Hmmmmmmmmm, is it time to pray for Oprah's salvation ? ? ?

lol... I can see the conversation now: "Sorry bro... you'll have to find a stalking partner elsewhere. But you have fun with that! I'll be trying out my new clubs."

 

I have breakfast with a guy who used to do that when he was a younger. He said that he believed he was doing what God wanted him to do (he had been taught to go forth and make disciples - not realizing the difference between disciples and converts). He said that looking back on it, he wasn't motivated out of love for those who he "witnessed" to, but out of a selfish desire to gain/earn God's favor - something he now realizes he already has.

 

Excellent comparison.

 

I've highlighted the above line as that was exactly my point (and something my mother used to remind us all the time when we were having these discussions at the dinner table) . No one can be absolutely sure that what they are following is the `truth'. We (as human beings) go with what sits well with and works within our own belief system.

SDS, again - what is "proven" for you - may not and is not proven for others. A great deal of the "paths to heaven" are quite different for a number of religions.

 

While I agree with AK's position that no one knows with absolute certainty if his beliefs are true (until it's too late to change his mind), my experience has taught me that all beliefs do not share an equal amount of integrity. Some withstand scrutiny decidedly better than others.

 

It also depends upon one's social bias. We are predisposed to accept that which we are most familar with culturally and to dismiss those things that don't fit into our preconceived notions.

 

That's true, too, and it's the wrinkle that makes objectivity especially challenging.

 

I agree and am surprised that a moderator of this forum would post something so short sighted.

 

I guess you are referring to me .

I may be one of the moderators here, but I am surely entitled to share my opinion - as of course, you are yours .

 

As short sighted as it may be....of course.

I guess the ideal moderator here would have at least a passing knowledge of several religions and not be prone to knee jerk reactions like yours.

But of course LarryD is entitled to have whomever he wants.