What exactly was ludicrous? People are victims of crime, and god does nothing to protect. You agree. People starve, and god lets it happen. You agree. Monsters roam the earth and do horrific things to huge groups of people. You agree. What part was ludicrous? Or are you really saying that because of his wisdom, we have no right to question the inaction of a god that believers are always trying to assure us is loving and powerful?
I was speaking in general.
I also said that the question of suffering is a valid question. I just don't think people like the possible (and also valid) answers to it.
We agree 100%. And so, we are both operating as though there is no god. People do things. Others suffer. The existence of a god that does not act, and no god at all changes nothing about this.
Not really accurate. Knowing God and having His son and spirit, comforts and brings both peace and strength... even during times of suffering. I think that you will find few people with faith in God who will blame him for their suffering, but you will find many who rely on Him to help see them through their suffering.
I do not know about the future... but right now, it is up to us to to make the changes to help stop suffering. If we turn our heads or do nothing or contribute to suffering even once, then we have no leg to stand on in blaming God for the suffering, or for not ending the suffering we are causing.
Are you a slave for god? Did Jesus condone slavery? Did he ever say set the slaves free?
I am whatever I choose to be. No one forces me into anything. I choose to serve God and His Son (as poorly as I might be doing that) Not condemning something outright is not the same as condoning it. Telling people to do unto others as you would have them do unto you, does take care of that though. As well as him not purchasing slaves for himself, or taking slaves for himself.
Perhaps not, but we certainly have not found that world by nourishing the notion of a god either. On the contrary, such notions have even intensified suffering at times.
And eased it at other times.
Possibly, but I think you are letting god belief off the hook. Believers weren't always the pawns of kings, on the contrary, it was often reversed. I suppose you are right though. If someone is cutting people up with an axe, what sense does it make to take away the axe---they will only pick up a machete.
Wow. We agree on something on this topic ;)
Again we both agree that malnutrition is often brought on by the actions of humans. So again, we are both operating in a god free zone here. The planet has the food, we won't share. God is absolved of all inaction. It is up to us. Let's not waste time praying and
building churches.
I don't think praying is the wast of time responsible for anything. Praying can be done while you're doing anything else. As for churches, I assume you're referring to 'big business' churches. Like the rock star evangelical things and such? I agree, money would be better spent elsewhere. At the same time, many other churches are responsible for a lot of the charities and giving to the poor and needy in our cities. Secular non-faith groups are going to have to step it up before they can speak against the faith charities. Because at least right now,
someone is running these organizations and charities. Now, you know I'm not religious. But I won't attempt to slam something that is giving time and money to the needy of society, and where I am, that comes free with no obligation for anything. Just people trying to follow the words of Christ. More power to them; I couldn't care less if they are right or wrong in their beliefs.
If this were true, then the faithful would be healed. The unfaithful would never go into spontaneous remission. Children that are still too young for faith---nevermind---it only gets stickier. One must have faith to be healed---but don't count on it. I'm sure such a notion brings a great deal of comfort to the faithful that are suffering terribly. The problem is their faith.
There are other reasons. Affliction of the flesh is affliction of the flesh and most of faith understand this and know that they are more than their physical bodies. Some simply accept that. And most (imo, including myself) do not have that kind of faith that knows and does not have a moment of doubt. Even Peter, knowing Christ is there and also walking on water... doubted. Out of fear.
So this is a part of the bible that you believe was accurately transmitted and not corrupted in any way. But if I were to point out some of the atrocities, you would tell me that we don't need to accept that part. Good to know. Walking on water---yes. Genocide---not so much.
Look at Christ to know what is or is not truth. Since Christ IS the truth. Did Christ promote genocide or commit it? Then genocide is out.
Peace,
tammy