Society & Culture - 17 September 2007

2007-09-17 13:01:33 · 28 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

people who always do what they think is right and hold out hope that there might be a god? is the church REALLY requisite for salvation?

2007-09-17 13:01:30 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

2007-09-17 13:00:11 · 2 answers · asked by ms_intellectual08 1 in Mythology & Folklore

how should i tell him to stick it where the sun does not shine
my bonus was 225.00 dollers

2007-09-17 12:59:36 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Etiquette

2007-09-17 12:59:35 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Thanksgiving

First of all, this is not meant to be racist in ANY way, I SWEAR !!! I'm about half Native American, part Scottish & part French, so if I was racist, I'd have to hate myself !

It seems to me that Native Americans and African Americans are similar, in that a big part of their native cultures and beliefs involve music & dancing. Cermonies, holidays, etc.

So my question is, just about anyone can name a famous African American singer, dancer, or actor, but there are relatively few Native American singers or dancers that are well known outside of their communities. I'm curious, why ?

Is it because Native Americans condsider these things sacred & don't care to share them with the outside world ? Would they consider that "selling out" ?

I really would like to know. Obviously, I'm mainly looking for answers from Native Americans.

2007-09-17 12:59:13 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

well theres this guy i my school that always picks fights with me i knew him for a long time but never been anything to friends with him i usually just ignore him. So today he kept calling me names and stuff and i walked away and as i was walking away one of his words actually got to me and i called him a homo and then he tackled me against the wall and held me by my collar i got really mad and pushed him really hard right at a picture frame and it cracked and thats when a teacher came and told both us to go to the office. The principle didn't really have time to discuss this so he just told us to go home and come back tomorrow and explain to him the story. So do u think I'm partly to blame for coming back and calling him a homo and do u think what i did was wrong because i have to explain this to my principle tomorrow and i don't feel the slightest guild lol

