I don't get it.

[hoppy]

Originally Posted by buttercup

What about the amount of elderly that suddenly turn to god. Is it a fear of dying that brings that about or the company of being part of the group or do they just find god later in life?

Maybe it just comforts them. Maybe they just want to cover all the bases. You'll know when you get to old age.

[spot]

Originally Posted by Kathy Ellen

Yes NV...I agree that's what church should be about..helping your neighbors and being kind to each other. Good for you and hubby

I'm not sure one can call the Elks Lodge a religion. I note that it's as equally open to Muslims as it is to Christians, for example. A belief in God is a requirement for membership.

As for the matter of opinion being disparaged on FG, I dispute that. I've frequently challenged posters for evidence when they've given an opinion of fact (such as, for example, whether the death penalty deters potential murderers) but never when they've given an opinion of belief (such as whether they feel good when a convicted murderer is executed, regardless of the inevitability that some people will be convicted of murder where in fact it turns out later that they didn't commit the crime they were accused of). Religious opinion is primarily a personal statement, not a question of fact.

[Samuel]

Originally Posted by buttercup

In your own words without quoting some holy book please.

Why do you feel the need for gods, religion, praying, churches, temples whatever you call your place of worship.
Do you need something to believe in, why?

I think what it boils down to is a need to know how we came to exist. Was it an accident? Or is there a creator behind our existance?

Most people want a purpose in their lives that has some meaning other than just having a good time before we die.

[Samuel]

Originally Posted by buttercup

Ok so you believe there is a god, why do you prey to him or her, why do you need a place to do it in with others.

I think the Creator wants us to have a relationship with Him. He draws us to Him.

We don't need a place to pray to God; we can pray anywhere at anytime, but being a part of a church community, in my case, allows me fellowship with others -- sort of like a family.

[Samuel]

Originally Posted by buttercup

If your god does not need elaborate buildings why are they elaborate? They are often the largest buildings in any town or city. Does it make you feel a better person for providing these things even knowing that he/she does not want or need them? That does not make sence to me either.

A lot of churches are very plain. A church is the house of God and it should be beautiful.

Having a beautiful church does not make me feel like a better person.

[Samuel]

Originally Posted by Peg

What I don't get is people who go to church ever week, never missing, yet you see them in the bar drunk, talking nasty about people behind their backs, etc. If that is what religion is all about, it's not for me.

There are a lot of people in all religions who do not follow the teachings of their religions.

Christianity does not teach that it is OK to get drunk in bars or talk nasty about people -- it teaches the opposite.

The point is to follow the teachings of the New Testament, in my case, and not to follow what men do.

[Ted]

One thing is for sure. Christianity does not hold a monopoly on error and misbehavior.

Shalom
Ted

[fuzzywuzzy]

havent seen you around for a bit Ted? missed you

[farmer giles]

Originally Posted by hoppy

I feel the same way as you about providing links for every damn word said. Hey, if I found this item, someone else can find it. I like to say, "it's in the book. Look it up".

er got a link to prove that hopster

[buttercup]

Hi Samuel
How very nice to meet you. Thank you for responding to my questions.

Originally Posted by Samuel

I think what it boils down to is a need to know how we came to exist. Was it an accident? Or is there a creator behind our existance?

Does science not answer how we came to exist? Why do you choose a creator over science?

Most people want a purpose in their lives that has some meaning other than just having a good time before we die.

Do you think people who do not believe in a god are just about having a good time and their lives have no meaning, surely not?

Originally Posted by Samuel

I think the Creator wants us to have a relationship with Him. He draws us to Him.

I think that's fair enough if you want to believe that, i struggle with that belief personally.

We don't need a place to pray to God; we can pray anywhere at anytime, but being a part of a church community, in my case, allows me fellowship with others -- sort of like a family.

Surely the same could be said for most groups or clubs?

Originally Posted by Samuel

A lot of churches are very plain. A church is the house of God and it should be beautiful.

I have yet to see a plain church, even the smallest most remote places have spectacular stained glass windows which must have cost a fortune but yes, i see your point in why you would want it to be a beautiful place and if your prepared to pay for it, fair enough.

Having a beautiful church does not make me feel like a better person.

But you have just said the house of god should be beautiful, your contributions and those of your congregation payed for that and maintain it. It must make you feel better about yourself in doing so? EG: Putting a new roof on your church.


May i ask what religion you are or what your beliefs are in your religion? Also do you think there is only one god and all the other religions are wrong? Thanks.