creationists that have been awarded tenure in the last decade at an American or Canadian secular college or university. Most have been denied and fired.59 Several names have been mentioned as possibilities which have not, as of yet, been researched, but most of those investigated in the past were either in-the-closet creationists, or became creationists after tenure was granted. Winder concluded:
‘Creationists can hold faculty positions at secular universities successfully but they must suppress their views [on creation]. There are creationists, including [in] science, here [at his university] but there is no outward manifestation [of their creationism]. Any activity and they would soon be harassed!’60
Naturalists make no bones about the ‘problem’ and their concern over finding a ‘final solution’. Admittedly some scientists do not advocate the above, but argue that the issue can be settled by intelligent debate:
‘How are the dark forces of anti-science to be combated? Holton’s answer is the traditional one—education … . Unfortunately, [open] university provides one of the most congenial homes for advocates of the various anti-science world pictures he decries. Perhaps I am too cynical, but I think that the high-tech animation of “Jurassic Park” is likely to combat “Genesis” much more effectively than any noncredit course in evolutionary theory … . I also share Holton’s skepticism about even the most intellectually respectable of the anti-science world pictures … but Holton has so little sympathy with these movements that I did not find his critiques of them all that persuasive. The modern world picture in which science plays such a central role is so clearly superior to any of the postmodern anti-science alternatives that those of us who hold this world picture can afford to be generous. Even when such anti-science world pictures as creationism are set out as sympathetically as possible, they still come up wanting.’61
Discrimination against students
In discussing whether creationist students should be discriminated against, one well-known science educator approvingly quotes those who conclude that a professor should have the right
‘to fail any student in his class, no matter what the grade record indicates’,
and even advocates,
‘retracting grades and possibly even degrees, if [a person espouses creationism] … after passing the course or after graduating.’62
He also stresses that it is the university’s responsibility to terminate creationists and rescind their degrees, advocating that even students with excellent grades who produce highly regarded work should be denied their degree and expelled from the university if it is discovered that they are a creationist! He argues that grades do not necessarily measure competency, and a student can memorise material and be able to discern the ‘correct’ answers on tests yet still hold views which in Frazier’s mind at least are incorrect. They thus should be failed or denied a rightfully earned degree, or if previously awarded, it should be retracted. Zuidema reports that some professors have proposed that
‘… grades or degrees of university students who hold special creation concepts after having taken science courses [should be retracted]. In other words, flunk them—retroactively, if necessary!’63
This proposal, Wirth responded,
‘… is nothing less than gross religious discrimination. A student’s command of a subject in science can be disassociated from his religious beliefs. In other words, someone with religious beliefs can function as a scientist.’64
Further, many educators have stated in print that they feel that it is irresponsible for a university to grant a creationist a Ph.D. degree. Flacks, openly concludes that:
‘It is a pathetic commentary on our universities that grant doctorate degrees … without fully determining a candidate’s true understanding of universal knowledge and logic … The alleged concept of “scientific” creationism is not only an illogical contradiction in terminology but an absurd fiction.’65
Thus, he concludes, creationists should not be awarded advanced degrees. The reason for this discrimination, many of its proponents claim, is not concern over religion, but competency. An anonymous reviewer of an earlier draft of this paper (which was rejected by the journal on the grounds that creationists should be discriminated against) said:
‘… the opposition [to creationists] rests instead on a conviction that “creationism” … precludes neutrality/objectivity, adequate methodology, and the integral nature of science (physics, astronomy, geology, biology). There is a perceived way to best do science and see one discipline in the context of others … Must a department accept someone whose “creationist” case seems erroneous methodologically and factually simply because one pleads “religious or academic” freedom? … Departments evaluate people not only on knowledge and expertise but on their research and on its likely fruitfulness. They see creationists of the “young earth” or “anti-evolution” sort as incapable of sustaining a research program on these bases. Religious freedom is not a ground for academic incompetence in research (and creationist research has, I think, very little to show for its labors). Freedom carries responsibility to one’s colleagues, profession, and research.’
G. Merle Bergman is more specific about the problem of firing creationists:
‘I am aghast at the suggestion that … [a creationist was fired] because of his religious views, as expressed in his writings on the subject. Obviously nothing could be further from American tradition and constitutional principles than that a man be denied opportunity on the basis of his religious thought. On the other hand, I have to ask myself how practical it is for a creationist to impress scientifically minded men and women with his objective—which is certainly a prime virtue for any teacher. I could not myself consider that a teacher had much of a grasp on reality if he or she believed that the creationist view of the universe was a realistic one. There is no point in reviewing the reasoning on both sides … . Suffice it to say … that from the point of view of science, evolution is proven many times over, whereas creationism is … a leftover from very primitive folklore.’66
Whether or not the creationist worldview and belief structure is correct is irrelevant in this discussion. Our primary concern here is freedom of religion and belief, and the right to work and pursue one’s education regardless of one’s religious views, as the law and the American Constitution guarantee. And this includes the right to do research and go where the results of one’s research leads. Powerful persons in the academic community concluded that Galileo was incorrect and thus incompetent. And for this reason, to the embarrassment of scientists today, some endeavored to ruin his scientific career.67,68
When we permit fallible value judgments as to the correctness of a person’s view on controversial topics (as surely is the case with creationism) to terminate a person’s career, the door to discrimination is opened against any person who disagrees with the beliefs of the administrative or power structure.69 Yet, G. Merle Bergman concludes:
‘I think … faculty [firing a creationist is] a reflection of their view that [these people are] too far removed from reality to be able to direct young people along objective paths. The issue is whether this view is a reflection of religious prejudice. They are not judging the man’s right to hold and to express religious views different from their own, but his ability to define reality. That that ability is colored by his religious outlook merely muddies the waters.’70
He thus actually concludes that creationists are not able to ‘define reality’ or, in psychiatric terms, are insane! This is the same ploy used in the old Soviet Union to confine those who objected to communism in psychiatric hospitals. Although Zuidema71 stresses it is not religion, but competency, that is of concern, the veracity of the Scriptures has historically been of central concern to most Christians. As the above anonymous reviewer concluded:
‘The crux of the matter, obviously, is the question of competency to teach science [and] evolution concepts, being essential to an understanding of the life sciences, might arise. One critic … has even questioned whether faculty … who accept Scripture literally are qualified for faculty or administrative positions. Isn’t the integrity of scholars at the heart of this [controversy]?’
The above line of reasoning has horrendous implications. As McGuigan said of one discrimination case a creationist was then fighting in the courts:
‘Conservatives, supporters of academic freedom, and friends of liberty in general will be watching this case carefully, more than a little nervous about their own futures if such a miscarriage of justice is not overturned.’72
Persons who advocate currently unpopular views in science and other academic disciplines (such as the non-Marxist economic view by sociology, government, and history faculty) have always faced serious problems. In general though, conservative Christians are now facing the most serious problems. Thus Wildman stated:
‘… the persecution of practicing Christians has already begun, albeit not in a physical manner … [there are already many] cases in which educators who subscribe to the creation theory have suffered because of that intellectual belief. These cases have not been heavily reported in the national secular media, although … had the individuals been dismissed from a Christian school for teaching evolution they would have made major headlines … . The irony of [these] … cases … is the silencing of academic freedom by those who supposedly support [it] … and the condoning of … the persecution of those who dare to believe in creationism because of intellectual honesty. We do, however, indeed find it odd that the creation theory cannot be taught in schools because it is “religion”, but the evolution theory is openly taught—sometimes not as theory but as fact—despite the fact that it is a basic tenet of the humanist religion. (See Humanist Manifesto I) “Religious humanists regard the universe as self-existing and not created.” ’73
The justification for religious persecution has always been the presumption that those persecuted deserve it because their view of reality is incorrect or erroneous, often called heresy. If one is able to justify discrimination on the grounds that the victims are not ‘accurately able to assess reality’, or because their view is based on metaphysical presuppositions as opposed to an examination of empirical data, one could use this reasoning to discriminate against any and all religious beliefs. All sacred positions are to some degree based upon a view of reality which is less than fully empirically supportable.74 Faith, the bridge between empirical reality and belief, is an especially important aspect of the Judeo-Christian-Muslim worldview. For one to categorically state that someone’s view of reality is wrong, and thus this justifies denial of employment and consequently denial of life’s basic necessities, is an horrendous conclusion. Normally the state steps in only if beliefs are translated into illegal criminal actions such as assault.
Mormons believe that all humans have always existed and in the after-life will become gods, that Adam and Eve were literally created in Independence, Missouri, and that, in spite of what many scholars have concluded are its many inaccuracies and errors, The Book of Mormon is inspired by God.75 They also would have a poor grasp of reality, according to those quoted above. Thus, should not all Mormon teachers also be terminated?
Likewise, Catholics obviously do not have much of a grasp on reality in that they believe, in contradiction to all chemical analysis, that the Eucharist literally changes the bread and wine into the physical body and blood of Christ. Thus, all Catholic teachers likewise should be terminated. The explanation that transubstantiation causes ‘substantial change’, which scientists today cannot study, or ‘accidental change’ in Aristotelian terminology, one could easily conclude is a rationalisation to cover an irrational conclusion.
Some also may feel that Jews, believing that they are God’s chosen people, and that it is morally wrong to eat pork (a perfectly nutritious food if cooked properly) and that someday a ‘messiah’ will come to earth from heaven, obviously do not have a very accurate grasp of reality. Thus, should they also be terminated from their teaching positions, denied degrees, etc.? One could argue in the same way about all religious faiths, including atheism which Melton76 defines as a religion in the American liberal tradition.
In the old Soviet Union, this exact reasoning was utilised to justify discrimination against all theistic positions. The signing of a statement swearing that one is an atheist was once required to teach in a Soviet university.77 It was obvious to them that anyone who held a religious viewpoint, even a ‘liberal’ one, does not have an accurate grasp of reality and thus should ‘not be in a position to influence young people along objective paths’ and therefore should not be allowed to be teachers regardless of their academic record. All religious views, they concluded, are myths impeding an objective grasp of reality. One must obviously first ask, ‘Who is qualified to be the judge of such things as the worldviews of others?’ Bergman tries to answer this as follows:
‘Even if one holds controversial views which are directly related to one’s teaching or occupational assignment, it is generally conceded that, if one can accurately articulate the opposing position (such as a young earth creationist who can accurately explain and present the data, reasoning, etc., used to support the old earth position), then one cannot charge incompetence, and discrimination should not take place.’78
One’s private religious views, whether right or wrong, are usually irrelevant in the work place. A person can be a highly competent mathematician, and yet hold views on astrology or parapsychology not commensurate with the contemporary scientific consensus.79 Some professors of the author’s acquaintance follow astrology, or give credence to other ideas that many authorities conclude have been clearly refuted. If all of these likewise are terminated, who is going to be left? Our foremost concern should be religious freedom and freedom of conscience. Where genuine differences of opinion exist, concerns relative to one’s teaching qualifications may be discussed, but teachers should be evaluated primarily upon their knowledge and expertise in their speciality area, not their religious views or scientific conclusions.
What must be done
Few persons or organisations have concerned themselves with the rights of religious minorities, and even fewer with those of creationists—and some who have experienced difficulties would more accurately be classified as progressive or liberal creationists.80 The academic community now seems to be becoming more open and blatant relative to this form of discrimination. Laws are useless unless enforced, and as we have noted the government has so far in most cases refused to enforce existing laws relative to this form of religious discrimination. They often now do not aid creationists or those with a conservative religious orientation in general. As the anonymous reviewer quoted above concluded:
‘… governments and universities have not enforced existing laws because religious discrimination is really not the basic issue … Creationism of many sorts has proven to be astoundingly unfruitful as a research program and so distortive of factual material that it is unclear how that material can be competently taught.’
Can we truly call our society free if Meikle’s call, quoted below, is implemented?
‘It is the responsibility of professional societies to discriminate against [creationists] … by separating them from teaching through exposure and removal. It is the responsibility of the public school system to do likewise.’81
The solution to this problem is best summarised by Wildman who, in his public presentations,
‘… has been telling his audiences that unless the Christian community becomes involved in the struggle for [religious freedom] and does so quickly, that those being born today will be physically persecuted if they desire to practice their Christian faith. “I fully understand how radical this statement sounds, but it is an intellectually honest statement—not one to shock”.’82
The only thing preventing termination of employment for many creationists, tenure, may not be as safe as assumed in the past. As Zuidema found:
‘“Academic freedom” and “tenure”, those twin holies of academia, have been restraining factors by keeping state university faculties from openly challenging … their creationist colleagues. Yet some brave souls have sought confrontations.’83
The appropriate response to this problem is to bring to the attention of the authorities the commonality and seriousness of this problem. Religious discrimination is illegal, and thus vigorous efforts need to be made by those discriminated against and the various law and policy enforcement officials to fight it. This will help to ensure that the law is taken seriously and enforced. Increased public awareness is immensely important in dealing with this problem. In addition, several precedent court cases would reduce the likelihood that employers in the future discriminate against creationists. If the likelihood of losing a case is high, forcing payment of wages, damages, lawyer’s and other costs, most employers would probably not discriminate. They now clearly perceive, and presently correctly so, that the likelihood of a conviction in a religious discrimination case is extremely low. They are now for this reason often not hesitant to discriminate. They can now often cover their tracks, generally have available highly paid attorneys, and are often able to win cases by skirting around the law or dragging it out for years.
To their credit, many individuals are concerned about the civil liberties and rights of individuals, even those that they personally disagree with. In reviewing several religious discrimination cases, the author found that it is not uncommon to find some persons active in defending the rights of those religious minorities that they clearly disagreed with. Their support comes from their conviction that all persons have the right to hold a set of beliefs, however unpopular, if they are sincerely held and are not openly detrimental to the welfare of the local community or the population as a whole. The belief that we are created beings, deliberately designed by God, is hardly detrimental to the community’s welfare, and it could be argued that it is useful in facilitating behaviour which is supportive of community order and functional morality.
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Tourney, Ref. 38. Return to text.
Bergman, J., A brief history of the modern creation movement, Contra Mundum 7:36–47, Spring 1993. Return to text.
Meikle, W., letter to Jerry Bergman dated 10 January 1985. Return to text.
Wildman, Ref. 25, p. 22. Return to text.
Zuidema, H.P., Teaching scientific creationism on campus. Is the controversy tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:Gee Peddlers
That was too long and I lost it by the second sentence but what I know is if scientists do not go along with the program they are not given the funding they need.
Microbiologists have been mysteriously dying according to George sNoory C2C
mysterious deaths of scientists ) | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/23/07 - Science Proves Conclusively-No Vampires This is the proof that there are absolutely no such thing as a human vampire:
"If a single vampire fed on a single human in the first month, this would create two vampires -- and decrease the human population by one, leaving it at 536,870,911 - 1 = 536,870,910. In the second month, those two vampires would each feed, transforming two people into vampires -- so you get four vampires and a human population of 536,870,911 - 3 = 536,870,908. So you can see where this is headed. The vampire population is increasing in a geometric progression, and the population of humans is similarly decreasing -- and at that rate, the authors calculate, the entire human population would be transformed into vampires in only 30 months. QED!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Can put that myth to rest!!!!
Comments? tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:I have been more concerned about if the greys are friend or foe. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/23/07 - Should Christians Throw Stones?
This topic holds me busy every time I see a post about alledged attrocities by Muslims : Should Christians Throw Stones?
One of Jesus's most famous admonitions to his followers was that "he who is without sin" should cast the first stone (this is probably one of the best messages in the entire Bible). When anti-atheists make atheists their scapegoat for everything they don't like in society, or try to force their religion down the throats of atheists' children, do they remember those words?
Christian fundamentalists have no right whatsoever to lecture anyone about morality or past sins. When they cast stones, do they realize that Hitler's attempt to exterminate the Jews was far from an exceptional event in Christian history? Do they realize it was merely the culmination of 700 years of systematic fundamentalist extermination and torture of "heretics"? It started with the Crusades, continued with the medieval Inquisitions, and was fully sanctioned by the Roman Catholic church (starting with Pope Innocent IV, who legalized it in "Ad Extirpanda") until the early twentieth century, when the Pope finally outlawed torture as a means of converting unbelievers. It should also be noted that the Church was conspicuously silent during Hitler's Holocaust, although Catholics dispute this. They claim that Pope Pius XII did a great deal to save Jews behind the scenes, but Jews point out that he suddenly "discovered" his sympathy for the Jews only after 1942, when he realized the Allies might win, so he shrewdly kept one foot in either camp by secretly helping Jews while publicly refusing to denounce Hitler's actions.
The RC church never even excommunicated Hitler, nor did they add his "Mein Kampf" to their long list of banned books! In fact, Pope Pius XII himself ordered church officials in Berlin to send "warmest congratulations" to Hitler on his birthday every year.
The worst part is that this incredible 700 year history of mass murder was only distinguished from earlier eras by the sheer scale of the atrocities.
Those atrocities had actually been occurring on a smaller scale since virtually the dawn of Christianity.
While Christians were fed to the Lions at one time in Rome, they eventually seized power about a century after the death of Emperor Commodus.
Once they seized power, they immediately repaid the favour tenfold, by torturing, crucifying, and otherwise killing those who refused to convert!
It is well known that they outlawed gladiatorial combat upon seizing power, but few Christian historians like to point out that they replaced it with a greatly increased appetite for public executions and tortures.
Even the most superficial study of world history will show that the aggressive xenophobia of Christianity has been remarkable, almost stunning compared to other religions.
A sharp contrast to the fundamentalist approach was seen in the original Roman state religion, which was based on cultural assimilation: rather than obliterating other societies' religions in favour of their own, they simply incorporated those societies' gods into their own pantheon (the Jews resisted this process and aggressively attacked other religious sects, thus forcing the Romans to wall them off in separate communities).
Ancient tribal peoples rarely fought over the existence or non-existence of their respective gods; they preferred to simply think of another tribe's gods as inferior to their own, without attempting to deny their existence.
It may surprise you to know that some of the Jewish Old Testament texts still show these polytheistic influences; for example, God instructs his people that they should "have no other gods before me".
Notice that he doesn't tell them that these other gods don't exist; he merely tells them that he must be first.
Unfortunately, God's prescribed method for ensuring his primacy involved violence, and his followers took this message to heart.
However, it's problematic to evaluate the morality of a religion or philosophy based on the past behaviour of its adherents, no matter how heinous.
Stalin was an atheist and he killed millions. Hitler was a Christian and he killed millions. The Roman Catholics were Christians and they killed countless tens of millions throughout the Dark Ages, with the Crusades, Inquisitions, and the brutal conquests and subjugations of Africa and the Americas.
Far from indicting atheists and vindicating Christians, a direct comparison of historical records should, if anything, give Christians a moment of self-doubt.
Sure enough, more enlightened Christians are perfectly willing to acknowledge that they must break away from the past rather than yearning to return to it.
But the right-wing fundamentalists are not given to self-doubt, so they will inevitably steer the discussion away from their sad own Christian history.
Any comments?
(With thanks to Michael Wong!)
tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:They do say that people who do not know history are doomed to repeat it but I also do believe we do have to evaluate things on their own merit-- breaking away from the past because we can not change the mess ups our ancestors made--only learn from them.
Also pointing fingers back and forth only muddys the issue and sounds like each side is saying two wrongs makes one right instead of taking personal responsibility for the here and now situation at hand. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/23/07 - Belle Belle
Belle/re Trinity
belle33 03/22/07
This has always been viewed by many as a "no can be" and even I didn't understand it until I became a Christian, it is hard to understand that the Holy Spirit directs you and helps you discern the scriptures.
First of all, have you accepted Jesus as your Saviour?
If not, I would invite you to let Him come into your heart and soul, thereby giving your life to Him to serve, worship and follow His teachings.
God is a spirit being and we must worship Him in spirit and in truth. Jesus and the Holy Spirit were with God at the beginning when God said let {us} make Him (man) in our own image.
However, Jesus sent His Son {impregnated Mary by the Holy Spirit} to earth as a human to live a sinless life and then die on the cross, shedding His blood for all that would believe that Jesus was the Son of God. Upon His baptism by John the Baptist (the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove) came down from heaven and God said this is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.
By the Trinity of God we mean His tri-personal existence as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons in one God.
The Father is recognized as God, (I Peter 1:2) and is all the fullness of the Godhead invisible (John 1:18).
The Son is recognized as God (Hebrews 1:8) which says: But to the Son (Jesus) He (God) says: Your throne O God (Jesus), is forever and ever; A scepter of righteouness is the scepter of your kingdom.
The Holy Spirit is recognized as God (Acts 5:3-4). In dealing with Ananias, Peter revealed the diety of the Holy Spirit when he said, " Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, thou has lied unto God, not to men". In this scripture it is very clear that the Holy Spirit is God, and He is co-equal, co-eternal and co-existent with the Father and the Son. His diety is also set forth in that He possesses divine attributes. He is everywhere present in the universe. He has all power. He has all knowledge.
Matthew 28:19
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit). (It doesn't say one or the other, it says all three!)
Even creation implies the doctrine of the Trinity.
In creation we have space, matter and time in one space. In space, we have length, breath and height in one space. In matter, we have
energy, motion and phenoenoma in one substance. In time, we have past, present and future in one time. In man, we have body, soul and spirit in one man. In the Holy Triniity, we have the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit in one God.
I John 5:7-8
For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word (Son) and the Holy Ghost (Spirit): and these three are one.
I hope in some way this will help you understand the Trinty . There is so much more to learn but the (Three) certainly help me daily.
God bless,
MaggieB
Clarification/Follow-up by MaggieB on 03/22/07 10:21 pm:
Belle did you not read this note that I sent you?
maggieB
tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:I always liked the body, soul, spirit analogy the best out of all triune type analogies | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/23/07 - The following is what everyone who is loaded with millions should do: HONOLULU - Dorie-Ann Kahale and her five daughters moved from a homeless shelter to a mansion Thursday, courtesy of a Japanese real estate mogul who is handing over eight of his multimillion-dollar homes to low-income Native Hawaiian families.
Tears spilled down Kahale's cheeks as she accepted from Genshiro Kawamoto the key to a white, columned house with a circular driveway, a stone staircase and a deep porcelain bathtub. Her family will live there rent-free, but must pay utility bills.
"What we need to do is appreciate," Kahale said. "As fast as we got it, it could disappear."
Kawamoto, whose own eyes started welling up as Kahale cried, handed over two other homes Thursday to homeless or low-income families.
Kawamoto, one of Japan's richest men, said he plans to open eight of his 22 Kahala homes to needy Hawaiian families. They will be able to stay in the homes for up to 10 years, he said.
Native Hawaiians are disproportionately represented among the state's homeless and working poor.
Giving away mansions shows more dedication to helping Hawaii's homeless than just handing out wads of cash, he said. Asked whether he was concerned about losing money on the effort, he laughed and said: "This is pocket money for me."
Kahale's new house is worth nearly $5 million, an average price for the mansion-like dwellings on Kahala Avenue. It is one of the more modest homes in the neighborhood, many of which feature ornate iron gates, meandering driveways and sculptured gardens.
Kahale became homeless two years ago when her landlord raised her rent from $800 to $1,200, putting the apartment beyond reach of her salary as customer service representative for Pacific LightNet, a telecommunications company. She first stayed with family, then moved to a shelter in September.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:I'd be happy with a run down shack in the mountains
---OR the desert!!! :) | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/22/07 - what is superstition?.........................
I was thumbing through old stuff when I came across this, which I posted 11/09/02. I was wondering about how the responses may be now.
One of the top complaints against spirituality by non-believers is that it is superstitious, dealing in ghosts and phantoms where there is no empirical evidence or rational argument for the existence of such phenomena. This stereotype has arisen in part because of superstitious religious traditions, in part because of the portrayal of spirituality in the mass media, and in part because some spiritual people are indeed superstitious, just like any segment of the population. But what is superstition? As I understand it, superstition is erroneous or irrational belief that arises out of ignorance or fear. It is generally based on a flawed understanding of causation versus correlation, and it is often maintained in spite of evidence to the contrary. With that said, I contend that total disbelief in all spiritual phenomena is far more superstitious than the contrary position. There have been reports of spiritual phenomena - psychic abilities, auric vision, communication with non-corporeal entities, etc.- since the dawn of human history. While in some cases, some particular contacts with the spirit world are not easily verifiable, this does not mean that they cannot be verified or that they do not exist. It simply means that they sometimes pose a challenge in terms of methodology; this is not a cue to abandon the most clear and reasonable means of understanding and explaining the fundamentals of existence. In the end, I place my faith in empiricism and our capacity for reason rather than the unshakeable belief of the materialist that there is no such thing as 'spirit.' I have experienced many spiritual phenomena, and you most likely have too regardless of how non-spiritually you may have chosen to view such experiences. The basic scientific evidence for spiritual phenomena is there; the question that science now offers us is not whether or not spirit exists, but rather what its exact nature may be.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:Have to agree with Dom as far as spirituality, superstition, spiritism are three distinct things. | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/23/07 - Unusual Presence I have to tell you about the presence in my apartment for the last two weeks or so.
I'm sitting on the sofa, and I have the feeling that Nick is sitting down next to me...however, he is not there, he is across the room or on the love seat.
It is very eerie, like as I said, someone is gently sitting down next to me.
I'm thinking it is Death waiting patiently for me.
Any ideas? tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:NO
IT IS NOT (underline NOT) DEATH WAITING FOR YOU!!!
Especially if it feels like your cat.
Is it like a shadowy thing or just a feeling of a presence?
I had the same thing about four times a couple weeks ago. It was like a white cat jumping across the room.
If you 'see' something shadowy it could be what
George sNoory calls shadow people, animals,
Don't worry about it
---unless it starts acting like a poltergist.
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/22/07 - Doris Starts Back to Work Next Week :):):):):):):)
There are a lot worse things than a dusty apartment with teensy cobwebs here and there and with outlines of dried cat vomit on the floor. :P
So, she's really slow with the housework, but Doris is a jewel of an individual; one of the best individuals and Christians I ever met, and that's saying something. I've known lots of fine people in my life. :):):)
Hope you have good things happening in your life next week!
Regards,
Mary Sue tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:IF I lived near you I would come and help Doris catch up. Glad you have her back :) | | Question/Answer | | ETWolverine asked on 03/22/07 - To Domino You said:
>>>Elliot:
Have you joined the ranks of the brain dead????...what the hell makes you think any one is going to be impressed by the fact that Less than TWO PERCENT of all Senators have childrens serving in Iraq...as opposed to approximately SEVENTY percent of minorities...mostly Black and Hispanic???????<<<
Say what?
Again, you are 100% wrong.
The US Military's troop strength (as of FY 2003) was 1,161,700, of which 187,500 (16%) were blacks, 98,000 were Hispanic (8.4%), and 25,400 (2.2%) were Asian. That's the total for all military services. (Source-2004/2005 Census Bureau report to Congress on Military personnel and Veterans.)
According to the CIA world Factbook (2003) Blacks and hispanics were 12.9% of the US population, and Asians were 4.2%, and the total US population was 298,444,215. Which means that the number of blacks and hispanics in the USA was 38,499,303 and the number of Asians in the USA was 12,534,657. Which means that 0.7% of blacks and hispanics are serving in the military and 0.2% of Asians are serving in the military.
So how in hell do you get to 70% of all minorities families have children serving in the military?
Answer: you made it up.
>>>Christ...when you warmongers panic, you REALLY lose your heads. :) :) :) :) <<<
Nobody's panicking, Domino. We Conservatives just have the information to prove you wrong again and again, and we get a kick out of doing it. So we all jump at the chance.
>>>Suggest YOU think twice befor posting anything quite THAT ASSININE again LOL <<<
Suggest that you actually do some research before posting statistics you obviously made up.
Minorities neither make up most of the military, nor do most minority families have people serving in the military. In fact, that has been one of the pet peeves of the military... not enough minorities are joining. The number of blacks in the military is GOING DOWN not up, and the military is scrambling to try to increase efforts to recruit minorities. Personally I think that's a mistake, because such recruitment efforts almost invariably include lowering standards of those being actively recruited, and I believe that lowering standards will only hurt the military as a whole.
Bottom line, you made up a bull$h!t statistic (or quoted a BS statistic from some activist who didn't know any better) and stated it as fact with such emphasis and cockiness, that you thought it would pass unnoticed. To paraphrase Ronald Regan, you counted on me to be passive... you counted wrong.
Your statistic of 70% minorities in the military or 70% of minority families having a member in the military is a lie. I challenge you to post a verifiable source for it. Or else admitt that you have no source, that you were "mistaken", and MIGHT not be as mart as you think you are.
Never try to out-analyze a professional analyst.
Elliot tropicalstorm answered on 03/23/07:I mostly see
the signs in the white upper middle class yards they are the parent of a soldier,
six (three mine) of poorer white families
(0ne of them killed),
and one black friend,
most of the soldiers that I hear killed in the news are white.
I also am surrounded by military bases (911th Airlift and the 171st Air Refueling Wing, 99th Regional Readiness Command and the
28th Signal Battalion's armory headquarters)
and from what I see they seem to be mostly white. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/22/07 - JW's follow a murderous desert god & say goddamnliar?
They say those that do are wonderful godly people.
goddamnliar
{In responding to Domino}
Take care and thanks for the information.
Good stuff: The truth!
Hope12
domino 03/21/07
Peddler:
You are simply a goddamnliar. DOMINO never posted anything of the kind. Are you into senile dementia, or is it that you simply cannot comprehend what you read :) :) :) Or do you think you are pleasing your murderous desert god by Lying????????
tropicalstorm answered on 03/22/07:Correct me if I am wrong, but the Bible the JW's read does have the same wars and so forth in it doesn't it?
| | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 03/22/07 - hOPE and Her Block hOPE12 says:
"Hello Everyone,
I was going to give this to Tom777, but he has blocked me but that is okay, I blocked him also first and he retaliated."
hOPE appears to not underdtand how this board works. When she blocked me, she also automatically blocked herself from answering me.
No retaliation, hOPE, it is all your doing!
Tom tropicalstorm answered on 03/22/07:Precisely
I hope everybody understands that now because it took three days of arguing already.
It works like a PFA is SUPPOSE to -if you don't
want them to contact you aren't allowed to contact them either. Why should it work one way! | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/22/07 - Come on experts, read what it is said before commenting! To All,
Please read my statements before posting. I have only called two persons on this board false Christians.
Tom777 and Peddler. Why are so many feeling I have called them Christendom. What I have stated is that those whose conduct is cursing, lying and treating others badly and who are "Claiming to be Christians," are liars and part of Christendom. I have never stated any other names or put the shoe on anyone else put Tom777 and peddler. Why are so many upset? Why wear this shoe, if it doesn't fit you? I do not judge tom777 or peddler, they have judged themselves by their conduct. As to those angry with me, if you wear this shoe, then you all are judging yourselves because I never mentioned anyone elses name but two, Tom777 and peddler.
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 03/22/07:when I refer to JW's saying Christendom it is because it is my understanding from all the JW's that I know personally and others I have talked with, as a whole in the past 30 years, call Christians outside of the JW's Christiandom and therefore that is my understanding and I didn't mean you as a singular.
Also when I was saying about some here thinking me an atheist because I do not automatically take one side of anything I was not referring to you either like Perc seemed to think.
Also I have studied with JW's some and I do agree with two or three of their beliefs. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 03/22/07 - Are JWs Christians? Are Jehovah's witnesses Christian?
Not everyone who says that they follow Jesus is a Christian. Jesus warned about this, as did Paul.
Matt 7:21-23
21 "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' 23 "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'
NKJV
Paul was more direct, warning against those who gave a different gospel and a different Jesus:
Gal 1:6-10
6 I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.
NKJV
2 Cor 11:4
4 For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted--you may well put up with it!
NKJV
Thus just stating that a person follows Jesus is not enough.
Im my opinion, Jehovah's Witnesses are not Christians for the following reason:
1) Paul says above that a key to this is the gospel which they teach and that we should look out for a different gospel. Paul said that the gospel included the cross which Jehovah's Witnesses deny.
Gal 6:14-15
14 But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
NKJV
Paul considered this central to the gospel.
With respect to the gospel, Jehovah's Witnesses deny the need to be born again which was proclaimed by Jesus:
John 3:3-4
3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
NKJV
Therefore I would contend that what scripture teaches and what Jehovah's Witnesses teach is a different gospel.
2) Paul warned against the following of a different Jesus. Jehovah's Witnesses deny that Jesus is God, yet the OT says that God is our Redeemer, and by name identifies the Redeemer (Jesus) as Yahweh (Is 48:16-17), which is re-inforced by Is 9:6 and John 1:1.
Isa 9:6
6 For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
NKJV
John 1:1-5
1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
NKJV
Therefore on the two points raised specifically by Paul, the JWs teach a different Jesus and a different gospel.
If we define a Christian based upon those who follow Jesus described in the Bible, then in my opinion, I would have to say that Jehovah's Witnesses are not Christians. tropicalstorm answered on 03/22/07:see Hope's reply to Perc's The failed proof for God's existence ....
apparently we are not allowed to call
JW's not Christian BUT it is perfectly acceptable that they can call us Christendom
to make a distinction that we
'are not Christian'
Go figure! | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/21/07 - Apes Throwing Feces If you want to see modern day "feces throwing" ala our ancestors the great apes, go over to the Politics Board and read the questions and comments of: Tomder-de-der-der, Steve-anzee, kinji, and OrthodoxElliot :):):)
LOLOL!!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:you think answerways political board is bad you should see yahoo answers political board!!! | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/21/07 - I need to get Something really straight on this Board. To all who are downing MarySusan and others who believe different then you so called Christians, I have one thing to say to you guys, "get a life."
Some on this forum who claim to be Christians are phoney. Those such as MarySusan and Pericles and Domino have more kindness in them, then those who claim to be Christians. There actions will get them life faster then some who think they are God's gift to Christianity.
Being a Christian is shown in how one treats their fellowman/women. You false Christions are really not getting it, are you. You claim to love God while some of you lie, curse, and hate others because they are different. Whatever happened to love they neighbor??????
I just had to say this, all this garbage is really getting me fed up. No wonder people can't believe in God or in True Christianity. Some like Peddler, and Tom777, chase them away with your lies about others and especially about what true Christianity is. I say to you, why do you claim freedom of choice and not give that same freedom to others?
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:Precisely why some have been insisting that I must be atheist because I point out some inconsistencies. Some keep saying how the Bible says accept God by faith yet insist on drilling
evolution vs creation to prove what they rightly say the Bible says by faith. I point that out and I am therefore an atheist taking atheist's side. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/21/07 - Spring Sprung #3 In trying to prove that the "bible teaches us to wear clothes" Peddler posted the 'slavery' verse where Yahweh was so appalled at Ham seeing his fathers naked ass that he invented slavery as a punishment for Ham and his descendents.
Now if Yahweh was so appalled at one SON seeing ONE FATHER'S WRINKELD OLD NAKED BUTT...why WOULD HE ORDER Isaiah to prance around BUCK NAKED in front of EVERYONE for THREE YEARS?????????? [Isa; 20:3] tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:maybe their is something about father's wrinkled old naked butts that makes a difference??? Could it be a because it is a family taboo??
Dunno | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/21/07 - A quiz for all the smart intelligent experts here. I will give you the questions and later check your answers then I will post the answers to the quiz.
It is an old quiz but it's a fun thing. Not a thing to do with Christianity.
1) How long did the Hundred Years' War last?
2) Which country makes Panama hats?
3) From which animal do we get catgut?
4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?
5) What is a camel's hair brush made of?
6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?
7) What was King George VI's first name?
8) What color is a purple finch?
9) Where are Chinese Gooseberries from?
10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane?
Thanks,
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:1.) lasting 116 years from 1337 to 1453
2.) panama jack )
3.) from the intestines of sheep/goat, or occasionally from those of the hog, horse, mule, and donkey. Glad it ain't my cat!
4.) all I know about is the german Octoberfest
penn brewery )
5.) Did learn something at Art Institute. Paintbrush bristles horses, squirrels, goats, sheep, bears, or some combination of these. As a result, the texture, absorbency, and other properties of "camel hair" brushes vary markedly. Woolly type camel hair is unsuitable for brush bristles.
6.) the Romans gave it the name Canary which comes from the latin word "Canae" which means "dog". Canary birds got their name from the canary Islands.
7.) Hank?
8.) raspberry
9.) kiwi?
10.) Learned this the last time I told my black box joke. Named after inventor Black they are
ORANGE
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| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/21/07 - Creationism is Non-Scientific
"Scientific" Creationism Examined !
An uninformed person might think that the recent surge in creationism is based on some new findings that support the theory or that point out some basic flaw in the theory of evolution.
That, however, is not the case, as the renowned palaeontologist Stephen Jay Gould said:
"According to idealized principles of scientific discourse. the arousal of dormant issues should reflect fresh data that give renewed life to abandoned notions. Those outside the current debate may therefore be excused for suspecting that the creationists have generated some serious internal trouble. But nothing has changed; the creationists have presented not a single new fact or argument ... The rise of creationism is politics, pure and simple; it represents one issue (and by no means the major concern) of the resurgent evangelical right".
We will be looking here at the standard creationist arguments:
- Creationism is not science for it base its fundamental beliefs not on empirical research but on a belief in biblical inerrancy.
- The creationist arguments for a young earth, one that is only a few thousand years old, fail upon closer examination.
- The creationist argument for that the rock strata were all laid at the same time, during the Noahchian flood, fails.
- The creationist have two pseudo-methods of trying to impress their readers:
o They use credential mongering, trying to impress their readers with PhD's that have no relevance.
o They often quote opponents out of context creating an opposite impression of what was intended.
Obviously, these pious fundamentalists have no qualms against dishonest methods like these to prove the truth of their Bible. In summary, "Scientific Creationism" is not science, but a modern manifestation of Christian fundamentalist irrationalism.
Recently a new species of creationism has evolved. This new creature, called old earth creationism, believes, unlike the young earth creationism we looked at above, that the world is as old as scientists say it is but that it still carries within it signs of being intelligently designed.
Creationism in any format is Non-Scientific !!!
Link to very extended supporting article
Any comments ?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:I have explained til virtually blue in the face how the earth can be older than creation but
Peddler keeps twisting my words and saying
therefore I can't believe the Bible because that would be saying I believe in evolution and there was No Noah flood --which I NEVER said. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/21/07 - Can anyone here help me?
Glad to be on the Christianity Board.
I temporally need some cash. Urgently.
A couple of thousand bucks will do.
Any Christian who can help me with that?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:I was at the airport when my ship came in
but if I have an idea what your problem-o is
I might be able to help with one of my
witch doktorin' brews.
if it is heart/cholestrol related you need
garlic
omega 3
vitamin E
vitamin B 6
V 8 juice
Cannelli beans
Camellia tea oil
L carnitine
AVOID
salads
Vitamin K (aids blood clotting: DO NOT take if on blood thinners-Kudama, etc…)
Ginger (thins blood: DO NOT take if on blood thinners)
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/21/07 - Breaking News !!! Biblegod Admits "I Screwed Up"!!!
According to the story in Genesis...
Among all the creatures, the only one created by Biblegod without a female to keep it company, was Adam.(1)
Afterwards, Biblegod came to realize he'd done something that wasn't good, for he said to himself :
"It's not good for man to be alone" and so he fixed it by making a female for Adam.(2)
Things to note here:
* Biblegod himself (not Satan, not mankind) is the one who created this "not good" situation in the first place.
* Biblegod himself (and not some wild-eyed Atheist) is the one who declared it to BE a less-than-good situation.
* And Biblegod himself is the one who fixed this imperfect situation, and as we all know, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it", so it must have been "broke" in the first place.
A truly perfect being, incapable of making mistakes, could not have made ANY mistakes.
Biblegod, however, MADE a mistake by creating the male without the female, then freely admitted it to BE a mistake, and then proved beyond all doubt that it certainly WAS a mistake by fixing his mistake.
Thus (if Biblegod were real) Christians are worshipping a faulty, imperfect god, who has admitted to screwing up in the past, and may just screw up again in the future- maybe even screw up their salvation by sending all Fundies to hell and Atheists to heaven.
1) Genesis 2:7
2) Biblegod, in Genesis 2:18
(Copied from "jcnot4me")
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:MAYBE Biblegod not needing Biblegoddess
----as he created man in his image-----
did not think man need woman
wonder WHAT 'changed biblegod's mind'? | | Question/Answer | Hwood asked on 03/20/07 -
GOD IS ALL THIS AND MORE. What do you believe?
He is the First and Last,
the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation
and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the Universe
and the Manager of all times.
He always was,
He always is,
and He always will be . .
Unmoved,
Unchanged,
Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him,
and the leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and
The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and nonbelievers
can't explain Him away!
He is Light, Love, Longevity, and Lord.
He is Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, Mighty, Powerful, and Pure
His ways are right, His Word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me!
He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior,
He is my Guide, and He is my Peace!
He is my Joy, He is my Comfort, He is my Lord,
He rules my life!
I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden
is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the Wisdom of the wise,
The Power of the powerful, The Ancient of Days,
the Ruler of rulers, the Leader of leaders,
the Overseer of the over comers,
and the Sovereign Lord of all that was,
and is and is to come.
And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size:
His goal is a relationship with me!
He will NEVER leave me, NEVER forsake me,
NEVER mislead me, NEVER forget me, NEVER overlook me,
and NEVER cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up! When I fail, He forgives
When I am weak, He is strong! When I am lost, He is the way! When
I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me! When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me! When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for
everybody, everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God! He is Faithful. I am His, and He is mine!
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure,
understand this . . .
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side,
and that means all is well with my soul.
Everyday is a blessing
for
GOD IS!!!!!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/21/07:You would like this poster
I am ) | | Question/Answer | Hwood asked on 03/20/07 -
GOD IS ALL THIS AND MORE. What do you believe?
He is the First and Last,
the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation
and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the Universe
and the Manager of all times.
He always was,
He always is,
and He always will be . .
Unmoved,
Unchanged,
Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him,
and the leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and
The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and nonbelievers
can't explain Him away!
He is Light, Love, Longevity, and Lord.
He is Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, Mighty, Powerful, and Pure
His ways are right, His Word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me!
He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior,
He is my Guide, and He is my Peace!
He is my Joy, He is my Comfort, He is my Lord,
He rules my life!
I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden
is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the Wisdom of the wise,
The Power of the powerful, The Ancient of Days,
the Ruler of rulers, the Leader of leaders,
the Overseer of the over comers,
and the Sovereign Lord of all that was,
and is and is to come.
And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size:
His goal is a relationship with me!
He will NEVER leave me, NEVER forsake me,
NEVER mislead me, NEVER forget me, NEVER overlook me,
and NEVER cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up! When I fail, He forgives
When I am weak, He is strong! When I am lost, He is the way! When
I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me! When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me! When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for
everybody, everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God! He is Faithful. I am His, and He is mine!
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure,
understand this . . .
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side,
and that means all is well with my soul.
Everyday is a blessing
for
GOD IS!!!!!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/20/07:Isaiah 9:6 - For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/20/07 - Can Atheists become Christians?
"Remove God from Christianity and the moral standard becomes culture. Atheists see themselves as following the moral rules of Christianity without believing in God, which actually makes them more functioning Christians."
Source: hellboundalleee.blogspot.com/2006/05/how-can-atheist-be-christian.html -
Do you agree?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/20/07:whoa you just might have Peddler on your behind about going to a site that deals with atheism. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/20/07 - DOMINO - SWEET DOMINO:
The following is Domino's answer to Pericles' post entitled "Domino's Money."
"domino 03/20/07
Why on earth would I want to do THAT since it is so much fun kicking your asses HERE?????? And showing up the warts on Mamma Christianity's butt???????
p.s. I never claimed to be "rich beyond measure" except in family and friends...My accountant and lawyers do a very good job of 'measuring' and increasing my wealth.
And what has your racist bullshit to do with MY money???????"
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/20/07:Did he tell Perc that too?
I saw he told Peddler that. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/20/07 - Domino, are you attending this grand function? Chefs to Prepare Gourmet Feast for Millionaires at the Pyramids in Egypt
BANGKOK, Thailand (AP) -- From the creators of the $25,000 dinner, there's another pricey gourmet feast on the horizon.
Wealthy foodies can mark their calendars for Dec. 12, 2008, when top chefs from around the world will be flown to Egypt to cook a dinner in front of the ancient Pyramids of Giza, organizer Deepak Ohri said Monday.
This dinner will be a bargain, at least compared to the one in Bangkok last month that was billed as the meal of a lifetime and cooked by six 3-star Michelin chefs for $25,000 a head. High-rolling food lovers flew in from the United States, Europe, the Middle East and across Asia for the 40-seat dinner.
The price for dining beside the pyramids has not yet been set, but it will cost less than $10,000 per person, said Ohri, the managing director of Bangkok's luxury Lebua hotel, the event planner behind the dinners that are boldly titled "Epicurean Masters of the World."
Though cheaper, the upcoming feast is intended to be even grander than its predecessor.
"It will still be for millionaires, but this dinner will be for a lot of millionaires," Ohri told The Associated Press.
Some 500 tickets will be sold for the dinner to be cooked by 30 3-star Michelin chefs.
About a third of the chefs already have confirmed their attendance; each chef will prepare a meal for roughly 17 diners.
A kitchen half a mile long will be set up against the backdrop of the pyramids with equipment and the best ingredients jetted in from around the world.
Unlike the $25,000 dinner, which featured rare French wines and mostly French food, the next meal will be culturally diverse and paired with fine wines from around the world, Ohri said.
Just how close diners will be to the pyramids depends upon the Egyptian government and the U.N.'s cultural body UNESCO, since the pyramids are a World Heritage site.
Talks are under way with authorities, Ohri said, noting that organizers are "considering" giving profits from the dinner to an organization or charity that deals with conserving the Seven Wonders of the World. The pyramids are the only surviving structure from the traditional list of architectural marvels.
All profits from the $25,000 dinner are going to two charities -- Medecins Sans Frontieres, which will be sent a check for $15,000, and the Chaipattana Foundation, a rural development program set up by the king of Thailand, which will receive $46,000, Ohri said.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/20/07:I saw that and thought of Pete.
| | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 03/20/07 - Atheist Holiday? An atheist became incensed over the preparation for Easter and Passover holidays and decided to contact the local ACLU about the discrimination inflicted on atheists by the constant celebrations afforded to Christians and Jews with all their holidays while the atheists had no holiday to celebrate.
The ACLU jumped on the opportunity to once again pick up the cause of the God-less and assigned their sharpest attorneys to the case.
The case was brought before a wise judge who, after listening to the long and passionate presentation of the ACLU lawyers, promptly banged his gavel and declared, "Case dismissed!"
The lead ACLU lawyer immediately stood and objected to the ruling and said, "Your honor, how can you possibly dismiss this case?
Surely the Christians have Christmas, Easter and many other observances. And the Jews - why in addition to Passover they have Yom Kippur and Hanukkah ... and yet my client and all other atheists have no such holiday!"
The judge leaned forward in his chair and simply said, "Obviously your client is too confused to know about, or for that matter, even celebrate the atheists' holiday!"
The ACLU lawyer pompously said, "We are aware of no such holiday for atheists, just when might that be, your Honor?"
The judge said, "Well, it comes every year on exactly the same date - APRIL 1st!"
The FOOL says in his heart, "There is no God."
Psalm 14:1 & Psalm 53:1 tropicalstorm answered on 03/20/07:Actually an atheist did say
April 13 should be our day.
Thomas Jefferson and Madalyn Murray O'Hair were both born on April 13. Jefferson was not only the author of the American Declaration of Independence from England, but he believed so strongly in the separation of church and state that he ended tax support of churches in Virginia and other colonies. Madalyn Murray O'Hair brought atheism to the forefront of American law, and founded our organization. Her departure is a mystery, but her vision and courage are history, quite clear enough to celebrate.
I propose that April 13 be celebrated as American Atheism Day beginning next year. Informal celebrations need not await national holiday status, and they would help build momentum for national acceptance. I further propose that American Atheists take the lead in campaigning for its eventual acceptance as a national legal holiday, with a goal of its national establishment by the year 2000.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/19/07 - Is this good advice for Christians? Just to let you know, atheists and skeptics and freethinkers are sticklers for facts...has been my experience when reading their material. *Being accurate* is the best way to counter arguments from blind faith and fear.
Christians...a completely different story!! They have the hidden agenda of protecting Christianity from facts, for some reason. No reason to be so fearful of facts which incidently is "the truth".
Mary Sue
Once upon a time long ago and far far away there was a rock,and then it rained. We don't know what caused the rock or the rain it was just there.
Then after millions or billions ,well a really long time ago lightning struck a pool the rock disssolved in. We don't know where the pool came from or the lightning, it was just there.
Then a cell just sprang to life, we don't know how, it just did. Unfortuantely all the evidence failed to fossilize.
The the cell created a whole new language and reprogammed itself in to everything alive. We don't know how or have any evidence but we know there is no God so it must be true.
I can't imagine how anyone could doubt the statement
atheists and skeptics and freethinkers are sticklers for facts...has been my experience when reading their material
No blind faith here! Frogs to Princes is just good science!!
Atheist good,Christian bad!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:I am a stickler for facts and do not fit the first sentence;
BUT do agree with the second sentence------
Being accurate* is the best way to counter arguments from blind faith and fear.
| | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 03/19/07 - Do believe a true Christmas story? A True Story
A call came in for a prayer request. The lady, we’ll call her name Betty, said that there was a family in urgent need. The Father had been laid off from work just days before Christmas.
He would not be getting his unemployment payments for another two weeks. They had no money and the last food in the house was a few vegetables, which the Mother put together and made a pot of soup. That was the last food in the house.
There is the Father, the Mother, and eleven children. This lady and her friend went together and bought enough food for at least two weeks, by shopping at discount places.
The girls, from the family of these two friends, always bought each other presents for Christmas. But this year they changed their plans.
The girls divided up the eleven children, one would take three, another four, and another would take two or three, until they got them all divided.
Then they took all eleven Christmas shopping, using the money which they would have spent on each other. I know some people who will have the best Christmas they ever had.
The family who was in need, for they will have enough to eat, the children will have presents, but most of all, they will always remember that, no matter how bad things get, there is someone out there somewhere who really cares.
The two friends and the girls will, because they will always remember the precious looks on the faces of eleven little children.
Excuse me! Did I hear someone say, “Let’s take Christ out of Christmas and put in an X instead?” Things, like this, just would not happen, if we did that.
We love you Lord Jesus. tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:cute nice story
BUT nowadays kids don't appreciate it.
If they don't get the latest of all the contraptions they are disappointed; if they do get ALL the latest contraptions they are STILL disappointed. (That includes many of the poorer of kids) | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/19/07 - Quandry!!! If Hank leaves as Tyrah, and returns as Hank1 on the same day, can I still collect my $40 bet that he can't stay away for more than a week???? Or does his sexual transformation actually count as an 'official' departure?????? tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:Afraid you don't get to collect for the same reason that the jj triangle is with us in trinity so is the HankTy duo.
Sorry, take it out of what you owe me whenever you come into the BIG bucks on your bets here.
Like Perk says Leslie needs patched so he needs the 40 more. | | Question/Answer | | Tyrah asked on 03/19/07 - Goodbye!
I feel very sorry for those who wrote negative comments about Hank. If you knew him personally like I do, you'd have a lifelong friend who would always be at your beckon call. Truthfully, I have never come across people like some of you. Goodbye!
Tyrah
tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:
means hi and bye
or bye and hi
so my
greeting for Hank
he is addicted
he will be back
![]()
he has to come back to pick up
your wedding gifts
air compressor
wedding gown and suit (in polyester)
wedding cake
sleeping bags
an igloo
with out house
and one square inch of land anywhere in the USA
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/19/07 - Exhibit considers Nazi quest for master race” http://www.timesleader.com/mld/timesleader/16856337.htm
A new exhibit at the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, examines eugenics in mid-century Germany and other countries, including Norway, Spain, Brazil, Japan, and the U.S. Titled “Deadly Medicine: Creating the Master Race,” the exhibit uses hundreds of photographs, video segments, and artifacts to spotlight the topic.
What does this have to do with creation and evolution? The article points out that the exhibit will “trace eugenics’ development as a perversion of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution to its Nazi justification for genocide.” The article also points out that Darwin’s cousin Francis Galton coined the term “eugenics.” So, what is the (incomplete) story of such Darwinian eugenics as applied in Nazi Germany?
Beginning in 1939, the Nazis began euthanizing infants and children with physical and mental defects. More than 5,000 were killed between 1939 and 1945 through overdose, starvation and gassing. Between 1940 and 1941, some 70,000 institutionalized adults, largely non-Jewish Germans, were killed.
Sadly, and although most modern evolutionists distance themselves from such ideas, eugenics and “social Darwinism” are direct logical corollaries of naturalistic Darwinism.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:Thanks for warning me NOT to take a walk across the Racheal Carson Bridge. There are only four places left on the North Side worth anything
The Light of Life Mission, PNC Park, Heinz Field and The Carnegie Science Center (I love their Lazer show) | | Question/Answer | | TTFNUAS asked on 03/19/07 - My INTRODUCTORY opinion of Tyrah's message .........May each day in the year be a good day for all of you. Become aware of your emotions and express them, allowing them to help you heal. It is OK to question your faith and feel all sorts of things about life. This can be a time for personal growth if you choose for it to be. This is my INTRODUCTORY post for all those who wish it. Good to be with you!.......
Strange message full of platitudes and clichés ……if you ask me … so I did a bit of research and here is what I found:
1 may each day in the year be a good day = lyrics to a song:
may each day in the year be a good day…..etc http://home.att.net/~sysquash/others/lyrics/c/mayeachday.html
2 Become aware of your emotions and express them = part of a health wellness program
Become aware of your emotions and express them http://www.asu.edu/wellness/stressmanagement/info.html
Hanks obsession with wellness programs is legendary!!
3 It is OK to question your faith = could come from any of the myriad religious sites on the net …but is this what Hanks gal would say …this would contradict his religious prattle about the bible and Christianity, soooooooooooo ….
4 This can be a time for personal growth = Hank has an obsessive concern for personal growth …any way he can get it …lying, playing games, demanding respect, etc etc etc. so this phrase is constantly repeated by Hankus.
5 This is my INTRODUCTORY post = evidence of a bit of self delusional prattle – a person who has just arrived at a forum usually says he am new, or something similar to this,, but this smacks [to me] of those grandiose self delusional aggrandizement habits which afflict Hank.
6 Good to be with you = IF I were Leslie and read all the comments written I would NOT come aboard with this mealy mouthed clichéd message; my message would be somewhat stronger.
I may be wrong in this, but this is what I feel, and those who know me know that I say what I feel ….and let the chit fall where it may.
;-)
tropicalstorm answered on 03/19/07:I know.
I know
Hank is marrying his shrink!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 03/18/07 - Here's another reason why you don't trust Muslims?
Taxation office to probe Muslim cleric on Saudi cash
By Richard Kerbaj
March 19, 2007 01:00am
Article from: The Australian
A SENIOR Muslim cleric working for the tax office in Canberra is being investigated over accusations he failed to pay income tax on thousands of dollars he allegedly received from the Saudi embassy.
An ACT Islamic organisation has also accused the Palestinian-born imam Mohammad Swaiti of being "radical", anti-Western in his religious teachings, and failing to declare payments he received from officiating at wedding ceremonies.
Documents obtained by The Australian reveal an Australian Tax Office investigation into Sheik Swaiti over allegations by senior Muslim community leaders that he failed to declare his clerical allowances of up to $US30,000 ($37,700) a year, which were paid to him by the Saudi Government.
The tax office sent Islamic Society of ACT president Sabrija Poskovic a letter in reply to written allegations made by him and his community regarding Sheik Swaiti.
"I refer to your letter relating to the imam of your mosque, Mohammad Swaiti, who also happens to be a tax office employee," the ATO's letter to Mr Poskovic says.
"I have passed your concerns to the relevant area of the tax office and I expect to be able to respond to you by 6 February 2007."
Documents provided to the tax office, which accuse Sheik Swaiti of being "very fanatic and radical person in his Islamic views", follow factional divisions within Canberra's Muslim community over issues including Canberra's only mosque.
The claims come after The Australian last week revealed that hardline Islamic clerics were encouraging their followers not to pay income tax because they considered it contrary to sharia law.
Sheik Swaiti refused to answer The Australian's questions regarding the ATO investigation and accusations levelled at him by sections of his community, saying God would deal with them.
