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Originally Posted by Kitana85
HOWEVER, as you pointed out, many, including, many RC's, Episcopalians (me), E. Lutherans, etc, are more tolerant, however, they (we), will most often admit that thought that is what the scripture says, we basically aren't listening to that part.
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This is the point I'm trying to make. Some Christian denominations do not feel that same strong duty to convert unbelievers. As you say, they are essentially ignoring scripture in order to do this. Well, why is that? Are they bad Christians? Are they going to hell? I think some of them would say that The Bible was written by humans and is thus not a perfect work to be strictly adhered to. You can agree or disagree with them. The point is, it's their
interpretation. And they can support their position as intelligently as anyone.
Other denominations believe it is their duty to convert unbelievers, as you said. And that's because, I suppose, they take the Bible as the literal word of God and infallible, meaning that every single verse must be adhered to.
The differences between these groups, as you said, is how they interpret the Bible. And yes, you can't really construe the Bible as saying, "Don't go forth and spread my word." But you can question whether that's really so important and worth paying attention to.
Here's the thing, though: all Christian denominations accept (at least in theory) material wealth has nothing to do with the strength of our moral character or whether we are living the good life. Ask any devout Christian about that and they will all give the same answer. And on that point, they also agree with Muslims. And Jews. And Buddhists.
I submit to you that this is no coincidence. And if the idea is so universal, maybe it's worth paying some close attention to. And maybe that's the really important message of religion. Any of them.