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Scott McKnight: ""But my strong catholic mother says this, "Even if the whole theory of religion is based upon lies, all these false hopes [hypothetically] are just trying [and succeeding in certain places] to make people be kind to one another, and for everyone to get along."
So, promoting the positive effects of lying is okay, if it helps one to be kind and get along with others. I recall a similar sentiment; killing is okay in the Roman Empire's Christendom, if it helps people "get along".
Scott McKnight: "I agree, even if there was no Jesus, and the Bible's just a scam for church collection baskets to ring in some dough, i don't mind the fact that a large percentage of the world, follows the "Ten Commandments".
Seems reasonable, except when noting the commandment which demands there is only one god to be worshipped - it is that commandment alone that sets its adherents against their neighbor, community and society at large.
The issue is between one of "acceptance" and "application"... the "ten commandments" represent a "decree" addressed to "all" people in society, etc. If one actually believed the "ten commandments" were "authoritative", they'd apply judgment and action against those who didn't heed the words of "their God" (absurd word).
If one bears false witness against their neighbor, while in the service of their "One True God" (absurd word), then they are pardonable... to those who bear false witness against their neighbor without belief in a "God" - they are guilty and unpardonable.
In short, the "ten commandments" are mere "suggestions" to those who believe the most "important" rule is to serve/worship their "One True God" (absurd word). An individual who is steadfast in their service to the "One True God" (absurd word), will logically justify breaking "all" other commandments to ensure their "service" or freedom to "serve" continues.
The portions of the "ten commandments" that seem "reasonable", only have "integrity" when perceived from a non-theological/non-ideological (secular) point of view.
Scott McKnight: "I go to a catholic school too, i don't pray or anything, but i stand up and respect their religion, as i would hope they'd respect my thoughts and viewpoints on deity's and such."
There is no reason to believe you should receive respect from those who strictly adhere to a theology based on "god" above all else. If you hope for mutual respect, it will only come from those who see religion/theology from a secular point of view, or secondary to human affairs.
Feb 7, 2011, 6:24:41 PM
Posted to Proof that there is no god