2007-09-17 12:59:12 · 17 answers · asked by Reno S 1 in Etiquette

Some persons who feel there is good in all religions consider it narrow-minded to believe that God would not accept most people no matter what their religion. But Jesus, who knew and reflected his Father’s thinking, took a different view. (John 1:18; 8:28, 29) None of us would reasonably charge the Son of God with being narrow-minded. Consider what he said in the Sermon on the Mount:
“Go in through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.”—Matthew 7:13, 14.
4 What does it take to be on that narrow road and have God’s approval? Some, in line with the modern liberal or ecumenical spirit, would answer, ‘Just do good and avoid hurting others,’ or, ‘All you need is to accept Jesus as your Lord.’ But Jesus said that much more is necessary:
“Not everyone saying to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one DOING THE WILL OF MY FATHER who is in the heavens will. Many will say to me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not . . . perform many powerful works in your name?’ And yet then I will confess to them: I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness.”—Matthew 7:21-23.
5 It is true that Jesus counseled against judging the inconsequential faults of others. (Matthew 7:3-5; Romans 14:1-4) But on the vital matter of religion, he exemplified the need to adhere to the Bible, and to do the will of the Father. Jesus condemned practices and teachings that conflicted with God’s Word. Why? Because he knew that religion is used by the Devil to ensnare people. (2 Corinthians 4:4) Satan’s stock in trade is falsehood, but presented in a way that makes it appealing. (Genesis 3:4, 5; 1 Timothy 4:1-3) Even among professing Christians there are religious leaders who serve the desires of the Devil. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15) Their teachings misrepresent the loving and generous ways of God. Is it any wonder, then, that Jesus exposed religious leaders whose teachings were contrary to the Scriptures?—Matthew 15:1-20; 23:1-38.
6 Many persons have, as it were, inherited their religion. Others just go along with the majority around them. But even if this is with sincerity, it can put a person on the ‘broad road leading to destruction.’ (John 16:2; Proverbs 16:25) The apostle Paul (also named Saul) had been zealous in his religion even to the point of persecuting Christians. Yet to be acceptable to God, he had to convert to a new way of worship. (1 Timothy 1:12-16; Acts 8:1-3; 9:1, 2) Later, he was inspired to write that some very religious persons then had “a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge.” (Romans 10:2) Do you have an accurate knowledge of the will of God set out in the Bible? Are you acting accordingly?
7 Do not take this lightly, perhaps feeling that if you are not quite on the right path God will understand without your having to make any changes. The Scriptures state that God’s will is for people to “come to an accurate knowledge of truth,” and then to live in harmony with it. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4; James 4:17) God foretold that in the “last days” many persons would ‘have a form of godly devotion but prove false to its power.’ He commanded: “From these turn away.”—2 Timothy 3:1-5.
HOW CAN YOU KNOW?
8 Although worship that pleases God must accord with “accurate knowledge,” examination reveals that most churches teach doctrines that conflict with the Bible. (Romans 10:2) For example, they hold to the unscriptural doctrine that man has an immortal soul. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20; see page 115.) ‘Is that teaching so bad?’ some may wonder. Do not forget that Satan’s first lie was that sin would not bring death. (Genesis 3:1-4) While death is now unavoidable, the teaching that man has an immortal soul tends to further Satan’s lie. It has led millions of persons into fearful dealings with demons who pose as the souls of the dead. And the doctrine makes the Bible truth about a coming resurrection of the dead meaningless.—Acts 24:15.
9 Conduct is also involved, for many religions accept or encourage holidays and customs based on belief in immortality of the soul. Halloween, All Souls’ Day and others are holidays of that sort, blending in practices drawn from non-Christian religions.
10 The mixing of non-Christian and supposed Christian religion extends to other holidays, such as Christmas. God directed Christians to commemorate Jesus’ death, not his birth. (1 Corinthians 11:24-26) And the Bible shows that Jesus was not born in December, which is a cold rainy season in Israel. (Luke 2:8-11) You can check almost any encyclopedia and see that December 25 was chosen because it was already a Roman holiday. Sir James Frazer observes:
“Taken altogether, the coincidences of [Christmas and Easter] with the heathen festivals are too close and too numerous to be accidental. . . . [Clerics] perceived that if Christianity was to conquer the world it could do so only by relaxing the too rigid principles of its Founder, by widening a little the narrow gate which leads to salvation.”—The Golden Bough.
11 After he learns the facts, what person who sincerely loves God would continue to accept beliefs and practices based on a compromise with pagan worship? To some persons these teachings or practices may seem like little things. But the Bible clearly says: “A little leaven ferments the whole lump.”—Galatians 5:9.
WAR AND MORALS
12 Jesus Christ set out another aid in identifying religion that is acceptable to God when he told his disciples: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” (John 13:34, 35) Most churches talk about showing love, but do they really urge showing the kind of love that Jesus did?
13 We have already seen that Christians in early centuries lived in line with the prophetic description at Isaiah 2:4. They ‘beat their swords into plowshares and would not lift up sword against each other nor learn war anymore.’ (See pages 166, 167.) What position have the churches and their clergy taken? Many men know from personal experience that the churches have approved of and blessed warfare—Catholics killing Catholics, Protestants killing Protestants. This certainly was not following the pattern Jesus set. Interestingly, it was the Jewish religious leaders who, claiming that national interests were at stake, approved of killing Jesus.—John 11:47-50; 15:17-19; 18:36.
14 As a further aid in determining whether a religious group has God’s approval, consider whether it upholds his moral standards rather than simply overlooking wrongdoing. Jesus tried to help sin-laden persons, including drunkards and harlots. His disciples were to do the same. (Matthew 9:10-13; 21:31, 32; Luke 7:36-48; 15:1-32) And if a person who had already become a Christian sinned, other Christians could help him, trying to restore him to God’s favor and to spiritual strength. (Galatians 6:1; James 5:13-16) But what if a person unrepentantly practiced sin?
15 That was true of a man in Corinth. Paul wrote:
“Quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. . . . ‘Remove the wicked man from among yourselves.’”—1 Corinthians 5:11-13.
God’s Witnesses follow God’s directions in this. If a gross sinner refuses to accept help and will not abandon his immoral way, such a person must be expelled or disfellowshiped from the congregation. Perhaps this will shock him to his senses. Yet, whether that happens or not, this course serves to protect the sincere members of the congregation who, though themselves imperfect, are striving to uphold God’s standards.—1 Corinthians 5:1-8; 2 John 9-11.
16 However, you may know of churchgoers who openly practice sin, perhaps even receiving special honors in their church because of their wealth or prominence. By refusing to follow God’s command to disfellowship unrepentant sinners, the churches cause others to think they might as well sin too. (Ecclesiastes 8:11; 1 Corinthians 15:33) God cannot approve of those who produce such fruitage.—Matthew 7:15-20; Revelation 18:4-8.
STAYING ON THE ROAD TO LIFE
17 Once you find the “road leading off into life,” you need to keep on studying the Bible in order to stay on it. Try to read the Bible each day; form a longing for it. (1 Peter 2:2, 3; Matthew 4:4) It will equip you for “every good work.”—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
18 Those good works include living by God’s moral standards, as well as being kind and helpful to others, especially those related to us in the faith. (James 1:27; Galatians 6:9, 10) That is how Jesus was. Besides setting a fine moral example, he healed the sick, fed the hungry and comforted the distressed. He especially taught and strengthened his disciples. Though we cannot copy his miracles, we can, as we are able, give practical aid to others, which may move some to glorify God.—1 Peter 2:12.
19 But Jesus’ good works involved more. He knew that the best work done for others was helping them to know what worship is acceptable to God and instructing them about God’s Kingdom purposes. This could help them to attain the goal of everlasting life in happiness.—Luke 4:18-21.
20 Christians today should likewise strive to be witnesses for God. They can witness by their fine conduct, which includes helping others and keeping themselves “without spot from the world.” (Isaiah 43:10-12; James 1:27; Titus 2:14) Also, they can take the “good news” right to the homes of persons, persevering in this work until God says that it is done. (Luke 10:1-9) Do you not want to help your neighbors, including your family, to learn about worship that God accepts? Then you, too, should share in the public expression of your faith; doing so can help others to find the road to life.—Romans 10:10-15.