"God is watching but let them do what they want," he said in Arabic. "Even if they accuse me of murder, I will not comment. You should not take any rubbish from anyone."
Mr Poskovic - whose organisation runs Canberra's Abu Bakr Mosque at which Sheik Swaiti is employed part-time - said the tax office refused to give him any details of the investigation, saying it was restricted by privacy issues.
"I ring them and they said to me we put (the investigation) in a proper hand and channel but we can't give any information on what we're doing," he said.
A tax office spokeswoman would not comment on the matter.
Mr Poskovic accused the Saudi Embassy of bankrolling the annual salaries of up to 20 imams around Australia, including Sheik Swaiti, through its Islamic donations (Daawa) office.
A letter understood to be sent on behalf of Mr Poskovic claims the Saudis pay the imams "mukafa", which is regarded a "reward compensation payment". It also alleges that Sheik Swaiti had been on the Saudi payroll for 12 years.
The Australian could not contact the Saudi embassy, which has previously declined to provide details on whether Islamic religious organisations receive funding from the Saudi Government. On January 9, the embassy expressed shock over Foreign Minister Alexander Downer's concerns about the funding of Adelaide's mosque.
Mr Poskovic said the Saudi Embassy was dividing the community by paying some imams to propagate the hardline Wahabbi ideology, a claim he has put to the Department of Foreign Affairs. In a letter to DFAT dated March 6, Mr Poskovic warns that community tensions "will escalate to physical violence in the near future" if the Saudi embassy does not stop its "interference" in community affairs.
Mr Poskovic said while his organisation ran Canberra's only mosque, it was powerless to have Sheik Swaiti thrown out because of his strong community support.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
So now it appears that not paying taxes is part of a good muslim's jihad. Is it any wonder many muslim nations are among the most impoverished in the world.
there is one bright spot on the horizon, it seems that when muslims fall out they dob each other in to the tax office. I expect an increase in tax office staff to cope with the increased investigation load
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:With all the Americans caught embezzling money I suppose you should hate Americans too | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 03/18/07 - A real question? suggested by Fred's answer to which is the greater sin?
Fred suggested in a comment that Jesus would not enforce the biblical standard of punishment for adultery or homosexuality.
Is this the understanding of Christians, that Jesus would not enforce his own Law. You cannot believe that Jesus is God and yet believe that God is divided against himself.
Jesus fulfilled the Law, he paid the price for sin. This means that Jesus alone sits in the seat of judgement. It is not that he will not enforce the Law, it is that he alone has the right of judgement.
Is the penality for sin, unrepented sin, still death, of course it is. tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07: arcura The bible says that gays should be killed and that those who commit adultery should be stoned.
How many times have you followed those instructions?
How many here believe that Jesus would insist on those instruction should be carried out?
Fred is saying, Are you saying YOU would kill gays or stone adulterers? Judgment is not up to us but to God and judgment day. What don't you understand about what Fred said?????
He was saying
Jhn 8:5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? Jhn 8:6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with [his] finger wrote on the ground, [as though he heard them not]. Jhn 8:7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
| | Question/Answer | CeeBee2 asked on 03/18/07 -
Favorites. What is your favorite (and why for each)1. chapter in the Bible?
2. verse in the Bible?
3. word in the Bible?
4. story in the Bible? tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:Romans 6 through 8
1 Kings 19:11-12
11And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before Jehovah. And behold, Jehovah passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before Jehovah: Jehovah was not in the wind. And after the wind, an earthquake: Jehovah was not in the earthquake. 12And after the earthquake, a fire: Jehovah was not in the fire. And after the fire, a soft gentle voice.
13And it came to pass, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entrance of the cave. And behold, a voice [came] to him and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?
| | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 03/18/07 - What surveys?? What surveys are you talking about Jackie??
I would answer your post but you have blocked my access.
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:Probably surveys done on http://www.beliefnet.com
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/18/07 - maybe (2) ............................................... Reference : topic "maybe" by tropicalstorm dated 03/18/07
Ts posted :
"may be a person would feel like posting more Christian stuff"
Than do that. Just keep in mind that "Christian stuff" is based on a religion, and not on historical and/or factually supported evidence.
---
"BUT it is T00 predictable what the replies are"
What does that matter? The board is a QUESTION and ANSWER Board, and answers you will get. Just disregard those answers you disagree with. Or do you want everyone to "agree" with you?
---
"You have ones saying that is your opinion, subjective not object, myth and so forth"
See my previous comment line here.
---
"Then Peddler arguing with you saying you are ..."
See my previous comment line here.
---
"... I am following my own religion and thickheaded arguments ..."
Do you want replies to your questions or not?
Or do you want replies that agree with you?
---
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:I wasn't saying anything about disagreeing or agreeing. I was saying that many replies are
predictable in that they are the same bickering back and forth. And I do not see where I am disagreeing with what Peddler said or where Peddler is saying I am wrong other than he is saying I am wrong other than that I do not see what he is saying I am wrong about. simple as that. | | Question/Answer | hOPE12 asked on 03/18/07 - Did you miss me?
Helllo Everyone,
I have had so issues to deal with and have been away from the board. How has everyone been?
I was very surprised to read some of the comments on the board. I do know that Hank had lost his wife Carol and that I believe that he truly did. My respect for others does not allow me to call them a liar, especially about such a personal matter as the death of a loved one and a mate at that.
Domino I have always thought of you as a dignified individual and one who has love for others. Is it possible that Domino is not really domino, just as other who claim to be someone else and they are not:???
Anyway I was on the board when Carol died and I am sorry domino, I believe Hank. No one can have said some of the thingss he did unless it was a fact.
Good to be back, take care,
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:I believe Hank about Carol too BUT when you post pictures of people that had to be thirty in the 1970's and say you are thirty five years old it yet he would have to be old enough to be my dad if the pictures are real.
It does tend to make what he says unbelievable and like Dom says why did he post high school pictures and not pictures of their wedding or them together on vacation or something. Then it seems he opened and closed the site with the pictures with the sole purpose of having a page to *display* his and her pictures here because the site was non existent within a couple days because I did a site there too and was going to add him to the friends list and it was gone.
I believe about Carol but 2+1+1+1 thrown in with a bunch of golf buddies just ain't adding up. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/18/07 - Apology to Perk
I was wrong to ask the question about your wife the way I did. It was unfair to her as well.
A fair question would be if she decided to paint herself like the whores in the picture you posted {not that she would} would you want her painted body displayed for the entire world to see? What about your daughter? Your nieces? Granddaughters?
You say public nudity is not a problem for Christians. Did you ask your Roman Catholic wife that question? I think not. Do you want her nude in public? The other females in your life?
If a man truly loves his wife her nudity is for him only and vise versa. He does not want his daughters displayed like pieces of meat at auction. Do you want menn lusting after her? The first death in the Bible was when god killed animals to clothe Adam and Eve. If it was not for sin clothes would not be needed. The human body is not dirty but the human mind most certainly is.
Gen 8:21 And the LORD smelled a sweet savor; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done.
What do you add to this board? The shock jock test? Why don’t you read the Bible? It tells us to wear clothes but evolutionary ideas have caused people to disregard the first 11 chapters where that is taught. Making statements like nudity is not a problem for Christians is either out of ignorance of the Bible out a out of hate for them.
Hath God Said? You remind me of someone.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:Maybe his wife paints herself up for him in privacy.....who knows. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/18/07 - Hank it only took me one minute to find this post: Hope it doesn't bother you.
Category: Society & Culture/Christianity
THANK YOU, EXPERTS!
HANK1 10/14/03
Thanks to God and prayers, Carol's cancer is now in remission ... according to two Oncologists! Thus, I have a message for all of you:
In theology, excellence and perfection lies "above and beyond the universe," the home of God. But perhaps some of this excellence and perfection has penetrated the hearts of my friends at Answerway. God embraces truth and love. Freedom of religion speaks to be heard and dealt with by all who breathe what's necessary to live and progress accordingly. Your prayers and thoughtfulness have helped give Carol a second chance to enjoy life!
I yearn for tranquility at home and away with my dear wife and may serendipity assess my ability as a golfer on a par three -- I've never had a hole-in-one! Other than those two informalities, my wants are sequential because of familiarity. My standard of living does not include anything fanciful nor visionary. My loving cup contains milk and tea ... they give me the energy to fill my satisfactions. But what about you?
Your desires are my desires that offer me just one reservation -- OPINION! But, who am I to judge your convictions, beliefs and sentiments? These mind-sets may also offer me reasoning while considering knowledge, fact, misgivings and skepticism. You're the ones who are important to me! I want you cheerful, contented, pleased and glad you're living! Let the miserable, the gloomy, the sorrowful harass the harbingers of the ill-natured, the disagreeable, the unpleasant. They are no longer a force of one, thanks to your plausible personalities. You are now unique -- time, place and action defy the agility of what is commonplace, ordinary and typical. Our playground is Society and our necessity pleads for the temperament of benevolence!
If you know thyself, know what's around you and know what's about you. The skillful use of your mind will allow analogies to surface. Then ingenious associations with people and problems become effortless and sometimes surprising. As a result, you've taught yourself to cope with what's needed to gain success and enjoy life while pushing ahead.
YOU HAVE MASTERED THIS INTELLIGENCE!
From Carol and I, your beauty has dignified our need for gratification, pleasurability and excellence. You ARE perfection and we're very grateful!
"That best portion of a good person's life, the little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love." -- William Wordsworth
HANK & CAROL
Answered By Answered On
MaggieB 10/16/03
Hi Hank and Carol,
Great is Thy faithfulness, oh God my Father!! Amen, He said He would never leave us nor forsake us.
My husband and I are living testimonies of prayer and God gave us a ministry to carry forth to others as he has given to you also.
May God's richest blessings be yours,
MaggieB
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rated By Rating Comments
HANK1 Thanks, MaggieB. We sure have a great bunch here at Answerway!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:I remember Hank saying Carol had died when we were still on Askme.com what year was that?
Hank would be better keeping his life to himself than telling so many different stories.
I think he said he is 35 years old around the same time he posted those pics from Perry Mason era, which would make him old enough to be my dad. I believe there is/was a Carol and all but
yeesh. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/18/07 - Massive protests mark Iraq war’s 4th anniversary
After four years of unjustified U.S. military occupation of Iraq killed hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians, innumerable people all over the world plan to hold massive anti-war protests, condemning the brutal invasion and calling for its end.
Thousands of people across the U.S. will march to the Pentagon in Washington DC to demand the U.S. end the occupation of Iraq.
Yesterday, thousands of Christians prayed for peace at an anti-war service at the Washington National Cathedral, beginning a series of worldwide demonstrations taking place this weekend and expected to pile the pressure on President Bush, whose policies have been a source of mounting international criticism, as well as the Democrats, who’re facing public scrutiny over their failure to advance with plans aimed at ending the war.
Demonstrations, organised by Christian Peace Witness for Iraq, marched yesterday, despite snow and strong winds, toward the White House, where the police reportedly arrested a number of demonstrators.
The police began at 11:30 p.m. last night, handcuffing about 100 protesters who had assembled on the White House sidewalk to take part in the gathering.
"We gave them three warnings, and they broke the guidelines," said Lt. Scott Fear. "There's an area on the White House sidewalk where you have to keep moving."
"Quite literally on the night that shock and awe commenced, my friend and I toasted the military might of the United States," John Pattison, 29, one of the participants, was quoted by the Associated Press as saying.
"We were quite proud and thought we were doing the right thing."
"A lot of the rhetoric that we hear coming from Christians has been dominated by the religious right and has been strong advocacy for the war," Pattison said.
"That's just not the way I read my Gospel."
The ecumenical group that organized the event has distributed 3,200 tickets for the service in the cathedral, and two smaller churches took part in the event to cover the massive number of participants.
• “This war is morally wrong”
"This war, from a Christian point of view, is morally wrong — and was from the beginning," the Rev. Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners/Call to Renewal, one of the event's sponsors, said toward the end of the service to cheers and applause. "This war is ... an offense against God."
Addressing the attendants, Rev. Raphael G. Warnock, senior pastor at Atlanta's Ebenezer Baptist Church, attacked the Congress, accusing it of being "too morally inept to intervene" to stop the war.
It's been 40 years since a massive demonstrations took place near the Pentagon in Washington. They were organised in protest against Vietnam War.
But rights groups expect a similar scene this weekend which will mark the 4th anniversary of the war on Iraq.
Brian Becker, national coordinator of the ANSWER Coalition, participating in Saturday’s protests in the U.S., says that the march on the Pentagon that was organised in 1967 “was an unprecedented action,”
“It was a signal that the people of the United States had shifted.”
---
Link to much more extended supporting article
---
Besides local protests in various American cities there are/were similar protest marches this weekend :
• in Melbourne
• in Greece
• in Italy
• in Spain
• in France
• in Germany
• in Sweden
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:From what I have heard it is most likely mostly old vets that have formed biker groups Rolling Thunder, Gathering of Eagles and Patriot Riders made up the predominate group. They went there, as Peddler posted a couple weeks ago, partly to protect the wall from the liberals. I don't think they came out with an estimate of how many were in each group yet.
counter protest ) | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/17/07 - For Tropical Storm ......................................
OK Linda
Because you are Irish
and
Because it's St. Patricks day !
![]()
I do anything to please you ..... :)
Any comments, or anyone else who wants to join in?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:YEAH I ALWAYS CALLED IT THE BLUE WALL
MARIO NEVER MINDED
I WISH HE WOULD PUT UP HIS PINK ELEPHANT ONE
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/17/07 - A proposition??? Hank, why do you wish I lived next door to you, are you asking for a date??? Sorry, Bozo, I dont swing that way. But 'envision' might...Why not ask him to move in. :) :) :)
How come your first two wives dumped you, Hank!!! No tact in the sack????? Couldn't rise to the occasion??? Or did they find your NAZI paraphenalia in the attic :) :) :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:Two wives? I thought Carol was his high school sweetie. I guess I just assumed that the way he talks about how much he loved her and so forth | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/18/07 - DOMINO:
You're a real Bastard. "Wonder how long we have to wait to find out that Hank's "Leslie" is dying from a brain tumor???" Damn, I wish you lived nextdoor!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/18/07:a non-event your Leslie is not going to die from cancer (I have what you call ESP too)
and as I said I have the cancer answer so just call me if needed. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/17/07 - Dommy, I say your education is a myth. Dommy I am calling your bluff.
I have answered your questions on origins many times.
You keep telling me I believe in myths so you tell me why and how the universe came into existence and what is the origin of plants animals and people?
Were they created or did they evolve from a common ancestor?
If they evolved then what from and by what process?
Domy if you refuse to answer then I conclude you have to convince yourself you are not a believer in fairy tales by pointing fingers at me.
I already know you can't and you won't even try but you will jump up and down like an idiot trying to squirm out of a straight answer and I need a laugh today.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/17/07:So you're saying if Dom doesn't answer you have to conclude that Dom has to convince himself he is not a believer in fairy tales?
Therefore, that would mean if he does answer he does not have to convince himself he is a believer in fairy tales.
Okay, just wanted to make that perfectly clear to myself. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/17/07 - Dommy, I say your education is a myth. Dommy I am calling your bluff.
I have answered your questions on origins many times.
You keep telling me I believe in myths so you tell me why and how the universe came into existence and what is the origin of plants animals and people?
Were they created or did they evolve from a common ancestor?
If they evolved then what from and by what process?
Domy if you refuse to answer then I conclude you have to convince yourself you are not a believer in fairy tales by pointing fingers at me.
I already know you can't and you won't even try but you will jump up and down like an idiot trying to squirm out of a straight answer and I need a laugh today.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/17/07:So you're saying if Dom doesn't answer you have to conclude that Dom has to convince himself he is not a believer in fairy tales?
Therefore, that would mean if he does answer he does not have to convince himself he is a believer in fairy tales.
Okay, just wanted to make that perfectly clear to myself. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/17/07 - Perk,Is your wife a whore? It seems a reasonable assumption since those are obviously the kind of women you prefer. tropicalstorm answered on 03/17/07:Maybe the opposite is true and the grass is greener in his dreams LOL
Ever think outside of the box? | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/17/07 - Poll Domino says he has been to Africa 35 times to minister to aids victims. He claims to have worked with the Protestants and the Catholics.
Unlike you, you hypocrite I have BEEN to Africa 35 times...I have visited both Catholic and Protestant missions.. spent one season working with Sister Emmanuele in Cairo and contributed to setting up new homes and workshops for women and girls, both Coptic and Muslim....so don't give me that bullshit about you supporting the missions
Assuming they were very short trips of 15 days that is 525 days of his life in Africa. {not to mention a whole season in Cairo setting up homes-whatever that means} No charitable organization would have paid for such short trips for a volunteer so we must assume he paid for these trips out of his own pocket.
Assuming a ridiculously low cost of $2500.00 per trip that is $87,500 dollars he paid to help those people. {not to mention a whole season in Cairo setting up homes-whatever that means}
Or he spent an average of 2 or three months per trip there at the expense of a charity that recruits God hating anti-Christians to represent the gospel to the unsaved which means he spent at least 2100 days in Africa working as a God -hating anti-Christian with various religious charities that accepts such volunteers. {not to mention a whole season in Cairo setting up homes-whatever that means}
My question is how many of you actually believe this story?
My personal opinion is that the farmer has hauled another load away.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/17/07:When we were on askme.com D0M would tell us when he was leaving for Cairo, The West Bank etc, etc.
What is 525 days out of a life time????????
Less than two years.
My boss takes five vacations a year (about 20 days out of a year). Another friend of mine has been all over about half of the world.
Remember he has also said he has more money than I can ever imagine.
So you find it hard to believe he would want to bother with this site if he is so rich and has a life or what?
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/17/07 - Good idea for Hank, perhaps ???
21st century homesteading: Free land in Alaska
• Community of 300 offering 26 1.3-acre lots for free
• Lots go to first people to apply and pay $500 deposit beginning 9 a.m. Monday
• Winners must build 1,000-square-foot house within two years
Anderson, a little town in Alaska's interior, has no gas station, no grocery store and no traffic lights, but it does have plenty of woodsy land -- and it's free to anyone willing to put down roots in the often-frozen ground.
In a modern twist on the homesteading movement that populated the Plains in the 1800s, the community of 300 people is offering 26 large lots on spruce-covered land in a part of Alaska that has spectacular views of the Northern lights and Mount McKinley, North America's highest peak.
And what's an occasional day of 60-below cold in a town removed from big-city ills?
"Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of the Lower 48, crime, poor schools, and the high cost of living?" the Web site asks. "Make your new home in the Last Frontier!"
Lots of space to play golf.
Nice location, far away from all those "nasty atheists" !!!
Give it a try, Hank. As a wedding present for Leslie !!!
Link to supporting and much more extended article
Any comments ?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/17/07:Kansas is giving away free land to
and here is the best yet
ownapieceofamerica )
You can even own a piece too Perk | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/16/07 - IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS, SO BE IT:
Alfred Adler, a psychologist, broke from the traditional Freudian view that personality development stops in childhood. As some of you know, I have always contended that genetics and environment shape personalities. Anyway, the social factors that influence us throughout life and the ability to control our own destinies are two of the infuences that change us into adults. Research PSYCHOSOCIAL. The reason for playing my two games was to identify the essential concerns of adulthood, such as identity, competence, love and perhaps nurturance. I have the ability to enjoy life and accept death. If development does not occur predictably in adulthood, why and how does it occur at all? Competence iss not mastered once and for all. People learn new skills and give up old ones throughout their lives. With some, competence rises and falls. I leave you with that thought!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/16/07:so if we were competent to follow your (game)
we passed the game to adulthood?
Still don't see what you THINK you achieved!
Do you want buttercream, cream cheese or whipped icing? | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/16/07 - Well, this is very interesting! Hank's response to Maggie's comment to his post about ending his "psychological games"(whatever that meant). I didn't notice anything out of the ordinary.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Thanks, Maggie. CeeBee and Bradd knew what I was doing".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Apparently, CeeBee and Bradd condoned Hank making a complete ass of himself to some unknown purpose I am yet to comprehend.
Maybe those two enjoyed Hank looking like a Nazi Eugenic a-hole, or perhaps, a man jealous of the intelligence of better men, or perhaps a rigid German American dufuss, or perhaps a shallow nincompoop!
With "friends" like those CeeBee and Bradd, who needs enemies????
Mary Sue
Even as of this date, I don't know if "Leslie" really exists!!! Hank was on the Philosophy Board four weeks ago making a post from him and his deceased wife Carol...today, he's getting remarried in a couple of weeks and maybe moving to Arizona. Is there a real person called Leslie??
All Hank has looked like is more and more of a tropicalstorm answered on 03/16/07:Yeah when he posted about Leslie out of nowhere it seemed to me like a part of his game that he said he was playing. Remember he had mentioned his game before he "quit" the board over a month ago and right before that he posted those pictures of him and Carol and no mention of a Leslie. You think he would have mentioned Leslie unless it was love at first sight and he only met her about a month ago LOL.
His game makes no sense and don't see how it had any objective except to make him look like he is losing his mind. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/16/07 - A GAME?????? Hank: you posted, in a response to Maggie, after your little game #2...."Cee Bee and Bradd knew what I was doing"!!!!
Are you trying to suggest to the board that CEE BEE AND BRAD were in collusion with you to try and play a game with the rest of the board members????????
Or is there a another reason for them KNOWING and not saying anything to the rest of the board????
Or is just part of your psychosis?????
You have placed CEE BEE and BRADD in an awkward position....and it is up to you to clear the air!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/16/07:His little game made absolutely no sense and
how can a game be a game if you are the only one playing. Then the only rule of the game seemed to be to make absolutely N0 sense whatsoever.
Like what does it mean or prove or even be a game when you talk delusional saying stuff that doesn't even make sense in a sentence (even contradicting himself)?
| | Question/Answer | peddler7118 asked on 03/15/07 - The New Age Christian Manifesto
Tenant #1
We believe the Bible is the infallible word of God whenever it is politically correct and does not conflict with Philosophical Materialism.
Tenant # 2 All them gods are just about the same.
Tenant #3 Sin is too harsh a word so we know call it alternative lifestyle choices.
Tenant #4 The people who wrote the Bible were ignorant sheepherders and did not know about the Big Bang and millions of years.
Tenant #5 We need to be really nice to the atheists so they will let us believe in a god.
Tenant #6 Christians must never claim to understand science and must realize that science is reality and religion is just a way to be nice.
Tenant # 7 There is a natural explanation for miracles. For instance when Jesus fed the 5 thousand He really just talked the kid into sharing his lunch and made the grownups feel bad for being greedy with theirs.
Tenant #8 People don’t have original sin just bad genes.
Tenant #9 Jesus was just kidding about hell and the big flood to scare the stupid sheepherders.
Tenant # 10 Never tell people they have to believe that Jesus died for them to go to heaven. Everybody gets to go.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Sounds Like once again you need to find a new church. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/15/07 - GAME #2 - OVER:
My very good friend, Dark Crow, nailed it when he told me I have been out of character the last few days. I was BUT on purpose. I talked in opposites. Almost every clarification mentioned something negative about my alter ego. Why did I say what I did? Interpret this, penned by Herbert Spencer:
"The poverty of the incapable, the distresses that come upon the imprudent, the starvation of the idle, and those shoulderings aside of the weak by the strong, which leave so many "in shallows and in miseries," are the decrees of a large, farseeing benevolence."
Now think back re: what you said in your writings these past few days. The above sums it up ... in my opinion. I have found that a few of you have feelings that are permanent and quite primary. To me, the world lies before me like a land of dreams. To you, your thoughts compliment chaos and represent what I don't as a Christian. This, of course, applies to all the atheists on this Board. Your 'best poetry' has been found to have a power of forming, sustaining and somewhat delighting me, AS NOTHING CAN. Why? Because I'm not one of you ... and I thank God for that.
From here on out, the real Hank will 'stand up.' Leslie and I are getting married the 27th. I'll start hitting shag balls this weekend (practice golf) and enjoy every minute of every day. Leslie and I might move to Scottsdale, AZ, once we get hitched. She's been there and I've worked there twice. I mention my plans because this isn't the "OTHER' Hank talking. My personal life couldn't be better ... as if you gave a darn.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Like I told Joy
Clarification/Follow-up by tropicalstorm on 03/15/07 2:03 pm:
Joy I think Hank knows we miss him when he is gone and he is a good sport!
We'll be neighbors because I want to move to Scottsdale, Glendale or Sedona Arizona in September
You are better to let the real Hank stand up because like they say if you don't stand up for yourself who will? (Or something to that effect) | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 03/15/07 - WE all seem to be more interested in MarySues laundry quandry than anything else posted. Why don't we just start talking about personal stuff, tell me all about yourselves. DOMI, you first please. There were more responses to her quandry than any other post. tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:LOL I WISH SOMEONE COULD SOLVE MY PROBLEMS.
(wanna come do my laundry while I deal with my problems) | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/15/07 - Is There a Gene That Makes you Believe there is a Gay Gene? Christians should read their Bibles and heed the warnings.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
This whole debate is based on the assumption of philosophical materialsm /atheism.
The same people who proclaim that sodomite behaviour is caused by a gene that evolved {none of these people claims God even exists} also claim there is a God gene that makes you believe in God.
God gave you a sound mind, use it. If this is true then maybe there is a gene that only makes you believe that there is a gene that makes you believe there is a God. Maybe there is a gene that only makes you believe that there is a gene that makes you a queer
This is not rocket science people , it is not science at all. It is an attempt to explain away the creator and His laws.
Blaming God for sin will not help you at all come judgement day.
You don't have to check your brain at the door when you go to church. tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:What do you do with these verses?
Rom 9:13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
Rom 9:14 What shall we say then? [Is there] unrighteousness with God? God forbid.
Rom 9:15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. Rom 9:16 So then [it is] not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
Rom 9:17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.
Rom 9:18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth. Rom 9:19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Rom 9:20 Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus? Rom 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? Rom 9:22 [What] if God, willing to shew [his] wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: Rom 9:23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, Rom 9:24 Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?
Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
The Bible says he KNEW us before we were even conceived, He knew what we would choose in life, He knows and is the Alpha and the Omega
Read all the pages on this site and you might get a better idea what I am saying
about free will )
| | Question/Answer | | Itsdb asked on 03/15/07 - Article on unborn gay babies sparks opposition OK folks, now be nice...
The president of the leading Southern Baptist seminary has incurred sharp attacks from both the left and right by suggesting that a biological basis for homosexuality may be proven, and that prenatal treatment to reverse gay orientation would be biblically justified.
The Rev. R. Albert Mohler Jr., one of the country's pre-eminent evangelical leaders, acknowledged that he irked many fellow conservatives with an article earlier this month saying scientific research "points to some level of biological causation" for homosexuality.
Proof of a biological basis would challenge the belief of many conservative Christians that homosexuality - which they view as sinful - is a matter of choice that can be overcome through prayer and counseling.
However, Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., was assailed even more harshly by gay-rights supporters. They were upset by his assertion that homosexuality would remain a sin even if it were biologically based, and by his support for possible medical treatment that could switch an unborn gay baby's sexual orientation to heterosexual.
Biological proof
"He's willing to play God," said Harry Knox, a spokesman on religious issues for the Human Rights Campaign, a national gay-rights group. "He's more than willing to let homophobia take over and be the determinant of how he responds to this issue, in spite of everything else he believes about not tinkering with the unborn."
Mohler said he was aware of the invective being directed at him on gay-rights blogs, where some participants have likened him to Josef Mengele, the Nazi doctor notorious for death-camp experimentation.
"I wonder if people actually read what I wrote," Mohler said in a telephone interview. "But I wrote the article intending to start a conversation, and I think I've been successful at that."
The article, published March 2 on Mohler's personal Web site, carried a long but intriguing title: "Is Your Baby Gay? What If You Could Know? What If You Could Do Something About It?"
Mohler began by summarizing some recent research into sexual orientation, and advising his Christian readership that they should brace for the possibility that a biological basis for homosexuality may be proven.
Mohler wrote that such proof would not alter the Bible's condemnation of homosexuality, but said the discovery would be "of great pastoral significance, allowing for a greater understanding of why certain persons struggle with these particular sexual temptations."
He also referred to a recent article in the pop-culture magazine Radar, which explored the possibility that sexual orientation could be detected in unborn babies and raised the question of whether parents - even liberals who support gay rights - might be open to trying future prenatal techniques that would reverse homosexuality.
Reversing the genes
Mohler said he would strongly oppose any move to encourage abortion or genetic manipulation of fetuses on grounds of sexual orientation, but he would endorse prenatal hormonal treatment - if such a technology were developed - to reverse homosexuality. He said this would be no different, in moral terms, from using technology that would restore vision to a blind fetus.
Mohler's argument was endorsed by a prominent Roman Catholic thinker, the Rev. Joseph Fessio, provost of Ave Maria University in Naples, Fla., and editor of Ignatius Press, Pope Benedict XVI's U.S. publisher.
"Same-sex activity is considered disordered," Fessio said. "If there are ways of detecting diseases or disorders of children in the womb, and a way of treating them that respected the dignity of the child and mother, it would be a wonderful advancement of science."
Such logic dismayed Jennifer Chrisler of Family Pride, a group that supports gay and lesbian families.
"What bothers me is the hypocrisy," she said. "In one breath, they say the sanctity of an unborn life is unconditional, and in the next breath, it's OK to perform medical treatments on them because of their own moral convictions, not because there's anything wrong with the child."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Comments? That's all I'm going to say ... for now :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Hank your reply made absolutely no sense
if babies should be aborted if proven they would turn out gay they should be aborted but
doesn't apply if you are a Christian WHO are you referring to AND why would a Christian abort a baby that would be gay if the person were truly a christian they would be against having an abortion. I am not sure what you are saying | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/15/07 - Beware of the witches !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Strange things are suggested to happen on Wallstreet today, 14/03/2007.
Some very light-heartedness in the eerie format of volatility is expected on the eve of 'quadruple witching' options.
This seems to be a photograph of one of the witches .....
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That's not very nice ! Does not look like a witch to me at all !
Link to orignal supporting article
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:contrary to the image of warts on noses, black cats and flying brooms witches look like any other person.
witchvox )
witches )
so only she knows for sure | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/15/07 - Atheism and morals ...................................... People like peddler often suggest that "Atheists have no morals, as morals only can come from God".
Of course these suggestions are NEVER accompanied by any logical support, so I will address the matter of morals from both the religious and the atheist positions.
Some time ago I saw on the internet the following notes on morals of Christians :
"A religious devotee says: "If man cannot be held accountable for his actions by a higher power, then how can he have morals? Without a guideline from a supernatural power of what is right and wrong, what would prevent all of civilization from sinking into a sea of muck and sludge?"
Morals are indeed guidelines for making decisions. Presented with similar situations, a person's actions will be identical every time.
For example, say you're leaving a restaurant and you spot a ten dollar tip passing by a table.
The enticement of increased wealth without much effort sure is tempting. By simply extending your arm and inconspicuously grabbing the cash, you will be ten dollars richer. Since no one is looking, you won't get into trouble. Plus, the waiter probably wasn't expecting such a large tip anyway. Where's the harm in that?
In this case, a Christian or a Jew would point to the Ten Commandments: "Thou shalt not steal." According to the Christian/Jewish point-of-view, this alone will restrain a religiously devout individual from snatching the money off the table. This follows the rules of deontological ethics: Something is either always right or always wrong. For example, stealing the money off the table would be morally wrong because stealing is always wrong.
However, what if the commandment said "Thou shalt steal?" Would stealing be an absolute right then? Is all that is required is a recommendation from a centuries-old text? How about the sixth commandment: "thou shalt not kill?" Does this rule apply with self-defense? Or war?
Here is the fundamental problem with static morals: the inability to judge every action we humans make with reason and free will. Shouldn't morals stand on their own merits? Humans are fantastic beings because of their ability to examine the consequences of their actions and make appropriate choices--as opposed to wild animals that act on instinct alone.
Therefore, true morals do not come from religious commandments. Morals would exist nicely without any of these.
Stealing the cash off the table would degrade your self-worth. If you are unable to earn ten dollars on your own merit, then what good are you to yourself? You are then no better than an animal fighting for its survival in the wilderness. Taking the waiter's tip would thus prove your worthlessness.
Besides that : what if I were the waiter?
Atheists have morals because humans learn moral lessons based on observation and an understanding of human nature. The religious scriptures are not necessary. An atheist reasons and considers the consequences of his actions for all his actions. Morality is one of the features of all of humanity, so therefore morals don't just exist in the religious realm. Atheists can realize the beauty of humanity, and learn not to battle with it.
What it all comes down in the end is the Golden Rule:
DO NOT DO UNTO OTHERS WHAT YOU DO NOT WANT OTHERS DO TO YOU.
A simple and logical statement, universal in all it's applications. Without any need for a deity or deities.
And valid for every human being.
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Peddles has a very narrow view AND understanding of the Bible and can not interpret it for the life of him.
He insists that if a person is born with gay tendencies then God made a mistake and is therefore a liar. What does he do with the verses that God is the potter and we are the clay and who are we to say how and what he chooses to do with it. Or the verse about He KNEW you before you were concieved. Or the verse that He knows everything from the beginning to the end? With Peddlers limited verses he can not find the balance of anything.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 03/15/07 - What would peddler and Toms777 advise????? One of the doctors treating me is a Mormon.
Because of his faith I was wondering if peddler and Toms777 would advise that I change doctors.
What do you thing?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Like I told Fred if you had a flat tire on the
highway and the tow truck driver came to help would you turn him away because he mentioned his faith or lack of it. I don't believe it should be an issue for the most part. Trust God | | Question/Answer | | Itsdb asked on 03/15/07 - Article on unborn gay babies sparks opposition OK folks, now be nice...
The president of the leading Southern Baptist seminary has incurred sharp attacks from both the left and right by suggesting that a biological basis for homosexuality may be proven, and that prenatal treatment to reverse gay orientation would be biblically justified.
The Rev. R. Albert Mohler Jr., one of the country's pre-eminent evangelical leaders, acknowledged that he irked many fellow conservatives with an article earlier this month saying scientific research "points to some level of biological causation" for homosexuality.
Proof of a biological basis would challenge the belief of many conservative Christians that homosexuality - which they view as sinful - is a matter of choice that can be overcome through prayer and counseling.
However, Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., was assailed even more harshly by gay-rights supporters. They were upset by his assertion that homosexuality would remain a sin even if it were biologically based, and by his support for possible medical treatment that could switch an unborn gay baby's sexual orientation to heterosexual.
Biological proof
"He's willing to play God," said Harry Knox, a spokesman on religious issues for the Human Rights Campaign, a national gay-rights group. "He's more than willing to let homophobia take over and be the determinant of how he responds to this issue, in spite of everything else he believes about not tinkering with the unborn."
Mohler said he was aware of the invective being directed at him on gay-rights blogs, where some participants have likened him to Josef Mengele, the Nazi doctor notorious for death-camp experimentation.
"I wonder if people actually read what I wrote," Mohler said in a telephone interview. "But I wrote the article intending to start a conversation, and I think I've been successful at that."
The article, published March 2 on Mohler's personal Web site, carried a long but intriguing title: "Is Your Baby Gay? What If You Could Know? What If You Could Do Something About It?"
Mohler began by summarizing some recent research into sexual orientation, and advising his Christian readership that they should brace for the possibility that a biological basis for homosexuality may be proven.
Mohler wrote that such proof would not alter the Bible's condemnation of homosexuality, but said the discovery would be "of great pastoral significance, allowing for a greater understanding of why certain persons struggle with these particular sexual temptations."
He also referred to a recent article in the pop-culture magazine Radar, which explored the possibility that sexual orientation could be detected in unborn babies and raised the question of whether parents - even liberals who support gay rights - might be open to trying future prenatal techniques that would reverse homosexuality.
Reversing the genes
Mohler said he would strongly oppose any move to encourage abortion or genetic manipulation of fetuses on grounds of sexual orientation, but he would endorse prenatal hormonal treatment - if such a technology were developed - to reverse homosexuality. He said this would be no different, in moral terms, from using technology that would restore vision to a blind fetus.
Mohler's argument was endorsed by a prominent Roman Catholic thinker, the Rev. Joseph Fessio, provost of Ave Maria University in Naples, Fla., and editor of Ignatius Press, Pope Benedict XVI's U.S. publisher.
"Same-sex activity is considered disordered," Fessio said. "If there are ways of detecting diseases or disorders of children in the womb, and a way of treating them that respected the dignity of the child and mother, it would be a wonderful advancement of science."
Such logic dismayed Jennifer Chrisler of Family Pride, a group that supports gay and lesbian families.
"What bothers me is the hypocrisy," she said. "In one breath, they say the sanctity of an unborn life is unconditional, and in the next breath, it's OK to perform medical treatments on them because of their own moral convictions, not because there's anything wrong with the child."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Comments? That's all I'm going to say ... for now :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:I can hear Peddler now!
contrary to what Peddler and some others believe. I have always believed that some
are born with the gene and/or the tendencies or compulsion to lean that way. I also believe that many murders and rapists are born with their tendencies as well. Does that mean God made a mistake or is a liar like Peddler says? NO
I can't find the sites now but there are sites that have PET scans of people with criminal tendencies compared to *normal* brains. They say they can tell by the PET scans if some one is more likely to grow up to be a criminal.
If somebody can be born with criminal tendencies why can't someone be born with
gay tendencies?
They say they can tell if a Pit Bull will grow up to naturally be an attack dog by PET scans. Of course environment, society and conditioning play large factors in everything as well.
God says he *KNEW* us before we were conceived and even though it sounds like predestination I don't think it is because God knows the beginning and the end and who
we are. He says he is the potter and we are the clay and who are we to question.
People who want to say 'God can not create people to *sin* before they have a chance to choose for themselves' overlook a lot of the Bible rather than find the balance of what the verses are saying.
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/15/07 - Ideology?????? Well, isn't it just like 'thick as a brick' Hank to block me from responding, and THEN, ASK me stupid questions???? Well, since you insist I go public, Spartacus.......
l. learn what a word means before you use it Hank..."ideology" is NOT used with an individual but with a group since it refers to the ideas and objectives that influence a whole group or national culture, shaping their political and social procedure. Do you think you can remember that the next time you use the word, Hankela?????
2. My methods, on this board...or any board...are quite simple.....Treat decent human beings like decent human beings...and treat assholes like assholes.
Does that answer your question, Heinrich????? I can expand on it, if you insist. :) :) :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/15/07:Was he asking what animal you would prefer to be if you were an animal??? See my reply to choux on his question. | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 03/14/07 - SOUL SLEEPING! TropicalStorm posted re time and eternity, which brought responses to the brink of "soul sleeping" as part and parcel of "eternity," "Paradise," "Heaven," etc.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS RE SOUL SLEEPING? Please quote Scripture where applicable. Both schools of thought are taught from pulpits.
Thanks.
Bobbye tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:I believe that once you die your spirit/soul leaves your body. Even in the paranormal and different religions this is what they believe.
I believe once you die you go into eternity but I believe that it isn't that simple of an explanation, which is what I was trying to get at but nobody understood. Basically I was getting at eternity being simutaneous with time even though eternity has NO time. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/14/07 - A public response to the monster who calls itself..... Hank....who posts that 'babies born out of wedlock should be aborted..Period'....First of all Journalistic asshole, if they are BORN out of wedlock..would you not assume it is too late for abortion....Second: I regret with every bone in my body that your MOTHER did not believe in abortion!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:Hank
The reason I had four babies is I WAS married and believed in happily ever after. It was the early eighties when only movie stars got divorced and the real world was going for the picket fence. Then I ended up divorced and with
four kids four to eight years old that I had to manage BY MYSELF. I never even had any babysitters. My parents wouldn't even watch them for a day. Nowadays fourteen year old kids have babies and demand their parents watch their kids so they can go out and ho around and have more babies. I still do not think they should have babies. I think that something should be done to wake them up to be more careful not to get pregnant.Why do so many get
pregnant that they end up *needing* abortions?
What ever it is needs *fixed* somehow. Is it carelessness, laziness, they don't think it will happen to them, broke condoms, or what? | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/14/07 - A public response to the monster who calls itself..... Hank....who posts that 'babies born out of wedlock should be aborted..Period'....First of all Journalistic asshole, if they are BORN out of wedlock..would you not assume it is too late for abortion....Second: I regret with every bone in my body that your MOTHER did not believe in abortion!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:Dom
I was going to say pretty much what you said.
My add on is that the mothers often also feel bad because they think things like where would s/he be today and start missing what they gave up like their birthdays and so forth.
As far as Hank it is more of his narrow mindedness. My reply to him is --yeah they can feel like they hit the lottery living on a whole whopping $600. a month IF they have 3 babies. I HAD to live on less than $800. a month welfare to raise my four kids and I managed but it ain't easy. I ONLY managed because I am excellent at managing money and going without a lot of what most people HAVE to have.
I know you say it is archaic Christianity that doesn't want sex education in the schools but there needs to be SOME kind of balance to get kids to realize it isn't all fun and games. In the early 1990's some schools started having a guy and girl take turns caring for a baby doll that they had to take care of that was programmed to cry if it was neglected so they got the idea of the responsibility of a baby. I think they need to do something to get kids to realize the consequences.
| | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 03/14/07 - BIBLE VERSE FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY! DID YOU KNOW THAT THE BIBLE HAS A SPECIAL
VERSE FOR EVERYONE'S BIRTHDAY? CHECK YOURS OUT NOW !!
http://www.mybirthverse.com/
This might interest some. It will not interest all. However, I enjoyed it. Beats bickering on this Board!
Be blessed,
Bobbye
tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:Psalm 3:3 NIV
But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 03/14/07 - In a Terrible Quandry I'm all upset by a situation that developed recently in my private life. I need some input for those interested in giving their opinion.
I have a new homemaker (for the last 2 weeks) that I really like. She does anything and does it in five minutes. I wanted to rearrange my living room furniture for the Spring/Summer months(I ordered two wedgewood blue throws for the old furn), take down my wall pictures sweep the floor.....it took her fifteen minutes AND SHE WASHED THE FLOOR with a combination of clorox and water!! Then, she washed my dishes, replaced burnt out light bulbs, went to the laundromat, and stopped at Mickey D's for me(:P). What a gal, of Polish descent, three young sons and her husband(Mexican) is in prison 15 to life. I really like her. On Law and Order, a person gets 15 to life for manslaughter or maybe drugs. Anyway...
My dear friend Doris once left with my laundry at one and came back at eight o'clock! NO lie!! Doris is not a hard worker, but we have a bond.
Doris is a little concerned. She called the homemaker company and told them the date she would be back to work for me. She asked me twice if she was coming back.
Pretty hard decision to make, eh???
Doris doesn't know that I need my laundry done three times a week now, the least, two times a week.
Now, I'm hoping that the new girl, Wendy, will quit and get a full time job within the next ten days.
What is your opinion??? tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:The ideal answer would be if you could have both. Like Doris for company and help you with some things and Wendy to get the bigger chores done. Even if they had to work in shifts.
But then life ain't ideal. I would also tell Doris that as much as I appreciated her I am not too happy being left hanging --(not knowing when she is going to go out and come back)
Hope something works out for you
Did you get what I left for you in Peddle's last post???? | | Question/Answer | Rosekeeper asked on 03/14/07 - Women Preachers?
Peddler brought up something that is important, and needs to be straighten out, for this seems to bother storm, although, I may be wrong.
As a woman I am happy, that I am the "weaker vessel" my husbands babies me, and treats me as if I’m am gold, and I deeply appreciate that, but when he will ask me to Pray as for grace, as at Thanksgiving, some think it is silly (when I cover my head) although, that is what I do, and although, not a Moslem I will continue to obey that Laws that God wrote.
1co 11:5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
I can not understand why I see women preachers on television, when this "Scripture" is so plain and simple
In my opinion it is wrong for a woman to preach according to
1st Corinthians 14:35 And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
Although, all men should remember this scripture..
1co 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
So, plain and simple, we are the complement of man, we are beautiful, we don't need to dress like the world, or adorn with big diamond rings, I see nothing wrong with that. Although, Peddler You are under Christ, as women under men, as Christ is under the Father...
What is your truthful answer to why women preach, when they know of these scriptures? tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:Besides what Bobbye has already said. I think that you have to understand the culture and the times. Women were NOT educated and had to rely on their husband for answers to most anything.
They were to walk behind the cow that walked behind the man basically they were lower than the cattle. If we were to follow the Bible's example of a woman's rule we would not be anywhere near where we are today. I think it basically was because a woman's place was in the home and she was considered inferior and less intelligent.
I would rather hear a woman preach if she had a
a really good sermon than a male preacher rambling on with NOTHING to say and I have been to a few of those in my life time. | | Question/Answer | domino asked on 03/14/07 - Why???
Why??...are so many experts posting their responses as CLARIFICATIONS, instead of AS ANSWERS on the public board????? Are you afraid of having your answers rated?????
When you respond to a person like Rosekeeper who has blocked four experts, you cannot recieve reponses or clarifications from ANY of those she has blocked UNLESS you respond ON THE PUBLIC BOARD.....What you are now doing is making the board a playground for those who have blocked others. WHEN A QUESTION IS ASKED ON THE PUBLIC BOARD IT SHOULD BE ANSWERED ON THE PUBLIC BOARD. tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:I think partly I kept thinking I am hitting the reply button a lot of times when I am not.
I have been cutting and pasting onto the reply
when I notice I do that. That is why my one link to Perk didn't work because I missed the
< in the cut or something.
Another reason I ended up actually getting in the habit was to cut down on JJD's multi ratings.
With Rose's I want to think of a reply more related to the verses she put before I actually reply to it. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/14/07 - Why do some people not believe in the Holocaust? WARSAW, Poland -
A 97-year-old woman credited with saving 2,500 Jewish children during the Holocaust was honored by parliament Wednesday at a ceremony during which Poland's president said she deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.
Irena Sendler, who lives in a nursing home in Warsaw, was too frail to attend the special session in which members of the Senate unanimously approved a resolution honoring her and the Polish underground Council for Assisting Jews.
The group's members, mostly Roman Catholics, risked their own lives to save Jews from the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Poland.
Sendler was cited for organizing the "rescue of the most defenseless victims of the Nazi ideology — the Jewish children."
President Lech Kacyzinski said in an address to senators that Sendler is a "great hero who can be justly named for the Nobel Peace Prize."
"Every child saved with my help and the help of all the wonderful secret messengers, who today are no longer living, is the justification of my existence on this Earth, and not a title to glory," Sendler said in a letter read by Elzbieta Ficowska, who was saved by Sendler as a baby. "Over a half-century has passed since the hell of the Holocaust, but its specter still hangs over the world and doesn't allow us to forget the tragedy."
Sendler led about 20 helpers who smuggled Jewish children out of the Warsaw Ghetto to safety between 1940 and 1943, placing them in Polish families, convents or orphanages.
She wrote the children's names on slips of paper and buried them in jars in a neighbor's yard as a record that could help locate their parents after the war. The Nazis arrested her in 1943, but she refused — despite repeated torture — to reveal their names.
Anyone caught helping Jews in Nazi-occupied Poland risked being summarily shot, along with family members.
"I think she's a great lady, very courageous, and I think she's a model for the whole international community," Israeli Ambassador David Peleg said after the ceremony. "I think that her courage is a very special one."
In 1965, Israel's Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial awarded Sendler one of its first medals given to people who saved Jews, the so-called "Righteous Among the Nations."
She was given the honor in 1983, after Poland's Communist authorities finally agreed to allow her to travel abroad.
Decent comments welcome!
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:It boggles my mind how they can say that and try to force it as a fact. All they have to do is read history and the ones
that were tried here for the crimes within the past few years. (I believe you gave me one of the names of one of them when I asked about a month ago so I could reply to this question on Yahoo).
Survivors aren't even dead yet and they are trying to push this on people; I have no idea what their motive for it is.
Ann Frank and Courie Ten Boom must be rolling in their graves and why do we have
a holocaust museum in D.C. what do they plan on doing with that if they get their way rewriting history.
My ex mother in law was a child in the concentration camps. She is in the hospital right now. I don't know if she is going to make it.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/14/07 - One the Murders of Over 100 Million by Atheists. More people were killed in the 20th century by those that agree with Perk that the Roman Games with the Christians being fed to Lions should return and Mary Susans belief we are just cockroaches than all the wars and plagues in all of history.
They want this for you and your children but most of you fall all over them for approval.
Why is that? tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:what Roman games? Where? When?
WANT WHAT FOR OUR CHILDREN?
ARE THEY SELLING TICKETS? | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/13/07 - Hebrew scholar affirms that Genesis means what it says!
Interview with Dr Ting Wang, lecturer in biblical Hebrew
by Jonathan Sarfati
Dr Ting Wang earned his M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary in California (Escondido) and his doctorate in Biblical Studies at the Hebrew Union College, Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati, Ohio). He now lectures on biblical Hebrew at Stanford University in California,1 and is a pastor for the Youth and Children’s Ministries at Korean Central Presbyterian Church. Dr Wang is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature and the National Association of Professors of Hebrew. He has also been a college instructor in biblical and classical Greek. Dr Wang lives in Palo Alto with his wife, Becky.
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While the creation evangelism message is helping to win many people to Christ, there is strong resistance within parts of the church. While most attacks focus on the science involved, many otherwise conservative theologians claim that Genesis really doesn’t mean what it says, is not meant to be a historical record, or that it’s not really so important anyway. Since Genesis was written in Hebrew, I asked a real Hebrew scholar, Dr Ting Wang, about what the author really meant.
Original languages
Why would anyone want to study biblical Hebrew so deeply? Dr Wang gives his own testimony:
‘The Lord used the Bible to save me. I was very despondent during my second year of university, so I bought a Bible, and read it as a “last resort”?. The words were unlike any I had encountered before—Jesus, the bread of life, the one who eats this bread would never hunger; Jesus, the light of the world; “if anyone is thirsty let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him” [John 7:37–38].
‘This sounded so good to a parched and desperate soul, and subsequently God made it clear to me that whatever I did in life would have to revolve around the Word of truth. By His grace, I was able to study both Hebrew and Greek for years. And why did I want to? The Word is so important that I did not want to read a translation!’
Old and New Testaments
Many in the church say that the New Testament is all that matters, or act as if this were true. But Dr Wang explained why the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) is important for Christians today:
‘The Law is a schoolmaster pointing the way to Christ (Galatians 3:24). Jesus Himself said that if one does not listen to Moses and the Prophets, one will not understand the New Testament, for one will not believe even if someone rises from the dead [Luke 16:31]. Indeed, on the road to Emmaus, Jesus explained that the Old Testament essentially taught about Him [Luke 24:27].
‘Moreover, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught that He did not come to abolish the Law and Prophets, but to fulfill them—that until heaven and earth disappeared with a roar, nothing in the Old Testament would become obsolete [Matthew 5:17–18, cf. 2 Peter 3:10]. Jesus explicitly said, “Scripture cannot be broken”? [John 10:35].
‘God has elevated above all things His name and His Word (Psalm 138:2), and the person He esteems “trembles”? at His Word (Isaiah 66:2). And despite the fact that the heavens continuously declare the glory of God, how else but from the Old Testament would we learn details about Creation and the Fall?’
What type of book is Genesis?
A number of theologians claim that Genesis is not meant to be taken straightforwardly, that it is really poetry or allegory, or just a polemic against the surrounding paganism. But Ting said:
‘Because Scripture is living and active, relevant to past, present and future, it escapes easy categorization. Genesis is world history, particular history and theocentric anthropology [God-focused study of man]. It is prophecy, promise, wisdom, covenant—words that ‘God breathed’ (2 Timothy 3:15–17, 2 Peter 1:20–21)—“the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). From a secular perspective, Genesis has been called a historical record of origins, which is also accurate.’
What does ‘day’ mean?
Many ‘old-earth creationists’ claim to believe that Genesis was truly history, but they want to fit in the billions of years proposed by scientists who weren’t there. So they assert that the creation days were really long periods of time. Dr Wang firmly refutes this suggestion:
‘The semantic range [list of all possible meanings] of the English word “day” is not unlike the range of the Hebrew word (yôm). No-one denies that “day” can mean a period or era in some contexts in both languages. For example, that’s what we mean if we say, “in Martin Luther’s day … .”
‘Similarly, in Proverbs 25:13 we find “as the cold of snow in the time/‘day’ of the harvest.” However, it’s totally improper to claim “day” can mean “era” in a different context. For instance, “on the last day of Luther’s life … ,” “day” clearly must mean an ordinary day—the modifier “last” and the context—Luther’s passing—render the meaning clear.
‘In Genesis 1, yôm comes with “evening” and “morning”, and is modified by a number. So it’s obvious that the Hebrew text is describing a 24-hour day—the exegetical burden of proof rests crushingly upon those who view otherwise (notice too that in Jeremiah 33:17–22, God’s covenant with the day and the night, so that both will come at the appointed time, is as unalterable as the promise that a son of David will reign). But no amount of evidence will convince those who are persuaded to play devil’s advocate—just like the serpent in Genesis 3, they must ask, “Did God really say?”’
Some have claimed that biblical Hebrew had no long-age words available. However, Dr Wang showed the falsity of this:
‘One of the most familiar passages in the Hebrew Bible is found in Ecclesiastes 3:1–11, the “God makes all things beautiful in his time” passage. In Hebrew, two words for “time” appear. The passage begins “There is a season ( zemān) for everything, and a time ( ‘ēt) for every activity under heaven: a time () to be born and a time () to die, a time () to plant and a time () to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal … ,” and so on.
‘Whereas זמן is only used in the later books Esther, Ecclesiastes, Daniel, Ezra and Nehemiah,
is used throughout Scripture, and would be an appropriate term to communicate an indefinite period of time, though most likely used without a number.’
The goodness of God’s creation, and what went wrong
The most common objection to Christianity is, ‘Why would a good God create a world full of suffering?’ However, this was not the way God originally created things. Ting points out:
‘“Good” (Hebrew tôv), used seven times in Genesis 1, indicates that there was no sin or death or pain. These were introduced after the opposite of good, “evil”, was unleashed through the eating of the forbidden fruit. The first death was evidently the animal(s) whose skin(s) God used to clothe the naked and shameful Adam and Eve. Prior to this God-initiated sacrifice to save people (foreshadowing greater grace and sacrifice to come), diets were vegetarian (Genesis 1:29–30).
‘Moreover, the Fall affected all of creation, which is in “bondage to decay” (Romans 8:21), groaning under its effects, longing for redemption. The curses listed in Genesis 3, though succinct, describe the universality of the Fall—enmity within creation for generations to come, pain, male-female relationship problems, a cursed ground, painstaking work, death. “Good” in Eden meant what it will mean in Heaven, much as salvation history comes full circle—no tears, no pain, no death, the Tree of Life, river(s), the presence of Emmanuel (and no need for the sun for the Lamb is its light in Revelation 21:23—similar to the “light” in Creation before the creation of the sun on Day Four).
‘The distinction is that in Eden, the good was pre-evil, whereas in Heaven the good is forever post-evil. In Eden there was night, in Heaven there will be no more night (Revelation 22:5).’
Noah’s Flood
Long-agers believe that the fossil record was laid down over millions of years, which would leave no room for a global Flood. Conversely, if there was a global Flood, that would have laid down much of the rock and fossil record quickly, so there would be no need for millions of years.
So a faith commitment to long-age ideas entails a local flood (if they believe in one at all). So is this possible from the Hebrew? Dr Wang is emphatic:
‘The Hebrew word for “all”, (kol), generally means “all”, “all kinds”, or “every” without hyperbole [exaggeration].
‘On both lexical [word meaning] and contextual grounds, Noah’s Flood is comprehensive. Recounting the biblical sequence of events, initially, all people had become corrupt, God would destroy them and the earth, floodwaters would destroy all life—every land creature that breathed through its nostrils (Genesis 7:22). Everything on Earth would perish, God would “wipe” from the face of the earth every creature he had made; the Ark would hold every kind of wild animal, every ground creature, and every bird.
‘Subsequently, all mountains under Heaven were under water by more than 15 cubits, every living thing on Earth perished—all creatures, all humankind. Every living thing on land died. Everything was wiped out. Only Noah and the others on the Ark were left. It’s hard to imagine how God could have been clearer.’
Why do so many theologians reject Genesis as it is written?
