A quote from Chris at The Normal Christian Life who references a Parchment and Pen post. (This P&P post is very honest and commendable. I was not aware of this blog before, but it’s on my list now. But, I have to ask: what is it with “orthodox” Christians and U2??? I don’t get it. I mean, sure, they are good, but come on!) Anyway, the quote:
Oh! I long for a humble approach to theology, one that does not smack of having a corner on the truth, one that teaches Christians rather than validating a doctrinal statement or “my position.” Such a humble approach just might encourage Christians to be excited about learning the truth.
Amen, Chris! When it comes to God, it’s amazing how many people have the attitude that “I may not know everything there is about God but I know enough to know absolutely that you are absolutely wrong!” It’s absurd! And if they didn’t take themselves so darn seriously, it would be laughable.
Is it possible when it comes to religion? Mystical Seeker makes some excellent comments about the “discussion” Liberal Pastor and James McGrath are trying to have with “a militant atheist blogger.” But the “live and let live” attitude is one that I, personally, find impossible with some people. Not that I cannot live and let live, but I find their beliefs make it impossible for them.
Some Christians believe that everyone who is not a Christian is going to hell and will burn forever in eternal torment. Furthermore, they are believe that they are commanded by Jesus to go out and make disciples of everyone; i.e. convert everyone to their religion. This is what they believe. Now, how is it possible to let them live and hold their beliefs when it inevitably means that that they will try to convert everyone to their way of thinking? It is impossible for them to live and let live. They must convert the heathens.
Some atheists believe that religion is the cause of much of the problems in the world. They believe that some of those who are trying to convert everyone go too far and do violence and irreparable damage. And they can point to specific examples which cannot be denied. So, they, too, cannot live and let live because they see a danger that must be stopped.
So, how do we tell the fundamentalist and the atheist that they cannot follow their beliefs when we complain that they do not let us follow our own beliefs? How do we curtail the damage done by some while still trying to maintain the live and let live attitude?
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