2007-09-17 12:59:04 · 6 answers · asked by Keith 2 in Religion & Spirituality

just throwing it out there

2007-09-17 12:58:55 · 15 answers · asked by Jazzy Lady 5 in Other - Society & Culture

I thought over a day over what my Uncle had said about some stuff.
And.
There really isn't proof of god its more a matter of faith and love and trust and if your willing to take those steps to your religion choice. Just religions argue cause, they all want to be RIGHT and "prove something."
Evolution I believe has no proof you can't prove that the big bang happened and many other things they have theories on you can't prove you'd have to be back in time.


Although all that I am a Catholic still and a faithful one but, you can't really prove god exist all we have is historical text and artifacts.
Evolution I believe you can't prove that much of a deal.

Plus,
Interestingly.
We could possibly be from monkeys,.
God supposedly made humans on the 6th day.
And Monkey and other animals were made before.

2007-09-17 12:57:09 · 30 answers · asked by London qirl . 5 in Religion & Spirituality

2007-09-17 12:56:56 · 21 answers · asked by sjhencye 1 in Religion & Spirituality

2007-09-17 12:56:55 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Languages

2007-09-17 12:56:26 · 51 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

2007-09-17 12:55:48 · 16 answers · asked by Patrick the Carpathian, CaFO 7 in Religion & Spirituality

First, i'd like to say this is supposed to be a heated debate, because fighting ist'n what I am looking for. I have heard so many stories about Joseph Smith and my religeon(LDS), that Joseph would have to be over 1,000 years old to do everything that everyone said he did. Oh, and just to clear up mormons as we are usually called do not practice polygamy anymore. There's guy who lead away a small group of people and they did that, but they don't stand for our church. I ask my question because everyone always flames about lds people. I personally think that the only way to find out what really happened is research, but you can't always trust what you find. Yes, research about the lds chruch would include reaing the book of mormon. It's a good book, and it's not like you could get hurt from reading it. Once you've made your decision please don't get mad at people because of theirs. I myself respect other religeons, and hope that everyone will respect mine. This is not to make people mad.

2007-09-17 12:54:44 · 24 answers · asked by little_bude 2 in Religion & Spirituality

I was told that Islam and Muslims treat their women with respect but having lived in the area for a while I was shocked, single women are not permitted to go outside unless they are with a family member and they must be covered up, one woman told me women are treated worse than animals.

I was taking the girls for a walk and I had a dress on, not short, and I was spat on and called horrible names and a man told me to get off the street or I will be arrested for exposing my arms and legs, I was shocked, I never went out again, I was to scared. I saw lots more but don't like talking about it, it is too upsetting

I am glad women are not treated like that in Australia.Why are women treated like this there, Are they not Gods children as well, shouldn't they be treated with a bit more respect?