Since the Hebrew grammar is so clear that Genesis should be read plainly, why do many church leaders reject this? ‘This is a very good question,’ replied Dr Wang, ‘and can be answered on different levels.’
‘On the one hand, it is common to “study the Scriptures” (John 5:39), and disregard God. Remarkably, in the situation from which this John quote is taken, Jesus Himself was standing right in front of His disputers! There is a veil over people’s hearts when they read Scripture (2 Corinthians 3:15), the “god of this age”has blinded minds (2 Corinthians 4:4), the things of God are foolishness to the world and cannot be understood apart from the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14).
‘In a more mundane sense, many theologians would rather not face the calumny of the world, forsaking the foolishness of the gospel for the “wisdom” of the world, seeking the esteem of scholars and scholarship rather than the “well done, good and faithful servant,” from the Lord.’
Why is Genesis creation important for Christians?
‘God as Creator is essential and foundational to Christianity,’ said Dr Wang.
‘The wisdom of people is not to be trusted, as reasonable as it may seem. How reasonable was Eve’s “good for food, pleasing to the eye” “and taking the fruit and eating?” Sounds good to me! Let’s eat! And once again, how much like the Serpent’s “did God really say?” in Genesis 3 is the approach most people take towards Genesis 1 and 2?
‘Often, people will use the old argument that we should concentrate on preaching the Gospel, rather than get distracted by “side-issues” such as Creation. But if we cannot believe the record of Creation, then why believe the record of the New Creation (“if anyone is in Christ, he is a New Creation; the old is gone, the new has come!”—2 Corinthians 5:17)?
‘If we cannot believe in the First Adam, why believe in the Last [1 Corinthians 15:45]? Death came through the First, life through the Last [1 Corinthians 15:21–22].
‘Evolution, of course, would say that death (through the Unholy Trinity of evolution: Time, Chance Mutations and Natural Selection) formed and shaped the first humans. This imperils the parallels between death from the first Adam and life from Christ. And if Christ is not raised (and the first Adam did not bring death), then we are to be pitied more than all people (1 Corinthians 15:17–19).
‘God as Creator is also central to his sovereignty. So He has mercy upon whom He has mercy (Romans 9:15–21), upon those called by His name. God communicates the fact that He is Creator to Jonah, Habakkuk and others (especially Job) who question the justice of their situation.
‘In all things, God points to the fact that He is the Potter, we the clay; He the Creator, we the creature (Romans 9). Everything about our relationship with Him is based upon this distinction.
‘Moreover, God’s creating and His acting are inextricably related. His acting now is based on His creating then. His creating out of nothing, ex nihilo, is His calling what is not what is (1 Corinthians 1:28), creating streams in the desert (Isaiah 43:19).
‘God’s very name, YHWH, is related to His being Creator, for He identified Himself as “I am who I am” (Exodus 3:14, cf. John 8:58), “the beginning and the end” (Revelation 21:6, 22:13).’
Isn’t it wonderful to be able to totally trust the words of our Creator, who means what He says, from the very first verse in the Bible, as this respected Hebrew scholar attests?
Thank you very much, Dr Wang.
Note
Dr Wang’s views do not necessarily represent those of Stanford University as a whole
tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:watch this
It is creation origins
very christian based and I am sure you will enjoy
origins ) | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/14/07 - Practical sex education at school ! .....................
Knowing how prude the US CAN BE the following news item drew my interest :
School district: Sixth graders had sex in class
For months it's been a well-kept secret. But now Warren Township Schools confirm a disturbing case of sex in the classroom. The illicit activity has parents concerned and a district at a loss for words.
Shop class gives students a chance to learn outside of the book. But at Warren Township's Raymond Park Middle School, two students engaged in illicit acts in view of goggled eyes.
13 Investigates was tipped off by a disturbed resident who writes:
"...during school hours in a classroom with an experienced teacher present, two sixth graders completed the act of intercourse...at least ten students were witnesses. No disciplinary actions were taken against the teacher... All teachers were told to keep quiet."
Middle school students having sex in a busy classroom while a teacher is present? Warren Township Associate Superintendent Jeff Swensson confirmed it's true. It's been kept under wraps since November.
The principal at Raymond Park Middle School would not speak to us about the incident or parents concerns. The superintendent in charge of middle schools in the district also backed out of an on-camera interview and instead provided a three-sentence statement:
"Two students were involved in inappropriate conduct in a lab class last semester. We have investigated the matter and taken appropriate action. The school corporation considers the matter closed and will have no further comment."
Associate Superintendent Jeff Swensson told Eyewitness News off camera the teacher didn't know what was going on because another student acted as a "look-out." But once the teacher discovered the behavior, immediate action was taken. Swensson says the students involved were recommended for expulsion. But he did not say whether the board followed that recommendation.
Warren Township School Police were not aware of the incident and say no report was made even though the children were recommended for expulsion.
We sought comment from all seven Warren Township School Board Members about how this case was handled. No one was available to speak with us.
Related stories : (use my link to get a link to these articles)
Warren Township Schools to have meeting over sex incident
Dept. of Education powerless in middle school sex incident
School officials refuse to comment on sex incident
---
Link to supporting article
How can this happen in such a semi-Christian society as the USA ? I do not mean the actual sex deed, but to keep this secret?
Any comments ?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:
Ever Since the one teacher went to jail for being with a boy in her class and even having his baby and they eventually got married, it has become rather common for female teacher's to be with boys. They somehow get away with it while male teachers still go to jail. Eighth graders are taught to put condoms on cucumbers. Doctors give condoms to eighth and ninth graders and the school takes girls for abortions without the parents even knowing they are pregnant.
Sex in the school room with the teachers knowledge is becoming more common. Sometimes something is done about it sometimes not.
Yet at the same time they have suspended kindergarten boys for grabbing kindergarten girls for sexual harassment and the kid has no idea what he has done, but by the eighth grade it is considered sex education.
This is America's solution for unwanted pregnancy and they can't seem to come up with any other solution.
I hear all kinds of stories mostly from parents and kids so it is not some hyped up biased stuff I read
You ask how can a Christian nation
but remember separation of church and state
Christianity has no say in the schools. Sometimes the law does something sometimes it does not.
read the link in clarification
(know not to put link first now :)
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/14/07 - Practical sex education at school ! .....................
Knowing how prude the US CAN BE the following news item drew my interest :
School district: Sixth graders had sex in class
For months it's been a well-kept secret. But now Warren Township Schools confirm a disturbing case of sex in the classroom. The illicit activity has parents concerned and a district at a loss for words.
Shop class gives students a chance to learn outside of the book. But at Warren Township's Raymond Park Middle School, two students engaged in illicit acts in view of goggled eyes.
13 Investigates was tipped off by a disturbed resident who writes:
"...during school hours in a classroom with an experienced teacher present, two sixth graders completed the act of intercourse...at least ten students were witnesses. No disciplinary actions were taken against the teacher... All teachers were told to keep quiet."
Middle school students having sex in a busy classroom while a teacher is present? Warren Township Associate Superintendent Jeff Swensson confirmed it's true. It's been kept under wraps since November.
The principal at Raymond Park Middle School would not speak to us about the incident or parents concerns. The superintendent in charge of middle schools in the district also backed out of an on-camera interview and instead provided a three-sentence statement:
"Two students were involved in inappropriate conduct in a lab class last semester. We have investigated the matter and taken appropriate action. The school corporation considers the matter closed and will have no further comment."
Associate Superintendent Jeff Swensson told Eyewitness News off camera the teacher didn't know what was going on because another student acted as a "look-out." But once the teacher discovered the behavior, immediate action was taken. Swensson says the students involved were recommended for expulsion. But he did not say whether the board followed that recommendation.
Warren Township School Police were not aware of the incident and say no report was made even though the children were recommended for expulsion.
We sought comment from all seven Warren Township School Board Members about how this case was handled. No one was available to speak with us.
Related stories : (use my link to get a link to these articles)
Warren Township Schools to have meeting over sex incident
Dept. of Education powerless in middle school sex incident
School officials refuse to comment on sex incident
---
Link to supporting article
How can this happen in such a semi-Christian society as the USA ? I do not mean the actual sex deed, but to keep this secret?
Any comments ?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/14/07:
page 1 )
Ever Since the one teacher went to jail for being with a boy in her class and even having his baby and they eventually got married, it has become rather common for female teacher's to be with boys. They somehow get away with it while male teachers still go to jail. Eighth graders are taught to put condoms on cucumbers. Doctors give condoms to eighth and ninth graders and the school takes girls for abortions without the parents even knowing they are pregnant.
Sex in the school room with the teachers knowledge is becoming more common. Sometimes something is done about it sometimes not.
Yet at the same time they have suspended kindergarten boys for grabbing kindergarten girls for sexual harassment and the kid has no idea what he has done, but by the eighth grade it is considered sex education.
This is America's solution for unwanted pregnancy and they can't seem to come up with any other solution.
I hear all kinds of stories mostly from parents and kids so it is not some hyped up biased stuff I read
You ask how can a Christian nation
but remember separation of church and state
Christianity has no say in the schools. Sometimes the law does something sometimes it does not.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/13/07 - Catch this:
The following is a sampling of what you read on this Board on a daily basis. Domino's answer to Joe's last post:
"domino Yeah!!! They believe Bad manners are better than NO manners at all :) :) :) :)
Joe is, indeed, one in a million. Unlike Hank, I could never envision Joe calling a dead woman a WHORE and a BITCH. Or calling a live woman a 'pregnant pig'.
Wonder who it was who cut Hank's balls off and left him with such a loathing for REAL women?????? And THAT pussy claims he want's to meet us in the boxing ring!!!! ROTFLMAO"
**************
Is this what you want to read on this Board?
* I can't get Leslie to quit laughing at Domino's answer. Great gal! Getting married in two weeks ... March 27th! Everyone is invited to our wedding except ATHEISTS. My golfing buddies will act as bouncers if any of them show up. Agnostics are welcome.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/13/07:Leslie enjoyed it apparently so I guess she laughs on a daily basis...at least she has something to keep her amused
You say you are the King
I guess we are the court jesters
![]() | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/13/07 - Abortion a 'fundi-atheist' plot?????? Once again Peddler in her hysteria shoots herself in the head. In replying to Pericles she SCREAMS HYSTERICALLY: "You godless fundi-Atheists murder 4000 babies every day.
Well, naturally, this prompted me, being a stickler for fact, to check abortion statistics to see who, exactly was having all these abortions. Findings taken from "Patterns of Socioeconomic characterists of women obtaining ABORTIONS in 2000:
RELIGIOUS affiliation: The majority of women older than 17 who obtained abortion, REPORTED A RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION. The highest proportion (43%) identified themselves as Protestant. Twenty seven percent of women having an abortion identified themselves as Catholic, and 8% as a member of another religion; 22% reported no religious affiliation. Thirteen percent identified themselves as "born-again" or evangelical, three forths of whom were Protestant.
Women affiliated with "other" religions and those who didnot identify with any religions had the higest abortion rates (31 and 30 per 1,000, respectively). Women with NO religious affiliation experienced THE LARGEST DECLINE IN ABORTION of ALL groups examined (35%). "
Geeezzzz it seems that those 'nasty' Christian women just can't stay out of those abortion clinics!!!!!
To read the full report log on to:
www.guttmacher.org/pubs/journals/3422602.html
Or simply type the title of the article into your search engine.
P.S. Peddler, cupcake, the article did not specify how many BAPTISTS underwent abortion :) :) :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/13/07:I do not know much about people over eighteen that have abortions but this is what I DO know about teen age abortion thirteen to eighteen years old.
I think with the church has become a lot like the non believers. They want to have everything everybody else has and do everything everybody else does that they do not stop to consider what goes against Christianity. They listen to the rap music that constantly repeats stuff like I want to in your pants *** ** ***** ****
***..... and they are not being taught any morals of any kind. The Churches are so caught up in teaching materialism--give to
God and you will have it all and do not focus so much on peoples everyday problems.
Churches also tend to figure anything like abortion is an outside problem-(like the parents that say, 'NOT my kid')
Then the schools teach them before High school all kinds of sex stuff and tell them go experiment. They are given condoms by the Doctor when they are around the 8th or 9th grade. So even if the parents are teaching them any Christian morals they are getting mixed messages by other adults that say oh it is okay they would do it anyway because of peer pressure.
To top it all off many girls are taken for abortions by the school without the parents knowledge that the girl is even pregnant.
If the parents are the ones taking them for the abortions I blame them because they should seek alternatives if they have any Christian convictions. Often too, I think many are afraid they will be shunned by the church if they go to them for advice on a pregnancy they do not want for whatever reasons.
| | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 03/13/07 - Has Anyone Seen Drgade? Am I missing something on here? I miss Drgade, and only Pray he is well, has anyone heard anything from him? tropicalstorm answered on 03/13/07:he is here about everyday. He has replied to at least 6 of my posts in the past 2 weeks. I think he is on the political board about as much as this one. Find his name and click on it and you can see he has been here. | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/11/07 - Let's Throw Hank a Good Bye Party!!! How about let's throw a "Good-bye Princess Hankinina Toga" party this week?
Suggestions for a super send-off appreciated, please.
Thanks.
Mary Sue
Who would have the nerve to return after a super bash? tropicalstorm answered on 03/11/07:who would?
HANK!!!
Or Hankspar
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/11/07 - Chat Board One of the experts here said that the CB is a chat board now.
So, what are the parameters and rules for a chat board? I have never been on one.... Not that I would obey any stinkin' rules.
Just wonderin' tropicalstorm answered on 03/11/07:anything goes and if you want to have a *private* talk with someone then you can.
I think they are extremely boring, shallow and a waste of time.
We may have our faults and differences here but we aren't shallow like that. | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 03/11/07 - How does the Religion of Deism Compare with the Christian Religion? Deism, from the Latin word Deus, God, is the belief of a God, and this belief is the first article of every man's creed. tropicalstorm answered on 03/11/07:From my understanding Deists believe in God and that he created everything but then sat back and let us on our own. Christians for the most part believe God is here and now in our everyday lives. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 03/11/07 - Which denominations are 100% Christian?????????? Here is my view about the LDS and others being a Christian denomination.
That is a matter of opinion, as it is in regard to several other denominations which are accused of not being Christian by various persons or sects.
In those controversial opinions one can easily note a hefty amount of bigotry sometimes biblically argued.
If a person wants to get down to the nitty-gritty of deciding what is Christian and what is not a nit-picker can say that any denomination which does not follow the New Testament 100% is not Christian.
Because of the wide and varied interpretations of Holy Scripture, any and even all denominations can be claimed by some to not be Christian.
That is my opinion on that subject.
Do you:
1. Agree
2. Not agree 3.
3. Or have your own very different opinion on it?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/11/07:My own view is that most people go to many traditional churches as some moral obligation and can't even tell you what the Bible teaches.
They say as long as I am a good person and go to church that is all I have to do to be a Christian. Before the non denominational churches and Assemblies of God went to Mega church I felt they came the closest to Christianity. Now they attract many because of their feel good fuzzy sermons and prosperity teachings.
I know lots of REAL Christians and most of them are from the Assemblies of God churches from before they went haywire. I could even give you a nice list of people I know who are REAL Christians.
Just For starters
page 1 )
page 2 )
page 3 )
page 4 )
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/10/07 - This is for Princess Heinricka the First (and Last). Who posts that the American Civl Liberties Union is Americas answer to the Gestapo in Nazi Germany.
ACLU's Defense of Religious Liberty
The right of each and eery American to practice his or her own religion, or NO religion at all, is among the most fundamental of the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. The Consitutions framers understood very well that religious liberty can flourish ONLY IF THE GOVERNMENT LEAVES RELIGON ALONE.
Recent ACLU involvement in religous liberty cases include:
September 20, 2005: ACLU of New Jersey joins lawsuit supproting second gradrers's right to sing "Awesome God" at a talent show.
August 4, 2005: ACLU helps free a New Mexico preacher from jail.
May 25, 2005: ACLU sues Wisconisn prison on behalf of a Muslim woman who was forced to remove her headscarf in front of male guards and prisoners.
February 2005: ACLU of Pennsylvania successsfully defends the right of an African American Evangelical chruch to occupy a church building in a predominantly white parish.
December 22, 2004: ACLU of New Jersey successfully defends right of religious expression by jurors.
December 14, 2004: ACLU joins Pennsylvania parents in filing first-ever challange to "Intelligent Design" instruction in public schools.
November 20, 2004: ACLU of Nevada supports free speech rights of evangelists to preach on the sidewalks of the strip in Las Vegas.
November 12, 2004: ACLU of Georgia files a lawsuit on behalf of parents challenging evolution disclaimers in science textbooks.
November 9, 2004 ACLU of Nevada defeneds a Mormon student who was suspended after wearing a T-shirt with a religious message,to school.
August 11, 2004: ACLU of Nebraska defends church facing evition in the city of Lincoln.
July 10, 2004: Indiana Civil Liberties Union defends the rights of a Baptist minister to preach his message on public streets.
June 9, 2004 ACLU of Nebraska files a lawlsuit on behalf of a Muslim woman barred from a public pool because she refused to wear a bathing suit instead of her long skirt and veil.
June 3,2004: Under pressure from the ACLU of Virginia, officials agree not to prohibit baptisms on public property in Falmout Waterside Park in Stafford County.
There are many more, and more recent cases that you can see, simply by typing in "ACLU Defense of Rreligious Liberty" including the landmark case in which the ACLU defending the Jehovah's Witnesses right to proselytize and pass out religious literature from house to house.
P.S. What happened to Messiah Hanks Queen Leslie...bad enough she might have been demoted, but to have her banished altogether?????? Heinrika...there is a little valve in the small of her back...you can blow her up again any time. :) :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/11/07:He is still talking about Queen Leslie in just about everything he says.
I am surprised the ACLU has defended SO many Christian things. I know they do if the law upholds the Christians right, but often the ACLU is the one fighting for the separation of church and state and against Christians rights. Often the ACLJ and them are fighting on opposite sides with the ACLU against the Christians rights.
Hank refers to NAZI enough that one can not help wonder if Hitler is his hero | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/10/07 - Since we seem to be in an information retrival mode... You might find this interesting.
AMERIAN CHRISTIANS 'NOT BIBLE-BELIEVERS'
reprinted from Charisma News Service (no date)
Nine of 10 Americans own at least one Bible, and eight of 10 call themselves Christians; but their smorgasbord of religious beliefs appear to contradict that second statistic. Examining 13 different beliefs, the Barna Research Group's latest survey found that a large percentage of Protestants or Catholics have adopted beliefs that conflict with the teachings of the Bible and their churches.
Released last week, the poll of 630 adults discovered that most of them reject the notions of ORIGINAL SIN, the EXISTENCE OF SATAN, and SALVATION BY GOD'S GRACE ALONE. The report also found that 80 percent of Catholics believer that 'praying to deceased saints can have a positive effect in a person's life.'
Surprisingly, 41 percent of Protestants believe in praying to dead saints, too -- a notion dismissed by most evangelical churches. Thirty five percent of Protestants surveyed also said that it is possible to 'communicate with others when they die.' And in yet another break from biblical teaching, the study found that 44 percent contend that 'the Bible, Quran and Book of Mormon are ALL differenct expressions of the same spiritual truths."
'Americans still revere the Bible and like to think of themselves as Bible-believeing people, but the evidence suggests otherwise', said BRG president George Barna, who was not surprised by the findings on Americans' pluralistic beliefs. 'Christians have increasingly been adopitng spiritual views that come from ..other sources."
Makes sense to me.
And here it is the poor Atheists who are taking all the heat! :) :) :)
Sensible comments welcome....Smart asses will be reduced to whale dung! :) :) :)
tropicalstorm answered on 03/10/07:That is what I keep telling Perc and others.
We are a Christian nation in name only. People say they are Christian simply because they were raised being told they are Christian. I hear drug dealers preaching to people they are selling drugs to. | | Question/Answer | | Toms777 asked on 03/10/07 - Church Growth Movement / Rick Warren etc. Listen to what David Wilkerson has to say regarding this movement.
David Wilkerson on the Church Growth Movement
tropicalstorm answered on 03/10/07:My Bible teacher said exactly the same thing in the early seventies-- that the then non denominational churches would end up exactly as
Dave Wilkerson is saying. I started noticing it starting to go this way back in the middle eighties.
I have been watching everything my Bible teacher said happening in the past 30 years and it only gets worse. I remember a few years ago the church was saying Dave Wilkerson is a cult.
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/09/07 - How to post bullsh*t unopposed ..........................
How to post bullsh*t unopposed and fall to pieces mentally at the same time ....
Hank is showing you all the way :
- You start with blocking everyone who you fear will take your own cr*p and shovel it right back at you.
- As they no longer can address your cowardly ad hominum attacks on them in your own topic, it keeps your own topic nice and clean.
- Another advantage is that you do not have to counter their comments of your nonsense.
- If you do not like the content of new topics by others, just post your own new topic. No need to validate your own posts.
- Now there is no limit any more to your megalomania any more : just call yourself the "New Messiah". Those who dare to criticize you can always be blocked also ....
Let me show you all the progression in Hanks deterioration of his mental capacities from bad to insanity level.
All below this line are Quotations from posts by Hank1 on this board :
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In "Domino" dated 02/11/07
"I'm playing a little game with three of our Experts". A "little game". Yeah ...
---
BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE dated 02/12/07
You refer to issues that have to be settled. and about winning as if you are playing as game.
---
In NBC NEWS dated 02/12/07
"This, of course, includes Domino, Pericles et al ... all the atheists and agnostics" ... You're also talking these about battleground.
---
JUST WONDERING dated 02/13/07
I'm a damn happy guy who posts at Answerway just for kicks. Kicks? Is that what you are here for?
---
In Christians dated 02.13.07
What happened to the Christians on this Board? Don't you have the guts to fight for your beliefs?
---
To ATON: dated 02/13/07
"Sie sind der größten Esel des Pferd etc etc etc"
---
AT LAST: dated 02/14/07
I am leaving this Board to the ATHEISTS. Go to it!
---
THE DEMISE OF ATHEIST BOARD #2: dated 02/17/07
THIS IS WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIANITY BOARD, PROBABLY FOR GOOD! TAKE CARE!
---
IS THIS YOUR SAVIOR? dated 02/21/07
The next time you mention CAROL and LESLIE in those terms, you've had it ... Just don't screw with me, ATON. I mean it!"
---
What ... more libel? dated 02/21/07
Looks like I'm getting to you, ATON! Aren't you wondering WHY I'm not libeling you?
---
RESULTS: dated 02/22/07
So be it! You'll see! Verbal pork barrel rhetoric. That's patronage. I stand up to these fools. You and people like you. Take a swim!
---
Domino did your religion 03/08/07
That turkey has posted enough crap on this Board to make his posts into a book.
---
Have a question? 03/08/07
Noone! It's quite obvious. This Board has had it! We should have blocked Domino and Pericles months ago. Two very selfish barbarians.
---
The Gospel according to Dommy 03/08/07
Domino hides behind his keyboard. He's the worst I've ever come by on the Internet.
---
How does forgiveness work? 03/08/07
Which do you agree with? I don't forgive. Nor do I expect forgiveness, an apology or seek restitution.
---
Why should the person 03/08/07
Screw with me and I'll screw with you ... Hurray for me and to Hell with you.
---
Does sincere forgiveness 03/08/07
I don't think sincere forgiveness exists. It's not my responsibility to forgive anyone ... Forgive and forget! No way.
---
Is dommy a God-Hating 03/08/07
Atheists are scumbags who do not live by any rules ... I might help Jesus and catch a few myself.
---
If Jesus was not the Messiah 03/09/07
Yours truly! I'm the new Messiah!
---
Domino - the queer one: topic by HANK1 03/09/07
Efforts to document the relationship between Domino and disease go back many a moon ... I link Domino's pessimism with mental illness.
---
dreams and visions .... topic by Hank1 03/09/07
As your new Messiah, I must say that I invented dreams and made them useless.
---
I AM YOUR NEW MESSIAH : topic by HANK1 03/09/07
It's quite evident that the words of Jesus and God aren't helping many of you act like Christians or civilized earthlings. So, my fiance, Leslie, has appointed me to be your NEW Messiah. Address her as Queen Leslie who is sitting to my left at this time.
---
YOUR NEW MESSIAH SPEAKS: HANK1 03/09/07
ARE YOU READY?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domino asked in "Am I the only one" on 03/09/07
"Who finds Hanks new MESSIAH nonsense juvenile and in incredibly bad taste?"
I guess most of us do, Domino.
Hank is falling mentally to pieces just right now, it seems.
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/10/07:Definitely pride
becomes before a fall
I might kid around or
be serious
or even jerk your chain (at times)
but IF I ever get to that point
put me OUT of my misery ASAP!!!!!! | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/08/07 - The Bible says to forgive the Bible says to forgive seventy times seven. What happens when you get to 491? tropicalstorm answered on 03/08/07:I think it means to the tenth power but I am sure they had no idea what that meant back then
:) | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/08/07 - Does sincere forgiveness extended by the offended person to the offender always make the offender feel better?
If not, what should the offended one do to help the offender move forward? Or is that not the offended one's responsibility, to help the offender?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/08/07:I think if it is something minor or a misunderstanding it shouldn't need to be a big deal. If it is something really seriously major depending what it is I think a person can just say they forgive and then let the offender live with it. It really depends what it is though. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/08/07 - Why should the person offended against forgive, even if the offender doesn't feel bad or realize he did anything wrong?
Or should he? tropicalstorm answered on 03/08/07:usually when somebody says they are sorry I usually just tell them no problem because it didn't really bother me cause I know people are just people and I'm not letting it get to me in the first place. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 03/08/07 - How does forgiveness work? Who benefits? Which do you agree with?
1) Forgiveness is the process of ceasing to feel resentment or anger against another person for an offense, and may be granted without any expectation of compensation or even without any response on the part of the offender.
OR
2) In order to receive forgiveness, the offender must offer an apology or seek restitution.
Who benefits more from the process of forgiveness?
1) the forgiver
OR
2) the offender
tropicalstorm answered on 03/08/07:When they started doing those stress level tests where they had a list of
had babies, moved, changed careers, etc then you determined your stress level they also came out with that book about Type A personalities and they said that when you hold in unforgiveness then you end up with more health problems and like belle said the person your holding a grudge against is going along their merry way.
Different people are always telling me I hate so and so and how they will not forgive them and I am constantly telling them what does it accomplish you are sitting here bitter and they are going about their business and don't give a darn so what does it get you. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/07/07 - Luck, bad luck, or justice from heaven?
Car carrying pot crashes into trooper's cruiser
It might have been one of the easiest drug busts in the history of the South Carolina Highway Patrol: A car with 43 pounds of marijuana crashed into a trooper's cruiser, authorities said.
The easy bust happened after two patrolmen parked their cars in each lane of northbound Interstate 95 near Santee early Sunday morning following a series of wrecks that had tied up traffic, Highway Patrol Capt. Chris Williamson said.
A Chevrolet Malibu going about 70 mph hit one of the cruisers, causing minor injuries to the trooper behind the wheel, Williamson said.
Officers found two large duffel bags in the trunk with 43 pounds of marijuana in plastic bags, worth more than $150,000, Orangeburg County deputy Warren Pendry said.
They also found a few marijuana cigarettes and cocaine, Pendry said.
The 54-year-old driver from Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, was charged with driving under the influence, possession of cocaine and trafficking marijuana, authorities said.
Link to supporting article
Comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/07/07:sounds like what happens on I 80 and other highways throughout America more common than you would think.
On the TV show Cops they had a woman that had her baby sitting on heroine needles and her car had a fake pink slip and a trunk load of guns. My neighbor did the same thing. He had to go to the police station and left his toddlers alone in the car with needles on the seat. You wonder why I claim America isn't a Christian nation??? | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/07/07 - What did Jesus mean when He said this? Luk 16:29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Luk 16:30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
Luk 16:31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.
or this?
Joh 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honor one of another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only?
Joh 5:45 Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.
Joh 5:46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.
Joh 5:47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Seeing as many Christians here do not believe Moses and pay no attention to what Jesus said about him how do you choose what Jesus said was true and what was false? tropicalstorm answered on 03/07/07:It means you believe what you believe and everybody believes what they believe and nothing short of somebody raising from the dead will change many people's mind so why waste your breath since NOBODY hears. | | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 03/07/07 - Sometimes I wonder.... This may or may not be the best place for this, but why let that stop me?
It seems that as I stare my "mid-life crisis" years in the eyes as they approach like a relentless freight train, that I discover I have far more questions than answers now. Quite the opposite of my teens and twenties, it seems.
One of the ones that has been assualting me regularly is the question of what it means to really live life. In other words, am I really LIVING, or just finding semi-amusing ways to pass the time while awaiting death? I find I get a lot of blank, cow-like stares from people when I pose that question, which tells me that there is a HUGE difference between the two.
Am I the only one that senses there is a very fine line between squeezing every single drop of life from every moment of the day to its absolute limit and complete irresponsibility? For example, it would be great to stand up, leave my classroom and it's students, tell the principal to find a sub for me, 'cause I'm off to surf Costa Rica. Or maybe I'm going to Cartegena, or Machu Picchu. All places I've dreamed of going. But irresponsible. Not just to my students, but to my family, since I lack the resources and would have to find other means.
By denying myself the complete freedom to live out a dream, am I denying myself the absolute fullness of life? Is modern life really no more than a series of compromises: sacrifice a little life and joy for this illusion of stability?
How does modern man reconcile the conflict between the primal drive to milk every ounce out of life, and being a responsible citizen, husband, father, etc?
DK tropicalstorm answered on 03/07/07:The answer is some people are complacent and content with the go to work, run to the store and go home and veg while others are not content and want to find more value in life.
Most are content with existence while others dream for something more and strive toward a goal inconsistent with keeping up with the Jones'.
I know I have to be responsible and work but I have my dream goal so I can transform from the one to the other. Depending on your goals to milk every ounce of life I believe it can be accomplished as long as you do make goals to work toward. Otherwise I might as well give up ALL hope here and NOW. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/06/07 - Recent multiple abuse survey Christianity Board
Survey of recent multiple abuse by JesseJamesDupree on the Christianity Board
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3 identical topics
"And if I get booted.." by JesseJamesDupree 03/06/07
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103 identical topics
"Your dun aton - and pericles" by JesseJamesDupree 03/06/07
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84 identical topics
"I'd hate to pay" by JesseJamesDupree 03/06/07
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95 identical topics
"oooooooohhhhhh!!!!! by JesseJamesDupree 03/06/07
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87 identical topics
"Look who just got back today" by JesseJamesDupree dated 03/06/07
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84 identical topics
"Spam ..... - anyone" by JesseJamesDupree dated 03/05/07
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Topic Change of pace
Answer by Tomder
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 10 times
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Topic Another way of losing weight
Answer by Choux..
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 5 times
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Topic It's dark
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 21 times
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Topic He ain't caught it yet
Answer by powderpuff
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic JJD
Answer by Spartacus
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 25 times
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Topic Rolling Thunder Modern Day Hero's
Answer by kindj
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic Rolling Thunder Modern Day Hero's
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 21 times
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Topic For Domino
Answer by drgade
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 63 times
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Topic For Domino
Answer by TTFNUAS
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic For Domino
Answer by Tomder
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic For Domino
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 11 times
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Topic God and war
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 3 times
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Topic Remember Glodal Cooling?
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 5 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by Choux.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 17 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by kindj
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 2 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by paraclete
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 11 times
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Topic OK, here's the deal
Answer by paraclete
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 17 times
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Topic OK, here's the deal:
Answer by peddler7118
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 19 times
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Topic OK, here's the deal:
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 19 times
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Topic well since we might
Answer by powderpuff
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 23 times
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Topic Nice and quiet here
Answer by drgade
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 29 times
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75 identical topics
"Hey JH76 - what I would" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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87 identical topics
"pericles and aton are" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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28 identical topics
"Link this - pericles boy!" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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100 identical topics
"I warned you repeatedly" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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95 identical topics
"It's dun peniscles and aton" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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87 identical topics
"................ - :)..." by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/25/07
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32 identical topics
"....;)..." by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/24/07
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5 identical topics
"I told you two heatherns" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/24/07
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87 identical topics
"Nazi Storm Troopers!!!" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/24/07
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Topic Any takers???
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 11 times
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Topic Any takers???
Answer by tropicalstorm
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 57 times
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Topic The Root Cause????
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 7 times
(Text : Domino er aton is a dick!)
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Topic Egyptian Blogger Sentenced to Four Years
Answer by peddler
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 200+ times
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Topic Is this the way fundi-creo's argue?
Answer by tropicalstorm
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic How is this possible?
Answer by Hank1
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 3 times
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Topic How is this possible?
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 44 times
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Topic Please give me an answer to this question
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic Blockng Party
Answer by paraclete
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
(text : Atonisaniger)
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Topic Blockng Party
Answer by powderpuff
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 7 times
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Topic Blockng Party
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 5 times
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Topic domino's eureka
Answer by Hank1
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic Interesting!!!
Answer by Jesushelper76
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 4 times
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Topic Interesting!!!
Answer by Hank
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic The ultimate
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 71 times
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Topic Miricles
Answer by Hank1
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
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Topic My entire world
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 99 times
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Topic CRYING
Answer by paraclete
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic Where are the TRUE Christians
Answer by peddler
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 202 times
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Topic Christians, public libraries, and censorship
Answer by drgade
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 17 times
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Topic Christians, public libraries, and censorship
Answer by tomder55
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic Want a quick change of pace???
Answer by Jesushelper76
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 58 times
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Topic Want a quick change of pace???
Answer by belle33
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 58 times---
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Topic Why so many people still believe
Answer by tomder55
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 98 times
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Topic Why so many people still believe
Answer by Hank1
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic Appropriate conduct for a follower of Jesus?????
Answer by Hank1
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 49 times
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Topic IS THIS YOUR SAVIOR?
Answer by Jesushelper76
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 27 times
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Topic IS THIS YOUR SAVIOR?
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 2 times
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Topic by On the handle "jesuschrist"
Answer by deardra
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic On the handle "jesuschrist"
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic On the handle "jesuschrist"
Answer by drgade
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 9 times
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Topic On the handle "jesuschrist"
Answer by jesuschrist
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 6 times
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Topic To others : Multiple rating
Answer by drgade
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
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Topic To others : Multiple rating
Answer by Jesushelper76
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 7 times
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Topic To others : Multiple rating
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 12 times
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Topic To others : Multiple rating
Answer by Tropicalstorm
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
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Topic MR JJD
Answer by CeeBee
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
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Topic Wouldn't it be scarier?
Answer by tropicalstorm
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 15 times
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Topic Logo for board
Answer by Pete.
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 4 times
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Topic No bible scholars
Answer by CeeBee
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 14 times
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Topic No bible scholars
Answer by MaggieB
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 7 times
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Topic US Pastor claims
Answer by STONY
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 7 times
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Topic US Pastor claims
Answer by Rosekeeper
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 6 times
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Topic more on the guy
Answer by tomder55
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 time
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Topic Is peddler rational?
Answer by Choux
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 6 times
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Topic Bible Truth
Answer by STONY
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 6 times
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34 Identical topics
"Notice that aton" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/16/07
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Management wake up : JesseJamesDupree is challenging your authority !!!
He has even openly admitted his intention to destroy this board now several times, and actually has started fulfilling that threat.
Unless you do something about this abuse, this board is becoming like WeTellYou : destroyed by one single drunken yokel.
===
Any comments ? Don't bother to react when you disagree : I refuse to give in against the abuse by JesseJamesDupree !!!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:If jjd has freeware ain't nothing answerway can do to boot him that I know of. It would take a genius hacker to hack him. | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 03/06/07 - Miracles Toms777 tells me many miracles have been proved.
Go for it folks.....as I don't expect a response from Tom!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:I would love a list of true miracles for the past 10 to 50 years. I have heard of some that sound good but mixed with all the bogus Benny Hinn ones it takes a lot away from any that could actually be for real. So yeah, I really would like to know some more than likely authentic ones.
It kind of gives more crediblity to Allison DuBois than any Christian miracle. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 03/06/07 - SOLUTION: If we want to maintain this Board much longer, we'd better do this: All Christians abstain from participation on this Board for a length of time. That will leave Domino, Pericles and a couple of others to converse alone. I'm behind Chou's post 100%. What she said needs to be done. If you want to have a Christianity Board, you'd better do what she said ... and what I suggest. Bottom-line: Troublemakers take a hike! I can log out at anytime and visa versa. So can you! Pericles hails from a foreign country and so do a few others. They have nothing to lose. We do! We're Americans!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:I am lying low so don't worry about me.
I don't want my blabbering to be the cause of Choux having a heart attack or anything.
| | Question/Answer | | Itsdb asked on 03/06/07 - Boycotts and such My friend Domino seems to think Christians boycotting businesses is "trying to FORCE beliefs on non-believers," etc. Others among us believe it to be market forces at work and exercising our rights. I mean seriously, if a business offends a large portion of their market they do so at their own risk. You are free to support those businesses or not - and I believe we all probably make conscientious choices on with whom to do business.
If you oppose such boycotts would you for instance do business with someone that is known to deal in child pornography? Sells animal furs? Performs lab testing on animals? Slaughters horses?
Has anyone heard of a group of Christians breaking into a Wal-mart and setting the aquarium fish free or spiking trees?
Is this any better or worse than a AFA boycott, just as bad or maybe even a necessary good?
Since 1985, that's been the gist of Pizza Hut's Book It, an incentive program used by 50,000 schools nationwide to reward young readers with free pizzas. The program is now under attack by child-development experts who say it promotes bad eating habits and turns teachers into corporate promoters.
Book It, which reaches about 22 million children a year, “epitomizes everything that's wrong with corporate-sponsored programs in school,” said Susan Linn, a Harvard psychologist and co-founder of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood.
“In the name of education, it promotes junk food consumption to a captive audience ... and undermines parents by positioning family visits to Pizza Hut as an integral component of raising literate children,” Linn said.
This week, Linn's organization called on parents to end their schools' participation in the long-standing program.
What about smoking bans? Do you support the right of a business to allow smoking if he/she so chooses or do you want to dictate how he/she runs it?
How about transfat or Foie Gras bans?
Do you support the scams, junk science, scare tactics, sensationalism and never-ending lawsuits of the food police at the Center for Science in the Public Interest?
How about the manipulation of the public and exploitation of children by the global warming fearmongers?
Seems to me a Christian boycott is a much more ethical way to make a point and effect change than what everyone else is doing.
No?tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:and you have to remember it was the PC'ers that first made a big stink about being offended at Merry Christmas. I think the whole thing is ridiculous. People always over sensitive, offended but it is the Christians that need to be more tolerant.
Why can't people and places make up their own mind about how they want to run their business? Like the stupid smoking laws first they wanted to ban smoking from chain family resturants FINE, but now the privately owned bars!?
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/06/07 - GET OUT GET OUT GET OUT I expect all the troublemakers to be gone by midnight tonight...three hours.
How terrible of all of you to ruin my experience and other senior's experiences here. You selfish morons.
You have three hours to get out.
We seniors need mind stimulation which this Board provides. Some of us, like me, need the socialization here with a few intelligent people, and other people.....BECAUSE I'M HOMEBOUND AND THAT'S VERY VERY DIFFICULT. A person loses it being alone all the time.
GET THE FUCK OUT AND LEAVE US DECENT PEOPLE ALONE TO TALK ABOUT CHRISTIANITY.
YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE, I HAVE TOLD YOU OFF...THE "TELL OFF" IS YOUR MARCHING ORDERS.
*******GET OUTTA HER**********
Best wishes on your future endeavors,
now, get out. tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:Bye Choux you win
I don't want to bother you or anybody with my blabber. You can enjoy the board all you want!!! Have fun. i MIGHT be back if n when I want but I will consider that I really do not want to be a bother to anybody so it might take me some time.
LATER gator
(sorry I blabbered too much in this reply) | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/06/07 - Jesus Would Be Appalled "CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Democratic presidential hopeful John Edwards says Jesus would be appalled at how the United States has ignored the plight of the suffering, and that he believes children should have private time to pray at school.
Edwards, in an interview with the Web site Beliefnet.com, said Jesus would be most upset with the selfishness of Americans and the country's willingness to go to war "when it's not necessary."
"I think that Jesus would be disappointed in our ignoring the plight of those around us who are suffering and our focus on our own selfish short-term needs," Edwards told the site. "I think he would be appalled, actually." "
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you agree? tropicalstorm answered on 03/06/07:Private time for prayer in school is fought against as separation of church and state and as long as that is the standard I do not see Christians winning even with John Edwards backing.
I think the necessity of or against the war will continue to be an argument even if a Democrat is President in 2008. I do not think the Democrats will put an end to it.
As far as the plight of the poor, our country and individuals give millions of dollars to the poor and I think it goes more to running the agencies that are suppose to distribute the money to the poor. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/05/07 - Change of Pace...BY GOD!!! We witnessed the attempts by Peddler and her fundamentalist American Family Values group to boycott the film "The Lost Tomb of Jesus"....it did not work. But it was an object lesson in what the agenda of fundamentalist Christianity is all about...the attempt to FORCE Americans to aquiece to their perverted ideas of morality and ethics.
The religious right attempted to boycott the Disney corporation for offering benefits to gay men and women....The religious right tried to boycott Wal Mart to enforce the "Merry Christmas" sillyiness.....every television sponsor who had ads on programs that the Christian Right Wing disapproved of was threatened with boycotts.
Is this what CHRISTIANITY is ALL ABOUT....trying to FORCE beliefs on non-believers????? Trying to limit what non-Christians CAN and CANNOT WATCH or DO??????? Or what Non-Christians can or cannot buy???
Serious reponses only. Others will be stomped into whale dung. :) tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:Personally I have never been able to figure it out but I do prefer Merry Christmas over Happy Holidays that non believers push for because Merry Christmas offends them.
Personally I think it is ridiculous that it is so important to even be greated at Wal Mart other than it gives some a job they otherwise might not have.
BUT why does one want a Merry Christmas greeting to go shop for material things to celebrate a holiday that has come to be nothing much more than commericalism anyway?
I also bet one of your $20's or $40's the same people that boycott Wal Mart go in and shop when off the protest line because who would even notice? | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 03/05/07 - THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL FUMBLES ANOTHER ONE!! HAVING JUST WATCHED THE 1ST 10 MINUTES OF "JESUS TOUMB" THE ENTIRE PROGRAM IS PREDICATED ON A LIE. OH HOW TYPICAL OF SECULAR TV TO MISLEAD THE MASSES. AFTER 10 MINUTES I COULDN'T LISTEN TO ANY MORE OF THAT CRAP!! tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:Not even a good fiction aye. | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 03/05/07 - Change of pace and then back to bashing. Have any of you ever read or heard that Cain and Abel were twins? I heard a Pastor say that on the Shepherd's Chapel. tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:don't know where he got that from
Gen 4:1 And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD.
Gen 4:2 And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.
| | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 03/04/07 - HANK, IT TOOK ME A WHILE TO FIND THIS. HE HAS FIRE IN HIS EYES; AND A SWORD IN HIS HANDS HE'S RIDING ON A WHITE HORSE ACCROSS THIS LAND. HE HAS FIRE IN HIS EYES; AND A SWORD IN HIS HANDS HE'S RIDING ON A WHITE HORSE; ALL ACCROSS THIS LAND. HE'S CALLING OUT TO YOU AND ME; "WILL YOU RIDE WITH ME?" [REPEAT]
AND WE SAY YES (YES LORD WE'LL RIDE WITH YOU)
WE SAY YES LORD; WE WILL STAND UP AND FIGHT. WE WILL RIDE WITH THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN WE'RE GONNA BE DRESSED IN WHITE. WE SAY YES LORD, (YES LORD WE WILL RIDE)
HE HAS A CROWN ON HIS HEAD; AND HE'S CARRYING A SCEPTOR IN HIS HAND; AND HE'S LEADING THE ARMIES ALL ACCROSS THIS LAND AND HE'S CALLING OUT TO YOU AND ME; "WILL YOU RIDE WITH ME?" [CHORUS 2X]
YOU SEE THAT FIRE IN HIS EYES IS HIS LOVE FOR HIS BRIDE
AND HE'S LONGING THAT SHE BE WITH HIM, RIGHT BY HIS SIDE; THAT FIRE IN HIS EYES' IS HIS BURNING DESIRE THAT HIS BRIDE BE WITH HIM RIGHT BY HIS SIDE; AND HE'S CALLING OUT TO US RIGHT NOW; "WILL YOU RIDE WITH ME?"
AND WE SAY YES LORD YES LORD YES LORD YES LORD. tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:You might have to post this again Hank once again *left* Try back in a few days. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/05/07 - Logbook on jjgoss style hypocrisy ....................................
Logbook on jjgoss style hypocrisy.
Note : earlier to the following posts jjgoss blocked Domino, Jesushelper, Pete, and Pericles.
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03/03/07 - topic : who's a hypocrite?
Personal attacks on Domino and Jesushelper.
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03/03/07 - topic : relationship turned sour!
Personal attack on sapphire/TS.
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03/04/07 - topic : The most intolerant atheist
Personal attack on pericles.
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03/04/07 - topic : Pete/Petra...you are just a bitch!
Personal attack on Pete. and pericles.
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Have you been blocked by :
# HANK1 ?
# JesseJamesDupree ?
# jjgoss?
# powderpuff?
If so please just let me know !!!
tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:They don't realize to once they block you if they try and unblock you it might not work since answerway is asleep at the switch.
JJD said he unblocked me and I am still blocked most probably because of answerway
The only thing that really bothered me about JJD is his multiple ratings and multiple posts.
Well JJG's can sit in her posts all alone, she created her own little world.
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/04/07 - Dear Hank---Come Back Hank, I think you should come back to the Board permanently.
If I may speak freely, you have a basic lesson about yourself to learn here. Learn the lesson. Then, join back in! Some of us have been together for 7 years. Relax and enjoy!
Mary Sue tropicalstorm answered on 03/05/07:I suspect he is as addicted as we........... hmmm wonder how many calories......or how much msg this addiction is? | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 03/04/07 - Well, Well, Well So Pericles is a hater like the fundamental Christians he nags here! Pericles hates fat people. All fat people are the same to this guy, no accounting for fatness because of ethnic heritage(descendents of American slaves come by their fatness for very legitimate reasons).....no accounting for mental illness...whatever.
Fatness is a moral failure as it is to Protestants.
There was a list out of the fattest countries a couple of months ago, and America was 8th, if I remember correctly. The rich Islamic countries have a real problem with fatness, quite a few in the top 20.
England has a growing problem with fatness.
Fatness also goes along with first world status, jobs where people sit, computer culture and other things.
What could cause such hostility to fat people?
Are fat people sneaking into his house and eating his food??
tropicalstorm answered on 03/04/07:SOME of MY BEST FRIENDS ARE FAT!!!
I would like to lose about 15 pounds and it is very very hard. I very rarely eat fast food either. They say that most food we eat now is filled with chemicals that are addictive MSG is one of them. Remember the Lays potato chip commericial bet you can't eat just one? That is because of the chemical. It is in canned foods,
frozen food and most food we eat.
Pizza Hut and McDonalds has the chemical too.
Another problem is diet food really has a reverse effect of being diet, not to mention many people who eat diet food think that means they can eat two or three times more since it is diet. Then the older you get the slower your metabolism gets and we excercise less.
I know many vegetarians who are over weight so
who really knows why being overweight is really becoming an epidemic.
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/04/07 - Lent food ! .............................................
Parishes have long used the Roman Catholic abstention from meat on Fridays during the Lenten season to hold fish fries that bring people together and raise money. Now with more people trying to eat healthier food, many churches are offering lighter fare, including grilled shrimp, baked fish, fresh tuna and crispy, raw vegetables.
There's still plenty of battered cod, haddock and other types of seafood submerged in oil. And there still are servings of potato-stuffed pirogi, macaroni and cheese, french fries or other heavy side dishes on parish menus.
But reduced-fat Lenten menus are popping up across the nation.
Milwaukee's St. Florian Church lists "heart-healthy baked fish" alongside its famous beer-battered fillets. St. Ferdinand's in Florissant, Mo., near St. Louis offers baked cod and blackened Cajun-style fish. In Cincinnati, St. Paul's offers sauteed vegetables and tomato soup.
At St. Irenaeus in Oakmont, Pa., near Pittsburgh, the parish has added baked fish, fresh tuna and a salad bar. Like many restaurants, it stopped using artery-closing trans fats for frying. Volunteers change the deep fryer's oil after each batch and blot each piece of fried fish dry of extra grease.
"We really baby it," said Jeanne Kaus, who has volunteered for 25 years at the fry that draws 500 people a week. "We have a fresh salad bar and we have heart-healthy baked fish.
More here in this supporting article
Have you adjusted your lent suppers also ?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/04/07:N0 I ain't catholic and as far as seafood
I only like a good haddock fish from the church or the bar either way. Nothing beats Becker's in the Bottoms though! | | Question/Answer | | Spartacus asked on 03/03/07 - Decision ...
Would you rather be a dead hero or an alive coward?
Spartacus
tropicalstorm answered on 03/03/07:yeah I think so...coward now, hero later
thats the ticket | | Question/Answer | | Spartacus asked on 03/03/07 - Decision ...
Would you rather be a dead hero or an alive coward?
Spartacus
tropicalstorm answered on 03/03/07:Where does I am woman hear me ROAR fit???? | | Question/Answer | | Spartacus asked on 03/03/07 - Effect ...
Does everything you do have a ripple effect in God's scheme of things?
Spartacus
tropicalstorm answered on 03/03/07:Yeah that is ONE reason why so many have a hard time comprehending or believing.
| | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/03/07 - I just received this article re Mr. Hypocrisy:
Subject: The Gore-y Truth
The Tennessee Center for Policy Research, an independent, nonprofit and
nonpartisan research organization committed to achieving a freer, more
prosperous Tennessee through free market policy solutions, issued a press
release late Monday:
Last night, Al Gore's global-warming documentary, An Inconvenient Truth,
collected an Oscar for best documentary feature, but the Tennessee Center
for Policy Research has found that Gore deserves a gold statue for
hypocrisy.
Gore's mansion, [20-room, eight-bathroom] located in the posh Belle Meade
area of Nashville, consumes more electricity every month than the average
American household uses in an entire year, according to the Nashville
Electric Service (NES).
In his documentary, the former Vice President calls on Americans to conserve
energy by reducing electricity consumption at home.
The average household in America consumes 10,656 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per
year, according to the Department of Energy. In 2006, Gore devoured nearly
221,000 kWh-more than 20 times the national average.
Last August alone, Gore burned through 22,619 kWh-guzzling more than twice
the electricity in one month than an average American family uses in an
entire year. As a result of his energy consumption, Gore's average monthly
electric bill topped $1,359.
Since the release of An Inconvenient Truth, Gore's energy consumption has
increased from an average of 16,200 kWh per month in 2005, to 18,400 kWh per
month in 2006.
Gore's extravagant energy use does not stop at his electric bill. Natural
gas bills for Gore's mansion and guest house averaged $1,080 per month last
year.
"As the spokesman of choice for the global warming movement, Al Gore has to
be willing to walk to walk, not just talk the talk, when it comes to home
energy use," said Tennessee Center for Policy Research President Drew
Johnson.
In total, Gore paid nearly $30,000 in combined electricity and natural gas
bills for his Nashville estate in 2006.
For Further Information, Contact:
Nicole Williams, (615) 383-6431
editor@tennesseepolicy.org tropicalstorm answered on 03/03/07:Like I said he is suppose to be so concerned yet that is only for his mansion and guest house and doesn't even include any other properties, nor does it cover his jet fuel or vehicle usage. Many of the jets the politicians use cost up to $22,000. an hour to run.
They say that Bush's house is about the most ecologically well run houses with solar panels and recycled rain water.
Even though Cheney and others (Dem or Rep) use a lot of energy they aren't running around the country trying to make us feel like we have to cut back when they won't. AND if the problem is as serious as Gore claims wouldn't he be doing everything possible to help avoid the danger.
They say his energy is almost double from before the movie. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/02/07 - Why are Christians such sniveling cowards?
You let the State take prayer out of school and let them teach you children to be godless.
You stand by and let the government take down the symbols of faith.
You let Hollywood run your beliefs into the ground and mock you in a way no other religion or people would stand for a second.
The next generation will be lost and no one seems to care.
If God doesn’t punish America He will have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah.
One day you will stand before God and explain why you let your children be turned away from Him.
2Co 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:
2Co 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds;)
2Co 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
2Co 10:6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/02/07:People are in a brain for chasing after the latest thing they can work for and buy to keep up with the others. They need to wake up. Things are going to get way worse before people come out of their complacent apathy then they will realize it may be to late to heed
2Ch 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 03/02/07 - Why the panic????? It seems fundamentalists Christians, like Peddler and her alleged 'Family Values' group are peeing in their DEPENDS over the documentary "The Lost Tomb of Jesus"...due to air on the Discovery channel, this Sunday...and their major scream is the claim that Jesus MIGHT have been married and fathered a child.
Now this group pretends to be concerend with the Christian family and it's Christian Family Values. But my questions is: Why whould they be so horrified over the fact that Jesus might have OBEYED THE VERY FIRST COMMAND OF HIS GOD....TO BE FRUITFUL AND MULITPLY?????
And what happens to their claim that JESUS was true God AND true Man, since he refused to do exactly what he was EXPECTED to do as an Orthodox Jewish man in first century Palestine.
Is there something basically sinful about marrying and having children....is THAT why neither Jesus nor Paul married????? Is THAT why Paul preached that it shoud only be resorted to as a LAST resort against lust...and not for procreative purposes???????
Here, the bible presents us with TWO presumably healthy, normal men, who obviously KNEW their Hebrew Scripture, but refused to abide by its first DIVINE Commandment.
Why???? And why would a search for the historical Jesus be considered an attack against Christianity????
Do we REALLY have to beleive that Jesus made himself a EUNUCH for the sake of God, in order to beleive his message of LOVE of God and LOVE of NEIGHBOR??????
What possible difference could his marital state have made to THAT MESSAGE?????????
tropicalstorm answered on 03/02/07:If Jesus was married and had children more power to him. The Bible does say he *suffered* every thing that humans *suffered*. Personlly I don;t 'THINK' he was married but wouldn't place my *bets* on it
I think the main thing that might have Peddlers
scared witless is that if his 'burial' was different than the Bible it would seem to have to make the whole Bible a lie.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/01/07 - Say no to Discovery American Family Association
NBC's Today Show wasted no time calling Discovery Channel's
upcoming "documentary" the "Lost Tomb of Jesus" a "huge story"
that could "rock Christianity to its core".
Among the outrageous claims made by the film’s director
James Cameron (of Titanic fame), the film alleges that
Jesus and Mary Magdelene were married and produced a son, Judah.
Logic and fact have been carelessly tossed aside, and as
Brent Bozell says, "If they want to mount a full-blown attack
on Christianity, they should be honest enough to say so.
Instead, they coyly dredge up a long-discredited theory,
cloak it in half-baked 'evidence' and pass it off as science.
The public deserves better."
The MRC is joining with a number of organizations demanding
the Discovery Channel pull this farce from their broadcast
schedule on Sunday evening (March 4).
We are asking ALL members of our MRC Action Team
to take a moment to call and email John S. Hendricks, the
Chairman of Discovery Channel demanding he intervene to stop
their attack against Christianity by pulling the show.
Help us flood Discovery by taking immediate action!
Here is your contact information:
John S. Hendricks, Chairman
Discovery Channel
1 Discovery Place
Silver Spring, MD 20910
tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:Throw away your TV I did a year ago and glad
I did | | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 03/01/07 - JJD: As much as I appreciate the support, I really don't require THAT much of it. 5 red ones, or one black one--I really don't lose much sleep either way. I imagine most others feel the same way.
I'm asking you in a civil and mannerly way to please stop abusing the rating system.
By this point, we all know where each other stand on most things, and no one is going to run off crying to their mommy over another person trumping the ratings.
It's really quite the pointless exercise, and not very Christ-like to boot.
DK tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:He seems to get his kicks by it.
I use to say to my kids
I see you are easily amused.
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 03/01/07 - Jesus Tomb Publicity Stunt say Washington Post Nonsense tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:Peddler that is what I said from the get go!
Promo stunt | | Question/Answer | | curious98 asked on 03/01/07 - For Domino My very dear Domino,
I do not know how am I going to survive, from now on, to my public shame…?
What are our colleagues on this Board –and eventually all over America- going to think about me?
Shame, o shame, on me!!!
I should have guessed from the contents of your several learned –how learned they are, my God-
answers, that you DO NOT belong in the same miserable and ignorant religious group where I –poor me- have ended up because of my simplicity.
How did I dare comparing myself and my total lack of knowledge in religious matters with a supreme being as you obviously are, when it is more than likely that your extra superior know-how comes all the way from your considerable and deep theological studies, your most unruffled and extremely well balanced attitude and, who knows, even, perhaps, from some direct or infused illumination you receive from the Almighty…!
How could I, even intuitively, ever start to imagine you may share the same line with God, Mr. Bush claims to holds?
I, therefore, humbly apologize for “underestimating your knowledge, your erudition (holy smokes), and your ability to ABSORB history”
Each word of yours is just a reflection of that immense ability to ABSORB History and Religion… along with such a tremendous display of humility, self effacement and lowliness, so obvious in your communications…
All of us, in this Board, or rather, all the world over, should take you as an instance of moral stature and overwhelming consideration.
And if I would dare I would advice you to run for the next Presidency of your Country…
The McCains, Obamas, Hillaries or Giulanis stand no chances before a superior intellect like yours…
As for little poor me, I promise I will never ever again dare answering any of your bright messages… or contradict you. How could I pretend to spoil your valuable time, no doubt consecrated to higher aims and theological studies, with my insignificant words?
Please forgive me!
Your flabbergasted servant!
Curious98
tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:AH NOW YOU CAN BE ENLIGHTENED
DONATE ALL YOUR WORLDLY POSSESSIONS---
(I Claim myself Dom's treasurer)
and the world is yours.
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/28/07 - What does the bible mean by 'sodomite'?????? I was going to let this go but, after reading the horrendous 'FRED PHELPS-like' replies to Dennis from Peddler, Toms777 and paraclete...I just had to so some digging, to try and determine just what the "sin" of Sodom was...just what the bible term "Sodomite" meant.
Neither Isaiah, nor Ezekiel, nor Jeremiah, in discussing the sins of Sodom, include attempted homosexual rape!!!!
Ezekiel 16:49 "Behold, this was the sin of thy sister Sodom: pride, fullness of bread, and careless ease was in her and in her daughters; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty and committed abominations before me.."
Jeremiah 23:13 compares the prophets of Jerusalem with the inhabitants of Sodom accusing them of lying, adultery, and "strengthening the hands of evil doers"
Not one word about 'homosexual rape'.
Isaiah, in many verses makes the very same comparisons.
So where did the men of Sodom, suddenly become homosexual rapists, whose 'sin' has been attributed to gay men and WOMEN ever since.
There is a strange changing of words from the Hebrew Masoretic texts to the English texts in reference to 'sodomites'......Deuteronomy 23:18, in the Maoretic text reads: "There shall be no harlot of the daughters of Israel; neither shall there be a sodomite of the sons of Israel. Thou shalt not bring the hire of a harlot, or the price of a dog into the house of the Lord, thy God for any VOW: for even both of these are an ABOMINATION under the Lord your God."
Yet when this is rendered into the later English translations. it reads; "There shall be no temple harlot among the Israelite women, nor a TEMPLE HARLOT among the Israelite MEN".
Do we already see here, one of the main reasons for the destruction of Sodom....because the people had reverted to the PAGAN practices of their neighbors....who believed they could enter into special realtionships with thier gods and goddesses by having sexual relations with the pagan priests and priestesses who prostitued themselves for this purpose and the payment for which was considered a votive offering made to the temple????? (The 'price of a dog' reference was to the stipend offerd to pagan priests for performing their rituals).
REMEMBER, Sodom had ALREADY BEEN DOOMED to DESTRUCTION long before the alleged attempted homosexual rape of the 'angelic visitors'.....Why would Yahweh have condemed the city for a sin it had not yet attempted?????
Further: If Sodom were the cesspool of maniacle homosexual rapists that funadmentalists claim it was, why was Lot living there in the first place?????
If the men of Sodom, ALL of whom, young and old, were claimed to have been involved in the attempted rape, (ergo..all being painted as homosexuals)...WHY ON EARTH WOULD LOT HAVE AFFIANCED HIS TWO VIRGIN DAUGHTERS TO TWO OF THESE ALLEGED HOMOSEXUALS???????? Did he not KNOW they were homosexuals....and if he did, why did he think they would be interested in violating his daughters?????? And if the two affianced men were NOT homosexuals why were they, subsequently, destroyed with the rest of Sodom...And if God could not find five just people in Sodom, what did he consider the pre-pubescent children??????
Remember, also, in pondering your replies, that the word ABOMINATION as used in the OLD TESTAMENT invariably referred to 'ritual impurity or contamination' as the proscriptions against eating unclean foods or the proscription against sex during menstruatiion.
Serious and sensible answers and opinons welcomed. Bigoted replies will be treated as such. tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:All I know is they want to use the Bible to criticize others and do not even know WHAT the Bible means because they are as you say Bible LITERALISTS and do not care to check the meaning of the word or the context or culture to put it in proper perspective.
I still would love to know what Peddler has to say about the questions I asked. He says love but do not compromise. Exactly how do you go about that especially once your kid is grown and THEN you find out. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 03/01/07 - Domino Hi, I understand what you and perc are saying about JJD, but manangement is not responding so why let him know that we care. I have reported him numerous times this past couple of weeks so don't say I don't care. I just don't advertise what I am doing.
BTW, reporting an expert is not something I usually do
but I think he deserves to be reported.
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:Absolutely right. The more Perc brings it up the worse JJD seems to get. He has toned down other than the multiple ratings. I'd like to see JJD participate here but not when it is to multi post and multi rate. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/01/07 - Heavenly payments ??? ...............................
Man tries to cash $50K check from God
HOBART, Ind. - Kevin Russell found out it's not easy trying to cash a check from God. The 21-year-old man was arrested Monday after he tried to cash a check for $50,000 at the Chase Bank in Hobart that was signed "King Savior, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Servant," Hobart police Detective Jeff White said.
Russell was charged with one count attempted check fraud and one count intimidation, both felonies, and one count resisting law enforcement, a misdemeanor. He could face prison time.
Police were called to the bank after Russell tried to cash the check, which was written on an invalid Bank One check with no imprint, White said. Russell had several other checks with him that were signed the same way but made out in different dollar amounts, including one for $100,000.
Russell struggled with police as they tried to detain him, White said, and then threatened police as they transported him to the Hobart Police Department.
"I've heard about God giving out eternal life, but this is the first time I've heard of him giving out cash," White said.
No court date has been set for Russell. He was being held Wednesday at the Lake County Jail on a $1,000 bond.
Link to original article
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:I heard some of that. America is full of idiots that try to get away with the most insane things | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 03/01/07 - And the abuse goes on ...................................
Recent abuse survey - Christianity Board
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Topic Remember Global Cooling?
Answer by Dark_Crow
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 5 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by Dark_Crow
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
Answer by kindj
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 2 times
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
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Topic New Testament Apocrypha
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Topic OK, here's the deal
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Topic OK, here's the deal:
Answer by peddler7118
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Topic OK, here's the deal:
Answer by Choux
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Topic well since we might
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Topic Nice and quiet here
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(text : Atonisaniger)
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"Notice that aton" by JesseJamesDupree dated 02/16/07
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Management wake up : JesseJamesDupree is challenging your authority !!!
He has even openly admitted his intention to destroy this board now several times, and actually has started fulfilling that threat.
Unless you do something about this abuse, this board is becoming like WeTellYou : destroyed by one single drunken yokel.
tropicalstorm answered on 03/01/07:and here I was wondering where he disappeared to I thought maybe he was being nice. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/28/07 - Indecency or criminal unconcern??? Saw a newscast last night that pointed up the OBSCENITY of our Military charging our children in Iraq, [who are risking their lives in this indecent occupation]...for missing or damaged uniforms or equipment...One young man, wounded in action, was charged close to a thousand dollars for turning in a blood-stained uniform, and for losing his helmet!!!!! And they MUST pay up in order to receive an honorable discharge!!!! And the Pentagon excuses this absurdity in stating that they have to be accountable to the American tax payer???? Where is there accountabilty for wasting close to 500 billion dollars on a uselss 'war'??????
Is this rank indecency, or simply criminal unconcern?????
WHAT KIND OF A THOUGHTLESS AND THANKLESS NATION HAVE WE BECOME UNDER DUMBYA AND HIS WAR MONGERING CRONIES???????? I do not recall this as being a policy in any of the 'wars' we fought in the past, certainly not in WWII or Korea.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/28/07:yep I think, if I remember right, one of these soldiers was even killed and they are going after the family.
Stuff like this is happening more than people realize. I don't think that was Bush's doing, not sure where it got started.
If a soldier has to make split second decision of kill or be killed rather than follow the seven steps of engagement they run the risk of being shackled in our American prison. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/28/07 - A Christian attitude??? In response to a question by DK concerning gay children, Peddler suggests that it is not quite Christian for a parent to unconditionally LOVE a gay child, but it would be MORE Christian to torment that child daily by telling him/her that he is going to burn in hell FOREVER, unless he changes and becomes something his nature tells him he is NOT.
Is this a TRULY Christian position that most Christians hold??????? tropicalstorm answered on 02/28/07:Only Christians living in a bubble(or rocks in their head)
Ditto to my reply to Peddler on that post.
I really would like to hear his answers to...
What would you do if your grown kid told you they were gay?
Would you love them any less?
If you still loved them as much would you have to say that you were compromising the Bible?
Also how would you deal with it without compromising the Bible--by disowning or what?
You can't *MAKE* anybody
I really would be interested in Peddlers replies to these questions | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/28/07 - Where all the people are and were .......................
Unlike the nonsense posted by peddler in her 2 topics "Where are all the people?" (02/26/07), worldwide population growth topics can be very interesting and thought provoking as long as such topics are not in reality intended as some anti-evolution propaganda from a hypocritic creationist's point of view.
Although not a specific Christian item, with 1/3 of the world population being Christians, Christians have done their part in the population growth in the past, and will do so in the future.
Why this topic?
Because peddler - as usual - misrepresented the available data and refuses to back-up the provided growth rate used in her topic. Logical that she can not back-up that rate, as the provided rate is a growth rate that fits modern times and not the entire historic growth of mankind since it's origins million(s)* of years ago. (* that period depends on how you describe what humanity is, and who were part of humanity).
Growth rate
Birth rate − death rate = rate of natural increase
Both birth rate and death rate fluctuate - sometimes very strongly (per country, continent, and worldwide).
The history of the human population has been affected more by declines in death rates than by increases in birth rates.
Causes for this decreasing death rate :
* better nutrition (start agriculture 8-10.000 BC)
* greater access to medical care (last 1000 years - specially last 100 years)
* improved sanitation (last 500 years)
* industrialisation in the west (start 250 years ago)
* greater availability of energy resources (start 200 years ago and expected to start stagnating soon)
* immunization against diseases (start 125 years ago)
Growth rate visuals : note the red lines !!!
![]()
Before and during the early part of the Lower Palaeolithic there hardly was any growth of human quantities. Humanity was at good times just above stable but repeatedly - during the many bad times - at the brink of total extinction. Only over the last 80.000 years there has been any significant increasing growth of humanity.
Working backwards with today's growth rates towards the past without any format of correction for historical changes provides of course totally ridiculous results.
Note :
Of course if your intention is to support creationist views you have to use a nonsensical historic growth rate to end up with the mythical "Adam and Eve" as the first humans on earth approx. 6.000 years ago.
That is on itself no problem, but than do not suggest that your figures are accurate and the provided data scientific.
Excellent links to detailed information on historical world population growth :
Population Growth over Human History
Human Population through History (1 A.D. to 2020)
Human Population Dynamics Revisited (dry but lot's of detail)
Population Bottlenecks and Pleistocene Human Evolution (good but dry too)
A thought to end this topic :
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Comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/28/07:Thank you Perc
I knew Peddler was way off. I remember always hearing that for every one that is born (x) amount of people die and then you figure wars, famines, natural disasters, fatal accidents, etc...
I have always wondered what the actual numbers were. I will have to save this. | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/27/07 - Death Certificates for Abortions? "Legislation introduced in Tennessee would require death certificates for aborted fetuses, which likely would create public records identifying women who have abortions.
Rep. Stacey Campfield, a Republican , said his bill would provide a way to track how many abortions are performed. He predicted it would pass in the Republican-controlled Senate but would have a hard time making it through the Democratic House.
Abortion numbers are already reported to the state Office of Vital Records and is publicly available. The office collects records - but not death certificates - on abortions and the deaths of fetuses after 22 weeks gestation or weighing about 1 pound. And the identites of the women who have abortions are not included in those records. Death certificates include identifying information such as Social Security numbers."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you think that death certificates should be issued for abortions?
Why Why not? tropicalstorm answered on 02/27/07:I don't think it will ever happen because of the way pro-abortion has defined a fetus as a non human to protect women's right to abortion.
It must be a way the Republicans are trying to sneak a way to say ahaha. Although I am pro-life it's the way I see why they would want to do this. It would probably only cause the abortion clinics to do more abortions under the table.
Ceebee has it, how can they do death certificates if there is no birth certificate first? | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 02/26/07 - A Crisis in USA ZSA ZSA Gabor's
100 year old husand may be Anna Nicole's baby daddy, or howard Stern, or Larry Birkhead, or Donald Duck. B ritany Spears has shaved her head, become a vagina model and may lose her kids.
The Oscars are coming up , will there be faux pas with the haute coutre on the RED CARPET. Not much happening in Iraq, Afganistan, China or anywhere else in the world though. Will you do your part and call in your opinion on whether Britany is a fit mother? tropicalstorm answered on 02/26/07:I heard the oscars was boring flop commricals all that was any good. Departed won a lot. Ellen degeneras not funny John travota had a funny line and Jodi foster wore a dress.
Britney isn't a fit mother and anna's baby's who the daddy old news | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/25/07 - Pascal's Wager......
PASCAL'S WAGER :
Is it safer to believe in God, even if there is no proof that one exists?
"The reason Pascal’s wager does not work is the same reason why you should never plan your retirement on winning the lotto."
Link to original article
Comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/25/07:Beatniks were in the 50's and weirder
they liked poetry cafes and philosophical poetry like this
Dissentient, arrant they come. Such paucity transcends
Existence, the very essence of life.
With affinity these extrinsic souls -furiously incarnate,
Their entity cognate, spectral, absolute, perpetual -show
The aberration of the fraternity fraught with the ignis
Fatuus ideal that to transpose coalescent nullities with
Ubiquity, a bourgeois, primordial driblet of reality is
Vital to eternal equipoise.
Haunted they come, their balefully intaglio psyches
Sublime with illusory grandeur -acquiescent with restless
Self-deception.
Don't know the author | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 02/25/07 - pericles and aton are...................... really pissed!:) tropicalstorm answered on 02/25/07:WHY?
because you are making an idiot of yourself?
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/25/07 - More I hate to say this Further to "I hate to say this" by Pericles dated 02/24/07
I told you so !!!
JJD had to freak out one time or another .....
Any comments?
Clarification/Follow-up by domino on 02/24/07 6:39 pm:
It happens with every drunken pervert. But what does he think he has accomplished??? He certainly hasn't stopped anyone from posting, or responding!!!!! It's not even a minor nuisance.
Clarification/Follow-up by domino on 02/24/07 6:39 pm:
tropical: You cannot mollify idiots....especially viscious idiots like DUPREE. His stated purpose was to bring down the Christianity board. He tried and accomplished SQUAT. Except to show the rest of the board what a drunken obscene pervert he really is.
His blocking efforts did no good. His fair weather friend, Hank, ran off and left him swinging in the wind. So he did what sick psychotic people do. If he doesn't disappear you can expect another onslaught of filth.
Clarification/Follow-up by webguy on 02/24/07 6:39 pm:
yep At least the html is back in shape again.
Clarification/Follow-up by tropicalstorm on 02/24/07 6:40 pm:
I am the one in the wrong because I tell jjg is wrong for what jjg pulls and gets away with. I should be saying yes jjg you are very Christian like and I should be more like you. So since that seems to be the case what the heck can I say about JJD doing what he just did!? IT would after all be so very unchristianly of me!
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/24/07 6:41 pm:
Webguy
Yes. I'm glad it is. Every cloud has a silver lining !!!
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/24/07 6:44 pm:
That were 96 JJDups posts .....
Clarification/Follow-up by webguy on 02/24/07 6:46 pm:
8 foot of posts, amazing.
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/24/07 6:47 pm:
Domino
Exactly what happened at WTY.
It just took more time here.
Well. If that does not cause some reaction from management, what will?
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/24/07 6:47 pm:
TS
I do not think you're in the wrong here :)
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/24/07 6:56 pm:
Just to time stamp this :
WTY Board posting
Subject: I overloaded AW's server!!!!!!!!!
Question in Christianity has been asked by Azzhat .
And it crashed mightily!!! BAAWAWAWWAAAHAHAHAHAH!!!
tropicalstorm answered on 02/25/07:Like I said I am not suppose to agree with you or else it means I am taking sides. I already criticized jjg for her hatred and was told how wrong I am, so I need to take this time to say maybe it is my fault for appearing to take sides. JJG is allowed to say what she wants so and made to look like a saint so who am I to say anything about JJD? | | Question/Answer | | JesseJamesDupree asked on 02/25/07 - I told you two heatherns aton and pericles you ws gonna git it, and now you got it! tropicalstorm answered on 02/25/07:HUH????
| | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 02/24/07 - Enough already! I put this in an answer to a previous question, but I want it right here for all to see.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ENOUGH!!!! I have heard quite enough of this bickering and whining from members on ALL sides of whatever "debate" this debacle has turned into!
Quite frankly, I am rather disappointed in some of those whom I count among my fellow Christians, just as from time to time I have brought shame on myself, as well.
However, this has gone far beyond the normal shade of ridiculous and has disintegrated into downright lunacy.
Do some of you seriously mean to tell me that another human, whom you ONLY know by a MADE-UP SCREEN NAME, can get so firmly embedded under your skin as to make you sink to this level of communication? GET OVER IT, ALREADY!!
If THIS is all it takes to make you totally lose whatever composure you may have ever possessed, then I shudder to think of how short a time you will stand if and when REAL persecution comes at you. Don't you know that our brothers and sisters in the underground Christian communities in China, North Korea, and some countries in the Middle East would be sickened to see how you react to some mere name calling, when they literally face the likelihood of death every day for their faith?
Where is your witness? Is everyone so weak in their faith that they can't stand some pointed questions, or even some jabs?
Personally, I WELCOME the questions. They cause me to critically examine my own faith, and give me an opportunity to not just TALK about the love of Christ, but to SHOW it by doing the best I can to intelligently (I hope) respond to them with civility and courtesy, all the while demonstrating the divine love that has literally changed my life. Sure, some of the barbs irritate me. Of course some of the misconceptions and accusations make me uncomfortable. That's life, and I deal with it.
As Christians, we are supposed to stand out, to be different from the world in which we live. I don't see that happening here.
This is NOT a gathering place for Christians. This is a Q and A board to answer questions about and debate the faith of Christianity. If you want a gathering place, go to the forums at Crosswalk.com, or any one of a dozen others. They're great places, and mostly free of the sorts of things that irritate you so badly here. But I tell you this: go there, and you are only preaching to the choir. They're great places to go to learn, unwind, and relax with fellow Christians. But they are NOT necessarily the place for sharing with non-Christians.
Good grief! Have you READ the Gospels lately? Jesus said we would meet trials and tribulations. I imagine he had things in mind that are infinitely worse that the piddly crap that goes on here. If you can't stand in the face of things like this, how can you hope to stand in the face of REAL trials?
To all I say: GET OVER IT, and start acting like Christians. Jesus expects nothing less.
DK tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:Like I told Webguy
If jjg would say anything with any substance I would be the first to say AMEN. All I have heard from her in the past three weeks is 'those low life bully atheists'
I would love to see some actual conversation here. People think I am taking sides, but it is simply that jjg has had nothing worth me being in agreement with lately. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/24/07 - This is my GOODBYE to ANSWERWAY:
Leslie and I have decided to get married in a month or so. She has been monitoring this Christianity site for a couple of weeks. Anyway, I'll make it short:
Adult concerns are not settled, once and for all, at some critical stage or age. By understanding the forces that promote development or keep us consistent, I can better evaluate popular ideas about adult life. My development is more complicated than that, and also more interesting. Adult life is full of transitions, problems, fun, choices, worries, chances and unexpected curve balls. Having them is what it means to live. Meeting them is what it means to be an adult. Qualities influence how I interpret and react to new situations, and seek stimulation and change or prefer stability and calm. Leslie and I prefer both! We both believe in Jesus, GOD and try to live by His Word. So, I'll lleave all of you with one last thought: We cannot always choose the changes that happen to us, but often we can decide what to do next. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
* Goodbye, Joy. Thanks for your LOVE and UNDERSTANDING.
HANK (& LESLIE)
tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:Enjoy your honeymoon and See you around soon :)
![]() | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/24/07 - Any takers??? I am offering TEN to ONE odds that that little
Farwell Address is NOT the last word we will hear from Hank!! Any one want a piece of the action? :) :) :)
Why does it always sound so familair???? Like: "you guys won't play by my rules, so I'm gonna take my ball and go home." Or is it ball and chain..this time :) :) :) tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:He will always be here in spirit :)
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/24/07 - The downsides of ritual. What are the downsides of going through rituals week after week, maybe day after day, already knowing by heart what will be said and/or done next?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:One thing is it is just accepted and done as tradition. It could be right it could be wrong but nobody is questioning why, who how and just accepting it. Then they think things are like Dom's post about Christians misquoting the Bible. They are just being spoon fed cookie cut
with no heart of the matter conviction. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/24/07 - The benefits of ritual. What are the benefits of going through rituals week after week, maybe day after day, already knowing by heart what will be said and/or done next? tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:Not much. When I was a teen and my mom took me and my sister to church we knew the stuff to say off by heart it was more like push the tape recorder play button and out come the words and not paying attention to any of it. If it is more interesting week to week with something new to learn it is more interesting. Than singing Alleluia after the Pastor reads a chapter out of Luke for the umpteem time. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/24/07 - The worship service. 1. How would you change it to make it more attractive to non-members and to lapsed members?
2. What part of it do you enjoy and look forward to or find peaceful or find spiritually stimulating?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:Making things relevant rather than going
through some ritual weekly already know off by heart what is said and done next. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/24/07 - Why pray? If it changes God's mind, then He is not sovereign. If it does not change God's mind, then it is superfluous. tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:personally to put it in human rational.
I think it is like say a couple could read each others mind, know their feelings and thoughts and never had to say a word to communicate they would still want to verbalize their feelings at times. I am sure God would like to hear your voice saying Thank you or acknowledging him in some way. | | Question/Answer | | Bobbye asked on 02/24/07 - HAS ANYONE SEEN OR HEARD FROM RONNIE BRAY? Is he well? Is he still in the U.S.? Just concerned. Thanks. Bobbye tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:I haven't seen him or Marky (and I think there was another one I got confused with them)
since askme
He use to be on the mormon board and the spiritual board but I don't think they are even there. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/23/07 - Interesting!!! When you click on to the Quick Links icon to the left of your screen, it will tell you which experts have you blocked. They are listed by name. Now the only "expert" who has me blocked is 'JJGOSS'....
The interesting part: I just tried to respond to Rosekeeper, who is pretending to be JOY, and I am told "EXPERT HAS YOU BLOCKED".....
ERGO: since the only expert who has me blocked is JJGOSS/JJDUPREE who can ROSEKEEPER be EXCEPT JJGOSS???? tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:Dom
check out the mormon board
when bobbye posted wheres ronnie bray I looked there.... worth the trip over there | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/23/07 - Is this the way fundi-creo's argue?
This post refers to Topic "Do Leading Atheists Respect Compromising Christians?" posted by peddler7118 dated 02/22/07
Over the last year this board has been bombarded by peddlers posts on evolution. Mostly very long posts C&P'ed from "AnswersinGenesis.com". If you react you keep getting bombarded by peddler with lot's of criticism and questions. No problem with that. But sometimes you ask peddler a question back. And what happens? See here what happens ....
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 02/23/07 8:49 am:
Puddles
WITH PLEASURE I will reply to that as soon as you have replied to the various questions I asked you over the last 30 days, but which you either sidestepped, replied with an unrelated contra-question, or ignored completely.
Clarification/Follow-up by peddler7118 on 02/23/07 9:12 am:
Percky
Go play with your dolls
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
And I "should be glad" that this time peddler did not use a long string of accompanying expletives.
So from now I will no longer react on any additional "question" on any topic posted by peddler.
It is plain wasted time.
Is this the way fundi-creo's argue?
Any of you had a similar experience?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/24/07:yeah perc I gave up on that SAME post trying to get Peddler to 'see' anything beyond what he believes. All he seems to comprehend is c/p I explained the gap theory between Genesis 1:1 and 2 over an d over and Peddler didn't have the foggiest idea what I was talking about. Then I c/p'ed from a website and all of a sudden he knew all about it and went on and on about how that was debunked by Bible scholars so from now on IF I do have anything to say to Peddler it will be CUT & PASTE. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/23/07 - PRETTY STRANGE:
Timelessone's profile states:
"Christianity"
"Have to sign up before I can answer a question here.
Have to sign up before I can answer a question here.
Have to sign up before I can answer a question here.
Have to sign up before I can answer a question here."
This, of course, makes him an Expert re: Christianity AT THIS TIME ... don't you think? Very productive fella!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/23/07:Gee Hank
I need to go change my profile pronto! | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 02/23/07 - Answer to jjgoss, due to self censorship Re Fred.
Gossy you idiot:
If you believe that, you will believe anything.....mind you, saying that, You do believe anything!!!!
LOL!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 02/23/07:DEAR PETE!
YOU JUST FIGURING THAT ONE OUT?
JJG=NO COMPRENDO | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/23/07 - Do Leading Atheists Respect Compromising Christians? Dawkins on compromising churchians
Richard Dawkins is an evolutionist and Oxford University professor who is one of the most strident antitheists around. Some churchians think they can appease him by compromising the Bible with evolution. But what does Dawkins think of this?
In his TV diatribe against theistic religion called The root of all evil? (broadcast on Channel 4, 16 January 2006), he said:
‘Oh but of course the story of Adam and Eve was only ever symbolic, wasn’t it? Symbolic?! Jesus had himself tortured and executed for a symbolic sin by a non-existent individual. Nobody not brought up in the faith could reach any verdict other than barking mad!’
Elsewhere in The root of all evil?, he said the following after a discussion about homosexual behaviour with the Bishop of Oxford, Richard Harries, who has joined the antitheist Dawkins in opposing creation teaching in British schools. Harries, a liberal who also told Dawkins that he rejects the virginal conception of Christ, admitted that the OT and NT teaching was clearly that homosexual behaviour is wrong, but then went on to argue that we needed to reinterpret these texts based on modern scientific findings of ‘a significant percentage of people are predominantly attracted to members of their own sex.’ etc. (probably, like his fellow liberal (retired) bishop John Shelby Spong, relying on the discredited gall wasp specialist Alfred Kinsey). Again, he should just say that he doesn’t believe the texts, rather than dishonestly claim he is reinterpreting them to mean the opposite of what they say!
Dawkins responded to the camera, showing that Harries’ appeasement results only in contempt:
‘The moderates’ [liberals’] position seems to me to be fence-sitting. They half-believe in the Bible but how do they decide which parts to believe literally and which parts are just allegorical?’
Presumably here he means, ‘which parts of the Bible’s historical narrative are to be taken as historical narrative and which parts are to be explained away as allegorical’ — see Should Genesis be taken literally? Then he gets it right:
‘It seems to me an odd proposition that we should adhere to some parts of the Bible story but not to others. After all, when it comes to important moral questions, by what standards do we cherry-pick the Bible? Why bother with the Bible at all if we have the ability to pick and choose from it, what is right and what is wrong?’ [but see also answer to philosophy/religion professor on biblical exegesis and the problem of evil for some clarification on this topic] tropicalstorm answered on 02/23/07:Picking up where I left off
The widely held view among gap theorists today is that the original creation of the world by God, as recorded in Genesis 1:1, took place millions of years ago. The creation was despoiled because of Satan’s rebellion against God, resulting in his being cast from heaven with his followers. A cataclysm occurred at the time of Satan’s overthrow, and is said to have left the Earth in darkness (the “waste and void” of Genesis 1:2). [NOTE: It is alleged by some Gap theorists that the cataclysm occurring at Satan’s overthrow terminated the geologic ages, after which God “re-created.” It is alleged by others that the cataclysm occurred first, and then was followed by the geologic ages, after which God “re-created.”] The world as God had created it, with all its inhabitants, was destroyed, which, it is claimed, accounts for the myriad fossils present in the Earth. Many holding to this theory place the fossils of dinosaurs, and other extinct forms of life in this gap. Then, God “re-created” the Earth in six literal days. By way of summary, then, the “gap” between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 contains the story of an original creation, a judgment, and ruination, while the verses in Genesis 1:3 through the remainder of the chapter record the story of the Earth’s re-creation.
• Gap theorists suggest that the Hebrew verb hayetha (translated “was” in Genesis 1:2) should be rendered “became” or “had become”—a translation required in order to suggest a change of state from the original perfect creation to the chaotic conditions implied in verse 2.
• Gap theorists believe that the “without form and void” of Genesis 1:2 (tohu wabohu) can refer only to something once in a state of repair, but now ruined. Pember accepted these words as expressing “an outpouring of the wrath of God.” Gap theorists believe that the cataclysm that occurred was on the Earth, and was the direct result of Satan’s rebellion against God. The cataclysm, of course, is absolutely essential to the Gap Theory. Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:11-17 are used as proof-texts to bolster the theory.
• Gap theorists believe that Isaiah 45:18 (“God created the earth not in vain”—tohu; same word translated “without form” in Genesis 1:2) indicates that the Earth was not tohu at the initial creation. Therefore, they suggest, Genesis 1:2 can refer only to a judgment brought upon the Earth by God.
• Gap theorists generally believe that there was a pre-Adamic creation of both non-human and human forms—a position adopted to account for the fossils present in the geologic strata.
Many 'Gap Theory' teachings are not correct, but I believe some the teachings do line up with the Creationism Science. In summary, I believe Satan did fall between verses 1 and 2, and was over a civilization of angels on a Pre-Adamite earth which was created in verse one. We don't know how much time transpired between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 while Lucifer was on this earth, but it need not be a very long period of time at all, certainly not the billions of years evolutionists tell us about! I believe the 6 days of Genesis 1:3 thru 1:28 are indeed six 24-hour days of RE-creation. We see 'Create' (out of nothing) used only 3 times in this chapter, and other times the words 'made' and 'formed' are used, meaning already existing materials are used.
Now to me, this is a hard argument to overcome. Why is 'Create' only used 3 times, and all the other things already existed but are just 'made to appear'? I believe all the animals and dinosaurs lived with Adam on the Pre-flood earth and that Adam is only around 6000 years old. Many Aspects of an 'ICE-AGE' science talks about, I believe, were the result of the World Wide flood of Noah's Day. Carbon-Dating that shows dinosaurs and animals living millions of years ago is about as reliable as a 3-dollar bill. Carbon Dating has recently showed freshly killed animals to be thousands or millions of years old!
Below we will look at aspects of the Gap Theory and show which ones actually fit with Creationism Science, thus giving us the correct Biblical View of Creation, I believe.
Proponents of this 'RECONSTRUCTION' view or GAP THEORY believe that the heavens and the earth were created in Genesis 1:1 at some undisclosed time in the past, and that Lucifer was put in charge of the earth along with a host of his angels. Due to Lucifer’s rebellion as described in Isaiah 14:12-17 and Ezekiel 28:12-17, God brought Judgment upon the earth and the universe where it became waste and desolate as described in Genesis 1:2.
Isaiah 14:12-17 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. 16 They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; 17 That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?
Ezekiel 28:12-17 Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.13 Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.14 Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.15 Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.16 By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire.17 Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/22/07 - *CRYING* You guys trashed the Philosophy Board. It *could possibly* come around. It was my *only possible* outlet ANYWHERE to quality communication/education.
Sure, Hank's a d*ck. No reason to take down the PB.
*crying* tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:I am sorry Choux I tried to add a zesty flavor to it
:( | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/22/07 - RESULTS:
Now that you have seen some of Domino's dialogue via my posts, it's up to you to decide if you want to patronize this person or be a Christian and overlook his/her obnoxious behavior. THOSE WHO SIDE WITH HIM/HER ARE NOT CHRISTIANS. HIS FUTURE ON THIS BOARD IS UP TO YOU!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:I side with no one! IF 'n when you are right I agree and IF 'n when someone else is right I agree with them. I can't base my life on Black and White I am too busy exploring
ALL the grey matter in between!!!!
If 'n when Peddler is right I will say so.
If 'n when Perc is wrong I will say so.
If 'n when the argument is petty and unproductive, unless I can throw in a different twist I can't be bothered.
Of course this is only my opinion but I can't speak for others so what do they expect.
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/22/07 - Christians, public libraries, and censorship A friend e-mailed this to me and asked my opinion:
One Troublesome Word
New York Times
February 21, 2007
A tempest has been brewing over a children’s book that contains a word some find naughty and unsettling. The word is scrotum. It appears only a few times in the book, The Higher Power of Lucky, which is recommended for grades four to six. The scrotum in question belongs to a dog, who is bitten there by a snake.
On that basis, a few queasy librarians have chosen not to order the book, even though it won the prestigious Newbery Medal. The arguments pro and con are bubbling on librarians' message boards. The cons seem vastly outnumbered, though they have gotten a lot of attention. One likened the author, Susan Patron, to the shock-radio host Howard Stern. Another suggested that teachers reading the book aloud replace that word with "a clearing-throat noise," a bleep in the form of an "ahem."
All this seems like a lousy way to treat a sweet, funny book whose main character, a smart, curious 10-year-old girl named Lucky Trimble, is already wise to the power and mystery of words: "Scrotum sounded to Lucky like something green that comes up when you have the flu and cough too much. It sounded medical and secret, but also important."
Librarians all over are flinching at the furor, saying it reinforces their profession's hated archetype: Marian the Librarian, the prig in a wet blanket. (This is the perception, but it's nonsense; remember that Marian Paroo, played in the "Music Man" film by the lovely Shirley Jones, is the musical's only real grown-up, a complicated professional who scandalizes River City ladies with her love of bawdy books. Chaucer! Rabelais! BAL-zac!)
Speaking of Balzac, it seems a good time to remember that discomfort about words isn't the fault of the words or of the authors who use them. And that plain old uncynical, workmanlike common nouns lose their naughty aura through unembarrassed use. The alternative — silent ignorance or the baby-talk slang that children acquire as surely as strep and ear infections — seems far less healthy.
With every generation, a new cohort of children begins the journey from ignorance to knowledge. Librarians help those children get there. Some barely make it, and end up toting ignorance as baggage, a sniggering puerility about body parts and functions. Those are the ones who will be drawn to shock radio — not children like the thoughtful, dauntless Lucky Trimble and those lucky enough to have read her book.
**************************
During Selection & Acquisition class, the professor had asked us if libraries should have available Playboy magazine, the children's book about two lesbian mothers (Heather Has Two Mommies), and richly and graphically illustrated non-fiction books such as The Joy of Sex and What's Happening To My Body? (both boy and girl versions), etc.
"Keep in mind," the professor had said, "Ranganathan, the father of modern library science, proposed five laws of library science that are to be the foundations of librarians' philosophy."
1. Books are for use.
2. Every person his or her book.
3. Every book its reader.
4. Save the time of the reader.
5. The library is a growing organism.
*************************
Now, my question: Should Christians object to what a public library has on its shelves? tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:I think I would rather read Tom Sawyer or Huck Finn and I think they are banned. I have heard of books being banned for the stupidest reasons while I am sure the library contains much much worse. Books shouldn't be banned. Besides there is much worse on the internet.
Simply a bunch of fuddy-duddies! | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/22/07 - Why so many people still believe in GodAlmighty "Man's essence is its desire to be God". Jean Paul Sartre.
God is our projection. Man may be the first entity by means of which the Univere wonders about itself. Man has a desire to be trascendent, however the harsh reality is that we are all mortal.
But if we cannot be immortal, what is life's meaning?
Diminish the suffering, enjoy life, learn science, and per Aristotle, contemplation, politics and the pursuit of pleasure. (Edited from a book review)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, why? Human beings refuse to accept their mortalitly. Refuse death. Refuse the ending of the drama that was their life.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:Having too much fun here but
when the time comes the real fun has only just begun
seez ya on de utter side!!!!
No hurry!!! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/22/07 - Want a quick change of pace??? You guys should all rush over to the PHILOSOPHY board. If you think there are loonies on THIS board...you ain't seen nothing yet!!!! Though why they call it the PHILOSOPHY board is beyond me...they should call it the rag-tag, grab-all board...for there is so little PHILOSOPHY discussed that it is almost a joke. Guarantee you'll have fun...especially if you don't mind going thru the whole Hank and Carol thing over again. :) tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:Have to take a gumbo pot right away
I gave up on that board years ago
they like to talk like their abstract verbage
is soooo deep. I know where they came up with the saying about get the boots (& the shovel) | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/22/07 - Is Petrified Wood Really That Old? Patent 'recipe' for petrification
The priority for the discovery of a 'recipe' for petrification of wood must go to Hamilton Hicks of Greenwich, Connecticut (USA), who on September 16, 1986 was issued with US Patent Number 4,612,050.2 According to Hicks, his chemical 'cocktail' of sodium silicate (commonly known as 'water glass'), natural spring or volcanic mineral water having a high content of calcium, magnesium, manganese, and other metal salts, and citric or malic acid is capable of rapidly petrifying wood. But in case you want to try this 'recipe,' you need to know that for artificial petrification to occur there is some special technique for mixing these components in the correct proportions to get an 'incipient' gel condition.
Hicks wrote:
'When applied to wood, the solution penetrates the wood. The mineral water and sodium silicate are relatively proportioned so the solution is a liquid of stable viscosity and is acidified to the incipient jelling [gelling] condition to a degree causing jelling [gelling] after penetrating the wood, but not prior thereto. That is to say, the solution can be stored and shipped, but after application to the wood, jells [gels] in the wood. When its content is high enough, the penetrated wood acquires the characteristics of petrified wood. The wood can no longer be made to burn even when exposed to moisture or high humidity, for a prolonged period of time. The apparent petrification is obtained quickly by drying the wood.Ɖ
The patent indicates that the amount of acid in the solution appears to have a critical effect on the production of the gel phase within the cell structure of the wood, although evaporation also plays its part. Wood thoroughly impregnated, even if necessary by repeated applications or submersions of the wood in the solution, after drying evidently has all the characteristics of petrified wood, including its appearance.
Both Hicks and the researchers at the University of Washington lab have suggested potential uses for such 'instant' petrified woods:
Fireproofing wooden structures such as houses and horse stables (the horses wouldn't be tempted to chew on the wood either!).
Longer-wearing floors and furniture.
Greater strength wood for structural uses.
Insect, decay and salt water 'proofing' wood in buildings, etc.
From Australia come some startling reports. Writing in The Australian Lapidary Magazine, Pigott5 recounts his experiences in southwestern Queensland:
'. . . from Mrs McMurray [of Blackall], I heard a story that rocked me and seemed to explode many ideas about the age of petrified wood. Mrs McMurray has a piece of wood turned to stone which has clear axe marks on it. She says the tree this piece came from grew on a farm her father had at Euthella, out of Roma, and was chopped down by him about 70 years ago. It was partly buried until it was dug up again, petrified. Mac McMurray capped this story by saying a townsman had a piece of petrified fence post with the drilled holes for wire with a piece of the wire attached.
'Petrified wood thousands of years old? I wonder is it so?'
Several months later Pearce6 added further to these amazing stories of woods rapidly petrified in the ground of 'outback' Queensland:
'. . . Piggott writes of petrified wood showing axe marks and also of a petrified fence post.
'This sort of thing is, of course, quite common. The Hughenden district, N. Q. [North Queensland], has . . . Parkensonia trees washed over near a station [ranch] homestead and covered with silt by a flood in 1918 [which] had the silt washed off by a flood in 1950. Portions of the trunk had turned to stone of an attractive colour. However, much of the trunks and all the limbs had totally disappeared.
'On Zara Station [Ranch], 30 miles [about 48 kilometres] from Hughenden, I was renewing a fence. Where it was dipped into a hollow the bottom of the old posts had gone through black soil into shale. The Gidgee wood was still perfect in the black soil. It then cut off as straight as if sawn, and the few inches of post in the shale was pure stone. Every axe mark was perfect and the colour still the same as the day the post was cut . . . .
'I understand that down in the sandhill country below Boulia [south-western Queensland], where fences are often completely covered by shifting sand, it's a common thing for the sand to shift off after a number of years, leaving stone posts standing erect.'
From the other side of the world comes a report of the chapel of Santa Maria of Health (Santa Maria de Salute), built in 1630 in Venice, Italy, to celebrate the end of The Plague. Because Venice is built on watersaturated clay and sand, the chapel was constructed on 180,000 wooden pilings to reinforce the foundations. Even though the chapel is a massive stone block structure, it has remained firm since its construction. How have the wooden pilings lasted over 360 years? They have petrified! The chapel now rests on 'stone' pilings!7
tropicalstorm answered on 02/22/07:I doubt the petrified woods were a product of a patent recipe. Why does it matter how long ago they got petrified????
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/21/07 - LEFT BEHIND No, not that kind of left behind.
What does Hank mean by his "experiment" I've lost one of the threads of today's conversation. :( tropicalstorm answered on 02/21/07:I think it is his scheme of things in his own mind--just like Perc mistaking that a pic could scare an American. What AIN'T we seen?
--lusions of grandeur | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/21/07 - The Bible is unclear about how to be saved (from what, some may ask - but that's a different question).
Jesus taught salvation by works (2nd geat commandment), yet John portrays him teaching salvation by faith. Paul's epistles preach God's grace.
Which is it?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/21/07:The Bible says you will know them by their fruits and I believe it also means your motives and your heart. | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 02/21/07 - TO OTHERS: MULTIPLE RATINGS AND MORE: I know that many have been talking about ways of stopping the abuse. I think people should flood the managements with abuse reports. I do not really care if I get suspended. I challenge management to kick my butt. I can not stand management and I think that more people need to tell this to management. Considering they do nothing anyway. I have been enjoying my time here as of late. I think it is cool that I get so many ratings but it does not matter to me, and all of you already know that.
MANAGEMENT, COME AND DO YOUR JOB. YOU HAVE APPARENTLY HAVE RECEIVED COMPLAINTS ABOUT AN MEMBER ABUSING THE RATING SYSTEM AND NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE. WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT. SUSPEND EVERYBODY AGAIN? FOR NO REASON. OR ACTUALLY SUSPEND THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL OF THE ABUSE. JesseJamesDupree
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND SEE YOU WEDNESDAY.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/21/07:yeah flood like maybe everybody reports three times a day everyday until something is done MIGHT do the trick | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/21/07 - Teen 'sport killings' of homeless on the rise ...........
From CNN : Teen 'sport killings' of homeless on the rise
• Number of attacks on homeless at highest level in almost a decade
• 122 attacks, 20 murders in 2006, according to National Coalition for the Homeless
• For some teens, "this passes as amusement," expert says
A new US Christian American teenager pastime?
Is that the type of glorious Christianity based morals that people like peddler always refer to?
LINK TO FULL CNN ARTICLE
tropicalstorm answered on 02/21/07:yeah they say the kids get bored with the videos and want to do the real killing but the rights organizations say the two have no connection! | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 02/20/07 - The Greatest Man in History Jesus had no servants, yet they called
Him Master. Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. Had no medicines,
yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won
no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime,
yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today. I
feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!
tropicalstorm answered on 02/21/07:I forget who wrote it (maybe anonymous)
One Solitary Life
He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another obscure village, where He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. Then for three years He was an itinerant preacher. He never had a family or owned a home. He never set foot inside a big city. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place He was born. He never wrote a book or held an office. He did none of the things that usually accompany greatness.
While He was still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against Him. His friends deserted Him. He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. While He was dying, His executioners gambled for the only piece of poperty He had- His coat. When He was dead He was taken down and laid in a borrowed grave.
Nineteen centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central figure for much of the human race. All the armies that ever marched, and all the navies that ever sailed, and all the parliments that ever sat, and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as this "One Solitary Life" | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/20/07 - Wouldn't it be scarier? ---------------------- if the Bible would have been written by a committee? That would have been a lovely piece of propaganda, wouldn't it?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/20/07:yeah it would sound very contrived if it sounded too much alike. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/20/07 - Multiple rating ......................................... Topic No bible scholars
Reply by CeeBee
JesseJamesDupree rated this reply 14 times
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Topic US Pastor claims
Reply by STONY
JesseJamesDupree rated this reply 7 times
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Topic more on the guy
Answer by tomder55
JesseJamesDupree rated this answer 8 times
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Faites vos jeux de rapport d'abuse, Madames et Messieurs !!!
tropicalstorm answered on 02/20/07:He has been reported and it hasn't accomplished anything so where to go from there? | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/20/07 - US Pastor claims to be divine ...........................
From CNN : Pastor with 666 tattoo claims to be divine
• Jose Luis de Jesus Miranda, a minister, says he's God
• De Jesus preaches that there is no devil and no sin
• His church claims thousands of members in more than 30 countries
"The spirit that is in me is the same spirit that was in Jesus of Nazareth," de Jesus says.
De Jesus' claims of divinity have angered Christian leaders, who say he is a fake. Religious experts say he may be something much more dangerous, a cult leader who really believes he is God.
De Jesus says he learned he was Jesus reincarnate when he was visited in a dream by angels.
"The prophets, they spoke about me. It took me time to learn that, but I am what they were expecting, what they have been expecting for 2,000 years," de Jesus says.
---
De Jesus preaches there is no devil and no sin. His followers, he says, literally can do no wrong in God's eyes.
Well whatever you think de Jesus is wrong about, that at least makes some deistic sense .... More than the hateful fundamental "christian" dribble that presently seems to ooze out of this board.
What are your thoughts?
Link to CNN article
tropicalstorm answered on 02/20/07:Reminds me of someone I heard about on coast to coast with George sNory.
page 1 )
page 1 ) | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 02/20/07 - Response to Peddler!!!!!!!! JesusHelper
So we should respect homosexuals? Pedophiles? God haters? Satanist?
Apparently your religion is not real to you.
We should respect others right to worship as they see fit but we must warn them if that belief is going to damn them.
Jesus was not politically correct and His servants should not be either.
It is arrogant to call yourself JesusHelper. Jesus Servant would be proper.
Peddler,
First of all. Jesus referred us to sheep. Now if there are 100 sheep. The one is lost. 99 of them are still there. What is the owner going to do? He is going to go look for the one that is lost.
Jesus did not turn away sinners. He actually occupied his time by looking for the lost. Gathering them, finding them and teaching them.
What right do you have to tell me that I am arrogant. You have no right. You sit there on your high horse and demand that we all have to be a certain way. As far as I am concerned. You are one of the lost, you know why? You judge, you sin, you yourself are calling others, hating others, judging others, without any basis. What you are doing is sinful. I am not here to say I am better then anybody else because I am not. You on the other hand are acting, talking and writing as if you are better, but truly you are not.
Jesus is real to me. The true Jesus, The True God is more real to me then you will ever know. Jesus taught about love, about patience, and forgiveness.
Not about Hate, Not about Judgement, not about the things that you are trying to ram down other peoples throat.
Ever hear of the saying Hate the sin but not the sinner. Well you have hate for the person. Jesus does not.
Homosexuals, murderers, predators, Satanists and all others that according to you deserve my hate and your hate. Are all human. Are all in need of our understanding, love, patience and forgiveness. It is up to God to judge each and everyone of us. Not you.
Good night,
Oh by the way, I skimmed through your 3 other posts. Why do you waste everybodies time. I do not want to read through all your hatred.
Joe tropicalstorm answered on 02/20/07:Like I replied to you in Percs post
You aren't gone astray. Peddler follows his own convictions.
How does he expect to wittness to homosexuals? Pedophiles? God haters? Satanist? when they must feel the anamosity! Then again he probably
avoids 'the world'. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/20/07 - Is peddler rational? ....................................
peddler posted a series of posts to this board all about atheism and secular humanism
I refer here to her post "Is Atheism Rational?"
In that topic peddler quotes a no further identified T.B. of the UK with a response by Dr Jonathan Sarfati.
Let's see who this Dr Sarfati really is : Does Dr Sarfati have any integrity?
This is the view of John Stear (Link to original article):
Dr Jonathan Sarfati is a Young Earth Creationist (YEC). He is employed by the Australian headquarters of Answers in Genesis (AiG) at Acacia Ridge in Queensland, Australia. According to his c.v. Dr Sarfati "obtained honors level in physical and inorganic chemistry, as well as in condensed matter physics and nuclear physics." He also studied mathematics, geology and physics at Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand.
Dr Sarfati writes extensively for AiG. His writing covers most aspects of science as it relates to evolution. However, like many creationists, he attempts to refute many aspects of evolution by writing beyond his field of expertise.
In one of his recent books, Refuting Evolution, he, typically, revisits areas which have been refuted by scientists many times. This is a well used creationist tactic; tell a lie often enough and it becomes truth. Unfortunately this is often a successful ploy as most grassroots creationists parrot these lies as if they were really scientifically sound.
It comes as no surprise then that Dr Sarfati also employes that well known creationist tactic of quoting out of context.
At the end of chapter eight of Refuting Evolution Dr Sarfati quotes from Dr William B. Provine's review of Teaching about Evolution and the Nature of Science, a guide book issued by The National Academy of Sciences:
... evolutionists have had to abandon many "proofs" for evolution as well. For example, the atheistic evolutionist W.B. Provine admits: "Most of what I learned of the field in graduate (1964-68) school is either wrong or significantly changed." Creationists understand the limitations of these dating methods better than evolutionists who claim that they can use certain present process to "prove" that the earth is billions of years old.
Dr Provine writes that most of what he learned of the field of high school biology when in graduate school is either wrong or has changed. Nowhere does he equate his remarks to dating methods as Dr Sarfati dishonestly claims.
Here is Dr Provine's quote in context:
Greater understanding of evolution is a laudable goal. High school biology textbooks are woefully out of date. I use a rough measure for how rapidly evolutionary biology changes. Most of what I learned of the field in graduate school (1964-68) is either wrong or significantly changed. Yet many high school textbooks could have been written in the mid-1950s. A boost from the National Academy of Sciences might really help.
Dr Provine's words can be found in the first para under the heading Evolution and Science [now deleted from the Darwin web site but available on the Web Archive] and strangely, Dr Sarfati supplies this link in his book. Does it ever dawn on creationists that some of their (few) erudite readers might want to verify a quote?
I wrote to Answers in Genesis' Web Feedback pointing out Dr Sarfati's dishonest use of Dr Provine's statement and received a reply from Dr Sarfati (although my criticism is yet to be published on AiG's "Web Feedback" page). Below is the relevent part of the exchange: NOTE : Follow this link to read the full text of Dr Sarfati's e-mail reply
Stear: Dr Provine admits that most of what he learned of high school biology when in graduate school is either wrong or has changed, but nowhere does he equate his remarks to dating methods as Sarfati dishonestly claims.
Sarfati: That's not at all what I claimed. The previous sentence--which you even quoted--makes it clear that I was citing Provine in relation to "'proofs' of evolution" NOT dating methods, and this whole piece was basically a parenthetical insertion illustrating the tentative nature of all claims about the past.
Not good enough Dr Sarfati! Almost all of chapter eight of your book is devoted to radiometric dating. Your first sentence following Dr Provine's words begins "Creationists understand the limitations of these dating methods better than evolutionists ... ".
Your explanation absolutely reeks of dishonesty, a deliberate juxtapositioning of text in order to deliver a very specific (and totally deceptive) impression. You, Dr Sarfati, are the consumate propagandist and would have done Joseph Goebbels proud!
So we have an unreliable cheating and lying Dr Sarfati, who serves as the cornerstone of peddlers post.
And peddler posts here on this board whatever type of rubbish is published on "Answers-in-Genesis", without any verification. Ask her questions on her posts here, and you won't get any answers from her (as these are not available on "Answers-in-Genesis". Normally she replies with one or more questions that are not related even to the topic - for the same reason as why she does not provide answers : not available on "Answers-in-Genesis".
So I ask myself : is peddler really rational?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/20/07:I keep telling Peddler he would do better listing point by point lists of evolution with his point right next to it. I keep telling him nobody wants to bother with these long snoreable posts that nobody wants to sort out what the point is.
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/19/07 - AmI? Toms777 keeps posting about civility, and denying that he has ever told any of us that we are going to Hell...so I ask you TOMS777:
"Since I don't believe in Christ, and do NOT belive that Jesus is the only way to God, am I going to Hell (wherever that is)????? tropicalstorm answered on 02/19/07:From what I see in the Bible it isn't as cut & dry as Christian see it
Look at Rahab and the one thief on the cross
for one example
Matt 7:22-23 what God will say to many who
claim being real Christian
Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Treasury of Scripture KnowledgeConcordance and Hebrew/GreekList Available Commentaries
No Images or Hymns AvailableVersions / TranslationsDictionary Aids
Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
-----------------------------------
13 For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. 14(Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, 15since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.) 16This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.
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5 But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. 6God "will give to each person according to what he has done."[a] 7To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. 8But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. 9There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/19/07 - Problem with the Peace Agreement If some of the people refuse to acknowledge that atheism is NOT A RELIGION, then I need a new label to indicate that *I DON'T BELIEVE IN GODALMIGHTY*.
How about simply secular humanist?
How about Non-Believer?
Other suggestions. No wiseackers, please! :D
INADDITION
I'm a Non-Believer and I don't have anything much to do with evolution. Evolution is not my "religion". How to get this distinction into dense heads?
Thabks. tropicalstorm answered on 02/19/07:Choux I found this
You would find it very interesting and probably will help you
ethical atheist not an oxymoron
*a target=_new target=_new href=http://www.ethicalatheist.com/docs/ethical_atheist.html> page 1 ) | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/19/07 - Curious Made This Comment "I still insist on the absurdity of fighting over totally pointless matters, in a fruitless attempt to display a certain degree of mental adroitness...
Particularly, when there are so many interesting topics we might discuss, like famine in the world, immigration problems, global warming, sexual freedom, religion in politics, etc."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
How do you feel about his comment?? tropicalstorm answered on 02/19/07:DITTO!
I remember in 7 thru 9th grade at school
I would say The wind is cold and this one girl would always say (nasty like) It's a Strong breeze. She did that with a lot of things.
| | Question/Answer | | jjgoss asked on 02/18/07 - ..Case study- can you explain his oxymoronic behavior???... ...A man believes in a universal creator who he thinks would not punish the worst murderers,and talks about this creator on many Christianity Boards....Yet he can't even convince his wife, family members and friends that they should believe in his universal creator...and they remain believers in Christianity, Islam or Judaism...
...This man has a wonderful Christian family...He often praises his family, but yet he has been denigrating their God Jehovah on many Christianity Boards, even calling Him a murderer!!!...His behaves like a double-headed snake: one head praises his Christian family, while the other abuses their God!!!!.....
....People often question him why he double-crosses his family and denigrates Christianity and Jehovah...He can't come up with an answer, and evades the question by saying that his wife is a Roman Catholic and he has a good Christian family....Wouldn't you think that either he has a split personality, or he is a super hyprocrite like Hitler who said:"My best friend is a Jew!" ???.....
...Please give me your honest opinion!!!!....and observe whether anyone is irritated by this case study!!!!!!....... tropicalstorm answered on 02/18/07:Hitlers mother was a Jew! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/18/07 - Isn't it time???? It's becoming obvious that we have ALL had our say, and have exhausted our reportoire of 'he said, she said' 'you stink, he stinks' 'they stink' 'your're a godless atheist'-you're an ignorant Christian' 'my God can lick your God'.
Before it's too late, ya think it's possible to put EVERYTHING behind us, and try to bring this board back to what it was meant to be...A question and answer venue that MIGHT help someone coming here for answers about Christianity. Can we all agree:
l. This is not a Christian board, but the Christianity board.