2007-09-17 12:52:32 · 7 answers · asked by TigerLily 4 in Religion & Spirituality

Or what it means? It's from my family's coat of arms, but I am clueless. Thanks for any help.


"donatio de rege sigismundo"

It may be Hungarian or a close by country.

2007-09-17 12:52:19 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Languages

I am reading it now. I asked this here instead of Books and authors because of it's subject matter. What are your opinions of his stuff. Merits? Critics?

2007-09-17 12:51:35 · 7 answers · asked by Praire Crone 7 in Mythology & Folklore

what do you guys think of other christians who preach or try to enforce their beliefs onto others. like today this guy who was at the college I go to who was saying that all jews, hebrews, jws, gays, mouthy women, etc are going to hell. And I mean like he really went at it and people asked questions but he couldnt answer them and yet kept insisting that every other religion is false.

So yeah, what do you guys think of people like this who enforce, not offer but enforce(or try to anyway) onto others.

2007-09-17 12:51:26 · 17 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

I just recently discovered that there was a senior citizen catalogy on answeres. Who would know to look under society and culture, then culture and groups. Did you have a hard time finding it, or just me? I was just wondering.

2007-09-17 12:51:12 · 35 answers · asked by pattypat999 3 in Senior Citizens

Dear God:
I know that I'm a sinner. I deserve Hell. But You sent Jesus to die for my sins. I believe that He died and rose again. I ask you now to forgive my sins, once an for all. I now receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Personal Saviour. Please come into my heart and save me, Help me to know I am saved and live for You, the rest of my life. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

2007-09-17 12:51:03 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

If Jesus was "a" god, how many gods are there?
Doesn't translating this passage "the word was a god" instead of "the word was God" violate the principal that Yahweh (Jehovah) is the only God?

2007-09-17 12:49:47 · 20 answers · asked by Graham 5 in Religion & Spirituality

i humped a virgin mary today. dont ask why i was bored and really hyper does that make me a sinner? lmfaoo imnot godly or anything but its not as tho i dont belive in him i belive in god and stuff i just dont belive in religons telling you how to worship him

but anyway does doing that make me a sinner?

2007-09-17 12:49:36 · 22 answers · asked by Caitlin 1 in Religion & Spirituality

ok i found a costume but i dont know if its good
(im using it it scare little kids)
ok on this website go to videos and then the sixth one over
its orange
http://www.zagonestudios.com/

2007-09-17 12:49:28 · 3 answers · asked by wess396 1 in Halloween

or, do you have your own version of history just like you have your own version of the Bible like the KJV?

2007-09-17 12:48:25 · 26 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

was homer the writer of the iliad or was he just the main characters?

2007-09-17 12:47:15 · 9 answers · asked by Taylor 1 in Mythology & Folklore

the fact that they've never seen God in a concrete form, therefore they claim it's not possible for God to exist. yes, i'll admit -- never seeing God in a concrete form is a justification for belief. however, you can't say it's proof, or that you're absolutely correct, or others are stupid for believing otherwise.

(talking about theism in general, not a specific religion or God.)

2007-09-17 12:47:05 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

Not trying to offend anyone. Just curious as to what you people have to say.

2007-09-17 12:45:59 · 29 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

people often base their religious views off of logic, saying it's "unlikely God is real because i've never seen him". logic works for worldly situations, but if we've never encountered a spiritual situation, how do we know logic works for that too? yes, you can say there are no spiritual situations -- but you have to admit they are a possibility (because the existence of God cannont be disproven. it's near impossible to prove a negative, especially an abstract one). and because they are a possibility, and we don't no logic works for them, you can't really use logic to justify your beliefs, because there's the possibility of the existence of a concept that cannot be proven through logic. yes, i will admit -- that use of logic is definitely a justification for belief. but it is definitely not proof.

your thoughts? please no religious bashing. i respect your religion, please respect mine. if you have an urge to reply in an obnoxious fashion, please don't reply at all.

2007-09-17 12:44:37 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality

Let's be nice about each other's religions for a change!

Name the ONE aspect that you know and admire about a different religion!

2007-09-17 12:43:46 · 26 answers · asked by Anonymous in Religion & Spirituality