2. Atheists, Agnostics, and non-beleivers in the biblical god are NOT 'soul-less pond scum'..
3. Atheism is NOT a religion but a world view.
4. Evolution is NOT a religon, but a scientific theory.
5. Roman Catholics, Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Muslims, Jews, Atheists, Agnostics have as much right to express their opinions and their opposition to Christian error as Christians have to express THEIR opinions about the rest of us.
6. None of the experts or users on this board are EVIL MINIONS OF THE DEVIL.
7. There are no canonized or haloed Saints here who deserve our worship.
8. We ALL deserve the same opportunity to express our beliefs AND our dis-beliefs without being condemned to a Hell that not all of us believe in.
9. It is more important to be able to express and defend your belief rather than trying to buttress it by criticizing other belief systems.
10. Resolve that the board be reserved for questions that DIRECTLY pertain to Christianity (not just the GOOD part)..that includes the bible (not just the Good part), ideas about Christ, God, Jesus, Heaven, Hell, Ecumenism, MISTAKES.......
11. You go to your church, I'll NOT go to mine...but we can all have lunch together...Sapphire will bring the gumbo, CeeBee the brownies....I'll supply the Sherry and Chivas.
Think it's worth the effort????? tropicalstorm answered on 02/18/07:I agree and the Bible Christianity is suppose to go by says something about being all things to all people and being humble meaning Christians have no sueriority or sanctimoniousness over anybody else | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/18/07 - Mummified body found in front of blaring TV Another case of recent news : Mummified body found in front of blaring TV
Police called to a Long Island man's house discovered the mummified remains of the resident, dead for more than a year, sitting in front of a blaring television set.
The 70-year-old Hampton Bays, New York, resident, identified as Vincenzo Ricardo, appeared to have died of natural causes. Police said on Saturday his body was discovered on Thursday when they went to the house to investigate a report of a burst water pipe.
"You could see his face. He still had hair on his head," Newsday quoted morgue assistant Jeff Bacchus as saying. The home's low humidity had preserved the body.
Officials could not explain why the electricity had not been turned off, considering Ricardo had not been heard from since December 2005.
Neighbors said when they had not seen Ricardo, who was diabetic and had been blind for years, they assumed he was in the hospital or a long-term care facility.
---
"Mummified body found in front of blaring TV"
A short article in the news as an "in memoriam" for Vincenzo Ricardo of Long Island - NY.
Neighbours who clearly cared little about their neighbour.
No family member, friend, vicar, physician, or acquaintance who called on him to see what happened over a year+ period of missing contact.
A leaking water pipe was the reason for this find.
What does this tell you of the community in which Vincenzo Ricardo lived, and what can you tell of the community in which you live?
Please only comments on this topic.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/18/07:Definitely what we call here in America
vegging like a couch potato taken to a
whole new meaning!!!
Anna Nicoles body was rotting over the weekend
They need to figure out what managed to keep him so well preserved | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/18/07 - Labelling of (child) sex offenders First of all : I strongly support that all sex offenders should be prosecuted. When children are involved that support is even still more determined.
In one of the video clips at CNN the story of Clovis Claxton was told : a wheelchair bound paraplegic from Marion County - Florida who recently killed himself after noting that in the community whee he lived signs and posters appeared warning for him as a child sex offender.
Some years ago he exposed himself to the 9 year old daughter of a family friend (a classical case of I show mine, now you show yours - but no rape involved). He was convicted for that and did his time. The local sheriff confirmed on camera that Claxton was no longer considered a threat to the community in any way.
However : the campaign by County commissioner Randy Harris to introduce signs and posters against sex offenders resulted into signs being set up near the Claxton homestead, which resulted in his suicide by a combination of liquor and drugs. Claxton was physically 21, but mentally 10 years old due to several illnesses he encountered, his father told.
The two questions I have on this Christianity Board are on general morals and ethics, and therefore perfectly suited to this board.
We have here a case with at one side the protection of our children and at the other side the interest of the individual.
Question one :
How long can you go on with pigeon-holing people who paid the price for their offence(s) and who are officially no longer considered a threat to the community?
Question two :
In how far can County commissioner Randy Harris be blamed for the consequences of his blanket campaign on setting up signs and posters against sex offenders - including those who have been convicted, done their time, and are no longer officially considered a threat to the community?
Comments on this topic are welcome.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/18/07:often here in America the quack psychologists
say someone is no longer a threat when the opposite is true
often people know how to get over on the system to come off as no longer a threat.
I believe there are laws that communities are only allowed to put offenders on the Megan law website and they are NOT suppose to be allowed to make public the past offenses other than that. By law the guy does have a right to live in a community without being harrassed. The law is so many feet away from schools and playgrounds as long as he abided by the conditions he should not have been harrassed. The guys family does have a lawsuit.
They sound like the same type of people that give abortion protesters a bad reputation by killing abortion doctors.
Bad apples in every crowd and in some cases a crowd of bad apples. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/18/07 - Are the atheists here true Atheists. Let's see?
Do they hate Christians?
Absolutely, that's why thy are here.
Do they lie about atheism being their religion?
Yes they do!
Are they morally bankrupt and enjoy telling us about their immorality?
Again yes they do!
Do they fill up the page with asinine pictures and blank spaces like kindergartners?
Yes again!
Did they really evolve from monkeys?
No, that would be an insult to the monkeys.
Are the really serious when they tell Christians how Christians should act and what they should believe?
Yes, they are that disconnected from reality that they cannot grasp how absurd that nonsense is.
Do I care they will whine like babies with diaper rash that I answered my own questions?
Guess.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/18/07:Do they hate Christians?
I do not see the atheists hating Maggie, Bobbye, Jesushelper, Tomder, many other christians on here, or me
Do they lie about atheism being their religion?
I do not see Perc lying about atheism, maybe a different definition than you or me have but not lying
Are they morally bankrupt and enjoy telling us about their immorality?
What immorality of theirs are they telling us? I see some nasty stuff out of jjd's mouth
other than that ??
Do they fill up the page with asinine pictures and blank spaces like kindergartners?
Yes
Did they really evolve from monkeys?
No, that would be an insult to the monkeys.
REMEMBER where you got that line!?
Are the really serious when they tell Christians how Christians should act and what they should believe?
Yes and NO and do I listen to them--NQ | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/17/07 - Quandry!!!!! We seem to have a first!!! JJGoss, who claims no connection to either jjdupree or Rosekeeper....in rating my response to Sapphs post "jjg"...RATED IT TWICE WITH TWO DIFFERNT RATINGS
First - a two star rating.
Second - a black star rating.
Will someone explain how ONE user can post two different ratings for the same post. An attempt to do this always results in an icon telling you that you have ALREADY rated the answer...
So who is the SECOND jjgoss??????????
The rating comment incidentally was pure JJDUPREE:
"The filly sucker domino rears his ugly head again" tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:JJG definitely has a nerve criticizing me when she is the pot calling the kettle black!!! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/17/07 - Whoopee!!! Hank is back!!! How many of you won bets that he would not stay away longer than a week??? I won $20.
But the sad thing is, the first thing poor ole' Hanky does is fall into the sh*t pit that his beloved friends, Jesse James Dupree, JJGoss and the usurped Rosekeeper, dug for him. Poor gullible guy just never learns.
Now I ask you, is that anyway for Christians to treat their prodigal son??????? LOL tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:For the welcome back party you use the $20. to buy ingredients for my pot of gumbo!!!!! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/17/07 - THE DEMISE OF ATHEIST BOARD #2: From Wikipedia:
"In Internet terminology, a troll is a person who enters an established community such as an online discussion forum and intentionally tries to cause disruption, often in the form of posting messages that are inflammatory, insulting, incorrect, inaccurate, absurd, or off-topic, with the intent of provoking a reaction from others. Trolls can also be existing members of such a community that rarely post and often contribute no useful information to the thread, but instead make argumentative posts in an attempt to discredit another person, more often than not based on what they thought was said rather than what was actually said by the other person, concentrating almost exclusively on facts irrelevant to the point of the conversation, with the intent of provoking a reaction from others."
THIS IS WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIANITY BOARD, PROBABLY FOR GOOD! TAKE CARE!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:I DON'T BLAME YOU ONE BIT HANK
| | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 02/17/07 - Are there any Christians still here? I have not seen Tom, nor Peddler, and Hank, the top Christians of all.
What has happen, is this now just for Atheists? tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:I love you Rose
don't let jjd and jjg get you down or anything
or anybody else here for that matter.
I am sure Maggie and Rev and everybody
are still here they just can't be bothered
with this mess
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/17/07 - Under The Thin Veneer of a "Perfect" Christian... Some Christians think of themselves as close to perfection. The perfect Christian.
This is what a perfect Christian had to say to me:
Clarification/Follow-up by HANK1 on 02/13/07 4:58 pm:
Chou: Where did you get the idea that I'm discontented? I'm a damn happy guy who posts at Answerway just for kicks. March is two weeks away. As for you, you're old, sick and probably bed-ridden. You're envious/jealous of people like Tony and yours truly. So be it! I'm damn glad I'm me and not you! What do you have to look forward to? You whine and groan like a pregnant pig. As for me, I see my girl, Leslie, at least three times a week. I'll be seeing my golfing buddies four times a week since I have alot of golf to play, including at least nine tournaments. I also have three other Q & A sites where my participation is appreciated. I have no financial worries et al. Let this be our last communication. You're not worth my time!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well, I might have got the impression Hank was discontented because of all his posts here on the Christianity Board before he storme off a couple of days ago!
Oink oink, Hank.
Oink oink. tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:yeah a couple of posts (right before he left this board) seemed like something got into his head.
Don't know maybe there is a thin line of technicality between perfectionist and ego.
One thing I know for sure, there are a lot of
people in this world and that are what I call self-proclaimed perfectionists.
Well at any rate, I don't know what got into Hank | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 02/17/07 - I have a question. If you are demon possessed, I will ask God to deliver you from that. If you are not, then I will pray for you. Satan can blind a person to the point where they cannot think for themselves. He does their thinking for them. Some may be just doing this to make it interesting for others to watch the arguing. What ever the reason, I am praying for all of you. It doesn’t matter if you do, or do not, want me to, I am going to pray anyway. I will not respond to nasty answers. tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:what is the question? | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/17/07 - Science More Merciful and Powerful than God? "A bionic eye implant that could help restore the sight of millions of blind people could be available to patients within two years.
US researchers have been given the go-ahead to implant the prototype device in 50 to 75 patients.
The Argus II system uses a spectacle-mounted camera to feed visual information to electrodes in the eye.
Patients who tested less-advanced versions of the retinal implant were able to see light, shapes and movement.
"What we are trying to do is take real-time images from a camera and convert them into tiny electrical pulses that would jump-start the otherwise blind eye and allow patients to see," said Professor Mark Humayun, from the University of Southern California".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Is science more powerful than GodAlmighty? In a couple of years, science hopes to begin equiping individuals blinded by the most common eye ailments macular degeneration and retinitis pigmatosa(?), thus leading to hope for over 1 million blind people worldwide. tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:Where do I sign up for my son he needs a left eye? | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/17/07 - Was JJD's "recent board abuse just a test"? Question on WTY in Christianity posted on 16/2/2007 by Dominuts (the current aka of JesseJamesDupree on WTY after having been suspended there recently for abusive language).
QUOTE
Today was just a test on AW to see if management is asleep at the wheel. Since they changed servers, that tells me they don't really care that much anymore.
If they are lax, I will singlehandedly close that board so those two atheist c*cks^ckers aton and pericles will have to spread their heathernous garbage elsewhere!!! BAWAWAWAWAAWA!!!
UNQUOTE
NOTE : expletive modified by me.
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:It's a catch 22
you complain and he gets the boot
he signs up again and comes back worse.
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/17/07 - Is there any sense in replying peddler? I refer to "The Third Theory" topic by peddler
Peddlers topic was on creation and "spontaneous generation"
I replied extensively on the question, addressing each point of his topic.
---
Peddler followed-up with denigrating comments on my knowledge of evolution (NOT the topic)
I replied that the original question was on spontaneous generation and not on evolution.
---
Peddler followed-up with the statement that there is tremendous scientific evidence to support a creator.
I replied with "Can I please have a short 10 lines or less basic description of that scientific evidence?"
---
Peddler followed-up with "Please read the part that says "Such evidence is expected to be empirical" Apparently you have no clue what that means. Look it up and then give me empirical evidence that evolution i(sic) true {transmutation}"
I repeated my request "Can I please have a short 10 lines or less basic description of that scientific evidence?
So far I have no reply to that.
But I wonder : what sense does it make for peddler to ask a question, and than keep moving the goal posts because she does not like the replies she receives? (Note : all replies strictly addressed every time the previous question or statement)
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/17/07:No but like I said I must be a glutton for punishment. Note I did post that elaborate post on what a waste c/p evolution stuff is when everybody is going to keep believing what they are going to believe any way. No sooner did I post that and he posted yet another c/p on evolution.
Then that TO Dom and sapph Rev has me blocked post was yet more proof of no getting thru to The Thick and The Dense.
Why do so many people think everything is either/or, black/white right/wrong good/bad and you are against them if you see things from a different perspective and you aren't even disagreeing? | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/16/07 - Change of direction. For those of you who are sick to death of the 'useless' evolution garbage and obscenities that have filled this board, lately...try clearing the air with this one..
What is your opinion of the underlying message, and it's validity, in Acts 7:22.....
"Moses was educated in ALL the wisdom of the EGYPTIANS and was powerful in his words and deeds"
tropicalstorm answered on 02/16/07:I know this doesn't really answer your question but from what I have been thinking for the past year or so and what I just looked up on the internet (since reading your post).
I have been wondering just how much what Christians call occult that really is not occult, but the Church doesn't want you to get involved in because they do not want you to think outside their cookie cutter religion. For example I have asked ETW on the Jewish board some questions and by his answers I have had to further question some of what the Christian Churches teaches on some things. I think a lot of my answers could possibly lie partly in finding the answers to the question you have just asked. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/16/07 - Anybody who knows him personally?
We've not heard from Fred Brown Arcura for almost a week now.
I know he was told here by several to do it slow for a couple of days, as he was going back to the hospital for further tests later this week.
Anybody who has ways to check up on him?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/16/07:Hopefully he is doing fine and will be back as soon as he gets his medical problems under control.
| | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 02/15/07 - to whoom it may concern I just returned to find all my answeres directed to me had already been rated for me !Thank you so much but i am quite capable of doing so myself !I may not post daily on here (not much point given the present situtation here these days) but i do come here the thing is i find little to respond to any more however i am not leavin and do read the postings and if i feel i can comment i will .also FYI many folks on here have expressed negative expressions toward me (to no avail) I just dont care so rant on !im still lurking Like a proverbial roach im not that easy to get rid of folks! tropicalstorm answered on 02/15/07:No roach here
Pro 30:24 There be four [things which are] little upon the earth, but they [are] exceeding wise:
Pro 30:25 The ants [are] a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;
Pro 30:26 The conies [are but] a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;
Pro 30:27 The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;
Pro 30:28 The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.
Pro 30:29 There be three [things] which go well, yea, four are comely in going:
Pro 30:30 A lion [which is] strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;
Pro 30:31 A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom [there is] no rising up.
| | Question/Answer | | TTFNUAS asked on 02/15/07 - Geeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzzzzzz!!! I missed Hank's farewell party?!?!?!?!?!
DARN!!!!!!!!!
![]()
];-)
LOLOLOLOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! tropicalstorm answered on 02/15/07:cute kid
is he yours
LOL
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/15/07 - What's a poor independent thinker to THINK???? I just received a posting claiming that I judge Christianity too harshly by judging the actions of a few. But if so, where did these few come up with such nonsense???? And how to take seriously remarks like this, only ONE of which was corrected by any other Christian on the board!
The following quotes are all from 'experts' who are still posting on the Christianity board. They will, mercifully remain a nameless....unless you insist :)
Read and then ask If I am judging too harsly:
" No one knows who built the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt."
"It is o.k. for God to kill pagan babies because he is just taking them to heaven".
"The Gospels were All written in Hebrew".
"There was NEVER a Stone Age"
"We should nuke all of Iraq into glass"
"Evolutionists killed Aborigines, skinned them, and boiled them to pass off their skulls as Neanderthals."
"Abraham had only TWO sons"
"God never lies, so the Laws of the Bible were put there to discredit God."
"God doesn't grade sins. If a ten year old steals a pack of gum, he will go to hell as quickly as Hitler for killing Six Million Jews."
Now add this nonsense to the ocean of Anti-Muslim, Anti-Roman Catholic, Anti-Jehovah's Witness, Anti-gay, Anti-Wiccan, Anti-Atheist hate postings....and then tell me what CAN one believe about Christianity.
............................??? tropicalstorm answered on 02/15/07:
" No one knows who built the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt."
I would love to know all about the pyramids
if you can enlighten me let me know
"It is o.k. for God to kill pagan babies because he is just taking them to heaven".
First of all God doesn't 'kill' them
"The Gospels were All written in Hebrew".
I thought that was the Old Testament
"There was NEVER a Stone Age"
![]()
"We should nuke all of Iraq into glass"
WHY!
"Evolutionists killed Aborigines, skinned them, and boiled them to pass off their skulls as Neanderthals."
Seems like needless extremes to me.
"Abraham had only TWO sons"
Maybe thats all the further they could read their Bible before it got too difficult
"God never lies, so the Laws of the Bible were put there to discredit God."
???? Things that make my head spin!!!
"God doesn't grade sins. If a ten year old steals a pack of gum, he will go to hell as quickly as Hitler for killing Six Million Jews."
Verrrry verrry much too much over simplifying 'Sin is Sin'
Also contradicts the bit about pagan kids better off dead so God can take them to heaven.
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/14/07 - Winter snow and showing concern (love?) for others ------ I'm in the Midwest where we have just survived a winter snow storm that brought up to 12" of snow that was blown into drifts by strong winds. Last night at the library where I work, the skeleton-crew staff stayed until the usual 9 o'clock closing. Even though the snow removal company had not shown up to plow the parking lot and shovel walkways to the front door, a surprising number of patrons came in to look for bestsellers et al. to read at home over cups of hot chocolate. Seeing this, our library homeless guy Jerry (who just turned 68, mind you!) asked for a snow shovel and proceeded to shovel paths to the door, in thanks, he said, for the library allowing him to be there during its open hours and not hassling him (except when he falls asleep and snores too loudly). Throughout the evening, patrons made jokes about the weather ("Time to visit my brother in Arizona..." and "If you need any snow, call me") and helped each other clean the snow off their cars. At closing, staff helped each other dig out and then monitored each other's leave-taking from the unplowed lot.
Bad weather can bring out the best in us.
(Happy Valentine's Day!) tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Things that warm the heart and soul
(but not the nose and toes :)
Happy valentines day | | Question/Answer | revdauphinee asked on 02/14/07 - another one bites the dust!
I just read Hanks farwell bit ,and i have to agree with him this place has been taken over and I feel christianity is not welcome as it once was they need to change the name to the athiest board here .I also whilst i used to love and be obsessed by comming here find my self less and less interested in what is being posted here and now only visit the site sporadicly its lost its appeal for me .Who wants to come to a place only to be insulted or to have ones cherrished beliefs demeaned ?so while I wont give them the satisfaction of quitting I find my desire to come here diminished to say the least! tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Glad you won't leave.
WE need some sanity keepers here.
I hope Choux comes back soon
...and Hank
..and were ever Arcura's been
and anybody else | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/14/07 - Correction! In my haste to 'exonerate' the Christians on this board, who were collectivly insulted by Hank...I neglected to mention one of the leading CHRISTIANS, and sweetest personalities on this board, CEE BEE...who really belongs at the top of the list.
My apologies for the ommission, Carol. :) tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Jesushelper and rosekeeper too
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/14/07 - Correction! In my haste to 'exonerate' the Christians on this board, who were collectivly insulted by Hank...I neglected to mention one of the leading CHRISTIANS, and sweetest personalities on this board, CEE BEE...who really belongs at the top of the list.
My apologies for the ommission, Carol. :) tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Jesushelper and rosekeeper too
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/14/07 - Another tactic hits the dust ............................ In view of again another announced departure from this board by Hank :
It seems that the following statement back fired directly in the face of the writer :
"I'm playing a little game with three of our Experts".
(In "Domino" - follow-up by HANK1 on 02/11/07 6:10 pm:)
I'm wondering who all the atheists are to which Hank leaves this board.
Just replace Harry with Hanky
![]()
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Hey better watch
Harry service on Baum Blvd Pgh Pa
might sue you. You will have to tell him
its free publicity
Harry's service HONK HONK!!! | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 02/14/07 - What's in your mail?
One day God was looking down at the earth and saw all of the evil that was going on. He decided to send an angel down to earth to check-it-out.
So, He called on a female angel and sent her to earth for a time. When she returned she told God, yes it is bad on earth -- 95% is bad and only 5% is good.
God thought for a moment, and said maybe I had better send down a male angel. To get both points of view. So God called a male angel and sent him to earth for a time. When the male angel returned he went to God and told him yes the earth was in decline -- 95% is bad and only 5% is good.
God said this is not good. So, God decided He would send a letter to the 5% that were good to encourage them -- a little something to help them keep going on the right path.
Do you know what that letter said?
Oh, you didn't get your letter either?!!!
You better straighten up then!
tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:I GOT THE CONSOLATION PRIZE
![]() | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/14/07 - Nonsense, frustration, or just plain meanness??? In a response to Pete, Hank says: "Name me a couple of Christians still posting on this board except you, Sapphire and I"......
Pete, by his own admission is NOT a Christian, but an honest Agnostic.
Sapphire has posted that she has no truck with 'church' religion.
And a slap in the face was delivered to, among others:
MaggieB
drgade
bobbye
itsdb -Steve
Dennis
Stony
Paraclete
tomder
arcura
revdauphinee
Though I may not agree with all of their beliefs, I would no more deny they are Christians, than I would deny Pericles is a freethinker.
Any idea where Hank is coming from with this nonsense?
Wounded ego?????
tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:If anybody wants to put Christians in an order here I would have to say
1 Maggie
2 Bobbye
3 Itsdb
4 Stony
5 Drgade
6 Stony
7 rev
8 tomder
9 arcura
10 sapph
*****DISCLAIMER: NOT NECESSARILY IN THAT ORDER
BUT MAGGIE DEFINITELY #1
Dennis SORRY not sure who that is | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/14/07 - ATON:
Sie sind der größten Esel des Pferds, den ich überhaupt vorbei auf das Internet und anderwohin gekommen bin. Ich fühle für Sie, ATON sehr traurig. Atheismus saugt. Sie saugen. Sein bildete. Sie in ein Monster.
Heinrich
tropicalstorm answered on 02/14/07:Doc Sapph says
Read Romans chapters 2 through 8
Take a sedatives
get plenty of rest
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/13/07 - JUST WONDERING ...
what the Experts are accomplishing by participating on this Board.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/13/07:Can't do much when you ain't got much to work with!
Accomplishing avoidance--->
![]() | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/13/07 - Best wishes to Chou on her birthday today. Have a peaceful and enjoyable day! tropicalstorm answered on 02/13/07:![]()
:)
Best wishes for Choux and Doris
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/13/07 - CALVINISM:
"Calvinism is the Protestant theological system designed by John Calvin (1509-1564). John Calvin (Jean Cauvin in French) was an important figure in the Protestant Reformation and created in the city of Geneva, Switzerland, a theocratic state ruled entirely by his own ideas of what a Christian state should be. One of the most influential of modern Calvinist theologians has been Karl Barth (1886-1968)."
Source: About,com
Just a F.Y.I. post!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/13/07:Didn't think you were referring to people who wear Calvin Kline | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/13/07 - NBC NEWS THIS EVENING (2/12/07): Did any of you see that carnage that was depicted on NBC news this evening? WOW! Unbelievable killing. It really got me thinking about our own little community here at ANSWERWAY. Our own little corner of the World. This Board. Cyberfriends. Let's start thinking very highly of one another and offer a show of respect for everything that we do. This, of course, includes Domino, Pericles et al ... all the atheists and agnostics. I don't give one damn what a person believes. Never have. Never will. The guys and gals who are fighting our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are making it possible for us to mingle in conversation on this Board. I think about the guys who came back from VietNam! They were treated like barbarians even though they fought so we could be free from Communism. These heroes had my respect ... bigtime. They fought with dignity while going through Hell. Their loyalty to America was unshaken.
HANK tropicalstorm answered on 02/13/07:It's bad enough hearing on the news first thing every morning without watching it.
I hear every morning
3 soldiers killed
40 -80+ civilians killed by insurgents
Possibly a Blessing in disguise for me is my son broke his wrist day of graduation
Now his going to Iraq will be put off since he is transfered to Fort Riley instead.
A mother's nightmare | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/12/07 - BARRIERS OF INFLUENCE ...PERHAPS!
Once we're mature, we'll know our weaknesses and keep them covered at all times. Satan is a good adversary. Like a boxer who's studied his opponent, he targets those weaknesses, and if we don't keep them covered, he's entitled to punch. If we have some besetting problem, a good way to overcome it is to do the opposite. Always shun the very appearance of evil. Don't play with evil, tempting Satan to see how close you can come without actually falling. Resist the Devil, and He will flee from you.
Is this WHY it's very hard to be a CHRISTIAN on this Board? Is Satan(s) hangin' around our playground?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:There is always my boxes and boxes of paradoxes where in my playground I plays on the edge and jist smacks dem bullies upside the head with my cast iron (skillet) ---something every good pollack ('n cajun wanstabe) should have! | | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 02/12/07 - Pictures of lilly Any one who wants to really prove their existence send their pictures to me at:
pete@petehanysz.co.uk
..includes you HANK & you domino!
LOL
Pete tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:LOL
too lazy to email
http://www.dailymotion.com/sapphire630
*proves* my daughter exists 20 years ago. since my daughter existed I suppose I had to exist too. Not so sure that I exist now though. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 02/12/07 - This has been batted around lately This has been a concern and batted aound for some time. So, I will seek your response to the following:
When a couple has a good cash flow that can be lived on (if they spend accordingly) but is constantly in need of help, when do you draw the line? The mother is a stay at home mom with 1 small child, they always have a new car to drive, nice clothes, nice jewelry and paid $800 for a puppy for their little daughter but always need gas money, phone money, medication money, food momey, and make more money than the people they ask to help them.
Thanks for your comments,
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:Choux is right anybody that helps them is enabling them. They simply want to live beyond their means and are using people to step on to do that. They need to go a month with nobody helping, even if it means the kids missing meals. I have found out that many people make it seem urgent that YOU help them and you feeel compelled to. BUT once you can't you'd be surprised that they actually will make it without your help. Why should you put yourself out for their carelessness anyway.
I lent my one 'friend' (3 Years) ago
$250. for food and she post dated a check. Then she called and canceled the check. A month later I heard that she had borrowed $300. of another friend and instead of paying us back when she had it she bought herself an expensive camcorder.
I, living in da hood, see it all the time!
Mom's use their food card to buy food for drug dealers for their drugs and then they cry to everybody else they don't have money to feed their kids and their electric is about to get shut off.
I know one old lady that will spend $120. on inflatable yard decorations and she doesn't have her gas on. Yet she has cable *for her grandbaby* and internet for her 32 year old son that doesn't work.
So many people are saying we need more programs to help the poor, but they don't realize that the more programs available the more wasteful these people do become with what they do have.
| | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/12/07 - Confusion upon confusion You Christians just get more and more confusing! In a response to jjgoss, Hank states: "I am a Christian who doesn't have a helluva lot to do with non-believers." Now, is this not a direct contravention of the final commission...to preach the Good News to all????? If all you are here for is to preach to the choir, that would make you as useless as teats on a bull, right????
I mean, after listening to Peddler and the rest of the Muslim bashers state that Muhammad was some sort of monster for, purportedly, telling his followers not to associate with Christians and Jews...here we have Hank doing just THAT with non-believers.
So what does that accomplish for Christianity??????
tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:That is one reason why I gave up on going to Church.
They would give a really good sermon on bringing the unsaved to church and then you would bring them to church and they would give you dirty looks.
I did have some really cool Christian friends in the seventies that weren't like that at all. They would bring homeless strangers to their house to fed and some they even let them stay awhile. Many people considered them a cult and they weren't. Now those same people have taken their basic teachings and perverted them into Kenneth Copeland/Benny Hinn prosperity cr*pola.
I would like to find a *good* church someday.
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/12/07 - Famous Last Words ....................................... Hanks posted elsewhere : "It takes 20 seconds to die after a heart stops beating. What are you going to be thinking during that 20 seconds? Give me a truthful answer!"
To which I replied :
If you would realize that your heart stopped beating, while still being capable of thinking and saying anything, I would use that time to say the for me most important thing in life once more :
My last words will be "I love you !" to my wife, my children, and my grand children before I blow out that last breath.
Suppose you still could speak : what would be YOUR last words?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:Theres a saying
God put me on this earth to accomplish a certain number of things. Right now I am so far behind that I will never die.
My last words
depends on how I die
with my kids around
Always told youinz I LOVE YOUinz to death
Hit by a big mac truck
OHHHHHH SH*_!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Die in hospital, nursing home,
Had ta get outta this place--one way or another
Die in my sleep
Nice dream....I THINK
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/11/07 - Why is Christian Bashing Okay But Offending Atheists a Sin? For those who want the truth.
< atarget=_new target=_new href=http://www.gennet.org/facts/scopes.html>
Inherently Wind tropicalstorm answered on 02/12/07:so you are saying you can't go see a Christian movie. Thats okay it was just a suggestion.
It is about people who believed a lie and a guy came and told them the truth and set them free | | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 02/11/07 - To Jessijames. It would not be right for Pericle to post's photos, he just wants the bad words, done away with. Lets just have some peace on here, perhaps you could share something good?
Let's just try and get a long, with one another, life is to short to argue and dispute, when we could all be friends, but posting other people photos are not right, or welcome, and, out of respect, he won't do that, and I wish he wouldn't neither. tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:Whats wrong with photos?
I like photos and what we going to see that is so damaging jjd & jjg gossiping over a cup of java? Or that jjd is hairier than
[img s=td class="result" align="left">http://www.weirdnewstoday.com/2005_10_01_stuff.htm
knowing my luck that didn't work so heres the page
http://www.weirdnewstoday.com/uploaded_images/worlds-hairiest-guys-747986.jpg
http://www.weirdnewstoday.com/uploaded_images/worlds-hairiest-guys-747986.jpg
| | Question/Answer | curious98 asked on 02/11/07 - Could that be true?
Could that be true?
I know this is not the idoneous board for this piece of news. However, if there is some truth about it, then it would have to do with “stealing” or “lying”, which could be the subject of discussion herein.
Quote:
Last week, Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., opened hearings on government contracting in Iraq and revealed some eye-popping details of a post-war environment awash in $100 bills. His questioning of former Ambassador L. Paul Bremer focused on what happened to as much as $12-billion in unaccounted-for cash that was spent when Bremer was in charge of rebuilding Iraq as head of the Coalition Provisional Authority.
Since there were no banks operating after the invasion, the U.S. currency was shipped from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to Iraq on pallets loaded into C-130 airplanes. (Most of the money came from Iraqi oil sales and frozen or seized Iraqi assets.)
Contractors and employees were paid in cash, leading to some logistical problems. Contractors were told to "bring a big bag" when they came to the CPA for payment, according to one official. Some cash payments were made from the back of a pickup truck, and cash was stored in unguarded sacks in Iraqi ministry offices.
A statistical summary:
484 total number of pallets shipped from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to Iraq.
363 tons weight of cash shipped.
$20-million initial cash shipment in April 2003 - in $1, $5, $10 bills.
$500-million shipment in November 2003.
$1.5-billion shipment on Dec. 12, 2003.
$2.4-billion shipment on June 22, 2004, the largest shipment sent to Iraq. In fact, it's the largest payout of U.S. currency in Federal Reserve history.
$500-million a single disbursement in security funding, labeled in the minutes of a CPA meeting as "TBD," to be determined.
$6.75-million amount one official in south central Iraq was given and ordered to spend in a week, before the Iraqis took control.
$2-million amount a CPA official witnessed being paid to contractor Custer Battles - in shrink-wrapped stacks of $100 bills.
$8.8-billion monies allegedly disbursed without proper assurances of how it would be used.
Unquote:
Sources: Majority staff memorandum to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Feb. 6, 2007; Bloomberg News.
Quote:
The US flew nearly $12 billion in shrink-wrapped $100 bills into Iraq, then distributed the cash with no proper control over who was receiving it and how it was being spent.
The staggering scale of the biggest transfer of cash in the history of the Federal Reserve has been graphically laid bare by a US congressional committee.
In the year after the invasion of Iraq in 2003, nearly 281 million notes, weighing 363 tons, were sent from New York to Baghdad for disbursement to Iraqi ministries and US contractors. Using C-130 planes, the deliveries took place once or twice a month with the biggest of $2,401,600,000 on June 22, 2004, six days before the handover.
Details of the shipments have emerged in a memorandum prepared for the meeting of the House committee on oversight and government reform which is examining Iraqi reconstruction.
Its chairman, Henry Waxman, a fierce critic of the war, said the way the cash had been handled was mind-boggling. "The numbers are so large that it doesn't seem possible that they're true. Who in their right mind would send 363 tons of cash into a war zone?"
The memorandum details the casual manner in which the US-led Coalition Provisional Authority disbursed the money, which came from Iraqi oil sales, surplus funds from the UN oil-for-food program and seized Iraqi assets.
"One CPA official described an environment awash in $100 bills," the memorandum says. "One contractor received a $2 million payment in a duffel bag stuffed with shrink-wrapped bundles of currency.
"Auditors also found that $774,300 in cash had been stolen from one division's vault. Cash payments were made from the back of a pickup truck, and cash was stored in unguarded sacks in Iraqi ministry offices. One official was given $6.75 million in cash, and was ordered to spend it in one week before the interim Iraqi government took control of Iraqi funds."
The minutes from a May 2004 CPA meeting reveal "a single disbursement of $500 million in security funding labelled merely 'TBD', meaning 'to be determined'."
The memorandum concludes: "Many of the funds appear to have been lost to corruption and waste ... thousands of 'ghost employees' were receiving pay cheques from Iraqi ministries under the CPA's control. Some of the funds could have enriched both criminals and insurgents fighting the United States."
Unquote:
Source: China Daily/The Guardian
Any comments?
Curious98
tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:What I heard on the news was that a C-130 filled with tons of American money disappeared in Iraq a little over a week ago.
I told my daughter to send one to me. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/11/07 - Why would anyone bother??? In trying to figure out what would bring questioners to this board, I started checking 'expert' profiles...I did not have to go far to find some of the problems.
Jesse James Dupree's Profile
"I am not an expert but I do have an opinion. I will try to give an UNBIASED answer to everyone"
...an admission of incompetance followed by a lie, for he has yet to post an unbiased response to ANYTHING.
jjgoss only profile in GOSSIP
"I LOVE Gossip. Gossip is fun. I would not feel lonely or depressed if I Gossip. Do come gossip with me." Is that all we can expect from goss...Gossip?
Do either of these 'experts' bring any thing like credibility to the Christianity board.
Do you really think a sincere seeker would be lured to the board by these profiles, or be tempted to stay after reading even ONE of their inane, or vicious or obscene postings?
Just curious.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:
......and the goss thickens!!!!!
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/11/07 - Why is Christian Bashing Okay But Offending Atheists a Sin? For those who want the truth.
< atarget=_new target=_new href=http://www.gennet.org/facts/scopes.html>
Inherently Wind tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:Same with the dem/rep
pot calling the kettle black
gotta get outside of the box and all the mess and think for yourself.
AS long as you are on one side or the other you are going to get bashed and as I see it neither side has the truth. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/11/07 - Evolution
For peddler who always demands proof of evolution ...
:)
tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:I have that poster in my living room!!
Along with some others
Try this
http://www.veoh.com/videos/e63265K9c2NdSx
It says it all | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/10/07 - Who was Eve's Mother?? If Eve had no mother, where did her maternal genome come from? Could she have had any without an inheritance from her 'mother' who alone can pass on the mtDNA????
Does this suggest that the HE god of creation was actually a He/SHE god??
Or is the whole thing just bible babble?
AND if the god of creation was going to create a COMPLETE women why would he use anything as defective as a male rib that would inpart none of the female chromosomes that NORMAL children inherit from their mothers. I mean, it's bad enough he used dirt without any DNA, but to use a useless rib??????
AND if dirt was good enough for Adam, why was it not good enough for EVE??? Or did Yahweh simply forget how to use the dirt.
Was there really a MRS. Yahweh????? tropicalstorm answered on 02/11/07:Perc
and where do you suppose that a Christian refers to get the answers to these type questions? I hope not Benny Hinn | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/10/07 - Who was Eve's Mother?? If Eve had no mother, where did her maternal genome come from? Could she have had any without an inheritance from her 'mother' who alone can pass on the mtDNA????
Does this suggest that the HE god of creation was actually a He/SHE god??
Or is the whole thing just bible babble?
AND if the god of creation was going to create a COMPLETE women why would he use anything as defective as a male rib that would inpart none of the female chromosomes that NORMAL children inherit from their mothers. I mean, it's bad enough he used dirt without any DNA, but to use a useless rib??????
AND if dirt was good enough for Adam, why was it not good enough for EVE??? Or did Yahweh simply forget how to use the dirt.
Was there really a MRS. Yahweh????? tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:I did hear a Bible study on a theory that God is both male and female. It was interesting and did use some Bible verses.
The bone of my bone part was so they had an undeniably unique connection.
I think God having all the DNA and everyhting available to him could have done it whatever way he wanted and could have even just said that phrase, "BECAUSE I CAN"
Who knows.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/10/07 - VALENTINE'S DAY:
Watch your weight, compliments of LifeScript.
1. Milk Chocolate - Plain
2. Dark Chocolate - Sugar Free
3. Chocolate-Covered Caramels
Calories: 110
Fat: 0.9 grams
Sugar: 16 grams
4. Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Calories: 149
Fat: 9.8 grams
Sugar: 12.5 grams
5. Chocolate-Covered Mints, Sugar-Free
Calories: 135
Fat: 7.8 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
6. Truffles, Sugar-Free
Calories: 126
Fat: 8.7 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
7. One Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry
Calories: 30
Fat: 1.5 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Source: LifeScript
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:
# 7 Take to Maggies party at Domino's.
I LOVEEEEEE #7 BUT OH SO EXPENSIVE
HAVE TO MAKE MY OWN WHEN I WANT 'EM!
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/10/07 - PERICLES:
What is the NAME you've given your CREATOR? Or should I ask, "What is the NAME of your CREATOR?" Did he/she write a book? If 'yes,' in what language?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:
Book
The Anti-Evolution R-evolution
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/10/07 - Where is the logic in this?
In the topic Where did Sex come from? by peddler7118 dated 02/08/07 peddler posted in a question to domino :
"The man who invented the M.R.I. is a jackass?"
My reaction is :
Why could he not be?
Maybe he is a child molester
Maybe he is a wife-beater
Maybe he is - "oh my gosh" - a closet homosexual, a cross-dresser, a whore-hopper, a black Jew, a Democrat, a drug-user, a "WHATEVER".
Whatever does "his" invention of the M.R.I. has to say about his human weaknesses ?
Why are people who were useful for humanity in one aspect be raised to "SAINTHOOD" level in any other aspect of life? Based on WHAT ?
In what phoney reality are people like peddler living, actually?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:BTW:
Is a Christian suppose to be saying jackass
OR is Peddler implying some evolution theory here!? | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 02/10/07 - Doctors, Illness! I have been sick for the past 4 weeks. Have been put on 3 different antibiotics. The doctor tries to tell me this is normal. Do not worry about it. Yet, things are not getting better. How long should an viral or bacteria infection last. Sore glands, throat, ear, chest. It is going on and on like an energy bunny rabbit.
I know I can demand for tests and other things but when I am there I do not. Is this normal now a days because of resistance to medication. Is it normal to go on and on, or is there a possibility there is something else going on? Does any of you ever had this experiance.
Thank you in advance! Joe
For all the Christians and Non, I ask you for your prayers for My wife, My Son, and Myself. For Good Health. (;
tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:When you are done with the antibiotics you should take Probiotics or at least eat yogurt once a day for awhile.
Doctors do not tell you that when you take antibotics they mess with the good bacteria too and so it has to be replaced with probiotics.
Some say you should take probiotics while taking antibiotics, others say wait til after you are done with the antibiotics
http://www.consciouschoice.com/1999/cc1208/probiotics1208.html
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/10/07 - Where is the logic in this?
In the topic Where did Sex come from? by peddler7118 dated 02/08/07 peddler posted in a question to domino :
"The man who invented the M.R.I. is a jackass?"
My reaction is :
Why could he not be?
Maybe he is a child molester
Maybe he is a wife-beater
Maybe he is - "oh my gosh" - a closet homosexual, a cross-dresser, a whore-hopper, a black Jew, a Democrat, a drug-user, a "WHATEVER".
Whatever does "his" invention of the M.R.I. has to say about his human weaknesses ?
Why are people who were useful for humanity in one aspect be raised to "SAINTHOOD" level in any other aspect of life? Based on WHAT ?
In what phoney reality are people like peddler living, actually?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:I think what Peddler was saying is that the man who invented the MRI IS a jackass meaning they were an idiot because their invention was worthless.
Pretty much like Peddler's belief that scientists evolution theories are upheld by jackasses. (in so many words)(Just as an example)
Don't know where Peddler gets that idea.
I am sure anybody that has had an M.R.I.
and had an important diagnosis from it is very thankful for the M.R.I.
| | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/09/07 - Can Spirituality and secularism can be reconciled? . tropicalstorm answered on 02/10/07:I would have to go back to before I really knew that Christian was more than Sunday morning service. And say that even though I really knew nothing of God other than the VERY basics, I felt that I had a sense of my spirit, conscience and so forth and had empathy for people around me. But did not fully have the spiritual or God understanding or connection.
Many humanitarians have that drive in them to do good because something in their spirit urges them to and if they have not figured it out then I would say that basically they could be an example of secular and spiritual. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/09/07 - A CLARIFICATION TO MY "PROCEDURE" POST:
Domino wrote, "I do not post here to gain any one's "RESPECT"....if you are rating answers out of respect, then you are perverting the rating system as badly as Dupree."
Well, my friends, should we go back to the old days and rate as we did at AskMe? Frankly, I'm for it! How about you?
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/09/07:And like the old days
One star
OR One bzillion red gallactic stars<---------> (good I don't know graphics yet LOL)
What's it matter!?
people rate on their own OPINIONS
And they can have their opinions
I am still here when the dust settles >
(or simply reincarnate back onto the board when I am good and ready)
| | Question/Answer | arcura asked on 02/08/07 - Thanks all for your concern. Here's a report.
I saw the doctor and when through lab twice.
I have no resulting report on what they found the second time. I'll get that tomorrow.
The chest pain I've been having comes from my poorly operating heart.
The cause for the lower abdomen pain is inconclusive, but it may be due to a virus that has been causing me problems for well over a week.
I'm scheduled to go back for a couple of CAT scan a week from Friday.
The VA Hospital is so busy that I’ll need to wait that long to have that done.
While I was there is snowed only about 2 inches but it turned the streets and highways in roads covered with ice and snow on top.
It was slow going coming home. There were several indications of where cars had slid into the median and were driven or pulled out, but we saw none in the ditch.
So goes winter travel in Montana.
Thank you all again.
Peace and kindness,
Fred
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:Well, I take it you got the cards :)
I like the IV one
I hope the weather is better for you by then
An inch or two of snow can sometimes be worse than a big snowfall.
Doc Sapph's prescription
CoQ10
Vitamin E
Magnesium
| | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/08/07 - Where did Sex come from? The resident atheist Perc seems to be sure about the origin of sex but the scientists who believe in evolution seem a might confused .
For instance:
Jay Maynard Smith-Biologist said in an interview with the Evolutionist:
the evolutionist: But is it still meaningful to call them a species?
JMS: Ah, that’s a much debated issue.
The evolution of sex is the hardest problem in evolutionary biology. When it happened, how it happened, why they did it in the way they did. There are still features of the way they do it that seem very odd to me. The trouble is that we have two basic hypotheses about the evolutionary significance of sex. One is the coping with bad mutation, that sex helps you to eliminate bad mutation, the other is a more positive view of combining good mutations, such as resistance to parasites. Supposing the environment is changing and you need two adaptations to adapt to that but they occur in different individuals. A population with sex can bring them together, but a population without can’t. Both these theories are plausible, what we don’t know is their relative importance. That’s very hard to decide. I’d like to see data on that
Interview with The Evolutionist"
Funny, according to Perc it is not disbuted, a known fact. Why is that?
The explanation by P.B.S. is truly absurd.
Sex is said to be more important than life itself, since it enables genes to be passed on to succeeding generations. PBS quotes extensively from Rutgers University evolutionary geneticist Robert Vrijenhoek, who said about sexual reproduction:
That’s our immortality. That’s what connects us to humans on into the future. That’s what’s connected us to all our ancestors in the past. That’s what connects us to the ancestors that were fish, the ancestors that were protozoans, and the ancestors that were bacteria. [PBS 5]
Random change produced a creature that was small and fast, which turned out to be an evolutionary advantage. Organisms with reproductive cells like that are called males. Their goal is to find organisms with a different speciality—providing the nutrients life requires. They’re called females. These early pioneers evolved into sperm and eggs. [PBS 5]
So now it’s the females who care more about quality than quantity. Now it’s the females who fight over mates. Over time, they take on traditionally male characteristics … . So here is an evolutionary revelation about gender. Male and female roles are not set in stone. They’re largely determined by which sex competes for mates, and which invests in the young. [PBS 5]
At least Dawkin's is somewhat truthful in admitting evolutionist have no clue how or why of if sex evolved. They just believe it.
Even the atheist Richard Dawkins says:
To say, as I have, that good genes can benefit from the existence of sex whereas bad genes can benefit from its absence, is not the same thing as explaining why sex is there at all. There are many theories of why sex exists, and none of them is knock-down convincing … . Maybe one day I’ll summon up the courage to tackle it in full and write a whole book on the origin of sex.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:It depends on which you believe when it comes to the chicken or the egg theory! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/08/07 - Is Your Church Celebrating Evolution Sunday this Week? This weekend, 586 congregations (at last count) in all 50 U.S. states—representing a variety of denominations—will attempt to show their congregations that religion and evolution are compatible. In a related project over the years, the organizers of “Evolution Sunday” have engaged in an effort called “The clergy letter project.” They have gathered more than 10,000 names of pastors sympathetic to evolution. Many of these pastors have even uploaded sermon outlines to a special website so that other like-minded, pro-evolution pastors can find assistance in crafting their own sermon to present to their people. (In fact, north on Interstate 71 from AiG-U.S.’s headquarters, a pastor in Ohio has posted a sermon in which he declares that if we do not acknowledge evolution, then we are not giving God the full credit for creation! See www.butler.edu/clergyproject/pdf/platt_oh.pdf.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Sunday, congregations throughout the U.S. will participate in what could be called a “Darwin praise service.” They will be celebrating (yes, that’s the word that could be used for many of the churches1) the 198th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin. It’s called “Evolution Sunday.”
How did “Evolution Sunday” come about?
Three years ago, Prof. Michael Zimmerman at the University of Wisconsin (its Oshkosh campus)—and also its dean of the College of Letters and Sciences—began what became known as “The Clergy Letter Project.” He now teaches at Butler University in Indiana.
Using his former university’s website, Zimmerman, who says he is a Christian, encouraged clergy across America to sign a letter that supports evolution and rejects the Genesis account of creation as literal history. As we posted this last year, over 10,200 clergy had signed this awful letter.
The next step for Zimmerman (again, using the university’s website) was to solicit donations so that funds could be obtained to publicize this clergy letter and to gain exposure across the nation. He set up an arrangement with an organization called The Christian Alliance for Progress (CAP) to accept tax-deductible donations for his national project. What does CAP believe?
Regarding homosexuality, CAP states (under the heading “Rejecting bigotry, embracing dignity—equality for homosexual people”) that “Jesus taught equality, justice and obligation. We accept Jesus’ call to love one another and to welcome all God’s children at the table.”
In regard to child bearing/abortion, CAP declares: “We support responsible compassionate programs that are genuinely effective in helping prevent unintended pregnancy. An outcome no woman wants. We affirm that each woman’s body belongs to herself. No woman should be forced either to bear a child or to terminate a pregnancy.”
The next stage in Zimmerman’s plan (again, using his school’s website to push his evolutionary, religious agenda) was to promote a special “Evolution Sunday.”
Under the heading of “The Clergy Letter Project Presents Evolution Sunday” on his webpage, Zimmerman explained (in 2006) that:
On 12 February 2006 hundreds of Christian churches from all portions of the country and a host of denominations will come together to discuss the compatibility of religion and science. For far too long, strident voices, in the name of Christianity, have been claiming that people must choose between religion and modern science. More than 10,000 Christian clergy have already signed The Clergy Letter demonstrating that this is a false dichotomy. Now, on the 197th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, many of these leaders will bring this message to their congregations through sermons and/or discussion groups. Together, participating religious leaders will be making the statement that religion and science are not adversaries. And, together, they will be elevating the quality of the national debate on this topic.
Thousands of pastors have now made a public statement to say that what they call “faith” and what they deem “science” (by which they mean “evolution”) are compatible!
At the same time, atheists take glee when they see the clergy supporting evolution. They usually see such church compromise as a step towards atheism, for they expect that the next generation in the church will probably see the inconsistency of the clergy’s beliefs—and they will soon give up the Bible altogether.
Thankfully, even though thousands of clergy have compromised, there are thousands who have “not bowed the knee to Baal.” We are finding more and more pastors who are standing up for the authority of the Word, including those whom the Lord has prompted to use creation resources to equip the church to defend the Christian faith against the onslaughts of evolutionary humanism.
AiG is working on special materials and outreaches so that in the near future, we can begin promoting a “Creation Sunday” … or perhaps even a “Creation Week.” This would be a time when Christian leaders and others will have the opportunity to take a public statement that they are standing on God’s infallible Word!
“Evolution Sunday” will attack God’s Word this weekend. Sadly, it may lead many more people to hopelessness and despair. But a “Creation Sunday” (or whatever we decide to call it) will one day make a statement of hope to a dying world—the same message that AiG proclaims through its resources, conferences, this website and the future Creation Museum (to open, Lord willing, May 28, 2007).
The war between Christianity and secular humanism is really heating up now. Prominent evolutionists are using the web and other outlets time and time again to aggressively attack Bible-believing Christians. Christians need to communicate a positive message to the world that the Bible is true from the very first verse
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:you trying to start a revival or a revolution?????? | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/08/07 - PROCEDURE: While I'm at it, I might as well post something about a sense of FREEDOM on this Board. If you and I tell some people that their attitudes are actually garden-variety opinions, they become more rebellious. People need to believe that they have FREEDOM of choice. When they believe their FREEDOM is in jeopardy, they experience a negative emotional state. To reduce this state and restore a sense of FREEDOM, perhaps people will react to your accusations by doing just the opposite ONLY if they're guilty as charged. Dissenters believe that loyalty to their beliefs is revealed by correcting their mistakes and not by ignoring them. The difficulties of dissent are made even harder by the pleasures and pressures of being in a closely knit group such as this Christianity Board.
Any comments? (This post is not directed towards anyone. Nor is it just rhetoric)
HANK tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:I don't need any body's approval, therefore I have no need to become rebellious or an other emotional state.
I could care less about accusations and so forth.I am free enough with myself and I will leave anybody in the dust. I don't care because they have their own personal choices.
Although I do feel like beating my head off a wall sometimes with some of these posts! | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/08/07 - Where and Why 2
Either you tell me you are sorry, or I post this to the Christianity Board. It is up to you. You've got 48 hours.
WHERE and WHY ???
By Pericles dated 02/08/07 Direct question to tropicalstorm (Sapphire).
TSapphire :
Why do you suggest I C&P my posts (as in some sort of suggested secretly way)?
I always indicate when there could be any doubt that what I posted is a C&P.
When I reacted to peddler's Darwin claims I even posted the source above each part of the C&P by stating book and sections. Not a secretly C&P.
The list of oxymoron's was an obvious C&P. Not a secretly C&P.
For clarity I often copy the sentence I refer to above my reply. Not a secretly C&P.
What I call C&P are postings that do not show that major parts of it's content are actually directly C&P'ed from elsewhere and which - without notification - in effect are basically plagiarisms.
What I like to know from you is what moved you to post your statement on me of C&P'ing.
Your statement was uncalled for and extremely unnecessary, and certainly not appreciated.
---
Next to that in Fred's topic "My request for your prayers" you posted "maybe Perc will have a nice get well card for you".
A reply to a topic that did not involve me at all, and to which I had already replied in a positive way.
You seem to have little idea how far Fred and I go back, and how the relation between us two really is.
Your statement was uncalled for and extremely unnecessary, and certainly not appreciated.
---
Why do you do these things ?
Reply :
02/08/07 by tropicalstorm
What was so (secretly suggested)?
AND
I ALREADY told you I suggested the card because I can not do c/p myself
and when we do cards here in America everybody signs them
I was thinking a post of a card and everybody signs BUT like I said I can not do c/p myself
and thought of you.
My rating comment :
First you made the mistake to add in your post to Fred : "... maybe Perc will have a nice get well card for you".
There was no need what-so-ever to mention my handle there and in that context.
It was just your petty way to once again try "kick" at me.
So I stated in rating that reply that it was an "extreme bad add-on towards my direction : I can do quite well myself without you interfering. Please do not insult me with your petty patronizing".
For me it ended there. But no. Not for you.
You could not accept to be ticked on your "haggy" fingers, so you HAD to make matters worse by posting AFTER the acknowledgement by arcura of my message to him, and react with some snorty remark about C&P'ing.
Why could you for once be HONEST, and say you're sorry?
Had you done so, I would have left it at that.
Even this direct question to you - which I would have kept private had you left it at an "I'm sorry" you tried to sidestep.
You are a sad piece of work, Sapphire.
Please refrain from any further association with my posts, or - if you do - keep yourself strictly to the issue at hand.
I never blocked anyone ever. But you are - as you behave presently - a prime candidate to do so.
Another one of the growing number of so-called "christians" who seem to have completely forgotten what their religion is all about, and who do not seem capable to understand that with passing the word it is not meant to spread your personal frustrations, idiocies, and insincerities over the board.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:Sorry
I don't know how you post pictures if you do not cut and paste pictures.
Can You tell me what the term is used for cut and paste or what the procedure is that you use
to post pictures.
I told you three times now I do not know how to cut and paste pictures and you do that is the only reason I suggested maybe Perc could put a greeting card simply because you are good at doing the pictures and I do not know how.
You can keep making a federal case out of my remark if you want. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/08/07 - My request for your prayers………………….. I’ve been sick this last week and now it is getting worse.
Lower abdomen cramps and chest pain put me nearly out of commission.
So tomorrow morning early I’ll be taken to the VA Hospital in Helena 75 miles north of here.
I already have appointments for lab tests and to see a doctor.
And so I humbly ask for you prayers for me and those who will be treating me.
Thank you and God bless you all with much peace and kindness for and with one another.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:Hurry back what would it be like here without you? :(
maybe Perc will have a nice get well card for you | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/08/07 - The end of religion................................ I wonder -- is the % of Atheist, greater or less, proportionately, that they were two hundred years ago, 500 hundred years ago… my curiously makes me wonder whether the Religious will ever evolve to a small minority.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/08/07:I don't think it is dying but regrouping and evolving out of traditional backward stuff. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/07/07 - Ten questions to ask your biology teacher about evolution.
ORIGIN OF LIFE. Why do textbooks claim that the 1953 Miller-Urey experiment shows how life's building blocks may have formed on the early Earth -- when conditions on the early Earth were probably nothing like those used in the experiment, and the origin of life remains a mystery?
DARWIN'S TREE OF LIFE. Why don't textbooks discuss the "Cambrian explosion," in which all major animal groups appear together in the fossil record fully formed instead of branching from a common ancestor -- thus contradicting the evolutionary tree of life?
HOMOLOGY. Why do textbooks define homology as similarity due to common ancestry, then claim that it is evidence for common ancestry -- a circular argument masquerading as scientific evidence?
VERTEBRATE EMBRYOS. Why do textbooks use drawings of similarities in vertebrate embryos as evidence for their common ancestry -- even though biologists have known for over a century that vertebrate embryos are not most similar in their early stages, and the drawings are faked?
ARCHAEOPTERYX. Why do textbooks portray this fossil as the missing link between dinosaurs and modern birds -- even though modern birds are probably not descended from it, and its supposed ancestors do not appear until millions of years after it?
PEPPERED MOTHS. Why do textbooks use pictures of peppered moths camouflaged on tree trunks as evidence for natural selection -- when biologists have known since the 1980s that the moths don't normally rest on tree trunks, and all the pictures have been staged?
DARWIN'S FINCHES. Why do textbooks claim that beak changes in Galapagos finches during a severe drought can explain the origin of species by natural selection -- even though the changes were reversed after the drought ended, and no net evolution occurred?
MUTANT FRUIT FLIES. Why do textbooks use fruit flies with an extra pair of wings as evidence that DNA mutations can supply raw materials for evolution -- even though the extra wings have no muscles and these disabled mutants cannot survive outside the laboratory?
HUMAN ORIGINS. Why are artists' drawings of ape-like humans used to justify materialistic claims that we are just animals and our existence is a mere accident -- when fossil experts cannot even agree on who our supposed ancestors were or what they looked like?
EVOLUTION A FACT? Why are we told that Darwin's theory of evolution is a scientific fact -- even though many of its claims are based on misrepresentations of the facts?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/07/07:fossil as the missing link
Now I once met a fossil and I know a missing link and neither the two have ever meet
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/07/07 - What is wrong with you Christians ???
I refer to some recent topics, many on evolution, heaven and/or hell, or nature.
These topics almost always CLAIM all kinds of things of their subjects, but are in reality centred on issues of Christian BELIEF and FAITH. In some idiotic way the poster seems to try to prove the poster's own religious BELIEF by hitting out at non-religious issues.
As an example : Rosekeeper's and peddler's posts on evolution are not used to discuss the long road between first life and life today, but TRY in reality to add more value to the "theory" of Christianity. (And TRY it still is, as they do not seem to do very well on it).
Christianity is a spiritual BELIEF based on FAITH. Christianity is NOT a reality.
Only to those who BELIEVE in it, it may seem a reality.
Now : if the Christian BELIEF system could (COULD) be proven to be correct than what further value would BELIEF and FAITH still have? Nil. Isn't it?
So what is wrong with simply BELIEVING ?
And why do so many of you seem to feel it as "unworthy" to clearly STATE that you BELIEVE in "this" or "that" ?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/07/07:AMEN
Do YOU want the Bible verses to back up what you say?
I CAN give them to you!
Believe it > or not
| | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 02/06/07 - The Earth was never flat?" Isa 40:22 [It is] he that sitteth above the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in;
We never needed to sail here to America, if only those back than would had read their Bibles, they would had known the earth was a circle.
Thus again proving Evolution Wrong.
Now, what do you have to say Pericles?
I'll be back later. tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:That Columbus I guess I might as well blame him for me being born in Pittsburgh. I always held it against my parents!!!
| | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 02/06/07 - The Bible Proves Evolution Is false. The Bible gives so many answers proving that science and Evolution is false, here below is the truth of our Creation. Comments?
Man was created not evolved. This is
(a) expressly declared, and the declaration is confirmed by Christ Matthew 19:14; Mark 10:6,
(b) "an enormous gulf, a divergence practically infinite" (Huxley) between the lowest man and the highest beast, confirms it;
(c) the highest beast has no trace of God-consciousness--the religious nature;
(d) science and discovery have done nothing to bridge that "gulf."
(2) That man was made in the "image and likeness" of God. This image is found chiefly in man's tri-unity, and in his moral nature. Man is "spirit and soul and body" 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
"Spirit" is that part of man which "knows" 1 Corinthians 2:11 and which allies him to the spiritual creation and gives him God-consciousness. "Soul" in itself implies self-consciousness life, as distinguished from plants, which have unconscious life. In that sense animals also have "soul" Genesis 1:24. But the "soul" of man has a vaster content than "soul" as applied to beast life. It is the seat of emotions, desires, affections Psalms 42:1-6. The "heart" is, in Scripture usage, nearly synonymous with "soul." Because the natural man is, characteristically, the soulual or physical man, "soul" is often used as synonymous with the individual, e.g. Genesis 12:5. The body, separable from spirit and soul, and susceptible to death, is nevertheless an integral part of man, as the resurrection shows ; John 5:28,29; 1 Corinthians 15:47-50; Revelation 20:11-13. It is the seat of the senses (the means by which the spirit and soul have world-consciousness) and of the fallen Adamic nature. Romans 7:23,24.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:Dearest Joy
Peddler has wore us out on evolution
:)
http://www3.telus.net/trbrooks/SMCFP.htm | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 02/06/07 - an interesting equation? The Temperature of Heaven
The temperature of Heaven can be rather accurately computed.
Our authority is Isaiah 30:26, "Moreover, the light of the Moon shall be sevenfold, as the light of the Sun and the light of the Sun, shall be sevenfold, as the light of seven days."
Thus Heaven receives from the Moon as much radiation as we do from the Sun, and in addition 7*7 (49) times as much as the Earth does from the Sun, or 50 times in all.
The light we receive from the Moon is one 1/10,000 of the light we receive from the Sun, so we can ignore that...
The radiation falling on Heaven will heat it to the point where the heat lost by radiation is just equal to the heat received by radiation, i.e., Heaven loses 50 times as much heat as the Earth by radiation.
Using the Stefan- Boltzmann law for radiation, (H/E)^4=50, where E is the absolute temperature of the earth (-300k), gives H as 798k (525C).
The exact temperature of Hell cannot be computed... [However] Revelations 21:8 says "But the fearful, and unbelieving...shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone."
A lake of molten brimstone means that its temperature must be at or below the boiling point, 444.6C.
We have, then, that Heaven, at 525C is hotter than Hell at 445C.
From "Applied Optics" vol. 11, A14, 1972
Gives a new meaning to the saying hotter than hell, eh? tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:THE TEMP IN "HELL" IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT HERE ON EARTH NOW | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/06/07 - This really made me laugh D.C. CONFIDENTIAL
Fruitcake Polling Higher Than Bush
"According to the latest CBS News poll, the president's overall approval rating has dipped to 28 percent—the lowest number in his presidency and dangerously close to Nixon's all-time low of 24 percent. To lend a little context to this historic feat, we found some other people and things with equal or greater popularity.
THINGS WITH AN APPROVAL RATING HIGHER THAN GEORGE W. BUSH
• Brussels Sprouts (51%)
• Coke Zero (41%)
• Fruit Cake (40%)
• Kevin Federline (45%)
• Rosie O'Donnell on The View (46%)
• The Dentist (45%)
• Ryan Seacrest (60%)
• Stepping in Dog Shit (35%)
• Walking in the Rain Without an Umbrella (60%)
• Small Breasts (50%)
• Getting Kicked in the Balls (41%)
By Jaimie Etkin 02/05/07 4:19 PM
File Under: Fruitcake, George W. Bush, polls
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
LOL!!
Seems like a President of the United States(POTUS)sould have a higher public opinion rating with the citizens than stepping in dog sh*t. :D tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:
WHERE DOES PEDDLERS POSTS RATE ON THIS SCALE?
| | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 02/06/07 - Straw poll ---------------------------------- 1) Evolution is how all life came to be.
2) God created all living things in six 24-hour days.
3) God created all living things somehow.
4) God used evolution to create life.
5) No one knows the source of life.
6) It doesn't matter how life was created. The important thing is that there is life and that I am alive to enjoy it.
7) The refrigerator is full of ice-cold beer. Did anyone order the pizzas yet? tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:
#3 I BELIEVE THE EARTH WAS CREATED BEFORE THE SIX DAY CREATION
#6 BINGO
#7 WHERE'S THIS REFRIGERATOR AT?
(I don't drink beer, but logic tells me the pizza is being delivered to where this beer is)
{Got a strawberry daiquri for me instead????}
| | Question/Answer | | Mathatmacoat asked on 02/06/07 - Endless debates Why are there so many endless debates here about nothing?
Where is the exposition of Jesus, our saviour and our friend. This is afterall the Christianity Board, a virtual place designed to allow discussion of Christian beliefs. What we find here is a discussion of anything but Christian beliefs. Humanism, Atheism, Evolution, Politics, yesterday's lunch. Now if this happened occasionally, one would not mind, but to have this diatribe delivered daily.................. tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:What is crazier yet is it is like batting your head against a wall and pulling teeth at the same time to get them to see that they are missing the point of the picture as a whole with the knit pic on words and things that don't have anything to do with the main issue.
Peddler insisting evolution is theory and Perc debating with all the word games he plays.
Perc does come up with some good ones sometimes though!! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/05/07 - Is evolution religion or science? A brief history of design
by Russell Grigg
For over two millennia, people have argued that the ‘design’ in nature points to a Designer.1 In 44 bc, the Roman writer, orator and statesman, Cicero (106–43 bc), used this concept in his book De Natura Deorum (On the Nature of the Gods)2 to challenge the evolutionary ideas of the philosophers of his day.
Greek evolutionism, the gods, and fear of death
The two main schools of philosophy then were Epicureanism3 and Stoicism.4 The Epicureans sought happiness through bodily pleasures and freedom from pain and anxiety. The two chief causes of anxiety were fear of the gods and fear of death, so Epicurus sought to nullify both of these by teaching an evolutionary atomic theory.5
He denied that there was any purpose in nature, because everything was composed of particles (atoma: atoms), all falling downwards. He said that these sometimes spontaneously ‘swerved’ to coalesce and form bodies — non-living, living, human, and divine. The gods were made of finer atoms than humankind. They did not create the world or have any control over it, so they were not concerned with human affairs, and there was therefore no need for man to fear them. At death, the soul disintegrated and became non-existent, so there was no need to fear death or the prospect of judgment after death.
Cicero used the Stoic character in his book to refute these ideas with arguments from design, aimed to show that the universe is governed by an intelligent designer. He argued that a conscious purpose was needed to express art (e.g. to make a picture or a statue) and so, because nature was more perfect than art, nature showed purpose also. He reasoned that the movement of a ship was guided by skilled intelligence, and a sundial or water clock told the time by design rather than by chance. He said that even the barbarians of Britain or Scythia could not fail to see that a model which showed the movements of the sun, stars and planets was the product of conscious intelligence.6
Cicero continued his challenge to the evolutionism of Epicurus by marvelling that anyone could persuade himself that chance collisions of particles could form anything as beautiful as the world. He said that this was on a par with believing that if the letters of the alphabet were thrown on the ground often enough they would spell out the Annals of Ennius.7,8 And he asked: if chance collisions of particles could make a world, why then cannot they build much less difficult objects, like a colonnade, a temple, a house, or a city?9
More recent users of the design argument
In the 18th century, the most notable user of the design argument was William Paley (1743–1805). In his book, Natural Theology, he put the case of someone finding a watch while walking in a barren countryside. From the functions which the various parts of the watch fulfil (e.g. spring, gearwheels, pointer), the only logical conclusion was that it had a maker who ‘comprehended its construction and designed its use’.10 Paley also discussed evidence of design in the eye — that as an instrument for vision it showed intelligent design in the same way that telescopes, microscopes and spectacles do. And he went on to discuss complex design in many other human and animal organs, all pointing to the conclusion that the existence of complex life implies an intelligent Creator.
David Hume, the 18th century Scottish sceptical philosopher, tried to counter the watch argument by pointing out that watches are not living things which reproduce. However, Paley wrote 30 years after Hume, and Paley’s arguments are proof against most of Hume’s objections. For example, a modern philosopher has countered Hume: ‘Paley’s argument about organisms stands on its own, regardless of whether watches and organisms happen to be similar. The point of talking about watches is to help the reader see that the argument about organisms is compelling.’11
Charles Darwin and Paley
Charles Darwin was required to read Paley during his theological studies at Cambridge (1828–31). He later said, ‘I do not think that I hardly ever admired a book more than Paley’s “Natural Theology.” I could almost formerly have said it by heart.’12
However, he then spent the rest of his life developing and promoting a theory to explain how ‘design’ in nature could occur without God.13 Darwin proposed that small, useful changes could occur by chance, and enable their possessors to survive and pass on these changes — natural selection. Natural selection would work on even the tiniest improvements and, over vast ages, would supposedly accumulate enough small changes to produce all the ‘design’ we see in the living world.
Modern science vs Darwin
Evolutionists, including the stridently atheistic Oxford Professor Richard Dawkins, still use Darwin’s theory to oppose the design argument. But now, they believe that natural selection acts on genetic copying mistakes (mutations), some of which are supposed to increase the genetic information content (see aside). But Dawkins’ arguments have been severely critiqued on scientific grounds.14,15,16,17 Dawkins’ neo-Darwinism has several flaws:
Natural selection requires self-reproducing entities. Producing even the simplest self-reproducing organism (see aside) by a chance combination of chemicals is even more incredible than producing the Annals of Ennius by dropping letters on the ground. Living things require long molecules with precise arrangements of smaller ‘building blocks’. Not only will the ‘building blocks’ not combine in the right order, but they are unlikely, by natural means, to build up large molecules at all! Rather, large molecules tend to break down into smaller ones.18 Also, the ‘building blocks’ are unstable.19
There is complex biological machinery of which Darwin was simply ignorant. Biochemist Dr Michael Behe lists a number of examples: real motors, transport systems, the blood clotting cascade, the complex visual machinery. He argues that they require many parts or they would not function at all, so they could not have been built in small steps by natural selection.20
Biophysicist/information theorist Dr Lee Spetner points out that mutations never add information, but only reduce it — this includes even the rare helpful mutations. And he points out that natural selection is insufficient to accumulate slight advantages, as it would be too weak to overcome the effects of chance, which would tend to eliminate these mutants.21
The Bible and the ‘design argument’
Design is not enough!
The Apostle Paul used the design argument in Romans 1:20, where he declares that God’s eternal power and divine nature can be understood from the things that have been made (i.e. evidences of design in nature). And he says that because of this, the ungodly are ‘without excuse’. But Paul continues that people willingly reject this clear evidence.
This evidence of design in nature is enough to condemn men, but it is not enough to save them. The Bible makes it clear that the preaching of the Gospel is also needed to show how we are to come into a right relationship with the Creator (see next section).22
Cicero lived in the century before Christ and probably had never heard of the God of Genesis; he used design in support of the Greek pantheon of gods and goddesses of the Stoics. Today, ‘New Agers’ may attribute design to Mother Nature or Gaia (the Greek goddess of the earth).
Creation Evangelism
When Christians use design and other arguments from science, they are properly engaging in pre-evangelism, i.e. they are seeking to expose the fallacy of the evolutionary presuppositions that blind the eyes of people today to the truth of the Word of God. This is shown by the Apostle Paul’s experience in Athens. Paul ‘preached Jesus and the resurrection’ (Acts 17:18), which challenged both the Epicurean and the Stoic philosophers of his day — i.e. both Cicero’s opponents and his fellow believers. Paul challenged their faulty ideas by pointing them to the one true God who had created everything. But Paul didn’t stop with creation.23
He urged them to repent, and he said they could know there would be a Day of Judgment because God had appointed the Judge and given assurance of this by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17:18–31).
The only way to be saved is to believe in the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12), the Creator/Redeemer, who died and rose again to pay the penalty for mankind’s sin. We should follow the way Paul presented the Gospel in 1 Cor. 15 — N.B. verses 1–4, 21–22, 26, 45, which make sense only with a literal Genesis — a literal Creation, Fall, death penalty for sin, etc.
John the Evangelist wrote his Gospel ‘so that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you might have life in His name’ (John 20:31). But he began his Gospel by declaring that Jesus is the Creator (John 1:1–3), the Second Person of the Trinity, who took on human nature (John 1:14). Thus evangelism must present Christ as Creator or it is deficient — if Christ is not God, then He cannot be our Saviour (Isaiah 43:11).
Conclusion
Without the message of design and the Creator, ‘gospel preaching’ lacks foundation. Without Christ, the design argument cannot save. We must present a full Gospel, starting with creation by the Triune God, and combine it with the message of Christ’s death for sin and His Resurrection.
History of Design tropicalstorm answered on 02/06/07:evolution is junk science and I just don't get why a person would waste their time on it.
I think it would be more beneficial going to the North Pole to try and prove or disprove Santa Clause. I don't think anybody here bases their disbelief of God on evolution anyway,
So I think you are battling windmills | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/05/07 - A question for the atheist evolutionist and there #1 Fan Fred. Since you all hate my posts about your religion of evolution all you need to do is give a scientific explanation for the origin of the genetic information written into the D.N.A. molecule and I will stop posting about evolution.
What natural process can explain the existence of the biotic code?
Should be easy enough for you eggheads. tropicalstorm answered on 02/05/07:why can't you ask all this technical theory stuff on the evolution board.
I believe my van has all its parts to run (even though it doesn't) that doesn't mean I know what MAKES the carberator and the pistons and the valves work or how they were all assembled together AND I have watched MANY mechanics MANY times. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/04/07 - For Perc since he missed it last time. I know you hate to let the truth get in the way of your political/religious rant but please read this.
Global Warming: The Origin and Nature of the Alleged Scientific Consensus
Richard S. Lindzen
Richard S. Lindzen is the Alfred P. Sloan Professor of Meteorology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Most of the literate world today regards "global warming'' as both real and dangerous. Indeed, the diplomatic activity concerning warming might lead one to believe that it is the major crisis confronting mankind. The June 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, focused on international agreements to deal with that threat, and the heads of state from dozens of countries attended. I must state at the outset, that, as a scientist, I can find no substantive basis for the warming scenarios being popularly described. Moreover, according to many studies I have read by economists, agronomists, and hydrologists, there would be little difficulty adapting to such warming if it were to occur. Such was also the conclusion of the recent National Research Council's report on adapting to global change. Many aspects of the catastrophic scenario have already been largely discounted by the scientific community. For example, fears of massive sea-level increases accompanied many of the early discussions of global warming, but those estimates have been steadily reduced by orders of magnitude, and now it is widely agreed that even the potential contribution of warming to sea-level rise would be swamped by other more important factors.
To show why I assert that there is no substantive basis for predictions of sizeable global warming due to observed increases in minor greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbons, I shall briefly review the science associated with those predictions.
Summary of Scientific Issues
Before even considering "greenhouse theory,'' it may be helpful to begin with the issue that is almost always taken as a given--that carbon dioxide will inevitably increase to values double and even quadruple present values. Evidence from the analysis of ice cores and after 1958 from direct atmospheric sampling shows that the amount of carbon dioxide in the air has been increasing since 1800. Before 1800 the density was about 275 parts per million by volume. Today it is about 355 parts per million by volume. The increase is generally believed to be due to the combination of increased burning of fossil fuels and before 1905 to deforestation. The total source is estimated to have been increasing exponentially at least until 1973. From 1973 until 1990 the rate of increase has been much slower, however. About half the production of carbon dioxide has appeared in the atmosphere.
Predicting what will happen to carbon dioxide over the next century is a rather uncertain matter. By assuming a shift toward the increased use of coal, rapid advances in the third world's standard of living, large population increases, and a reduction in nuclear and other nonfossil fuels, one can generate an emissions scenario that will lead to a doubling of carbon dioxide by 2030--if one uses a particular model for the chemical response to carbon dioxide emissions. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Working Group I's model referred to that as the "business as usual'' scenario. As it turns out, the chemical model used was inconsistent with the past century's record; it would have predicted that we would already have about 400 parts per million by volume. An improved model developed at the Max Planck Institute in Hamburg shows that even the "business as usual'' scenario does not double carbon dioxide by the year 2100. It seems unlikely moreover that the indefinite future of energy belongs to coal. I also find it difficult to believe that technology will not lead to improved nuclear reactors within fifty years.
Nevertheless, we have already seen a significant increase in carbon dioxide that has been accompanied by increases in other minor greenhouse gases such as methane and chlorofluorocarbons. Indeed, in terms of greenhouse potential, we have had the equivalent of a 50 percent increase in carbon dioxide over the past century. The effects of those increases are certainly worth studying--quite independent of any uncertain future scenarios.
The Greenhouse Effect.
The crude idea in the common popular presentation of the greenhouse effect is that the atmosphere is transparent to sunlight (apart from the very significant reflectivity of both clouds and the surface), which heats the Earth's surface. The surface offsets that heating by radiating in the infrared. The infrared radiation increases with increasing surface temperature, and the temperature adjusts until balance is achieved. If the atmosphere were also transparent to infrared radiation, the infrared radiation produced by an average surface temperature of minus eighteen degrees centigrade would balance the incoming solar radiation (less that amount reflected back to space by clouds). The atmosphere is not transparent in the infrared, however. So the Earth must heat up somewhat more to deliver the same flux of infrared radiation to space. That is what is called the greenhouse effect.
The fact that the Earth's average surface temperature is fifteen degrees centigrade rather than minus eighteen degrees centigrade is attributed to that effect. The main absorbers of infrared in the atmosphere are water vapor and clouds. Even if all other greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide and methane) were to disappear, we would still be left with over 98 percent of the current greenhouse effect. Nevertheless, it is presumed that increases in carbon dioxide and other minor greenhouse gases will lead to significant increases in temperature. As we have seen, carbon dioxide is increasing. So are other minor greenhouse gases. A widely held but questionable contention is that those increases will continue along the path they have followed for the past century.
The simple picture of the greenhouse mechanism is seriously oversimplified. Many of us were taught in elementary school that heat is transported by radiation, convection, and conduction. The above representation only refers to radiative transfer. As it turns out, if there were only radiative heat transfer, the greenhouse effect would warm the Earth to about seventy-seven degrees centigrade rather than to fifteen degrees centigrade. In fact, the greenhouse effect is only about 25 percent of what it would be in a pure radiative situation. The reason for this is the presence of convection (heat transport by air motions), which bypasses much of the radiative absorption.
What is really going on is schematically illustrated in Figure 1. The surface of the Earth is cooled in large measure by air currents (in various forms including deep clouds) that carry heat upward and poleward. One consequence of this picture is that it is the greenhouse gases well above the Earth's surface that are of primary importance in determining the temperature of the Earth. That is especially important for water vapor, whose density decreases by about a factor of 1,000 between the surface and ten kilometers above the surface. Another consequence is that one cannot even calculate the temperature of the Earth without models that accurately reproduce the motions of the atmosphere. Indeed, present models have large errors here--on the order of 50 percent. Not surprisingly, those models are unable to calculate correctly either the present average temperature of the Earth or the temperature ranges from the equator to the poles. Rather, the models are adjusted or "tuned" to get those quantities approximately right.
It is still of interest to ask what we would expect a doubling of carbon dioxide to do. A large number of calculations show that if this is all that happened, we might expect a warming of from .5 to 1.2 degrees centigrade. The general consensus is that such warming would present few, if any, problems. But even that prediction is subject to some uncertainty because of the complicated way the greenhouse effect operates. More important, the climate is a complex system where it is impossible for all other internal factors to remain constant. In present models those other factors amplify the effects of increasing carbon dioxide and lead to predictions of warming in the neighborhood of four to five degrees centigrade. Internal processes within the climate system that change in response to warming in such a manner as to amplify the response are known as positive feedbacks. Internal processes that diminish the response are known as negative feedbacks. The most important positive feedback in current models is due to water vapor. In all current models upper tropospheric (five to twelve kilometers) water vapor--the major greenhouse gas--increases as surface temperatures increase. Without that feedback, no current model would predict warming in excess of 1.7 degrees centigrade--regardless of any other factors. Unfortunately, the way current models handle factors such as clouds and water vapor is disturbingly arbitrary. In many instances the underlying physics is simply not known. In other instances there are identifiable errors. Even computational errors play a major role. Indeed, there is compelling evidence for all the known feedback factors to actually be negative. In that case, we would expect the warming response to carbon dioxide doubling alone to be diminished.
It is commonly suggested that society should not depend on negative feedbacks to spare us from a "greenhouse catastrophe.'' What is omitted from such suggestions is that current models depend heavily on undemonstrated positive feedback factors to predict high levels of warming. The effects of clouds have been receiving the closest scrutiny. That is not unreasonable. Cloud cover in models is poorly treated and inaccurately predicted. Yet clouds reflect about seventy-five watts per square meter. Given that a doubling of carbon dioxide would change the surface heat flux by only two watts per square meter, it is evident that a small change in cloud cover can strongly affect the response to carbon dioxide. The situation is complicated by the fact that clouds at high altitudes can also supplement the greenhouse effect. Indeed, the effects of clouds in reflecting light and in enhancing the greenhouse effect are roughly in balance. Their actual effect on climate depends both on the response of clouds to warming and on the possible imbalance of their cooling and heating effects.
Similarly, factors involving the contribution of snow cover to reflectivity serve, in current models, to amplify warming due to increasing carbon dioxide. What happens seems reasonable enough; warmer climates presumably are associated with less snow cover and less reflectivity--which, in turn, amplify the warming. Snow is associated with winter when incident sunlight is minimal, however. Moreover, clouds shield the Earth's surface from the sun and minimize the response to snow cover. Indeed, there is growing evidence that clouds accompany diminishing snow cover to such an extent as to make that feedback factor negative. If, however, one asks why current models predict that large warming will accompany increasing carbon dioxide, the answer is mostly due to the effect of the water vapor feedback. Current models all predict that warmer climates will be accompanied by increasing humidity at all levels. As already noted, such behavior is an artifact of the models since they have neither the physics nor the numerical accuracy to deal with water vapor. Recent studies of the physics of how deep clouds moisturize the atmosphere strongly suggest that this largest of the positive feedbacks is not only negative, but very large.
Not only are there major reasons to believe that models are exaggerating the response to increasing carbon dioxide, but, perhaps even more significantly, the models' predictions for the past century incorrectly describe the pattern of warming and greatly overestimate its magnitude. The global average temperature record for the past century or so is irregular and not without problems. It does, however, show an average increase in temperature of about .45 degree centigrade plus or minus .15 degree centigrade with most of the increase occurring before 1940, followed by some cooling through the early 1970s and a rapid (but modest) temperature increase in the late 1970s. As noted, we have already seen an increase in "equivalent'' carbon dioxide of 50 percent. Thus, on the basis of models that predict a four degree centigrade warming for a doubling of carbon dioxide we might expect to have seen a warming of two degrees centigrade already. If, however, we include the delay imposed by the oceans' heat capacity, we might expect a warming of about one degree centigrade--which is still twice what has been observed. Moreover, most of that warming occurred before the bulk of the minor greenhouse gases were added to the atmosphere. Figure 2 shows what might have been expected for models with differing sensitivities to a doubling of carbon dioxide. What we see is that the past record is most consistent with an equilibrium response to a doubling of about 1.3 degrees centigrade--assuming that all the observed warming was due to increasing carbon dioxide. There is nothing in the record that can be distinguished from the natural variability of the climate, however.
If one considers the tropics, that conclusion is even more disturbing. There is ample evidence that the average equatorial sea surface has remained within plus or minus one degree centigrade of its present temperature for billions of years, yet current models predict average warming of from two to four degrees centigrade even at the equator. It should be noted that for much of the Earth's history, the atmosphere had much more carbon dioxide than is currently anticipated for centuries to come. I could, in fact, go on at great length listing the evidence for small responses to a doubling of carbon dioxide; there are space constraints, however.
Consensus and the Current "Popular Vision''
Many studies from the nineteenth century on suggested that industrial and other contributions to increasing carbon dioxide might lead to global warming. Problems with such predictions were also long noted, and the general failure of such predictions to explain the observed record caused the field of climatology as a whole to regard the suggested mechanisms as suspect. Indeed, the global cooling trend of the 1950s and 1960s led to a minor global cooling hysteria in the 1970s. All that was more or less normal scientific debate, although the cooling hysteria had certain striking analogues to the present warming hysteria including books such as The Genesis Strategy by Stephen Schneider and Climate Change and World Affairs by Crispin Tickell--both authors are prominent in support of the present concerns as well--"explaining'' the problem and promoting international regulation. There was also a book by the prominent science writer Lowell Ponte (The Cooling) that derided the skeptics and noted the importance of acting in the absence of firm, scientific foundation. There was even a report by the National Research Council of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences reaching its usual ambiguous conclusions. But the scientific community never took the issue to heart, governments ignored it, and with rising global temperatures in the late 1970s the issue more or less died. In the meantime, model calculations--especially at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory at Princeton--continued to predict substantial warming due to increasing carbon dioxide. Those predictions were considered interesting, but largely academic, exercises--even by the scientists involved.
The present hysteria formally began in the summer of 1988, although preparations had been put in place at least three years earlier. That was an especially warm summer in some regions, particularly in the United States. The abrupt increase in temperature in the late 1970s was too abrupt to be associated with the smooth increase in carbon dioxide. Nevertheless, James Hansen, director of the Goddard Institute for Space Studies, in testimony before Sen. Al Gore's Committee on Science, Technology and Space, said, in effect, that he was 99 percent certain that temperature had increased and that there was some greenhouse warming. He made no statement concerning the relation between the two.
Despite the fact that those remarks were virtually meaningless, they led the environmental advocacy movement to adopt the issue immediately. The growth of environmental advocacy since the 1970s has been phenomenal. In Europe the movement centered on the formation of Green parties; in the United States the movement centered on the development of large public interest advocacy groups. Those lobbying groups have budgets of several hundred million dollars and employ about 50,000 people; their support is highly valued by many political figures. As with any large groups, self-perpetuation becomes a crucial concern. "Global warming'' has become one of the major battle cries in their fundraising efforts. At the same time, the media unquestioningly accept the pronouncements of those groups as objective truth.
Within the large-scale climate modelling community--a small subset of the community interested in climate--however, the immediate response was to criticize Hansen for publicly promoting highly uncertain model results as relevant to public policy. Hansen's motivation was not totally obvious, but despite the criticism of Hansen, the modelling community quickly agreed that large warming was not impossible. That was still enough for both the politicians and advocates who have generally held that any hint of environmental danger is a sufficient basis for regulation unless the hint can be rigorously disproved. That is a particularly pernicious asymmetry, given that rigor is generally impossible in environmental sciences.
Other scientists quickly agreed that with increasing carbon dioxide some warming might be expected and that with large enough concentrations of carbon dioxide the warming might be significant. Nevertheless, there was widespread skepticism. By early 1989, however, the popular media in Europe and the United States were declaring that "all scientists'' agreed that warming was real and catastrophic in its potential.
As most scientists concerned with climate, I was eager to stay out of what seemed like a public circus. But in the summer of 1988 Lester Lave, a professor of economics at Carnegie Mellon University, wrote to me about being dismissed from a Senate hearing for suggesting that the issue of global warming was scientifically controversial. I assured him that the issue was not only controversial but also unlikely. In the winter of 1989 Reginald Newell, a professor of meteorology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, lost National Science Foundation funding for data analyses that were failing to show net warming over the past century. Reviewers suggested that his results were dangerous to humanity. In the spring of 1989 I was an invited participant at a global warming symposium at Tufts University. I was the only scientist among a panel of environmentalists. There were strident calls for immediate action and ample expressions of impatience with science. Claudine Schneider, then a congressman from Rhode Island, acknowledged that "scientists may disagree, but we can hear Mother Earth, and she is crying.'' It seemed clear to me that a very dangerous situation was arising, and the danger was not of "global warming'' itself.
In the spring of 1989 I prepared a critique of global warming, which I submitted to Science, a magazine of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The paper was rejected without review as being of no interest to the readership. I then submitted the paper to the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, where it was accepted after review, rereviewed, and reaccepted--an unusual procedure to say the least. In the meantime, the paper was attacked in Science before it had even been published. The paper circulated for about six months as samizdat. It was delivered at a Humboldt conference at M.I.T. and reprinted in the Frankfurter Allgemeine.
In the meantime, the global warming circus was in full swing. Meetings were going on nonstop. One of the more striking of those meetings was hosted in the summer of 1989 by Robert Redford at his ranch in Sundance, Utah. Redford proclaimed that it was time to stop research and begin acting. I suppose that that was a reasonable suggestion for an actor to make, but it is also indicative of the overall attitude toward science. Barbara Streisand personally undertook to support the research of Michael Oppenheimer at the Environmental Defense Fund, although he is primarily an advocate and not a climatologist. Meryl Streep made an appeal on public television to stop warming. A bill was even prepared to guarantee Americans a stable climate.
By the fall of 1989 some media were becoming aware that there was controversy (Forbes and Reader's Digest were notable in that regard). Cries followed from environmentalists that skeptics were receiving excessive exposure. The publication of my paper was followed by a determined effort on the part of the editor of the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, Richard Hallgren, to solicit rebuttals. Such articles were prepared by Stephen Schneider and Will Kellogg, a minor scientific administrator for the past thirty years, and those articles were followed by an active correspondence mostly supportive of the skeptical spectrum of views. Indeed, a recent Gallup poll of climate scientists in the American Meteorological Society and in the American Geophysical Union shows that a vast majority doubts that there has been any identifiable man-caused warming to date (49 percent asserted no, 33 percent did not know, 18 percent thought some has occurred; however, among those actively involved in research and publishing frequently in peer-reviewed research journals, none believes that any man-caused global warming has been identified so far). On the whole, the debate within the meteorological community has been relatively healthy and, in this regard, unusual.
Outside the world of meteorology, Greenpeace's Jeremy Legett, a geologist by training, published a book attacking critics of warming---especially me. George Mitchell, Senate majority leader and father of a prominent environmental activist, also published a book urging acceptance of the warming problem (World on Fire: Saving an Endangered Earth). Sen. Gore recently published a book (Earth in the Balance: Ecology and the Human Spirit). Those are just a few examples of the rapidly growing publications on warming. Rarely has such meager science provoked such an outpouring of popularization by individuals who do not understand the subject in the first place.
The activities of the Union of Concerned Scientists deserve special mention. That widely supported organization was originally devoted to nuclear disarmament. As the cold war began to end, the group began to actively oppose nuclear power generation. Their position was unpopular with many physicists. Over the past few years, the organization has turned to the battle against global warming in a particularly hysterical manner. In 1989 the group began to circulate a petition urging recognition of global warming as potentially the great danger to mankind. Most recipients who did not sign were solicited at least twice more. The petition was eventually signed by 700 scientists including a great many members of the National Academy of Sciences and Nobel laureates. Only about three or four of the signers, however, had any involvement in climatology. Interestingly, the petition had two pages, and on the second page there was a call for renewed consideration of nuclear power. When the petition was published in the New York Times, however, the second page was omitted. In any event, that document helped solidify the public perception that "all scientists'' agreed with the disaster scenario. Such a disturbing abuse of scientific authority was not unnoticed. At the 1990 annual meeting of the National Academy of Sciences, Frank Press, the academy's president, warned the membership against lending their credibility to issues about which they had no special knowledge. Special reference was made to the published petition. In my opinion what the petition did show was that the need to fight "global warming'' has become part of the dogma of the liberal conscience--a dogma to which scientists are not immune.
At the same time, political pressures on dissidents from the "popular vision'' increased. Sen. Gore publicly admonished "skeptics'' in a lengthy New York Times op-ed piece. In a perverse example of double-speak he associated the "true believers'' in warming with Galileo. He also referred, in another article, to the summer of 1988 as the Kristallnacht before the warming holocaust.
The notion of "scientific unanimity'' is currently intimately tied to the Working Group I report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change issued in September 1990. That panel consists largely of scientists posted to it by government agencies. The panel has three working groups. Working Group I nominally deals with climate science. Approximately 150 scientists contributed to the report, but university representation from the United States was relatively small and is likely to remain so, since the funds and time needed for participation are not available to most university scientists. Many governments have agreed to use that report as the authoritative basis for climate policy. The report, as such, has both positive and negative features. Methodologically, the report is deeply committed to reliance on large models, and within the report models are largely verified by comparison with other models. Given that models are known to agree more with each other than with nature (even after "tuning''), that approach does not seem promising. In addition, a number of the participants have testified to the pressures placed on them to emphasize results supportive of the current scenario and to suppress other results. That pressure has frequently been effective, and a survey of participants reveals substantial disagreement with the final report. Nonetheless, the body of the report is extremely ambiguous, and the caveats are numerous. The report is prefaced by a policymakers' summary written by the editor, Sir John Houghton, director of the United Kingdom Meteorological Office. His summary largely ignores the uncertainty in the report and attempts to present the expectation of substantial warming as firmly based science. The summary was published as a separate document, and, it is safe to say that policymakers are unlikely to read anything further. On the basis of the summary, one frequently hears that "hundreds of the world's greatest climate scientists from dozens of countries all agreed that.|.|.|.'' It hardly matters what the agreement refers to, since whoever refers to the summary insists that it agrees with the most extreme scenarios (which, in all fairness, it does not). I should add that the climatology community, until the past few years, was quite small and heavily concentrated in the United States and Europe.
While the International Panel on Climate Change's reports were in preparation, the National Research Council in the United States was commissioned to prepare a synthesis of the current state of the global change situation. The panel chosen was hardly promising. It had no members of the academy expert in climate. Indeed, it had only one scientist directly involved in climate, Stephen Schneider, who is an ardent environmental advocate. It also included three professional environmental advocates, and it was headed by a former senator, Dan Evans. The panel did include distinguished scientists and economists outside the area of climate, and, perhaps because of this, the report issued by the panel was by and large fair. The report concluded that the scientific basis for costly action was absent, although prudence might indicate that actions that were cheap or worth doing anyway should be considered. A subcommittee of the panel issued a report on adaptation that argued that even with the more severe warming scenarios, the United States would have little difficulty adapting. Not surprisingly, the environmentalists on the panel not only strongly influenced the reports, but failing to completely have their way, attempted to distance themselves from the reports by either resigning or by issuing minority dissents. Equally unsurprising is the fact that the New York Times typically carried reports on that panel on page 46. The findings were never subsequently discussed in the popular media--except for claims that the reports supported the catastrophic vision. Nevertheless, the reports of that panel were indicative of the growing skepticism concerning the warming issue.
Indeed, the growing skepticism is in many ways remarkable. One of the earliest protagonists of global warming, Roger Revelle, the late professor of ocean sciences at Scripps Institution of Oceanography who initiated the direct monitoring of carbon dioxide during the International Geophysical Year (1958), coauthored with S. Fred Singer and Chauncy Starr a paper recommending that action concerning global warming be delayed insofar as current knowledge was totally inadequate. Another active advocate of global warming, Michael McElroy, head of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Harvard, has recently written a paper acknowledging that existing models cannot be used to forecast climate.
One might think that such growing skepticism would have some influence on public debate, but the insistence on "scientific unanimity'' continues unabated. At times, that insistence takes some very strange forms. Over a year ago, Robert White, former head of the U.S. Weather Bureau and currently president of the National Academy of Engineering, wrote an article for Scientific American that pointed out that the questionable scientific basis for global warming predictions was totally inadequate to justify any costly actions. He did state that if one were to insist on doing something, one should only do things that one would do even if there were no warming threat. Immediately after that article appeared, Tom Wicker, a New York Times columnist and a confidant of Sen. Gore, wrote a piece in which he stated that White had called for immediate action on "global warming.'' My own experiences have been similar. In an article in Audubon Stephen Schneider states that I have "conceded that some warming now appears inevitable.'' Differences between expectations of unmeasurable changes of a few tenths of a degree and warming of several degrees are conveniently ignored. Karen White in a lengthy and laudatory article on James Hansen that appeared in the New York Times Sunday Magazine reported that even I agreed that there would be warming, having "reluctantly offered an estimate of 1.2 degrees.'' That was, of course, untrue.
Most recently, I testified at a Senate hearing conducted by Sen. Gore. There was a rather arcane discussion of the water vapor in the upper troposphere. Two years ago, I had pointed out that if the source of water vapor in that region in the tropics was from deep clouds, then surface warming would be accompanied by reduced upper level water vapor. Subsequent research has established that there must be an additional source--widely believed to be ice crystals thrown off by those deep clouds. I noted that that source too probably acts to produce less moisture in a warmer atmosphere. Both processes cause the major feedback process to become negative rather than positive. Sen. Gore asked whether I now rejected my suggestion of two years ago as a major factor. I answered that I did. Gore then called for the recording secretary to note that I had retracted my objections to "global warming.'' In the ensuing argument, involving mostly other participants in the hearing, Gore was told that he was confusing matters. Shortly thereafter, however, Tom Wicker published an article in the New York Times that claimed that I had retracted my opposition to warming and that that warranted immediate action to curb the purported menace. I wrote a letter to the Times indicating that my position had been severely misrepresented, and, after a delay of over a month, my letter was published. Sen. Gore nonetheless claims in his book that I have indeed retracted my scientific objections to the catastrophic warming scenario and also warns others who doubt the scenario that they are hurting humanity.
Why, one might wonder, is there such insistence on scientific unanimity on the warming issue? After all, unanimity in science is virtually nonexistent on far less complex matters. Unanimity on an issue as uncertain as "global warming'' would be surprising and suspicious. Moreover, why are the opinions of scientists sought regardless of their field of expertise? Biologists and physicians are rarely asked to endorse some theory in high energy physics. Apparently, when one comes to "global warming,'' any scientist's agreement will do.
The answer almost certainly lies in politics. For example, at the Earth Summit in Rio, attempts were made to negotiate international carbon emission agreements. The potential costs and implications of such agreements are likely to be profound for both industrial and developing countries. Under the circumstances, it would be very risky for politicians to undertake such agreements unless scientists "insisted.'' Nevertheless, the situation is probably a good deal more complicated than that example suggests.
The Temptation and Problems of "Global Warming''
As Aaron Wildavsky, professor of political science at Berkeley, has quipped, "global warming'' is the mother of all environmental scares. Wildavsky's view is worth quoting. "Warming (and warming alone), through its primary antidote of withdrawing carbon from production and consumption, is capable of realizing the environmentalist's dream of an egalitarian society based on rejection of economic growth in favor of a smaller population's eating lower on the food chain, consuming a lot less, and sharing a much lower level of resources much more equally.'' In many ways Wildavsky's observation does not go far enough. The point is that carbon dioxide is vitally central to industry, transportation, modern life, and life in general. It has been joked that carbon dioxide controls would permit us to inhale as much as we wish; only exhaling would be controlled. The remarkable centrality of carbon dioxide means that dealing with the threat of warming fits in with a great variety of preexisting agendas--some legitimate, some less so: energy efficiency, reduced dependence on Middle Eastern oil, dissatisfaction with industrial society (neopastoralism), international competition, governmental desires for enhanced revenues (carbon taxes), and bureaucratic desires for enhanced power.
The very scale of the problem as popularly portrayed and the massive scale of the suggested responses have their own appeal. The Working Group I report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change suggested, for example, that a 60 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions might be needed. Such a reduction would call for measures that would be greater than those that have been devoted to war and defense. And just as defense has dealt with saving one's nation, curbing "global warming'' is identified with saving the whole planet! It may not be fortuitous that this issue is being promoted at just the moment in history when the cold war is ending.
Major agencies in the United States, hitherto closely involved with traditional approaches to national security, have appropriated the issue of climate change to support existing efforts. Notable among those agencies are NASA, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy. The cold war helped spawn a large body of policy experts and diplomats specializing in issues such as disarmament and alliance negotiations. In addition, since the Yom Kippur War, energy has become a major component of national security with the concomitant creation of a large cadre of energy experts. Many of those individuals see in the global change issue an area in which to continue applying their skills. Many scientists also feel that national security concerns formed the foundation for the U.S. government's generous support of science. As the urgency of national security, traditionally defined, diminishes, there is a common feeling that a substitute foundation must be established. "Saving the planet'' has the right sort of sound to it. Fundraising has become central to environmental advocates' activities, and the message underlying some of their fundraising seems to be "pay us or you'll fry.''
Clearly, "global warming'' is a tempting issue for many very important groups to exploit. Equally clearly, though far less frequently discussed, are the profound dangers in exploiting that issue. As we shall also see, there are good reasons why there has been so little discussion of the downside of responding to "global warming.''
A parochial issue is the danger to the science of climatology. As far as I can tell, there has actually been reduced funding for existing climate research. That may seem paradoxical, but, at least in the United States, the vastly increased number of scientists and others involving themselves in climate as well as the gigantic programs attaching themselves to climate have substantially outstripped the increases in funding. Perhaps more important are the pressures being brought to bear on scientists to get the "right'' results. Such pressures are inevitable, given how far out on a limb much of the scientific community has gone. The situation is compounded by the fact that some of the strongest proponents of "global warming'' in Congress are also among the major supporters of science (Sen. Gore is notable among those). Finally, given the momentum that has been building up among so many interest groups to fight "global warming,'' it becomes downright embarrassing to support basic climate research. After all, one would hate to admit that one had mobilized so many resources without the basic science's being in place. Nevertheless, given the large increase in the number of people associating themselves with climatology and the dependence of much of that community on the perceived threat of warming, it seems unlikely that the scientific community will offer much resistance. I should add that as ever greater numbers of individuals attach themselves to the warming problem, the pressures against solving the problem grow proportionally; an inordinate number of individuals and groups depend on the problem's remaining.
In addition to climatologists, are there other groups that are at risk? Here, one might expect that industry could be vulnerable, and, indeed, it may be. At least in the United States, however, industries seem to be primarily concerned with improving their public image, often by supporting environmental activists. Moreover, some industries have become successful at profiting from environmental regulation. The most obvious example is the waste management industry. Even electric utility companies have been able to use environmental measures to increase the base on which their regulated profits are calculated. It is worth noting that about 1.7 trillion dollars have been spent on the environment over the past decade. The environment, itself, qualifies as one of our major industries.
If Wildavsky's scenario is correct, the major losers would be ordinary people. Wealth that could have been used to raise living standards in much of the world would be squandered. Living standards in the developed world would decrease. Regulatory apparatuses would restrict individual freedom on an unprecedented scale. Here too, however, one cannot expect much resistance to proposed actions--at least not initially. Public perceptions, under the influence of extensive, deceptive, and one-sided publicity, can become disconnected from reality. For example, Alabama has had a pronounced cooling trend since 1935. Nevertheless, a poll among professionals in Alabama found that about 95 percent of the participants believed that the climate had been warming over the past fifty years and that the warming was due to the greenhouse effect. Public misperceptions coupled with a sincere desire to "save the planet'' can force political action even when politicians are aware of the reality.
What the above amounts to is a societal instability. At a particular point in history, a relatively minor suggestion or event serves to mobilize massive interests. While the proposed measures may be detrimental, resistance is largely absent or coopted. In the case of climate change, the probability that the proposed regulatory actions would for the most part have little impact on climate, regardless of the scenario chosen, appears to be of no consequence.
Modelling and Societal Instability
So far I have emphasized the political elements in the current climate hysteria. There can be no question, however, that scientists are abetting this situation. Concerns about funding have already been mentioned. There is, however, another perhaps more important element to the scientific support. The existence of modern computing power has led to innumerable modelling efforts in many fields. Supercomputers have allowed us to consider the behavior of systems seemingly too complex for other approaches. One of those systems is climate. Not surprisingly, there are many problems involved in modelling climate. For example, even supercomputers are inadequate to allow long-term integrations of the relevant equations at adequate spatial resolutions. At presently available resolutions, it is unlikely that the computer solutions are close to the solutions of the underlying equations. In addition, the physics of unresolved phenomena such as clouds and other turbulent elements is not understood to the extent needed for incorporation into models. In view of those problems, it is generally recognized that models are at present experimental tools whose relation to the real world is questionable.
While there is nothing wrong in using those models in an experimental mode, there is a real dilemma when they predict potentially dangerous situations. Should scientists publicize such predictions since the models are almost certainly wrong? Is it proper to not publicize the predictions if the predicted danger is serious? How is the public to respond to such predictions? The difficulty would be diminished if the public understood how poor the models actually are. Unfortunately, there is a tendency to hold in awe anything that emerges from a sufficiently large computer. There is also a reluctance on the part of many modellers to admit to the experimental nature of their models lest public support for their efforts diminish. Nevertheless, with poor and uncertain models in wide use, predictions of ominous situations are virtually inevitable--regardless of reality.
Such weak predictions feed and contribute to what I have already described as a societal instability that can cascade the most questionable suggestions of danger into major political responses with massive economic and social consequences. I have already discussed some of the reasons for this instability: the existence of large cadres of professional planners looking for work, the existence of advocacy groups looking for profitable causes, the existence of agendas in search of saleable rationales, and the ability of many industries to profit from regulation, coupled with an effective neutralization of opposition. It goes almost without saying that the dangers and costs of those economic and social consequences may be far greater than the original environmental danger. That becomes especially true when the benefits of additional knowledge are rejected and when it is forgotten that improved technology and increased societal wealth are what allow society to deal with environmental threats most effectively. The control of societal instability may very well be the real challenge facing us.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/05/07:Give UP THINKING? WHOEVER SAID I STARTED to think to be able to give it up? | | Question/Answer | Hwood asked on 02/04/07 -
Do you think this is a fun writing? Maxine on Border Control
Everyone concentrates on the problems we're having in this country lately; illegal immigration, hurricane recovery, wild animals attacking humans in Florida.
Not me. I concentrate on solutions to problems. The result is a win-win-win situation:
+ Dig a moat the length of the Mexican border
+ Use the dirt to raise the levees in New Orleans
+ Put the Florida alligators in the moat.
Any other problems you would like for me to solve today?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/04/07:How to quadruple my gingko intake to follow the ramblings here ---> without havin' to take a whole bottle of sleeping pills to wind me back down! | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 02/03/07 - A Righteous Individual What are the ways an individual *in 2007* exhibits that he/she is a righteous individual? I am interested in how one would recognize a righteous person. Please no Bible verses, but apply Jesus' teachings to present day sife and situations.
This is a serious question.
Thank you. tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:1. By NOT being self-righteous.
2. sincere compassion and empathy resulting in doing for others even when you are in need.
(Not helping to enable others to keep messing up and expecting you and others to bail them out)
3. Not acting like Fred toward Perc (sorry Fred but it is the best example of what I am trying to say)
4. Using your God given brain, wisdom, judgment
to deal with others and how to react to others and situations. (There is a difference between
judging and using judgment) | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/03/07 - Is secular humanism a religion?
Humanists believe that the universe is self-existing (was not created). They believe that man, as a part of nature, has emerged as a result of a continuous process of material causes. Secular humanists believe that nature is all that exists … that there is no God, no spiritual dimension, and no afterlife. In short, they believe that man evolved from molecules by natural processes—no supernatural activity is allowed to be considered.
Secular humanists don’t believe that an absolute moral code exists. Instead, they believe that man makes up his own rules.
Secular humanists don’t want to be called religious. That’s because they don’t want to admit that teaching materialistic evolution is really a religious point of view—a view that tries to explain life without God. If they did, it would be admitting that when public schools in America threw God out of the science classroom, they didn’t throw out religion … they just replaced God with an atheistic religion.
Sadly, many church leaders don’t realize that when they support eliminating God from science classes, they’re supporting an anti-God religion—the religion of atheistic humanism.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:Whatever your belief there lies your religion.
Some people worship theirself, some money, some their empire,.....Hmmmm me thinks Donald Trump has three religions!!!! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/03/07 - “‘Terror birds’ never met humans” BBC NEWS:
It seems scientists were a bit off in their approximate date for the extinction of Titanis walleri, the “giant carnivorous ‘terror bird’” that once stood 7 feet (2 m) tall and weighed an estimated 330 lbs (150 kg). “It had been thought the fearsome beasts became extinct as little as 10,000 years ago—a time when humans shared their North American habitat,” the BBC NEWS article explains. But—oops—did we say 10,000 years? No, no, make that two million years ago, scientists now say. Of course date changes like this are not uncommon, so why should we believe this new date? This new figure is based on chemical analysis of T. walleri bones found in Florida and Texas, whereas the previous figure “would have coincided with the mass extinction of other mega-fauna that occurred in North America at the end of the Pleistocene [Epoch],” the article explains.
Of course, this isn’t a first; scientists play the dating game all the time, in the areas of paleontology, anthropology and geology. The question is, for how long will the public think radiometric dating is trustworthy?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:I am more concerned about the Thunderbirds and the vultures that have been seen lately. One came down and stole a poodle of the porch two summers ago right near where I live.
Then there are the chupacabras in Texas.
Where's a post on the dodo bird!!??? | | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 02/03/07 - A MESSAGE FROM MY PASTOR... Fri, 2 Feb 2007 20:12:34 -0500
WE ARE GOING TO HAVE CHURCH SUNDAY NO MATTER WHAT.
TODAY WE HAD A WORK DAY AT THE CHURCH AND WE GOT MOST
OF GODS HOUSE ALMOST READY FOR SUN. SERVICES.
SAT. WE ARE MEETING AGAIN TO FINISH THE JOB. WE ARE MEETING
AT THE CHURCH AT 9AM. THERE WAS QUITE A BIT OF DAMAGE.
THERE IS NOT ONE TREE LEFT. THE ROOF IS DAMAGED. WE PUT
TARPS OVER THE HOLES ON THE ROOF. WINDOWS SHATTERED
GLASS THROUGHOUT THE INSIDE. TREES SO THICK AROUND THE BUILDING, YOU COULD NOT DRIVE IN PARKING LOT, NOR COULD YOU
ENTER THE CHURCH. DAVE MORA BROUGHT A HUGE BACKHOE FROM
HIS JOB. HE SAVED US AT LEAST ONE WHOLE MONTH OF HARD LABOR. NO ELECTRIC. THE SIGN BLEW AWAY. I THINK IT WOUND UP
IN ORMOND BEACH. WELL, IF YOU CAN COME FOR AN HOUR OR
TWO TOMORROW, PRAISE GOD. IF NOT, WE UNDERSTAND THAT YOU
ALSO HAVE PROBLEMS TO TAKE CARE OF. WE PRAISED GOD ALL
DAY TODAY AS WE WORKED, IT ACTUALLY CREATED UNITY IN THE
BODY OF CHRIST. SEE YOU EITHER TOMORROW AT 9AM OR ANYTIME
AFTER, OR WE WILL SEE YOU SUN. 9AM OR 11AM.
GAIL AND I LOVE YOU.
PS PLEASE PRAY FOR VIOLA WHO LOST HER HOME.
JANE ASHMAN AND CAROL TUBBS. THEY LIVE IN HAWTHORNE HILLS. DAMAGED HOMES.
GARY AND LIZ. DAMAGED HOME. ALL PRAYER WARRIORS, ITS TIME TO GET ON OUR KNEES. tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:If only people could have the stick together attitude in non crisis situations. Like 9/11 everything seems to fizzle out once the memory is faded. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/03/07 - HOW'S THIS FOR COMMON SENSE: If you did agree, one of us wouldn't be necessary.
That's a HANKISM. What do you think I mean (in any context)?
Here's another one:
When in doubt, don't!
Translate ... please! If you don't, I'll write you something in German.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:It takes all kinds to make the world go round.
If everyone was alike it would be dull and boring.
...and...
Listen to the voices in your head!!! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/03/07 - Why did he do it???? Without throwing biblical quotes at me...they WILL be ignored or given a quick black star...I know everything the Bible has said...What I want is for you to tell me, in your own words, WHY you think (or believe) a PERFECTLY CONTAINED GOD OF ABSOLUTE WISDOM, IN WHOM IS CONTAINED THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE, needed to create man! And what purpose does man serve that could possibly interest GOD? If you can't do that, no reason to respond. Also it would be a waste of time for Atheists to respond since you don't beleive GOD created man to begin with :) Care to go for it? I promise you, I will be gentle with sincere respondents, and very naughty if anyone tries to slip in any anti-evolution polemics. :)
tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:Could possibly maybe the same reason that people have a desire to create as a form of expression; Or maybe he was bored with an empty universe and wanted to share the space, maybe he thought he needed some characters for a good laugh (or cry) or maybe the same reason we go to a comedy or an action movie.
Then again that is only limited to human reasoning. | | Question/Answer | | jjgoss asked on 02/03/07 - ..Do the developing nations need cloning???... ...Animal cloning can help deliver environmental benefits in developing nations, says Professor Caletous Juma. In this week's Green Room, he argues that biotechnology could ensure the survival of rare cattle breeds that are well suited to cope with harsh conditions....
...The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that nearly 1,500, or 30%, of livestock breeds are threatened with extinction, most of which are in developing countries. Less than 100 are currently being conserved...
..According to Professor Caletous Juma, ecological disruption is likely to accelerate such trends. Slowing the decline will require the use of reproductive techniques such as animal cloning for predictable livestock production, in addition to expanded breeding conservation programmes... tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:The beginning of January the news said the USA is going to start selling cloned meat soon and we will not know if it is cloned or not. Now they are saying that they probably will be labeling the cloned meat.
I guess if it is good enough for us and they need it more than we do why not? Dunno | | Question/Answer | | deardra asked on 02/03/07 - undecided I dont want to argue with my friends but they keep telling me that if I accpet jesus I will be saved. What would happen if I accept jesus? Will god start talking to me? What if I join and he doesnt or I still dont think its right? If I get saved how would I know it? tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07:You have to want to. If it is not in your heart then you might as well be saying abracadabra
Christians like to quote
Jhn 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:
€But they neglect
Jhn 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
13 means that You can't be 'saved' simply because your parents are, and you can't be 'saved' simply because somebody desires you to be which includes trying to convince you to say the sinners prayer.
| | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 02/03/07 - Origin of Man When "they" say man originated in Africia does it mean Adam was black? Myabe this is a stupid question but please answer anyway as I would like to know. I saw this on the history channel but it never said anything about that, didn't even say if the first people were black. tropicalstorm answered on 02/03/07: Genesis 2:10-14, “A river watering the garden flowed from Eden; from there it was separated into four headwaters. The name of the first is the Pishon; it winds through the entire land of Havilah, where there is gold. The name of the second river is the Gihon; it winds through the entire land of Cush. The name of the third river is the Tigris; it runs along the east side of Asshur. And the fourth river is the Euphrates.” The identities of the Pishon and Havilah rivers is unknown. If the Tigris and Euphrates mentioned there are the same rivers by those names today, that would put the Garden of Eden somewhere in the middle east, likely in Iraq. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/02/07 - I plan on doing some changing........................ As several of you know, some time ago I made Paricles a promise that whatever abuse he dished out I would give it back to him multi fold and I have been doing that.
There is a long list of such abuses he has visited on this board and its members. Since I have mentioned them several times before I’ll not need to do so here.
I am about to do something that I strongly resist doing and that is breaking my word.
Why?
For the reason that others have encouraged me to do so and because of that causing me to rethink all of why I was adamant in keeping my word.
After thinking it over I realized that one of the main reasons was I was enjoying telling him the truth about himself in a manner that was assertively robust and abusively graphic.
Yes, I was having fun graphically showing how big a crybaby he was and telling him how childish he was banging his head in the floor and showing it with words shouting in big red letters.
I began to enjoy telling him when he lied right then and there where he did.
The list goes on, but you get the idea.
I was wrong in actually having fun giving back to him that abuse that he inflicted here and doing so multi-fold of what he was doing.
So, I am going to break my word.
I am going to try to be much nicer to Pericles in hopes that he will do the same with me and others.
If he does not, I still intend to try to be kinder with him, even if I must resort to attempting to ignore him and his abusiveness.
I am not going to make the same mistake of making a promise of that.
I realize that I am going to miss the fun of ripping him up and dragging him through his own manure.
But I am going to try to do much less, if any, of that.
I will leave it up to those he abuses to deal with him as they see fit and repent of my joy in giving back to him what he dishes out.
I wish peace and kindness to all,
Fred
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:The more you do the pictures and so forth the more you feed into it looking like he is the victim and the more lost in translation what you are saying gets.
I try pointing out to Perc where he nit-picks little points taking away from the main issue and sometimes he finally comes around to see what I am trying to say.
I found the best way to get the point across is to c/p his very own words and then make the point specifically to that. It doesn't always work but it is the simplest way.
I see on several occasions he will say I am accusing him of saying something when it I am not accusing him of saying it, it is MY point.
Yet like in that jinx post he did the same to me accusing me of accusing him of something I was not accusing him of anything.
Sometimes it is best just to tell him his translator 'ain't workin' rite'. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/02/07 - Think Like you are Told to Think or Else! The Real Inconvenient Truth About Global Warming: Skeptics Have Valid Arguments
by Tom DeWeese (December 19, 2006)
Imagine living in a world where no one is allowed to think or act independently--only state-approved human responses are acceptable. To break the rule and engage in forbidden thought would result in terrible retribution, perhaps leading literally to ones destruction.
That’s the kind of world apparently desired by the global warming Chicken Littles. It seems they are prepared to do anything to achieve it. Case in point is an outrageous letter to ExxonMobil Chairman Rex Tillerson on October 27, 2006. The letter was sent by two United States Senators, Olympia Snowe (R-MA), and Jay Rockefeller (D-WV).
The letter derides Exxon for helping to fund global warming “deniers,” (a term the global warming crowd is using more and more these days to try to draw a parallel with those who deny the Holocaust):
“We are convinced that ExxonMobil’s longstanding support of a small cadre of global climate change skeptics, and those skeptics access to and influence on government policymakers, have made it increasingly difficult for the United States to demonstrate the moral clarity it needs across all facets of its diplomacy.”
The letter goes on to say, “ExxonMobil and its partners in denial have manufactured controversy, sown doubt, and impeded progress with strategies all-too reminiscent of those used by the tobacco industry for so many years.”
The mention of the tobacco industry is not just a randomly chosen analogy. It’s a threat that Exxon could face the same government attack on its very existence if it doesn’t play ball. Threats of a “wind fall profits” tax and increased regulation being just a couple of the weapons in the government’s arsenal.
The letter concludes, saying, “We would recommend that ExxonMobil publicly acknowledge both the reality of climate change and the role of humans in causing or exacerbating it. Second, ExxonMobil should repudiate its climate change denial campaign…”
As incredible as the letter may seem, one must pause to understand the “new think” being foisted on our society. In the August, 2006 issue of The DeWeese Report, (Vol.12, Issue 7), I reported on the root of the new edicts on thinking, called “globally acceptable truth.” This is not just an Ivory Tower intellectual exercise. Those who practice it believe the only way we can have a well-ordered society is for everyone to think and act in unison. Those who break the rules and think for themselves or take action contrary to the “consensus” are evil.
This idea is not just the silly ranting of a few lunatics. It is being accepted as the proper focus for major policy matters from Congress and the news media.
The main source of such thinking seems to come from the Eden Institute, operating out of New York and with close ties to the UN. The official use of globally acceptable truth is best described in a letter to the Eden Institute from Robert Muller, Assistant Secretary General of the UN. He wrote, “I am referring to the need to establish a body of objective, globally acceptable information to serve as a foundation for global education…Its (Eden Project) formula for identifying universally acceptable objective data is truly unique. It achieves this distinction by establishing a global standard for inquiry.”
Translation: We will decide what is truth and all new information or scientific discovery will be judged on whether it matches this “globally acceptable” truth.
The last time human kind was strapped into such a mental straight jacket was during the Inquisition of the Dark Ages. The period was called the Dark Ages because it was an era of ignorance, superstition and social chaos and repression. Anyone caught questioning the doctrine or power of the church was labeled a heretic and found his or her way to the rack or into the middle of a fire while tied to a stake. The church, of course, was practicing its own brand of globally acceptable truth.
Today, the new heretics to the religion of global warming are those who question whether scientific facts support the dire warnings that are screaming from the newspaper headlines and from environmental groups’ press releases.
The letter to ExxonMobile from Rockefeller and Snowe is but one example of the dire tactics being used to stifle any debate on the subject. Just recently, the Attorney General of California filed suit against the world’s three biggest care manufacturers for their complicity in creating CO2 emissions. As part of the discovery for the suit, the Attorney General demanded copies of any correspondence between the automakers and so-called “skeptics” of climate change. Message: you can’t even talk to these people! 2006 has seen the church of global warming go into near panic at any sign of heretical behavior.
It’s absolutely incredible to see such panic, considering the global warming mantra is near universal. There are over 12,000 environmental groups in the country controlling over $20 billion in assets, all unified in spreading the climate change gospel. On top of their vast holdings, many of those same groups receive federal grants for “studies” and “reports” on their climate change findings.
Added to that substantial fire power is a willing news media which offers magazine cover photos of melting ice caps; and the efforts of the movie and television industry which lets no opportunity get by without some reference to global warming. Al Gore’s own documentary has been in theaters around the nation for months. He is the guest on talk shows nearly every week.
The catastrophic global warming message is literally everywhere. It indoctrinates our children in the classroom. It flows from the advertising messages of corporations, in their corporate social responsible ad to sell their environmentally-responsible products (for which research and development was probably paid for with federal tax dollars). Huge numbers of Hollywood stars and international political leaders have endorsed the mantra of the church of global warming. Billions and billions of dollars are being spent to influence literally every corner of the earth to accept global warming as a fact.
Countering this massive onslaught of globally acceptable climate change “truth” is a tiny, dedicated band of scientists, political leaders and non-profits that are seeking the truth. Their assets are literally in the low millions of dollars -- simply a drop in the bucket when compared to the war chest of the climate change church. They don’t have the media’s attention. They don’t have the ability to issue massive grants. Hollywood certainly isn’t making movies to promote the “skeptics” point of view. And the federal government isn’t allowing the contrary opinions in many classrooms.
So, with so much incredible fire power covering every possible exit, one must ask the logical question: why are the climate change crowd so scared of a few renegade groups and their measly few million dollars? The fact is, the “skeptics” are having such an impact on the debate because they are telling the truth. The Church of Global Warming is wrong!
As George Orwell once wrote: “In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” There is no greater hero in the revolution for climate change truth than Senator James Inhofe (R-OK), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. He has truly demonstrated the power one honest individual can wield.
Earlier this year (2006) Sen. Inhofe gave two explosive speeches on the floor of the Senate in which he attacked and exposed the unfounded claims and scare tactics being employed by the Global Warming crowd. The speeches were literally unprecedented in the decades-long climate change debate. And their effect was like a lightning bolt. Almost immediately some scientists began coming out of hiding to side with the Senator.
On December 6th, just as the Rockefeller/Snowe letter was being exposed across the Internet, Inhofe held a hearing on Capitol Hill exposing the “alarmist media.” Said Inhofe, “Rather than focus on the hard science of global warming, the media has instead become advocates for hyping scientifically unfounded climate alarmism.” His attacks have already forced 60 Minutes, CNN and other major media to at least give lip service to the “skeptic” point of view. More importantly, the Senator’s efforts are putting the Global Warming crowd into near cardiac arrest.
It is important to note that the so-called “Skeptics” include Dr. Daniel Schrag of Harvard; Claude Allegre, one of the most decorated French geophysicists; Dr. Richard Lindzen, professor of Atmospheric Sciences, MIT; Dr. Patrick Michaels, University of Virginia: Dr. Fred Singer; Professor Bob Carter, geologist at James Cook University, Australia; 85 scientists and climate experts who signed the 1995 Leipzeg Declaration which called drastic climate controls “ill-advised, lacking credible support from the underlying science; 17,000 scientists and leaders involved in climate study who signed a petition issued by the Oregon Institute of Science and Medicine saying there is no evidence green house gasses cause global warming; and the 4,000 scientists and leaders from around the world, including 70 Nobel Prize winners, who signed the Heidelberg Appeal calling greenhouse global warming theories “highly uncertainly scientific theories.”
These are but a few of the highly qualified “skeptics” derided by Jay Rockefeller, Olympia Snowe and Al Gore whom, they say, should not be given a voice on the issue.
There are lots of lies surrounding the Global Warming mantra. The biggest one claims there is “consensus” among scientists that human-caused global warming is a fact. There is no such consensus. Human survival demands that we listen to the “Skeptics” before they are burned at the stake by Jay Rockefeller and Olympia Snowe.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:yeah all in one night they said people are responsible for 25%, the majority, and it would be the same anyway.
I would post the contradictions here, but all I would get is complaints about C/P.
We are being conditioned in many ways and most people don't even see it happening. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/02/07 - More on "Green" .......................... Today the "World Climate Report" will be published.
Climate scientists presently meeting in Paris will today issue a dire environmental forecast for the planet that warns of slowly rising sea levels and higher temperatures.
But already before the official presentation voices go up that it may be the sugar coated political (correct) version.
The report supports the view that humanity is responsible for 90% of the current warming up of the earth.
The remaining 10% is addressed to natural causes of various sources.
From natural cycli in the climate to temporal changes in solar output.
Now I already hear here also voices going up uttering all kinds of reasons why the report "has to be wrong".
May be that is true. Most probably it is not true.
And as long as we can not be ABSOLUTE sure (I love to use the word absolute here, as it is a Christian/theist term that is grossly overused) - I repeat - "as we can not be ABSOLUTE sure" that these forecasts and already noticeable climate changes are NOT due to our human presence and actions?
Christians repeatedly on this board refer to Genesis, to the creation story, actually stating that everything on earth was provided to humanity by their God.
How can any Christian support the human destruction of that what - in their own belief - has been provided to them by their God?
In view of that : should Christians not be the first group to SERIOUSLY support all kind of suggested controls to reduce all causes that lead and/or may lead to these extremely problematic changes in our worldwide climate?
Let's face it : Americans are WASTING energy. They use twice as much energy pro-rata then the average West European, who lives his/her life in similar plenitude, but at half the cost to both energy resources and consequences due to pollution.
And than I did not even introduced the moral aspects of such a high energy use - related to that of the rest of the world - where billions have to live on their ratio of energy of less than 1/20 part of that of the average US citizen.
Petrol guzzling cars, often standing still in long queues, most of them with the aircon running and the windows open.
Wooden houses with poor thermal isolation that require more energy hungry heaters and aircons to keep life pleasant indoors.
Industries that are still using old technology to reduce expensive upgrading. Soot clouds hanging all over the country - yes I know that some progress has been made, but not enough.
I would not mind if the US had a gigantic glass cover over it's territory, keeping all the rubbish in. But MacDonaldsland keeps polluting the air and the oceans, and thereby causes even more problems worldwide, where there are no resources to remedy the situation.
US soot is also a major cause of worldwide "dimming", the reduction of sunlight that is at the roots of the decrease of sunlight in the tropical belt with up to 20% less light reaching the earth surface (related to the situation of the 1950's), causing huge crop losses there where the consequences of such losses are the highest.
If Americans are not prepared to do that for the approx. 2 Billion of the poorest of the poorest people, than why would they not do it for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren?
What is present wealth if you relate that to the drop - if not the complete absence - of any wealth for your own children and grandchildren in the future?
Bush recently promised some measures, but not enough and much too late. Is it not time that Christians start taking real action and become the supercharger of environmental measures to strongly reduce pollution and energy consumption, and decrease the consequences of human existence for all other life forms on earth?
Lifeforms which are - let me remind all Christians once more to the basics of the Christian religion - also part of your Gods creation.
Do you look forward to be accused during your Final Judgement of having had no care for God's creation, and for all those lifeforms that were - accordingly to the Bible - placed under human supervision?
Do you want to take that risk, just because of your present greed?
What do you think will weigh more : the number of church visits or the way you lived you life?
The number of cars and the holidays you made, or the quantity of good works you carried out?
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:Like I said you are right we do have a responsibility. But as I also pointed out often
solutions only create more problems. Like we got emission control on industry and they move to China to evade it so where did we get? | | Question/Answer | | Itsdb asked on 02/02/07 - Awaiting the second coming? Apparently we've already missed it...
He Calls Himself God
A Puerto Rican minister says Christ 'integrated' with him. Others call him a cult leader and a charlatan.
By Arian Campo-Flores
Newsweek
Feb. 5, 2007 issue - At first glance, the congregation gathered in a warehouse in Doral, Fla., seems like a typical Hispanic evangelical group. There's the 10-piece band, the singing and swaying, the whooping and hollering. But look a little more closely. There's not a cross in sight. The lectern is emblazoned with a near replica of the U.S. presidential seal, except that it reads in Spanish, government of god on earth. Off to the side stand three burly guys in dark suits with Secret Service-style earpieces. When a door by the stage opens, the guards leap into action. They surround the man with slicked-back hair who emerges and escort him to his seat. When the crowd spots him, it goes wild. People chant, "Lord! Lord! Lord!" It quickly becomes clear that they're referring to him. "It's Jesus Christ himself!" a preacher onstage announces. "Let's welcome Jesus Christ Man!"
In the rapturous eyes of his flock, Jose Luis de Jesus Miranda is, in fact, the second coming of Christ. As the head of the Growing in Grace International Ministry, he presides over a sprawling organization that includes more than 300 congregations in two dozen countries, from Argentina to Australia. He counts more than 100,000 followers and claims to reach millions more through a 24-hour TV channel, a radio show and several Web sites. He is supported by the generosity of his devotees, who have launched some 450 businesses to pour cash into Growing in Grace's coffers. Though de Jesus' followers worship him, others denounce him as a charlatan. Everyone, however, agrees on one thing: his teachings are incendiary.
A native of Puerto Rico, de Jesus, 60, spent his youth drifting from the Roman Catholics to the Pentecostals to the Baptists. Then one night in 1973, he says, he awoke to a vision of two hulking men at his bedside who announced the arrival of the Lord, who, says de Jesus, "came to me and integrated with me." In the early years after founding Growing in Grace in Miami in 1986, de Jesus didn't claim to be Christ. Instead, he worked as a pastor spreading his doctrine: that under a new covenant with God, there is no sin and no Satan, and people are predestined to be saved. But as his following expanded, his claims did, too. In 1998, de Jesus avowed that he was the reincarnation of the Apostle Paul. Two years ago at Growing in Grace's world convention in Venezuela, he declared himself Christ. And just last week, he called himself the Antichrist and revealed a 蝪" tattooed on his forearm. His explanation: that, as the second coming of Christ, he rejects the continued worship of Jesus of Nazareth.
All members of Growing in Grace are expected to tithe—which, along with offerings, yielded $1.4 million for headquarters last year. One of the first orders of business at every service is the collection of money (credit cards accepted). Those who have pledged their businesses to de Jesus donate much more. Alvaro Albarracín, a savvy, successful businessman given the title Entrepreneur of Entrepreneurs by de Jesus, is an example. Over the course of Albarracín's 14 years in the church, he estimates that he's given roughly $2.5 million. Such funds help underwrite a lavish lifestyle for de Jesus, including diamond-encrusted gold rings and fancy cars. But most of the money goes to his broadcast operation.
Some observers call Growing in Grace a cult. De Jesus exerts total authority over the ministry. As a result, many have defected over the years, including Albarracín's mother, Regina, who initially turned her son on to the church. "They brainwash you," she says. Because of their disagreement, Regina and her son haven't spoken in years (she now attends an evangelical church). "This is my only family," Alvaro says of Growing in Grace. Such submission concerns Daniel Alvarez, a religious-studies instructor at Florida International University. "I hope [de Jesus] doesn't metamorphose into Jim Jones," he says, referring to the cult leader who led his followers to mass suicide in Guyana. "He has that kind of control over people." (De Jesus responds that congregants are free to come and go as they please.)
Over the past year, de Jesus has encouraged his followers to protest the alleged lies of other churches. In response, supporters have picketed Catholic congregations and burned religious materials, including crucifixes. "Our purpose is to open up people's minds," says de Jesus' right-hand man, Carlos Cestero, who says that the group rejects violence. Jesus wouldn't have it any other way—the question is whether de Jesus feels the same.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Alrighty then...and you thought Christian fundamentalists were bad. I wonder if Fred Phelps' gang knows about this guy? tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:I hope [de Jesus] doesn't metamorphose into Jim Jones,>>>or a type of KKK | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/02/07 - Ok, thanks Pericles, tropicalstorm, arcura, and Hank. . Now to continue: In the beginning there was nothing, and then God wrote Euclid's Elements into the night sky, and then God proceed to create the Universe and everything in it, so that God provided the means for man to continue building i.e. Euclid's Elements tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:I hope you can spread some of your wisdom on here. we sure need the contribution | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 02/02/07 - More on "Green" .......................... Today the "World Climate Report" will be published.
Climate scientists presently meeting in Paris will today issue a dire environmental forecast for the planet that warns of slowly rising sea levels and higher temperatures.
But already before the official presentation voices go up that it may be the sugar coated political (correct) version.
The report supports the view that humanity is responsible for 90% of the current warming up of the earth.
The remaining 10% is addressed to natural causes of various sources.
From natural cycli in the climate to temporal changes in solar output.
Now I already hear here also voices going up uttering all kinds of reasons why the report "has to be wrong".
May be that is true. Most probably it is not true.
And as long as we can not be ABSOLUTE sure (I love to use the word absolute here, as it is a Christian/theist term that is grossly overused) - I repeat - "as we can not be ABSOLUTE sure" that these forecasts and already noticeable climate changes are NOT due to our human presence and actions?
Christians repeatedly on this board refer to Genesis, to the creation story, actually stating that everything on earth was provided to humanity by their God.
How can any Christian support the human destruction of that what - in their own belief - has been provided to them by their God?
In view of that : should Christians not be the first group to SERIOUSLY support all kind of suggested controls to reduce all causes that lead and/or may lead to these extremely problematic changes in our worldwide climate?
Let's face it : Americans are WASTING energy. They use twice as much energy pro-rata then the average West European, who lives his/her life in similar plenitude, but at half the cost to both energy resources and consequences due to pollution.
And than I did not even introduced the moral aspects of such a high energy use - related to that of the rest of the world - where billions have to live on their ratio of energy of less than 1/20 part of that of the average US citizen.
Petrol guzzling cars, often standing still in long queues, most of them with the aircon running and the windows open.
Wooden houses with poor thermal isolation that require more energy hungry heaters and aircons to keep life pleasant indoors.
Industries that are still using old technology to reduce expensive upgrading. Soot clouds hanging all over the country - yes I know that some progress has been made, but not enough.
I would not mind if the US had a gigantic glass cover over it's territory, keeping all the rubbish in. But MacDonaldsland keeps polluting the air and the oceans, and thereby causes even more problems worldwide, where there are no resources to remedy the situation.
US soot is also a major cause of worldwide "dimming", the reduction of sunlight that is at the roots of the decrease of sunlight in the tropical belt with up to 20% less light reaching the earth surface (related to the situation of the 1950's), causing huge crop losses there where the consequences of such losses are the highest.
If Americans are not prepared to do that for the approx. 2 Billion of the poorest of the poorest people, than why would they not do it for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren?
What is present wealth if you relate that to the drop - if not the complete absence - of any wealth for your own children and grandchildren in the future?
Bush recently promised some measures, but not enough and much too late. Is it not time that Christians start taking real action and become the supercharger of environmental measures to strongly reduce pollution and energy consumption, and decrease the consequences of human existence for all other life forms on earth?
Lifeforms which are - let me remind all Christians once more to the basics of the Christian religion - also part of your Gods creation.
Do you look forward to be accused during your Final Judgement of having had no care for God's creation, and for all those lifeforms that were - accordingly to the Bible - placed under human supervision?
Do you want to take that risk, just because of your present greed?
What do you think will weigh more : the number of church visits or the way you lived you life?
The number of cars and the holidays you made, or the quantity of good works you carried out?
Any comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:Parac loves posting global warming stuff on the political board. I posted reports about China and Hollywood being the biggest polluters (The Day After Tomorrow caused a LOT of pollution). Parac said I was making them scapegoats and basically made it sound like it was okay for THEM to pollute. WHY?
This was on Yahoo yesterday
LONDON (AFP) - The government has welcomed a UN report on global warming as highlighting the real threat posed by climate change, and warned of a "closing window of opportunity" for taking action.
ADVERTISEMENT
"There is an urgent need for the international debate on climate change to move beyond 'them and us' and recognise the world's shared dilemma," Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said Friday.
Environment Secretary David Miliband added: "This report confirms our concerns that the window of opportunity to avoid dangerous climate change is closing more quickly than previously thought.
"It is another nail in the coffin of the climate change deniers and represents the most authoritative picture to date, showing that the debate over the science of climate change is well and truly over."
United Nations scientists meeting in Paris warned Friday that fossil fuel pollution would raise temperatures this century, worsen floods, droughts and hurricanes and melt polar sea ice.
The report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) -- the UN's paramount scientific authority on climate change -- confirms the problem "is worse and more urgent than had been previously understood," Beckett said.
"Failure to grow our economies will threaten peace and prosperity, but if we grow our economies at the expense of the climate, the same peace and prosperity will be threatened," she said in a statement.
She said she was glad that new UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon "has focused so quickly on the wide-ranging importance of climate security," adding it was of concern to the United Nations as a whole not just its environmental bodies.
"We will be working to build political ambition throughout the UN in the coming months," Beckett said.
"As Britain has long recognised, if we wait for others to make the first move we all lose." | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/02/07 - God didn’t create the laws of nature; he just built on them… Comments
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:Perc you really don't need to point out
That ASSUMES there is a God. So far as I know God exists only in belief. Never have I seen any supportive objective evidence for God's existence .....
after all this IS the Christian board! And just because you don't believe you can assume we do without pointing it out every time you can. | | Question/Answer | | Ccl471 asked on 02/01/07 - Online Encyclopedia Is there an online Christian encyclopedia for Protestants that is as comprehensive as Catholic Encyclopedia?
Many thanks,
C.L.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:I typed in the canons of dort and got this site
http://www.crcna.org/pages/dort_canons_main.cfm | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 02/02/07 - Another HUGH lie from Peddler. WHY???? In a response to tropicalstorm, Peddler offers one of her typical HUGE lies in order to disparage more Muslims....claiming: "The Saudi Arabians own a very high percentage of the American News Media." And that is "why we are not finding out the TRUTH about Muslims". Obviously it is NOT A BUSH ADMINISTRATION NEWS BLACKOUT, TO KEEP THE AMERICAN PEOPLE FROM FINDING OUT THE TRUTH ABOUT IRAQ, BUT A SAUDI PLOT!!! No data given to prove her LIE, just as she cannot provide any data for ANY of her lies.
So lets look at it: Saudi Arabia is a Sharia nation, with Wahabism it's state religon. It is opposed to the American Media claiming the 'Western press is unethical, violating aspects of Islam'.. There is no way Saudi Arabia could ever counternance OWNING any part of the "unethical" Western Media machine.
Saudia Arabia has it's own VERY EFFECTIVE news network, operating 117 TV stations, 76 radio stations and an uncountable number of newspapers, dailys and weeklies.
Finalally, Anyone interested enough can log on to WORLD PRESS REVIEW to read an interesting account of a lecture to Universities by Crown Prince Abdullah ibn Abd El-AZIZ, in which he berates the American media for it unwarented and "malicious media campaign against Saudi Arabia"!!!! So if Saudi Arabia owns a 'very high percentage of the American media' WHERE IS THE MALICIOUS CAMPAIGN AGAINST SAUDI ARABIA COMING FROM?????
Now I challenge Peddler to come up with a list of ALL the American Media outlets that she KNOWS are owned by Saudi Arabia.
If she cannot, I have no choice but to repeat she is nothing more than a bigoted, anti-Muslim LIAR and hypocrite. Unless someone can explain WHY else she would come up with such a lie.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:Yeesh, I get a life for a couple hours and look at what I am missing!
I gave up on TV news years ago. I believe the Republicans AND the Democrats are lying to us. | | Question/Answer | | Dark_Crow asked on 02/02/07 - God didn’t create the laws of nature; he just built on them… Comments
tropicalstorm answered on 02/02/07:Hey I was just thinking yesterday why aren't you on this board and HERE you is!!
MUST BE PSYCHIC! I was going to go back on the spiritual board but everything was from over a month ago.
sapph
:) | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/01/07 - Do you know the Preamble for your USA state? Do you know the Preamble for your state? Interesting--Important
commentary at the end.
Alabama 1901 , Preamble . We the people of the state of Alabama,
invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the
following Constitution.
Alaska 1956, Preamble . We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God
and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.
Arizona 1911, Preamble . We, the people of the state of Arizona,
grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution.
Arkansas 1874, Preamble We, the people of the state of Arkansas,
grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of
government...
California 1879, Preamble . We, the People of the state of
California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.
Colorado 1876, Preamble . We, the people of Colorado, with profound
reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging
with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.
Delaware 1897, Preamble Through Divine Goodness all men have, by
nature, the rights of worshiping and serving their Creator according to the
dictates of their consciences.
Florida 1885, Preamble . We, the people of the state of Florida,
grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this
Constitution...
Georgia 1777, Preamble . We, the people of Georgia, relying upon
protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this
Constitution...
Hawaii 1959, Preamble . We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for
Divine Guidance, Establish this Constitution.
Idaho 1889, Preamble . We, the people of the state of Idaho,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.
Illinois 1870, Preamble . We, the people of the state of Illinois,
grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty
which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a
blessing on our endeavors.
Indiana 1851, Preamble We, the People of the state of Indiana,
grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our
form of government.
Iowa 1857, Preamble We, the People of the state of Iowa, grateful to
the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our
dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this
Constitution.
Kansas 1859, Preamble . We, the people of Kansas, grateful to
Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this
Constitution.
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are
grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...
Louisiana 1921, Preamble We, the people of the state of Louisiana,
grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we
enjoy.
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine acknowledging with
grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in
affording us an opportunity ... And imploring His aid and direction.
Maryland 1776, Preamble We, the people of the state of Maryland,
grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble . We...the people of Massachusetts,
acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of
the Universe .. In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly
imploring His direction ..
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Michigan,
grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this
Constitution.
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble . We, the people of the state of
Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring
to perpetuate its blessings:
Mississippi 1890, Preamble . We, the people of Mississippi in
convention assembled, grateful to Al mighty God, and invoking His blessing
on our work.
Missouri 1845, Preamble . We, the people of Missouri, with profound
reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His
goodness .. Establish this Constitution.
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to
Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution.
Nebraska 1875, Preamble . We, the people, grateful to Almighty God
for our freedom. Establish this Constitution.
Nevada 1864, Preamble . We the people of the State of Nevada,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V . Every individual has a
natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of
his own conscience.
New Jersey 1844, Preamble . We, the people of the state of New
Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He
hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our
endeavors.
New Mexico 1911, Preamble . We, the People of New Mexico, grateful
to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty
New York 1846, Preamble . We, the people of the state of New York,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.
North Carolina 1868, Preamble . We the people of the State of North
Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our
civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence
upon Him for the continuance of those
North Dakota 1889, Preamble . We, the people of North Dakota,
grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty,
do ordain...
Ohio 1852, Preamble . We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful
to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our
common
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble . Invoking the guidance of Almighty God , in
order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty ... establish this.
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be
secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the
dictates of their consciences..
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful
to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly
invoking His guidance
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode
Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He
hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble . We, the people of he State of South
Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this
Constitution.
South Dakota 1889, Preamble . We, the people of South Dakota,
grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties
Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and
indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of
their conscience...
Texas 1845, Preamble . We the People of the Republic of Texas,
acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.
Utah 1896, Preamble . Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty,
we establish this Constitution.
Vermont 1777, Preamble . Whereas all government ought to enable the
individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other
blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man
Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we
owe our Creator can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual
duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each
other
Washington 1889, Preamble . We the People of the State of
Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties,
do ordain this Constitution
West Virginia 1872, Preamble . Since through Divine Providence we
enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the
people of West Virginia reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon
God.
Wisconsin 1848, Preamble We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to
Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility
Wyoming 1890, Preamble . We, the people of the state of Wyoming,
grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties, establish
this Constitution.
After reviewing acknowledgments of God from all 50 state
constitutions, one is faced with the prospect that maybe, the ACLU and the
out-of-control federal courts are Wrong! If you found this to be "Food for
thought" copy and send to as many as you think will be enlightened, as I
hope you were.
"Those people who will not be governed by God
will be ruled by tyrants." - William Penn
-----GOD BLESS AMERICA ------
tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:I am still waiting for the people that protest 'in God we trust' on the money to send it to me! | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/01/07 - I Just got this email..... IS IT THE.................. Best Bigoted Joke of the year?
A Somali arrives in Minneapolis as a new immigrant to the United States. He stops the first person he sees walking down the street and says, "Thank you Mr. American for letting me in this country, giving me housing, food stamps, free medical care, and free education!"
The passerby says, "You are mistaken, I am Mexican."
The man goes on and encounters another passerby "Thank you for having such a beautiful country here in America!"
The person says, "I not American, I Vietnamese."
The new arrival walks further, and the next person he sees he stops, shakes his hand and says, "Thank you for the wonderful America!"
That person puts up his hand and says, "I am from Middle East, I am not American!"
He finally sees a nice lady and asks, "Are you an American?"
She says, "No, I am from Russia!"
Puzzled, he asks her, "Where are all the Americans?"
The Russian lady checks her watch and says..."Probably at work."
tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:I must of missed it.
I threw everything in the spam can! | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/01/07 - Does Organic Mean Living?
by John Morris, Ph.D.
Often today we hear of the search for "organic" compounds in decidedly "inorganic" places inhospitable to life, such as meteorites or on desolate moons throughout the solar system. What is going on? Doesn't "organic" mean living? Does this mean there is life elsewhere? What does "organic" really mean?
In high school we were all taught that the word organic applies to living things. The primary dictionary meaning has to do with "pertaining to or derived from living organisms." At the end of a list of appropriate usages lies, "that of pertaining to carbon compounds."
Historically, it was thought that certain chemical compounds could only be synthesized in living organisms by a "life force," but later it was shown that some compounds associated in nature only with living things could be made in a laboratory merely by combining appropriate chemicals. Since all living things are composed of compounds made of carbon and hydrogen, this led to a technical definition of "organic compound" as any member of a large class of chemical compounds whose molecules contain carbon and hydrogen. Many of these hydro-carbons are extraordinarily complex and found only in association with life, but some are rather simple, like methane, which is not necessarily from a living source.
Use of the term often leads to miscommunication of the facts. To a non-specialist the term "organic compound," connotes life and living, yet the discoverer might merely be meaning a carbon-based molecule. Confusion most often arises in evolutionary contexts, where evolution enthusiasts speak of the spontaneous origin of life from non-living "organic" chemicals. Seldom does the evolutionary scientist explain his use of "organic" implies non-living. Perhaps he assumes everyone can understand the term in a technical sense, but few have this training. Thus he allows his listeners to conclude error.
Unfortunately, it is not just a harmless error, for it implies that "living or once-living" compounds can arise from non-living sources. As often admitted even by evolutionists, the original transmutation of non-living chemicals into living things is easily the most difficult problem in all of evolution theory. Thus, a casual episode of mis-information can cause many to assume this insurmountable problem is routinely overcome.
I wonder if the blurring of terms is sometimes purposeful. Evolution cannot stand up to rigorous examination; its problems are too great. But it can convince many if certain vital information is withheld. Thus, the evolution lie lives on.
*Dr. John D. Morris is the President of the Institute for Creation Research.
tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:Does the fact that they clone fruits and vegetables and they are now starting to clone meat mean that I am eating organic or inorganic?
| | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 02/01/07 - THIS IS TO CUTE... Subject: Praise the Lord!
There was a little old lady, who every morning. stepped onto her front porch, raised her arms to the sky, and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD!"
One day an atheist moved into the house next door. He became irritated at the little old lady.
Every morning he'd step onto his front porch after her and yell: "THERE IS NO LORD!"
Time passed with the two of them carrying on this way every day.
One morning, in the middle of winter, the little old lady stepped onto her front porch and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD! Please Lord, I have no food and I am starving, provide for me, oh Lord!"
The next morning she stepped onto her porch and there were two huge bags of groceries sitting there.
"PRAISE THE LORD!" she cried out. "HE HAS PROVIDED GROCERIES FOR ME!"
The atheist neighbor jumped out from behind the bush's and shouted: "THER E IS NO
LORD. I BOUGHT THOSE GROCERIES!!" hahahahaha
The little old lady threw her arms into the air and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD! HE HAS PROVIDED ME WITH GROCERIES AND MADE THE DEVIL PAY FOR THEM!
SMILE!!!!!!!!!!!!! PASS IT ON. tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:That IS a good one STONY
:)
I don't THINK Perc visualizes or else he SEEMS to be too much into his analytical mind and takes them seriously cause he often doesn't think jokes are funny.
If I told my dumb blonde jokes he would be trying to analyze why would the blonde say or do that. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/01/07 - Do Americans Understand Aborgation in the Qu' Ran? The Qur'an
Apologetic Paper (Joseph Smith) - May 1995, cont.
H: The Abrogation of Qur'anic Verses
The abrogation of Qur'anic verses presents a problem for Muslims today. As we all know, a man can make mistakes and correct them, but this is not the case with God. God has infinite wisdom and cannot contradict himself. Abrogation flies is the face of sura 6:34 (and 10:65) which state:
"...There is none that can alter the words (and decrees) of Allah." An even more damaging pronouncement is made in sura 4:82 which reads, "Do they not consider the Qur'an? Had it been from other than Allah, they would surely have found therein much discrepancies."
Muslim authorities try to explain the internal contradictions in the Qur'an by stating that certain passages of the Qur'an are annulled (Mansukh) by verses revealed chronologically later than themselves. The verses which replace them are referred to as Nasikh. Yet, there is by no means any certainty as to which disagreeing verses are mansukh and which are nasikh, since the order in which the Qur'an was written down was not done chronologically but according to the length of the suras.
From the preceding section we have found that even the text at our disposal was found and collated piecemeal, leaving us little hope of delineating which suras were the more authentic. Furthermore, Muslim tradition admits that many of the suras were not even given to Muhammad in one piece. According to tradition, some portions were added to other suras under the direction of Muhammad, with further additions to the former suras. Therefore, within a given sura there may be found ayas which were early, and others which were quite late. How then could we know which were the more authoritative?
The law of abrogation is taught by the Qur'an in sura 2:106,108, stating: "We substitute one revelation for another..." This is echoed in sura 17:86, which reads, "If it were Our Will, We could take away that which We have sent thee by inspiration." In sura 16:101 the law of abrogation is clearly defined as one verse being substituted by a better verse. Verse 101 read, "None of our revelations do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, but We substitute something better or similar- Knowest thou not that Allah hath power over all things?"
Jalalu'd-Din estimated the number of abrogations at between 5 to 500. Others say it stands closer to 225. What this shows us is that the science of abrogation is an inexact science indeed, as no-one really knows how many of the verses are to be abrogated. Underlying this claim of abrogation is another concern: How can a divine revelation be improved upon? Would it not have been perfect from the start?
Aborgation
tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:IF you really want to get your point across about this why don't you post actual news reports about actual people and events directly related to make your point? IT MIGHT have more of an impact than all this apologetics ramblings | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 02/01/07 - Do you believe in evolution? Humans evolved from Humans
Animals evolved from Animals
Fish evolved from Fish
Birds evolved from Birds
Trees evolved from Trees
All evolved from God! tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:So we could have been the hairy neandrathal that evolved into the missing link that evolved into the MESS we are today????? | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 02/01/07 - To our friends arcura & Pericles You are two grown men and neither will budge either way but what you don't inderstand is "that it takes more of a man" to walk away from a fight/disagreement
than it does to continue.
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:yeah arcura could do the ignore the other deal he proposed even if Perc doesn't and then eventually Peric would realize it is a one sided thing if he were to keep it up. As it is they both egg each other on and Fred does start a good bit of it.
I say they are too much alike because they both want to be right, they both want to compete against each other and both are being stubborn.
They are totally opposite in the way they see things as far as their beliefs and so forth. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 02/01/07 - Does Islam allow lying for a "good" cause? This point is proven by many incidences in the life of Mohammed. He often lied and instructed his followers to do the same. He rationalized that the prospect of success in missions to extend Islam's influence overrode Allah's initial prohibitions against lying. A good example of sanctioned lying is the account of the assassination of Kaab Ibn al-Ashrf, a member of the Jewish tribe, Banu al-Nudair. It had been reported that Kaab had shown support for the Quraishites in their battle against Mohammed. This was compounded by another report that infuriated Mohammed. It was alleged that Kaab had recited amorous poetry to Muslim women. Mohammed asked for volunteers to rid him of Kaab Ibn al-Ashraf. As Mohammed put it, Kaab had "Harmed Allah and His Apostle." At that time Kaab Ibn al-Ashraf, and his tribe were strong, so it was not easy for a stranger to infiltrate and execute the task. A Muslim man by the name of Ibn Muslima, volunteered for the murderous project on the condition that Mohammed would allow him to lie. With Mohammed's consent, Ibn Muslima, went to Kaab and told him fabricated stories that reflected discontent about Mohammed's leadership. When he had gained Kaab's trust he lured him away from his house one night and murdered him in a remote area under the cover of darkness.
A similar example can be found in the story of killing Shaaban Ibn Khalid al-Hazly. It was rumored that Shaaban was gathering an army to wage war on Mohammed. Mohammed retaliated by ordering Abdullah Ibn Anis to kill Shaaban. Again, the would-be killer asked the prophet's permission to lie. Mohammed agreed and then ordered the killer to lie by stating that he was a member of the Khazaa clan. When Shaaban saw Abdullah coming, he asked him, "From what tribe are you?" Abdullah answered, "From Khazaa." He then added, "I have heard that you are gathering an army to fight Mohammed and I came to join you." Abdullah started walking with Shaaban telling him how Mohammed came to them with the heretical teachings of Islam, and complained how Mohammed badmouthed the Arab patriarchs and ruined the Arab's hopes. They continued in conversation until they arrived at Shaaban's tent. Shaaban's companions departed and Shaaban invited Abdullah to come inside and rest. Abdullah sat there until the atmosphere was quiet and he sensed that everyone was asleep. Abdullah severed Shaaban's head and carried it to Mohammed as a trophy. When Mohammed sighted Abdullah, he jubilantly shouted, "Your face has been triumphant (Aflaha al- wajho)." Abdullah returned the greeting by saying, "It is your face, Apostle of Allah, who has been triumphant. (Aflaha wajhoka, ye rasoul Allah)."
Provisions for lying in Islam
Most Muslims are familiar with the principles of Islam that will justify lying in situations where they sense the need to do so. Among these are:
War is deception.
The necessities justify the forbidden.
If faced by two evils, choose the lesser of the two.
These principles are derived from passages found in the Quran and the Hadith.
In the Quran, Allah, allegedly, says:
" Allah will not call you to account for what is futile in your oaths, but He will call you to account for your deliberate oaths: for expiation, feed ten indigent persons, on a scale of the average for the food of your families; or clothe them; or give a slave his freedom. If that is beyond your means, fast for three days. That is the expiation for the oaths ye have sworn. But keep to your oaths. Thus doth Allah make clear to you His signs, that ye may be grateful." Surah 5:89
"Allah will not call you to account for thoughtlessness (vain) in your oaths, but for the intention in your hearts; and He is Oft-forgiving, Most Forbearing." Surah 2:225
"Any one who, after accepting faith in Allah, utters Unbelief, except under compulsion, his heart remaining firm in Faith - but such as open their breast to Unbelief, on them is Wrath from Allah, and theirs will be a dreadful Penalty." Surah 16: 106
The noted Islamic commentator, Al-Tabary explained Surah 16:106 as a verse that had been revealed to Mohammed after he learned that Ammar Ibn Yasser was forced to deny his faith in Mohammed when kidnapped by the Banu Moghera tribe. Mohammed consoled Ammar by telling him, "If they turned, you turn." (Meaning: if they again capture you, you are allowed to deny me again.)
These and similar passages from the Quran clearly reveal that Muslims' unintentional lies are forgivable and that even their intentional lies can be absolved by performing extra duties. It is also clear that if forced to do so, Muslims can lie while under oath and can even falsely deny faith in Allah, as long as they maintain the profession of faith in their hearts.
In the Hadith, Mohammed, emphasizes the same concept.
From "Ehiaa Oloum al-Din," by the famous Islamic scholar al-Ghazali, Vol. 3: PP.284-287:
One of Mohammed's daughters, Umm Kalthoum, testified that she had never heard the Apostle of Allah condone lying, except in these three situations:
For reconciliation among people.
In war.
Amongst spouses, to keep peace in the family.
One passage from the Hadith quotes Mohammed as saying: "The sons of Adam are accountable for all lies except those uttered to help bring reconciliation between Muslims."
Another says, "Aba Kahl, reconcile among people."(Meaning: even through lying.)
The following quote demonstrates the broadness of situations in which the prophet permitted lying. "The sons of Adam are accountable for all lies with these exceptions: During war because war is deception, to reconcile among two quarreling men, and for a man to appease his wife."
The principle of Al-Takeyya
The Arabic word, "Takeyya", means "to prevent," or guard against. The principle of Al Takeyya conveys the understanding that Muslims are permitted to lie as a preventive measure against anticipated harm to one's self or fellow Muslims. This principle gives Muslims the liberty to lie under circumstances that they perceive as life threatening. They can even deny the faith, if they do not mean it in their hearts. Al-Takeyya is based on the following Quranic verse:
"Let not the believers Take for friends or helpers Unbelievers rather than believers: if any do that, in nothing will there be help from Allah: except by way of precaution (prevention), that ye may Guard yourselves from them (prevent them from harming you.) But Allah cautions you (To remember) Himself; for the final goal is to Allah." Surah 3: 28
According to this verse a Muslim can pretend to befriend infidels (in violation of the teachings of Islam) and display adherence with their unbelief to prevent them from harming him.
Under the concept of Takeyya and short of killing another human being, if under the threat of force, it is legitimate for Muslims to act contrary to their faith. The following actions are acceptable:
Drink wine, abandon prayers, and skip fasting during Ramadan.
Renounce belief in Allah.
Kneel in homage to a deity other than Allah.
Utter insincere oaths.
The implications of the principle of Al-Takeyya
Unfortunately, when dealing with Muslims, one must keep in mind that Muslims can communicate something with apparent sincerity, when in reality they may have just the opposite agenda in their hearts. Bluntly stated, Islam permits Muslims to lie anytime that they perceive that their own well-being, or that of Islam, is threatened.
The father of all lies has many names, Allah not the least of them. tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07:lies can be a sticky subject
If your dying dad asked, 'how is your brother' do you tell him he is dead?
That happened with my old boyfriend's mother she had been in the hospital for a couple of months and her son died. She asked where he was and nobody had the heart to tell her the truth that he died. She died one week after he died.
If your wife asks how you like something she put a lot of time and effort into do you tell her you do not like it? OR do you find a way out like a neutral reply like 'That is very interesting and unusual'. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/01/07 - The Cry Baby posts a question in hope for no rebuttal… Cry baby Pericles is crying again.
![]()
He is trying to convince us of being of Lilly white innocence.
Yet the truth is that anyone can check.
On the WTY site he has not only bragged about sneaking on here illegally he has provided information on how to do it.
He has been here illegally several times, but he will never admit it.
So now what dies he do?
He posts the true information on how a person can be back here legally but never admitting that he has been here illegally several times coming back just a day of tow after being suspended.
So the coward posts his misleading propaganda on a question he abruptly ends in hopes no one will give a rebuttal.
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tropicalstorm answered on 02/01/07::( according to your definition I am illegal :(
But like I stated before it is more fun to reincarnate onto the board and less hassle.
future reincarnation--->
wreakinhavoc | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/31/07 - PERICLES:
Clarification/Follow-up by Pericles on 01/31/07 9:28 am:
"Hank
First you created all these expectations ......
And now this? That's all?
:("
WHAT DID I CREATE? WHAT IS "THIS?" PLEASE EXPLAIN!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:Perc always finds something you didn't 'create' by elaborating on little things that weren't your intended point. He still doesn't get that Joy wasn't the employer in those two posts she did.
SO just file it away under - just Perc being perc | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 01/31/07 - Is 'biblical literalism' the cause???? Have come across a passage relevant to biblical literalism that I think needs to be read by all TRUE Christians, or followers of Jesus, or simply men and women of conscience:
"Once the literalist approach to the Gospels and the Bible has been seen for the great blunder it has been--and in some places remains today--the pernicious habit of targeting specific groups and lacerating them by quoting 'proof texts' loses all its presumed authority. Most of the atrocities committed by the Church and its more rabid followers down through the ages have been directly inspired by literalist thinking. The lies, for example, behind all the anti-Jewish bigotry and hatred that has so tragically marked the history of Christianity almost from its inception, and that culminated in the Holocaust. The Church did not kill six million Jews, obviously. But centuries of a literal reading of the Passion narratives--especially the words, in Matthew, 'His blood be upon us and upon our children'--and the anti-Jewish teaching of a continuous train of Christian theologians down to and including Martin Luther himself, made it possible for the Holocaust to occur.
Even at present, hatred toward Jews, homosexuals, Muslims, and others is still being encouraged in some quarters by extreme biblical literalists.....We will never have peace on earth as long as literalism controls religions." [Tom Harpur: Professor of Greek and New Testament at the University of Toronto]
Comments welcome. Foolish responses will be rated accordingly.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:Definitely literalism combined with ignorance and misinterpretation.
Look at the KKK they use the Bible to justify their racism and hatred. I heard that Moses was the first one to be with someone of another race. My interpretation of the Bible is you are to love your neighbor as yourself. Neighbor means everybody not just who lives next door to you. My God and Bible also says to love the Jew.
D' maybe I should start preachin! I could do a hell of a 'hell and brimstone' sermon against self righteous hypocrites. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 01/31/07 - Are Fish Capable of Human-like Logic ?
PhysOrg.com: “Fish can determine their social rank by observation alone, study finds”
Stanford University scientists studying the behavior of small fish called “cichlids” have determined that fish (these ones, anyway) “have the reasoning capacity of a 4- or 5-year old child” when analyzing which of their rivals is strongest. Individual cichlids observed various fights between five of their peers (two at a time), which were manipulated so that cichlid “A” beat cichlid “B”; B beat C; C beat D; and D beat E. The observer (or “bystander”) cichlids, who had not participated in any fights, were then released into the tank with only two other fish: either A and E or B and D (neither pairs had ever fought before). In all cases, the bystander cichlid would avoid the “strong” A/B fish and hang out with “weak” D/E fish instead. This indicates that fish have the ability to perform the type of reasoning called “transitive inference”: though A never actually fought E, A beat B, who beat C, who beat D, who beat E. The fish hung around E, showing they recognized the relative strength of A over E.
Of course, the supposed evolutionary connection has not been overlooked; Stanford graduate student Logan Grosenick called it “a philosophical matter as to whether the cichlids’ ability to infer rankings is the same as similar reasoning in humans,” while Stanford biology professor Russell Fernald explains that “Cognitive capacities that evolved in fish may contribute to human transitive inference, or perhaps this capacity evolved independently. The question remains unresolved.”
Another explanation—unfortunately overlooked by these scientists—is that fish were created with an appropriate degree of intelligence for their environment (though this intelligence would not have been used for conflict resolution before the Fall of Genesis 3!). Thus, fish also join the ranks of animals whose intelligence shines (
5. Reuters: “Are you a giver? Brain scan finds the truth”
A neuroscience team from North Carolina’s Duke University is reporting results of a brain study on altruistic behavior, according to Reuters’ Maggie Fox. By recording brain functions while study participants played games, the team determined that brain function patterns match up with participants’ descriptions of their own altruism—how selfish or giving they are. But the most interesting comments come in the last few paragraphs:
[Study leader] Huettel believes it is valid to try to assess altruism scientifically.
“It is hardly the case that all altruistic acts come from people who are religiously faithful; there are undoubtedly many altruistic atheists,” [h]e said.
“And, a religious explanation would have considerable difficulty explaining why some animals help others of their species at significant cost or danger to themselves.”
Huettel seems to be assuming that the “religious explanation” of altruism is that religious people are altruistic and the unreligious aren’t (though this idea is not without merit). However, one must ask Huettel how altruism can be explained at all without religion; for instance, animals risking their lives to help one another can only be understood as altruism if one invokes a religious explanation (that these animals, created by God [even though not in His image], have some ability to act selflessly). If these animals are merely acting in self-preservation, then it’s not altruism at all.
Interestingly (and coincidentally), Prometheus Books (no friend of creationists) announced a new book this week: Kindness in a Cruel World: The Evolution of Altruism by Nigel Barber. The press release plainly describes the book’s take on what altruism “really” is:
What do mutual grooming, politeness, priestly celibacy, military heroism, car insurance, and overwork have in common? All are probable examples of the recently discovered evolutionary mechanism called “reciprocal altruism.” Put simply, the concept means, “You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.” Although rare in animals, reciprocal altruism colors much of human emotion and social behavior.
Of course, this raises the obvious question: if altruism is merely done to get something in return, what makes it fundamentally different than other animal or human behavior? Furthermore, this view effectively alleges that the altruistic efforts of millions worldwide are ultimately selfish acts (though one wonders what earthly benefit Mother Teresa, for example, received in return for her humanitarian efforts in Calcutta).
But it’s clear what’s leading to this contradiction: the presupposition of the author, who—the release states—“[b]egin[s] with Darwin’s theory ….”
tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:i have heard that when birds fly in patterns they all instinctly have their place. Animals do have a lot of instincts that we don't even think about. | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 01/30/07 - logging in ? have any besides myself had troublr logging in in the last few days???Just wondering? tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:ditto to Richturner. I keep the remember log in...if I ever even log out! | | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 01/30/07 - Willing to be wrong? If you’re a true Christian and if you did someone wrong, but say’ your Pastors sugar coats you, because you're the bread winner of the Church, and tells you, it will be okay if you did your brother wrong, "Jesus will forgive you anyways."
Other words do most, or just some Christianity hide behind their Bibles? Do you truly believe in God?
I have seen a lot of bickering on here, why is Pericles smart in seeing through so many.
I will admit, I don't like to be sugar coated I took Pericles answer once, and I had learned from it, Yes, it hurt when he called me a liar and a user, but all disciplined does, we can learn from it, I even went as far to keep his answer, to embrace it, to learn from this wise person.
Can't we just forget the sugar coating, and learn from one another, for we all have different teachers.
Should we not be willing to be wronged?
Thank you experts. And thank you Pericles.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:Joy
I was wondering where you have been I didn't know you changed your name!
I have to mostly agree with jjgoss says on your post. Sometimes when you can get Pericles beyond his detail oriented elaborations on the little details that have nothing to do with what your point he can come up with some good ones.
I know what you mean about Pastors that basically butter up to the richer people in the church, they can do no wrong. Then they look down their noses at poorer people and treat them like they are worthless. They are not using Godly wisdom but following their own Gospel!
Love and blessings
sapph | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/31/07 - IT'S TIME ...
... to start posting clarifications, something I haven't done much of in the past. So, beware of the bear ... who's willing and able to call a spade a spade. I've noticed that very few of you research the content laid down in clarifications and usually get away with posting anything. I plan to cross some of you up starting tomorrow (1/31/07).
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 01/31/07:HAAANK are you encouraging clarifications??? As it is, I see TOO many clarifications and they tend to seem more like pigs in the mud; anything but CLEAR!
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/30/07 - Once Upon a Time... ....there was an old woman who lived on a pension. She had a friend who got very sick, so she spent her last money on a flowering plant for her friend's bedside.
The plant brought happiness to the sick woman who enjoyed the beautiful flowers.
Now, she doesn't have enough money for the co-pay for the 8 medicines(of 10)he need refilled, and has started going into withdrawal as the first two medicines ran out.
She e-mailed her brother who said he would pick up the medicine and pay for it. So far, no show.
The moral of the story:::: I won't get my medicine until Friday unless my brother goes and gets it, so I'm not going to participate in answering questions because I'm **really** on edge, and my head will explode if I don't take it easy. :), so I'm going to, "OOOOmmmmmm" AND TOTALLY RELAX sans any irritation until I'm back on my medicines. God knows, AW is totally irritating enough let alone when one holds unpopular positions like anti-Iraq War and Secular Humanism(Atheist). :)
Have fun!
Mary Sue tropicalstorm answered on 01/30/07:I hate that people want you to drop everything and run and take care of their catastrophies that are minor; yet when you have a life or death type thing the same people turn a deaf ear.
repost from my reply to your last reply to my last post:
I don't remember not talking to you, it wasn't on purpose or anything against you. I just get under a lot of pressure and stress and a lot gets left aside when I don't mean for it to. I haven't had a computer in years and would have to use the libraries and they time you. They are getting better at giving you more time, but now I have my own computer and Wi-Fi off my sons internet.
If you want to see my art and my kids check my myspace
www.myspace.com/formyfourangels
I wish I lived closer to you I would love to come and cheer Doris on and help you any way I could.
I honestly would help you if I could! | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/30/07 - TO TROPICALSTORM:
Sometimes happines seems like a terribly elusive goal. This is your present dilemma, Murphy's Law. We tend to forget that it doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. This, of course, doesn't apply to you.
I don't think about time. I keep to the present. Nor do I dwell on past injustices. I'm very aware off my goals. Many of us get so wrapped up in the MEANS that we forget about he ENDS. Take advantage of what you have already. I never get bored because I have an active mind and I like to talk to old people. As I have stated in the past, I meditate on a daily basis, usually 20 minutes if possible. I also WALK on a daily basis. Since I'm a vegetarian, my daily regimen is of no consequence. This helps to give me a POSITIVE sense of self. I know my limitations and I don't think about the things I can't change. I have NEVER had any trouble liking myself because I have been a positive thinker. At one time, I liked to pay three SINCERE compliments daily to others. As for now, I don't get around as much. New Year resolutions? No way! I make policy decisions ahead of time and focus on one thing at a time. Example: My golf. Lastly, I feel that I have a sense of humor but I don't use it much on this Board. It's pretty DRY at times.
Hope this helps. When a negative thought begins to surface in your mind, pause. Just stop what you're doing for a few seconds. Don't say anything. Talk will reinforce the bad feeling. This is a 'biggie,' Sapphire. Take care, young lady!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 01/30/07:So true. I just get tired of fixing my vehicle and all my problems and even though I can appreciate things no matter how hard they get and still have a good attitude I just wish sometimes that something could go 'normally' for me. Like I save up money from working all summer planning on doing something enjoyable for the winter. Instead my vehicle breaks down and I have to use all the money I saved to fix my vehicle and pay bills to get me through the winter. My van is just getting fixed now and I spent another winter hybernating. I can't even get a job in the winter because I have sever seasonal affective disorder and have an impossible time going outside in the winter. Even though I have that peace that passes understanding no matter how bad things get I just get tired of the vicious cycle. | | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 01/29/07 - Disclaimer: Not a question--feel free to skip I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics, the trash...
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.
Herb, whom I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.
"And why's everyone so quiet,
So somber? Give me a clue."
"Hush, child," said He, "They're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you!"
Author unknown (at least to me)
tropicalstorm answered on 01/29/07:You gotta see this
you will really, really enjoy it.
http://tinyurl. com/yxewot | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 01/29/07 - We often speak of what we believe in............... Here is Don Williams' famous song "I believe in you"
How much of it do you believe in?
If you were to write the lyrics what would you change?
<><><>
I Believe in You
Don Williams
I don't believe in superstars,
Organic food and foreign cars.
I don't believe the price of gold;
The certainty of growing old.
That right is right and left is wrong,
That north and south can't get along.
That east is east and west is west.
And being first is always best.
But I believe in love.
I believe in babies.
I believe in Mom and Dad.
And I believe in you.
Well, I don't believe that heaven waits,
For only those who congregate.
I like to think of God as love:
He's down below, He's up above.
He's watching people everywhere.
He knows who does and doesn't care.
And I'm an ordinary man,
Sometimes I wonder who I am.
But I believe in love.
I believe in music.
I believe in magic.
And I believe in you.
Well, I know with all my certainty,
What's going on with you and me,
Is a good thing.
It's true, I believe in you.
I don't believe virginity,
Is as common as it used to be.
In working days and sleeping nights,
That black is black and white is white.
That Superman and Robin Hood,
Are still alive in Hollywood.
That gasoline's in short supply,
The rising cost of getting by.
But I believe in love.
I believe in old folks.
I believe in children.
I believe in you.
But I believe in love.
I believe in babies.
I believe in Mom and Dad.
And I believe in you. tropicalstorm answered on 01/29/07:Also there is a big difference in believing something and believing IN something. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 01/29/07 - Smile Time with Cowboy Boots...................... The Cowboy Boots
(Anyone who has ever dressed a child will love this one!)
Did you hear about the Texas teacher who was helping
one of her kindergarten students put on his cowboy boots?
He asked for help and she could see why.
Even with her pulling and him pushing, the little boots still
didn't want to go on. By the time they got the second boot on,
she had worked up a sweat.
She almost cried when the little boy said,
"Teacher, they're on the wrong feet." She looked, and
sure enough, they were.
It wasn't any easier pulling the boots off than it was putting them on.
She managed to keep her cool as together they worked to get the boots back on,
this time on the right feet.
He then announced, "These aren't my boots."
She bit her tongue rather than get right in his face and scream,
"Why didn't you say so?", like she wanted to.
Once again, she struggled to help him pull the ill-fitting
boots off his little feet.
No sooner had they gotten the boots off when he said,
"They're my brother's boots. My Mom made me wear 'em."
Now she didn't know if she should laugh or cry but, she
mustered up what grace and courage she had left to wrestle
the boots on his feet again.
Helping him into his coat, she asked, "Now, where are your mittens?"
He said, "I stuffed 'em in the toes of my boots."
She will be eligible for parole in three years. tropicalstorm answered on 01/29/07:Thats too much!!!
| | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/28/07 - Doris has taken a turn for the worse. I can hardly believe it! Doris has taken a turn for the worse. They discovered a blood clot in her left leg that has already sent off two clots to her lungs. She is on blood thinners and special treatment. I have been reassuring her this evening, putting the emphasis on a healthy future.
Does anyone have experience with this condition? The rate of recovery? The rate of eventual heart attack?
I'm sick about this. tropicalstorm answered on 01/28/07:With blood clots they will most likely to put her on warfarin, kumadin or some type of blood thinner and give her a diet to follow. I am sure she will be okay. I know lots of people on blood thinners that are doing fine.
When on blood thinning drugs eatting salads or getting too much vitamin K will thin the blood too much. If they do not put her on blood thinners she probably should eat salads, garlic, ginger, gingko and turmeric. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/27/07 - FAITH:
When a believer has FAITH, it is God's way of giving him confidence and assurance that what is promised will be experienced!
Just an AGREE or DISAGREE will do!
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 01/27/07:I don't know. I am still waiting on my hopes to turn into something and lose faith in the confidence and assurance at times, so all I can say is I keep on keeping on and sometimes somethings fall in place a little bit. | | Question/Answer | | holly23 asked on 01/26/07 - Where is heaven Could I go to heaven and come back to tell you about it? tropicalstorm answered on 01/27/07:Even people who have had near death experiences can't really prove where they were or what actually happened to them. Sylvia Browne, Mary Ann or Allison Dubois that 'see the dead' can't even prove that. Allison recently had a vision of a boy in a well screaming. She drove miles to the well and had helicopters fly in to rescue the boy. They found bones of a boy. Some people that astro project or do remote viewing CLAIM they have seen visions of heaven.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/26/07 - ARE YOU LUCKY?
How Does Your City Rate? Complete 2007 showdown for the title of top metropolis, according to "Men's Health" @ (menshealth.com):
1. San Jose, CA
2. Honolulu, HI
3. Madison, WI
4. San Diego, CA
5. Fremont, CA
6. San Francisco, CA
7. Anchorage, AK
8. Raleigh, NC
9. Manchester, NH
10. Lincoln, NE
11. Anaheim, CA
12. Oakland, CA
13. Minneapolis, MN
14. Salt Lake City, UT
15. St. Paul, MN
16. Seattle, WA
17. Burlington, VT
18. Boise City, ID
19. Colorado Springs, CO
20. Yonkers, NY
21. Austin, TX
22. Aurora, CO
23. Washington, DC
24. Denver, CO
25. Sacramento, CA
26. Los Angeles, CA
27. Hartford, CT
28. Fargo, ND
29. Boston, MA
30. Des Moines, IA
31. Phoenix, AZ
32. Columbus, OH
33. Las Vegas, NV
34. Omaha, NE
35. Portland, OR
36. Rochester, NY
37. Grand Rapids, MI
38. Atlanta, GA
39. Albuquerque, NM
40. Durham, NC
41. Charlotte, NC
42. Arlington, TX
43. Lexington, KY
44. Billings, MT
45. Lubbock, TX
46. Wilmington, DE
47. Fort Worth, TX
48. Sioux Falls, SD
49. Bangor, ME
50. El Paso, TX
51. Cheyenne, WY
52. Indianapolis, IN
53. Norfolk, VA
54. Chicago, IL
55. Jersey City, NJ
56. Orlando, FL
57. Houston, TX
58. New York, NY
59. Fresno, CA
60. Tucson, AZ
61. Miami, FL
62. Newark, NJ
63. Spokane, WA
64. Modesto, CA
65. Riverside, CA
66. Dallas, TX
67. Jacksonville, FL
68. San Antonio, TX
69. Fort Wayne, IN
70. Milwaukee, WI
71. Providence, RI
72. Columbia, SC
73. Greensboro, NC
74. Cincinnati, OH
75. Wichita, KS
76. Bakersfield, CA
77. Kansas City, MO
78. Richmond, VA
79. Baltimore, MD
80. Montgomery, AL
81. St. Petersburg, FL
82. Philadelphia, PA
83. Jackson, MS
84. Tampa, FL
85. Baton Rouge, LA
86. Cleveland, OH
87. Nashville, TN
88. Buffalo, NY
89. Birmingham, AL
90. Pittsburgh, PA
91. Little Rock, AR
92. Oklahoma City, OK
93. Detroit, MI
94. St. Louis, MO
95. Corpus Christi, TX
96. Tulsa, OK
97. Louisville, KY
98. Toledo, OH
99. Charleston, WV
100. Memphis, TN
Do you want to say where you live ... or want to say you live near one of the above? I live 300 miles from Chicago.
HANK
tropicalstorm answered on 01/26/07:Pittsburgh used to be number one and then in the top until some recent mayors (after Sophie)
messed it up. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 01/26/07 - Celebrating a person's demise a Christian act ??? Ref : In the 60's .... by tropicalstorm dated 01/26/07
In this topic I did refer to the possibility of a person to plan his/her own demise in W.Europe by way of euthanasia.
Here is arcura reaction :
"Although I think that euthanasia is self abortion and therefore wrong, please let us know when you have scheduled yours.
That way many of us here can mourn your demise and also celebrate that you will no longer be here illegally.
Here is your black star for supporting abortion of a human person of any age."
What do you think of this reaction by someone who claims to be a Christian?
Since when is celebrating a person's demise a Christian act?
tropicalstorm answered on 01/26/07:Me THINKS you two are too much alike in personality type and too opposite in your reasoning and logic thought processes. | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/26/07 - Satan: a Biography I just read a book review of the book "Satan: A Biography" by Henry Ansgar Kelly. It sounds terrific!
Here are some of the comments from the book review.
"In Satan, Henry Ansgar Kelly is out to right a 1,700 year old wrong. The victim? Satan. Kelly, a former Jesuit priest and the current director of medieval studies at UCLA, argues that Satan has been grossly misunderstood and maligned throughout history. In this volume, he aims to set the record straight. According to Kelly, Satan is more of a bureaucrat than a monster. Appointed by God, Satan is sent to Earth to test the faith and morality of humankind."
".....To ChriSTIANs, Satan is Lucifer, God's enemy, the fallen angel who rebelled against the Almigty and was cast out of heaven. He is the serpent of Eden who seduced Adam and Eve into sinning. But this portrayal of Satan is not biblical. RATHer, as Kelly shows, it was concocted by the early Church fathers, 'It was not until post-Biblical times that Lulcifer was associated with Satan or that Satan was thought to have been cast out of heaven before the creation of Adam and Eve, or that Satan had some connection with Adam and eve,' he writes.".....
"Satan is some sort of celestial functionary we see in the Book of Job, a creature appointed to govern the world, specifically to monitor and test human beings. In his book, Kelly discusses the origin and development of each apperance of Satan in the Bible,. He examines the Old and New Testaments including St. Paul's writings, the four Gospels and the Epistles.
"The most significant retro-fitting that has occurred in the history of Satan is the thoroughgoing re-interpretation of the Satan of the New Testament identified with the various satanic figures of the Old Testament, as a rebel against God." Kelly Writes. More than any other, this interpretion has bedeviled the history of Satan, transforming him from a merely obnoxious functionary of the Divine Government into a personification of Evil--a personification that really exists as a person."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sounds interesting, huh? tropicalstorm answered on 01/26/07:perc
since you call what you believe a NEGATIVE claim does that mean you are a negative person? | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/25/07 - Jim Bakker I was channel surfing this afternoon since "People's Court" is in reruns and guess who I ran into asking believers for $100.00?
He had a new wife next to him and there he was, big as life an looking older than God, conning the faithful again.
Deja vu all over again. tropicalstorm answered on 01/25/07:It is sad, at one time he seemed like he was for real and then in the late 80's he and his Tammy Faye started looking and acting and especially talking off the wall.
Benny Hinn is another big deceiver that people can't wait to throw money at.
| | Question/Answer | | Pete. asked on 01/25/07 - For your information. It seems that the "new Answerway" is really trying to emulate the Christian faith...Forgiveness & rebirth!!
I have now registered my old name ( well close:) & old email address.
Misha. is retired.
Pete. is back.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/25/07:We all love you no matter what's yo' name iz!!! | | Question/Answer | | jjgoss asked on 01/25/07 - ..the Second Coming.... ...Why is the Second Coming or Last Coming of Jesus Christ to fulfill Messianic prophecy also an Islamic belief????.......Does it mean that Muslims believe in Jesus Christ too????........ tropicalstorm answered on 01/25/07:Read these
http://www.agsconsulting.com/myth.htm
http://www.bibleufo.com/subjects.htm
All historical things have points where they
tell the same things with a somewhat different spin. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 01/25/07 - ARE YOU AN ICONOCLAST: "What's an ICONOCLAST?" you ask. This is someone who attacks traditional beliefs or institutions. Do you know anyone who's guilty in this domain?
HANK tropicalstorm answered on 01/25/07:Me I suppose. I say study, learn and find out what you believe for yourself, whether it is from the Bible, text books, self help, what others say or everyday life.
One of my favorite local pastors said. Eat the meat and throw away the bones.
Don't let anybody spoonfed you.
But that is my most humble BELIEF
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 01/25/07 - Something helpful for you and your friends.......... Some of you may know this and some may not. This is for those who do no know about it.
I just got it from a friend.
<><><><>
A friend who is a computer expert received the following directly from a system administrator for a corporate system. It is an excellent message that ABSOLUTELY applies to ALL of us who send e-mails. Please read the short letter below, even if you're sure you already follow proper procedures.
Do you really know how to forward e-mails? 50% of us do; 50% DO NOT. Do you wonder why you get viruses or junk mail? Do you hate it? Every time you forward an e-mail there is information left over from the people who got the message before you, namely their e-mail addresses & names. As the messages get forwarded along, the list of addresses builds, and builds, and builds, and all it takes is for some poor sap to get a virus, and his or her computer can send that virus to every E-mail address that has come across his computer. Or, someone can take all of those addresses and sell them or send junk mail to them in the hopes that you will go to the site and he will make five cents for each hit. That's right, all of that inconvenience over a nickel! How do you stop it?
Well, there are several easy steps:
(1) When you forward an e-mail, DELETE all of the other addresses that appear in the body of the message (at the top). That's right, DELETE them. Highlight them and delete them, backspace them, cut them, whatever it is you know how to do. It only takes a second. You MUST click the "Forward" button first and then you will have full editing capabilities against the body and headers of the message. If you don't click on "Forward" first, you won't be able to edit the message at all.
(2) Whenever you send an e-mail to more than one person, do NOT use the To: or CC: fields for adding e-mail addresses. Always use the BCC:(blind carbon copy) field for listing the e-mail addresses. This is the way the people you send to will only see their own e-mail address. If you don't see your BCC: option click on where it says To: and your address list will appear. Highlight the address and choose BCC: and that's it, it's that easy. When you send to BCC: your message will automatically say "Undisclosed Recipients in the "TO:" field of the people who receive it.
(3) Remove any "FW :" in the subject line. You can re-name the subject if you wish or even fix spelling.
(4) ALWAYS hit your Forward button from the actual e-mail (page) you are reading. Ever get those e-mails that you have to open 10 pages to read the one page with the information on it? By Forwarding from the actual page you wish someone to view, you stop them from having to open many e-mails just to see what you sent.
(5) Have you ever gotten an email that is a petition? It states a position and asks you to add your name and address and to forward it to 10 or 15 people or your entire address book. The email can be forwarded on and on and can collect thousands of names and email addresses.
A FACT: The completed petition is actually worth a couple of bucks to a professional spammer because of the wealth of valid names and email addresses contained therein. If you want to support the petition, send it as your own personal letter to the intended recipient. Your position may carry more weight as a personal letter than a laundry list of names and email address on a petition. (Actually, if you think about it, who's supposed to send the petition in to whatever cause it supports? And don't believe the ones that say that the email is being traced, it just ain't so!)
One of the main ones I hate is the ones that say something like, "Send this email to 10 people and you'll see something great run across your screen." Or sometimes they'll just tease you by saying 'something really cute will happen.' IT AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN!!!!! (Trust me, I'm still seeing some of the same ones that I waited on 10 years ago!)
I don't let the bad luck ones scare me either, they get trashed. (Could be why I haven't won the lottery)
Before you forward an 'Amber Alert', or a 'Virus Alert', or some of the other ones floating around nowadays, check them out before you forward them. Most of them are junk mail that's been circling the net for YEARS! Just about everything you receive in an email that is in question can be checked out a Snopes. Just go to www.snopes.com . It's really easy to find out if it's real or not. If it's not, please don't pass it on.
So please, in the future, let's stop the junk mail and the viruses.
Finally, here's an idea! Let's send this to everyone we know (but please delete my address). This is something that SHOULD be forwarded tropicalstorm answered on 01/25/07:simplest solution do not bother with those forwarded chain email thingy's
BUT that is just my OPINION | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/24/07 - Jewish Culture Do people understand that Yeshua(Jesus) was *Jewish*, also the Apostles and Saul(Paul)??
They came from the *Jewish* culture where present day Israel is located. Everything in the Bible occured within this culture. Saul was educated in Greece, however, as well as being *Jewish Pharisee*.
Christianity is a *Jewish creation* with influences from Greek and other cultures more sophisticated than the Jewish culture of the time. Egyptian for example.
GodAlmighty is the *Jewish God*.
Jesus is his only son, the *Jewish son*.
The holy spirit is a *Jewish idea*.
When they lived, there were no New Testament scriptures as domino pointed out. Scriptures were written long after Jesus' death. Amended and reamended many times by many different people. Even forgeries were made like "Revelation".
The true CHRISTIAN GOSPEL are the four books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and the books written by Paul(Saul). The rest are proven forgeries.
Live and Learn!
Learning needn't damage your FAITH/BELIEF.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/24/07:You are absolutely right Christianity's roots are from the Jewish. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 01/24/07 - On "proper" posting (2) ............................ Second paragraph in this series on "proper" posting.
Allow me to zoom in on "belief and intolerance" here on this particular board : the Christianity Board.
Again : NOBODY is "perfect". We ALL have moments of irritations and say things which better should be omitted and - still better - not even thought.
The name of the board is clear : Christianity Board : a board where the SUBJECT is Christianity, just as dogs and cats are the subject at the Domestic Pets Board. So everyone may post here - whatever his/her personal views - as long as it has something to do with Christianity and/or this specific board.
First a little bit on belief.
Personally I have always stated here that I will protect anyone's right to believe whatever he/she religiously BELIEVES.
I have NEVER attacked people on what they BELIEVE - if expressed as belief. Before certain people go ballistic with new pictures of horse asses and other shows of unchristian behaviour : just SHOW ME where I ever attacked anyone on what he/she openly admits as belief.
IF I ever did I will apologize for that openly, but I'm almost sure that you will not be able to find such a line - unless it is very old from the time the hear on my head was still there in full strength and quantity.
What I see almost daily happening here is posters who use whatever they BELIEVE in statements of fact.
They post lines like "It is this or that because John 3-xx states ........ .
They should of course say that "I BELIEVE it is this or that because John 3-xx states ........" .
That would be honest and true.
Real "proper" posting.
Now a little bit on tolerance.
I see posts aggressively attacking other views, be they by other Christians or non-Christians.
Mormons are attacked as total idiots and counterfeiters, Catholics as neurotic Mary following "Satan" worshippers, Jehova's as incompetent Watchtower copiers, all Muslims as sword slinging murderers, .... The list is too long for here for this topic.
What is it that certain people (I call most of them fundi-creo's) make themselves think that they have the one and only "truth"? They only BELIEVE that they have the one and only "truth". Why are so many so INTOLERANT of any other ideas than there own?
With religion being 100% a subjective item - there is no objective proof available to support any religious argument - everyone's religious ideas have equal validity.
Everyone's religious ideas are beliefs. And as such not automatically truths. So what makes so many believers totally intolerant towards any other ideas?
There is no basic difference between the "Satan" worshippers and any other format of religious belief.
And so why not reflect that in "proper" posting?
Show openly that you BELIEVE this or that.
Of course - just as with my post on "proper" spelling and grammar - some will state that they "have no time to post properly", or worse "no will to post properly".
But that is just a clincher and everyone knows that.
My conclusion.
"PROPER" posting (2a) : do not CLAIM what you BELIEVE to be the one and only TRUTH.
"PROPER" posting (2b) : do not be INTOLERANT to what others BELIEVE. What you BELIEVE yourself is just - and no more than just - YOUR TRUTH.
Serious responses to the basic message of this post are welcome.
![]()
tropicalstorm answered on 01/24/07:Whatever a person states that is their belief whether it be religion, evolution or what they plan to do later today. They should not have to emphasize every time this is my belief.
Some people do the opposite, giving their opinion or belief and stating when it is another source than that.
You don't state belief every time you post stuff.
Furthermore, on other people's posts you single star other people's replies that are their belief. Why do you do that if everybody is entitled to their belief and you 'protect everybody's right'?
On your own posts, you want to one star because it is not your belief--go for it!!!
Tsapph---the chameleon;
the one that has little to be proud of!!!
:)
| | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 01/24/07 - Re: Salvation by Faith: Yes as Domino says this has been discussed here multiple times. However, if Salvation is by faith and grace alone. There is nothing we can do to earn it. Our freedom is found in the simple acceptance of God's great grace. Even the Old Testament heroes were saved by their faith.
Hebrews 11:1-10 NIV
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead.
By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
Hebrews 11 is a wonderful read and the list of those saved by their faith is extensive. In the early part of this chapter is the defining moment that divides Christianity from all other religions. It says "without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Note there is no reference at all to works.
The familiar words from the epistle to the Ephesians confirm the concept.
Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God -- not by works, so that no one can boast.
There are many religions. There is the one which stands alone in salvation by faith alone and all others which demand good works in one form or another. Personally, I choose to throw myself on the mercy of Jesus.
Not beating a "dead" horse but stating a simple message that even a child could understand.
MaggieB tropicalstorm answered on 01/24/07:That is what churchianity Christians fail to realize. They analize spiritual things to death
of human reasoning and man made doctrine,
instead of seeking freedom in their spirit.
Psa 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 01/24/07 - Wrong conclusion? Did Paul arrive at the wrong conclusion when he wrote -
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.? Romans 3:28
tropicalstorm answered on 01/24/07:The trouble is people trying to rationalize it rather than just be free in their spirit. God isn't looking for people to analize spiritual concepts into human reasoning nor ritual. | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/23/07 - Doris in Hospital My senior caregiver, Doris, is in the hospital and scheduled for surgery tomorrow to remove a large cantalope-sized fibroid tumor. She will have a hysterectomy. She's in good spirits and looks forward to having a flat stomach!....thus matching her athletic body. Her left leg had been swelling up for the past week, and the situation came to a crisis yesterday; she came to be unable to walk. After this operation, she will recover and have a whole new figure to continue her husband hunting with.
I was thinking about something Doris told me. She said her surgeon came into her room at midnight last night(delivering a baby)and she was a WOMAN...and she was AFRICAN AMERICAN. Doris(also black) was shocked at first. AND, her nurse is a MAN!
How times have changed *for the better* since I was growing up in the 50's and since Doris was growing up in southern Illinos in the 60's. There were very few female physicians back then, and now, about half of physicians are women. And, not to mention black physicians treating white people as well as black people.
I got a little teary thinking about the struggle for CIVIL RIGHTS for minorities and women and men since the late 1960's; a struggle that I was involved in.
In urban America, the whole medical landscape is different. Due to those black Christians and white Chrisitans and Secular Humanists working for a FAIR SOCIETY we now have what I would have thought impossible viewing society from the early 1960ies.
****JUST WHAT DORIS IS EXPERIENCING TODAY****
A black female surgeon practising in an upper middle class suburb being attended to by a male nurse. :)
HOW WONDERFUL!!!!
*tears*
Mary Susan
We done overcome in the medical profession. :D
***Comments from haters not welcome.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/23/07:I was wondering where you disappeared to.
I hope she will be okay. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 01/23/07 - This is to clear the air with some facts: Hello Everyone,
I had taken a short break to cool down and to make sure that I did not say anything that would bring reproach. I have returned though and before I get started again to enjoy the company of all here on answerway, I wish to clear the air.
Recently, I have had some accuse me plagiarism. I wish to Quote Ansewerways rule on Plagiarism.
I quote Answerway:
1. No plagiarism.
“Experts should not simply copy text from some other source and paste it in, without attribution, as their response to a question. Reference to other sources where such information can be found (e.g., FAQs of other Answerway experts, web site addresses, or reference books) would generally be appropriate, and, within the constraints of fair use, an Expert might briefly quote (with attribution) or summarize this information in a response. It should never appear that the work of others is the original work of the Expert.”
__________________________________________________
Having quoted this rule I can honestly say before all, I have never said or made anything from the Watchtower publications or the Awake magazines, look as if it was my own writing but have always stated that I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and that I use these two publications as my place of information and my C/P. It has never been a secret on this board or on Askme.com.
Those ones who yelled the loudest are the ones who copy and build websites to counteract what Jehovah’s Witnesses believe and my question is, where do those who downgrade or try to prove the Watchtower information wrong get their information and who gave them the right to use the Watchtower information they use??????????????????????????????
This quote is from the Watchtower magazine on it’s policies. 1994
“Most companies that prepare and sell computer programs copyright these, and they provide a license outlining how the programs can legally be used. The license usually says that the owner cannot give to others copies of the program; in fact, international copyright law makes it illegal to do so. . . . Some large firms sell computers containing preinstalled and licensed programs. However, certain computer stores do not provide licenses because the programs they preinstall are illegal copies, meaning that the purchaser violates the law in using the programs. Related to this, Christians should avoid putting onto, or downloading from, electronic bulletin boards material that is copyrighted (as are the Society’s publications) and that is being copied without legal permission from the owners.” End of quote.
_____________________________________________________
While here I have copied information on this board from the Watchtower and Awake magazines. These are publications made by the Watchtower society for public distribution. Being one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, my responsibility as such is to preach by using the information in the Watchtower and Awake with the public. Many times we also write letters using the information in these magazines. These are printed for the public and therefore are not being misused by me or any other Jehovah’s Witness , for this is why these magazines are printed.
Inside the cover of the Watchtower magazine it tells the purpose of the magazine being printed. I quote the Watchtower: “ It gives comfort to all people.” Then if one takes a look at a 1994 Watchtower of Jan 1st, Notice the Watchtower tells those who are baptized Jehovah’s Witnesses.
I quote:
This is the title : “Share Them With Others!
First, there is something that each congregation can do. The October 1952 issue of the Informant (now Our Kingdom Ministry) said: “The most effective means of distributing the magazines is from house to house and store to store. Hence the Society recommends that these avenues of magazine distribution be a regular part of Magazine Day activity.” That advice is still valid today. Congregations may schedule a regular Magazine Day, a day set aside primarily for magazine witnessing. For most congregations, specified Saturdays will no doubt be a good time. Yes, let each congregation set aside special days or evenings for magazine witnessing—from house to house, from store to store, in street work, and on magazine routes. In addition, what can you, the Kingdom publisher, do to help increase magazine distribution?”
______________________________________________________
As you can see these magazines I use to cut and paste are used for the purpose distribution by
all baptized JW’s. As a baptized JW we are given permission to use them to distribute to the public. If I choose to c/p then I can for the reason I have permission to use these magazines because I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I am a full time minister with the JW’s and have every right to use these magazines to further the good news., with the permission of the Watchtower Society.
My question is this though, How can those who set up websites contradict what the literate of the Watchtower says in such detail and without permission to use such information.
Notice this web site:
http://www.plagiarism.org/research_site/e_faqs.html
I quote from the above site:
“
Are all published works copyrighted?
Actually, no. The Copyright Act only protects works that express original ideas or information. For example, you could borrow liberally from the following without fear of plagiarism:
Compilations of readily available information, such as the phone book
Works published by the U.S. government
Facts that are not the result of original research (such as the fact that there are fifty U.S. states, or that carrots contain Vitamin A)
Works in the public domain (provided you cite properly) “
______________________________________________________________________
The Watchtower and Awake magazines are in the public and as a Jehovah Witness I am instructed by the Watchtower society to distribute these magazines to the public making them available to the public and for that reason alone as look as the information is presented in an accurate and proper manner, it is not plagiarism.
I quote from the site on plagiarism.org:
Do I have to cite sources for every fact I use?
No. You do not have to cite sources for facts that are not the result of unique individual research. Facts that are readily available from numerous sources and generally known to the public are considered "common knowledge," and are not protected by copyright laws. You can use these facts liberally in your paper without citing authors. If you are unsure whether or not a fact is common knowledge, you should probably cite your source just to be safe.”
(The Watchtower and Awake magazine are publicly know facts, they are magazines distributed to the public and with the permission and direction of the Watchtower organization. These Magazines are “Public knowledge”, otherwise how would such ones as those who try to dispute the information in them be able to know what is in them? The fact that some on this board know so much about what the Watchtower and Awake say, that proves that these are public knowledge.)
___________________________________________________________________________
I quote this from the same website listed above:
“Deciding if Something is "Common Knowledge"
Generally speaking, you can regard something as common knowledge if you find the same information undocumented in at least five credible sources. Additionally, it might be common knowledge if you think the information you're presenting is something your readers will already know, or something that a person could easily find in general reference sources. But when in doubt, cite; if the citation turns out to be unnecessary, your teacher or editor will tell you.”
( In all fairness the Watchtower and Awake is printed for the public and is distributed to the public,, thereby making it “public knowledge” or “common knowledge.” The information printed in the Watchtower and Awake can be found in five different sources available to the public.
1) The Holy Bible
2) The information found in the dictionary
3) Current events
4) Science books and Scientific information.
5) History books and Historical information.
By the way when ever one copies and pastes something with permission to distribute this information to the public as the Watchtower of 1994 says, and when it is information that is publicly available to anyone, then it is not plagiarism, but facts. So when I do C/P it is with permission and is something of common knowledge or public knowledge. The fact that Some on the board have in their personal possession this information, or can obtain this information shows that it is not a plagiarism or it would not be available for these one to contradict the information in the Watchtower and Awake magazines, nor would they be able to set up websites with quotes that are from these magazines. If they were not public then the same people who claim I am a plagiarist are one themselves.
With all due respect I have returned to “Answerway” to defend my rights as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and to state facts.
The copyright being the(Watchtower and Awake magazine printed by the Watchtower Society.)
grants to its holder/s (being Jehovah’s Witnesses that are baptized__) exclusive use of the expression of ideas in written works. Explicit permission must be obtained to reprint another's work in your text. Ideas, facts, or concepts themselves are not protected by copyright.
______________________________________________________
Also the fact that the Watchtower and Awake magazines are “Public knowledge.” They are not copyright for us as Jehovah’s Witnesses because the idea are what we believe and practice. When we become baptized Jehovah's Witnesses, the Ideas printed in the W&A become our own ideas and opioions, and way of life.We are an extention of the Watchtower Society in that we belong to it's worldwide family as a Baptized Jehovah Witness.
All information used in these magazines are taken from public information or quoted from other publications or stated as facts or current events and also from the Bible. All these publications and information are available to anyone who wants to read them.
There are some publications, CD’s and DVD’s and MP3’s that are not available to the public and are under copyright laws and these must stay private. Anything that is meant just for Jehovah’s Witnesses is copyrighted. Watchtower and awake are for the public and anything in them is copyrighted for the public. This is to keep some from taking the words that the Society prints and twisting them so as to make them mean something they were not intended to mean or to turn others away from Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Watchtower and “Awake are copyrighted to the public because they are not given permission as the JW’s have to use it and thereby they are committing plagiarism.
Take care,
Hope12
tropicalstorm answered on 01/23/07:At least with C/P your typo's are not your own, even if the content is what you hold as your own :) | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 01/23/07 - I have a question.
Why are people trying to prove evolution? If they do not believe in creation, then what difference does it make where we came from? Why not just sit back and relax?
If you do not believe in God, then why are you working so hard to prove He doesn’t exist? Does it hurt you for others to believe there is a God?
Now as a Christian, I want to convince people that there is a God, and that He wants them to come home to Him. I want to help them get saved. I want the best for them. I would like to see everyone on earth saved. I am sure that God does also.
But as an unbeliever, what do you hope to gain by making people not believe in God? What will you gain from this? But you go further than that. You also try to make them believe there is no hell. Why?
Does it make you feel better to believe there is no hell? Do you think it will help you make them believe there is no God, if you can make them believe there is no hell?
If you can convince yourself there is no hell, then you feel safer not believing in God. Then you think it will make others feel the same.
Why not just go ahead and believe what you want to, and leave others alone? Why do you want them to be lost also? I now pray for those, who you may influence with your lies. I also pray for you. In Jesus’ name.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/23/07:Why are people trying to prove evolution?===
To save us from ourselves!!!
| | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 01/22/07 - Man, could we use some of that here?
A Miracle Transformation
n Amish boy and his father were visiting a mall. They were amazed by almost everything they saw, but especially by two shiny, silver walls that could move apart and back together again. The boy asked his father, "What is this, Father?" The father responded, "Son, I have never seen anything like this in my life, I don't know what it is."
While the boy and his father were watching wide-eyed an old lady in a wheel chair rolled up to the moving walls and pressed a button. The walls opened and the lady rolled between them into a small room. The walls closed and the boy and his father watched small circles of lights w/numbers above the walls light up. They continued to watch the circles light up in the reverse direction. The walls opened up again and a beautiful 24 year old woman stepped out.
The father said to his son, "Go get your Mother."
tropicalstorm answered on 01/22/07:I want a ride on that small room my self.
Now, you know better than to post that here. That wheel chair could be considered equivalent to my pimpmobile, ya know! | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 01/22/07 - For those too lazy...... For those of you who MIGHT have been gullible enough to believe the disgusting post forwarded by Arcura...and for those like Tomder55, too biased to check:
BIRTH DATES FROM CONGRESSIONAL RECORD
Barbara Boxer - 11/11/1940
Hillary Rodham Clinton - 10/26/1947
Al Gore - 31 March 1948
John Kerry - 12/11/1943
Diane Feinstein - 6/22/1933
Bill Clinton - 19 August 1946
Nancy Pelosi - 26 March 1940
Howard Dean - 17 November 1948
Charles Schumer - 11/23/1950
What kind of disturbed mind would send that piece of "alien" drivel, and what kind of disturbed mind would repost it. ?????????? tropicalstorm answered on 01/22/07:Thanks D'
Don't know which category I fit in
Lazy
T** busy--(looking at other junk :))
or just don't give a crapola.
P.S. Don't bring the aliens down to drivel level thanx | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 01/22/07 - Ladies and Gentlemen : we've got him! I don't know if you saw this before, but here is some indication of what the Christian President of the US of A is practising for as an alternative job, after he leaves the White House (the sooner the better).
Forget drilling for oil. Or singing in the Sunday choir. Just hit him on the nose with your mouse to find out!
![]()
It's his duty : someone has to do it!
Add-on : No Fred : I do not have to prove that !
Add-on : No TSapphire : this is funny and ought to be shown to all on this Christianity Board !
Add-on : No Gossy : you may BELIEVE anything from me. Just don't post about it !
;)
tropicalstorm answered on 01/22/07:HAHA
BUT that really ain't funny
for the best of Bush
...and you will see funny
...if you watch these you CAN'T say I didn't beat you on humor!
http://www.jibjab.com/nuckin_futs
http://www.jibjab.com/originals/originals/jibjab/movieid/69
| | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 01/20/07 - Was mankind created, or were they evolved?
First, let us use a little common sense. Looking at the human body. Let us look at the eyes first.
They take an image and transfer it to our brain. The brain has information stored in it to identify what it is being shown. The brain tells the rest of the body, which needs to know, and these parts react, each in it’s own way.
Let’s say a train is coming, and you are standing in the middle of the track. Your feet and legs react in the way they should. They get your body off the track.
If you stick your hand in a pan of hot water. Your sense of feel tells your brain, your brain tells your hand to move.
The human body is to amazing to have just happened. Just study the body and see what you come up with.
Let me explain why God could not have written the bible. Everyone would know that there was a God, and there would be no need for faith. Everyone would run for the church and heaven would be full of the same kind that was kicked out with Satan.
God would have all this to go over again. There has to be faith, because without faith, it is impossible to please God.
Now if you do not want to believe in God, then you have that right. And I am sure you will find a reason to do so, so you think.
I have explained how to know that God is real. I will try again. First, Tell Him that you want to know Him. That you want to live the right kind of life. Ask Him to come into your life and live His life in you and you live your life in Him. Ask Him to forgive all your sins, and you will try to live for Him the rest of your life. Then you start to talk to Him every day. Anytime of day is alright.
When you have done this, in honesty, you will begin to feel the presence of Him. You will begin to know that He is real, because you can feel Him in your life. You will start to have a good life. Now I do not mean that you will not have any troubles. Satan will start to work on you. But remember this, you have the power to tell him to leave, and he has no choice but to do just that.
Your life will change to a way you never knew before. Believe I know what I am talking about. If you want this, just ask for it, mean it, and you will receive it. But you must mean it. Do not try to play games with God. That could cause you more trouble that you have ever had.
In Jesus Name.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/20/07:Humans share the same DNA with dirt so that doesn't prove anything except maybe we came from the dirt just like the banana grows from the dirt. All the DNA in the universe is the same basically it is just a matter of how it is structured!
DNA provides the basic codes that each plant and animal is made according to. The evolutionists' problem is the fact that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) has such complicated codes and locks each type of creature into its own pattern. Because of this, it would be impossible for evolution (which is the origin of species and change across species) to occur.
Inside every cell in your body is a microscopic ball. Inside it is a coiled six-foot strip of code! It is your DNA code, the primary code for your entire body. The whole thing is amazing.
In the center of each cell is a nucleus, and, among the complicated things in it, are 23 pairs of chromosomes. These are the strips, and on them are genes. They are like beads on a chain. Each gene has a large number of DNA units. There are about 60 thousand billion (60,000 x 1,000,000,000) cells in your body! Each one has your complete code. This code fixes your physical characteristics; it is your gene pool. All the data in each code set is equivalent to an unabridged dictionary.
It is clear that only a super mind could make all this! God made you; you did not make yourself. Seawater did not slosh around and do it.
Translation package needed. Not only was that astounding DNA code needed in your body for it to exist, but a translation code had to be there also! | | Question/Answer | | Hwood asked on 01/20/07 - Was mankind created, or were they evolved?
First, let us use a little common sense. Looking at the human body. Let us look at the eyes first.
They take an image and transfer it to our brain. The brain has information stored in it to identify what it is being shown. The brain tells the rest of the body, which needs to know, and these parts react, each in it’s own way.
Let’s say a train is coming, and you are standing in the middle of the track. Your feet and legs react in the way they should. They get your body off the track.
If you stick your hand in a pan of hot water. Your sense of feel tells your brain, your brain tells your hand to move.
The human body is to amazing to have just happened. Just study the body and see what you come up with.
Let me explain why God could not have written the bible. Everyone would know that there was a God, and there would be no need for faith. Everyone would run for the church and heaven would be full of the same kind that was kicked out with Satan.
God would have all this to go over again. There has to be faith, because without faith, it is impossible to please God.
Now if you do not want to believe in God, then you have that right. And I am sure you will find a reason to do so, so you think.
I have explained how to know that God is real. I will try again. First, Tell Him that you want to know Him. That you want to live the right kind of life. Ask Him to come into your life and live His life in you and you live your life in Him. Ask Him to forgive all your sins, and you will try to live for Him the rest of your life. Then you start to talk to Him every day. Anytime of day is alright.
When you have done this, in honesty, you will begin to feel the presence of Him. You will begin to know that He is real, because you can feel Him in your life. You will start to have a good life. Now I do not mean that you will not have any troubles. Satan will start to work on you. But remember this, you have the power to tell him to leave, and he has no choice but to do just that.
Your life will change to a way you never knew before. Believe I know what I am talking about. If you want this, just ask for it, mean it, and you will receive it. But you must mean it. Do not try to play games with God. That could cause you more trouble that you have ever had.
In Jesus Name.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/20/07:I wouldn't insult the monkey's saying they turned into us (more like devolving). On the other hand, some people do act like the missing link though. | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 01/20/07 - Who is it? Shhh who is it, I wont tell!
tropicalstorm answered on 01/20/07:sapphire_630
I got booted when I said that I didn't see why we couldn't all get along instead of reporting others (Choux, Aton, Pete,...) and getting them kicked off. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 01/19/07 - The Samaritan woman: Did Jesus mislead her when he said:
John 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews..
Shouldn't He have told her that salvation is of the Romans?
All are obliged to belong to the Catholic Church in order to be saved. The New Saint Joseph Baltimore Catechism. Page 80. tropicalstorm answered on 01/19/07:Thats as bad as JW's saying they are the only way. The Bible says Matt 7:23,24
22 Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' 23 Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' Romans says God will have mercy upon whom he will.
NO church can claim they have the truth or the only way! | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 01/18/07 - Now what message does this send? Political correctness may take a death blow when Australia's Prime Minister clearly aligns himself with a Pentacostal organisation noted for exposing the Muslim agenda. Fearless as ever, John Howard makes it clear that the Muslim vote isn't on his mind.
John Howard in religious hate row
By Gerard McManus and Michael Harvey
January 19, 2007 01:00am
Article from: Herald-Sun
JOHN Howard has been caught in a religious storm after taping a goodwill message for a fundamentalist Christian group accused of inciting anti-Islamic hatred.
Islamic leaders last night condemned the Prime Minister for appearing in a DVD message for Catch the Fire ministries.
The controversial movement has sponsored a major multi-denomination gathering in Melbourne on Australia Day.
But the PM's decision to back the event has been described as "dangerous".
Muslim community leaders said Mr Howard risked legitimising hateful anti-Islamic views.
"It sends quite a dangerous message to mainstream Australia that extremist views and hate speech is normal and justified," said former president of the Islamic Council of Victoria, Yasser Soliman.
The outcry comes as federal police launched an investigation into inflammatory comments by Sydney's Sheik Feiz Mohammed, which included a description of Jews as pigs and calls for children to die as "martyrs of faith".
The hateful comments appeared in DVDs of Sheik Feiz's lectures, being sold in Australia and the UK.
Acting Attorney-General Kevin Andrews said the Government was worried about a pattern of behaviour among outspoken Islamic leaders.
Mr Andrews described the comments as reprehensible and offensive.
Federal Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd called the sheik's rant obscene and demanded action.
"As I see it, Sheik Mohammed's comments add up to an incitement to terrorism," Mr Rudd said.
Catch the Fire has been at the centre of accusations two of its pastors exposed Muslims to hatred and ridicule.
Friday's Christian rally at Festival Hall is expected to attract up to 5000 people of various denominations.
Mr Howard is being promoted in flyers as delivering a keynote message which will be "personally directed to Catch the Fire ministries".
The rally will also say prayers against terrorism, for divine protection for Australia's armed forces and for the Government, according to organisers.
Pastor Danny Nalliah, one of two Catch the Fire ministers charged with breaking state vilification laws in 2002, last night refused to release the PM's message.
"I am not at liberty to say what the Prime Minister says in the message," Pastor Nalliah said.
"We asked him to speak on Australian values.
"This is a really big breakthrough to have all Christian denominations working together.
"This has been my heart and passion."
Last month the Victorian Court of Appeal threw out the charges brought in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Appeals Tribunal which had sought to jail Pastor Nalliah and Daniel Scot for allegedly inciting hatred, contempt, revulsion and ridicule of Muslims.
The pair have endured a long-running legal case, which has cost them about $150,000, but pledged to go to jail rather than retract their views.
Mr Soliman, a member of the PM's Muslim Community Reference Group, said Mr Howard should think twice about addressing the group.
"It is a dangerous thing for a senior politician to do," he said.
"I can't stop the Prime Minister addressing who he wants to, but he should be very cautious, especially with groups which have a history of toxic-hate speech."
Islamic Council of Victoria board member Waleed Aly described Catch the Fire as "spectacularly ignorant", claiming its members were in alliance with the far-Right League of Rights.
"If the PM wants to associate with these people, it's not a good look," Mr Aly said.
Other leading politicians who have addressed Catch the Fire ministries include Deputy Prime Minister Mark Vaile and Treasurer Peter Costello.
Mr Howard was travelling last night and a spokesman said he was unavailable to comment. tropicalstorm answered on 01/18/07:blah
blah, blah
All they all do is argue and contradict themselves. It is a headache. If they aren't "hate-speeching" Islam; Israel is getting hate speeched; if the democrats aren't getting hate-speeched Republicans are. Everybody wants to be right and all else wrong. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 01/18/07 - A tax saving tip for USA people. ................... This is true. You can check it out at:
http://www.snopes.com/business/taxes/excise.asp
><><><><
Tax Refund On Your Phone Bill
Print this out and put in your 2006 tax return folder. It is an easy $30 to $60. When it comes time to prepare and file your 2006 tax return, make sure you don't overlook the "federal excise tax refund credit." You claim the credit on line 71 of your form 1040. A similar line will be available if you file the short form 1040A.
If you have family or friends who no longer file a tax return AND they have their own land phone in their home and have been paying a phone bill for years, make sure they know about this form 1040EZ-T. What is this all about? The federal excise tax has been charged to you on your phone bill for years. It is an old tax that was assessed on your toll calls based on how far the call was being made and how much time you talked on that call.
When phone companies began to offer flat-fee phone service, challenges to the excise tax ended up in federal courts in several districts of the country. The challenges pointed out that flat-fee rate phone service had nothing to do with the distance and the length of the phone call. Therefore, the excise tax should and could not be assessed. The IRS has now conceded this argument. Phone companies have been given notice to stop assessing the federal excise tax as of 30 August 2006.
You will most likely see the tax on your September cutoff statement, but it should NOT be on your October bill. But the challengers of the old law also demanded restitution. So the IRS has announced that a one time credit will be available when you and I file our 2006 tax return as explained above.
However, the IRS also established limits on how BIG a credit you can get. Here's how it works
· If you file as a single person with just you as a dependent, you get to claim a $30 credit on line 71 of your 1040.
· If you file with a child or a parent as your dependent, you claim $40.
If you file your return as a married couple with no children, you claim $40.
· If you file as married with children, you claim $50 if one child, $60 if two children.
In all cases, the most you get to claim is $60 - UNLESS you have all your phone bills starting AFTER 28 February 2003 through 31 July 2006 do not use any bills starting 1 August 2006.).
You can add up the ACTUAL TAX AS IT APPEARS ON YOUR BILLS AND CLAIM THAT FOR A CREDIT. Now, if you have your actual phone bills and come up with an ACTUAL TAX AMOUNT, you cannot use line 71 on your tax return. You have to complete a special form number 8913 and attach it to your tax return.
Individuals using the special from 1040 EZ-T will have to attach this form 8913 also.
One final point :
This credit is a refundable credit. That means you get this money, no matter how your tax return works out. If you would end up owing the IRS a balance, the refund will reduce that balance you owe. If you end up getting a refund, the credit will be added and you get a bigger refund by that $30 to $60, depending on how many dependents are on your return.
Feel free to pass this on or make copies for family and friends who don't have computers.
tropicalstorm answered on 01/18/07:The disadvantage on not doing taxes I miss out on the little extras! | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 01/18/07 - Saddam Hussein Why is the Roman Catholic religion opposed to capital punishment?
The bible says
Genesis 9:6 Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.
Romans 13:1-7 1Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
But the Roman Catholic religion says
VATICAN CITY, JAN. 1, 2007 (Zenit.org).- In the wake of the execution of former Iraqi dictator Sadaam Hussein, the Vatican reaffirmed its condemnation of the death penalty.
Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, made that comment Saturday, the day Hussein was executed by hanging at a former military intelligence headquarters in Baghdad's Shiite neighborhood of Kazimiyah.
"A capital execution is always tragic news," he said, "reasons for sadness, even if it is about a person who has been guilty of grave crimes."
Father Lombardi added: "To kill the guilty one is not the way to rebuild justice and to reconcile society. The risk also exists that, on the contrary, the spirit of vengeance will be fueled and new violence be sown.
"In this dark time of the life of the Iraqi people one cannot but hope that all those responsible will make every effort so that in a dramatic situation channels of reconciliation and peace will finally be opened." Holy See Reaffirms Death Penalty Stance January 01, 2007 http://www.zenit.org/english/
tropicalstorm answered on 01/18/07:According to 'religious' teachings.
1.They also believe an eye for an eye and Saddam had how many people killed?
2. They justify executing murders by saying in the long run they are saving other potential victims lives.
3. They make a distinction between premeditated killing, degrees of killing, murder and execution.
I don't want to get into my personal rant one way or the other here and now. | | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 01/18/07 - A great loss I need to to say' I am sorry to all that answered the post below, the real reason I had posted that, was because it was my Husband that lost his fingers, his Boss, actually bragged to me about the money he gives to the Church, for the past two weeks, I couldn't believe people anymore, when I got the call about the accident, the Employer sent me to a different hospital al together, I had finally found my poor husband, although, when his Boss, had told me how he gives donations instead of paying the taxes, I was at a lost.
You had just shown me, that people are still good, and I'm not going crazy. I'm sorry for saying what the Employer told me. This has been very hard, and I wanted to go on here and find some kind of solution, but you have shown me, there is justice, there is love, there are people that care, and I am so sorry, but I am at wits end, it was my Husband that told me to go back on here, and tell the truth.
Every morning that I wake up, is just another nightmare, but everything the Employer told me is Truth.
I'm sorry. I only wanted truth, I'm happy to know there are still good people as you all are. tropicalstorm answered on 01/18/07:Your husband should sue the employer.
I don't believe in suing for all the crazy things people sue for nowadays; but when it comes to work and the employer was so callous, yeah you should see how much you can get and go for the max. You might win less than you sue for; but why go for less if you could have gotten more. The employer needs to get pay back | | Question/Answer | | Rosekeeper asked on 01/17/07 - As A Christian? As a Methodist Christian, and as owning a company, I have at least ten men working, can I not use these men as a donation, these men are poor, and I am rich, very rich.
My question is, one man lost his finger on my property, and he is one of my donation's. (This way, I don't have to pay tax's.)
Now he wants to take me to Court, he had only worked for me for fifteen years, but what is wrong with giving out donations instead of a pay roll.
Thank you, fellow Christians. tropicalstorm answered on 01/17/07:sounds like you are going about things all wrong and if you were a good business person. If you were a truly a caring Christian you would have thought of how to cover these issues before hand. Why don't you sub-contract if you are worried about taxes. Or better yet legally start your own charity.
If you are so rich why are you concerned about
paying some taxes, or even paying for the guy to get the care he needed before he took you to court!
As poor as I am, I do not consider the guys that work for me as donations. It sounds to me like you could pay your workers better since you are saving yourself the tax money and workmen's compensation or paying into unemployment.
NOT a good example of a Christian!!!
| | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 01/17/07 - How to prevent multiple posting
Please use the following guidelines until the problems with the server software have been solved :
- After completing the topic test press "submit" once.
- If the posting preview looks ok press "submit" ONCE. The screen will wait on a reaction from the server which - till the software problem is solved - can take so much time that your browser "times out".
- DO NOT PRESS "SUBMIT" AGAIN.
- Minimize the current screen, and click on the browser icon to open a SECOND BROWSER WINDOW
- Go in this second window to the AW question board to check if your new topic has been accepted.
In 99.99% of all cases it will.
- Close the second browser window and maximize the first browser window.
- DO NOT PRESS "SUBMIT" but the "PREVIOUS PAGE" arrow in the top left on your screen TWICE to return to the question board.
- ONLY in the 00.01% case that the topic is not displayed in the second browser window : close the second browser window and maximize the first browser window.
Press "SUBMIT" once. Than continue to step 4 till the topic is shown in the second browser window.
Any questions or comments?
tropicalstorm answered on 01/17/07:Often it is the sites fault the page sticks when you hit the submit button once. Then you aren't sure it will go through and you don't want to type your reply again.
When the page sticks and I am not sure if it went through I copy my reply and then do your # 7 and then check to make sure it went through. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 01/16/07 - To All: I did not click the submit botton but once. Something is wrong with Answerway. I am telling you all before you get angry and send me hate messages.
Hope12 tropicalstorm answered on 01/17/07:I remember askme would have that problem a lot.
You would click once and it would stick and go through multiple times.
I am back under an alias LOL | | Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 01/16/07 - 51% of American Women Living Without a Spouse "For what experts say is probably the first time, more American women are living without a husband than with one, according to a New York Times analysis of census results.
“A lot of my friends are divorced or single or living alone. I know a lot of people in their 30s who have roommates.”
In 2005, 51 percent of women said they were living without a spouse, up from 35 percent in 1950 and 49 percent in 2000.
Coupled with the fact that in 2005 married couples became a minority of all American households for the first time, the trend could ultimately shape social and workplace policies, including the ways government and employers distribute benefits.
Several factors are driving the statistical shift. At one end of the age spectrum, women are marrying later or living with unmarried partners more often and for longer periods. At the other end, women are living longer as widows and, after a divorce, are more likely than men to delay remarriage, sometimes delighting in their newfound freedom.
In addition, marriage rates among black women remain low. Only about 30 percent of black women are living with a spouse, according to the Census Bureau, compared with about 49 percent of Hispanic women, 55 percent of non-Hispanic white women and more than 60 percent of Asian women.
In a relatively small number of cases, the living arrangement is temporary, because the husbands are working out of town, are in the military or are institutionalized. But while most women eventually marry, the larger trend is unmistakable.
“This is yet another of the inexorable signs that there is no going back to a world where we can assume that marriage is the main institution that organizes people’s lives,” said Prof. Stephanie Coontz, director of public education for the Council on Contemporary Families, a nonprofit research group. “Most of these women will marry, or have married. But on average, Americans now spend half their adult lives outside marriage.”
Professor Coontz said this was probably unprecedented with the possible exception of major wartime mobilizations and when black couples were separated during slavery.
William H. Frey, a demographer with the Brookings Institution, a research group in Washington, described the shift as “a clear tipping point, reflecting the culmination of post-1960 trends associated with greater independence and more flexible lifestyles for women.”
“For better or worse, women are less dependent on men or the institution of marriage,” Dr. Frey said. “Younger women understand this better, and are preparing to live longer parts of their lives alone or with nonmarried partners. For many older boomer and senior women, the institution of marriage did not hold the promise they might have hoped for, growing up in an ‘Ozzie and Harriet’ era.”"
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I wonder if this trend, marriage not being the organizing institution of an individual's life, will have an effect on our religious institutions??
Anyone got any thoughts? tropicalstorm answered on 01/17/07:Heya choux, miss you!
I totally changed my name to get back here.
I think it has been changing. Churches for the past 10 years (well I don't know about the catholic church)have been realizing they have to work with peoples mess ups. I got divorced 10 years ago and pastors were telling the church do not get divorced. Now they understand that it is the way things are going and they can't change it so they are accepting it more and more. They are realizing that people make mistakes and sometimes it isn't worth spending the rest of their lives being abused over a wrong choice.
They would do better focusing compatibility counseling for young couples before they make a mistake. | | Question/Answer | | domino asked on 01/17/07 - Can God hate???? How do Christians reconcile the Dicotomous idea of a PERFECT God who can also HATE????
Thomas Aquinas, the preminent Christian theologian credited with the most viable theories for the existence of a Divine Creator, in his Summa Contra Gentiles states: "God hates nothing"...and this makes perfect sense in the context of absolute perfection...for the moment God falls victim to Hatred, he ceases to be PERFECT...he succumbs to the same vices that control men.
Yet the Bible makes manifold claims of God's hatredS..Is this not merely an excuse for the HATREDS DEAR TO MEN???? tropicalstorm answered on 01/17/07:God hates sin. It doesn't make him not perfect because you have to have the ying with the yang
You don't appreciate the sunny days as much if you don't know the dreary days. |
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