For example, if you could convert someone to your way of thinking by deceiving them, would that be an acceptable practice? How about coercing them through other means?
(I'm not referring to preventing murder or gross harm by lying to a ruffian. That situation calls for good judgment).
Please state your personal faith tradition in your answer.
2006-09-24 08:49:22 · 13 answers · asked by NHBaritone 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
i wouldnt try to convert anyone to my religion
if people dont join a religion because it simply meets their spiritual/religious needs then that is not the right place for them to be
so no converting .. no coercing ... no matter what
spiritualism
2006-09-24 08:53:52 · answer #1 · answered by Peace 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
As far as I understand this branch of Catholic theology, no, the ends do not justify the means. We are responsible and accountable for our actions, and if we lied to achieve a good end, we have still lied and we have to deal with that.
Now, there is also the question of decision making in moral theology. This isn't as much about the ends justifying the means but deciding if an act, given the set of circumstances, can be the right thing to do. I'm thinking about situations like the Terry Schiavo case - big issues with extrodinary circumstances. In these kind of cases, a Catholic (or anyone) is encourages to seriously research and reflect on what scripture and tradition, religious law, human law, the sciences, and one's own experiences say about the situation. After dealing very seriuosly with all this, a person makes a decision to the best of his or her ability. It might not have been the "right" decision in God's eyes, but if we really truly do the very best we can, I do believe that God forgives. After all, the God that I personally believe in would not punish someone for doing the best she can.
2006-09-24 08:56:29 · answer #2 · answered by Church Music Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2016-10-17 21:46:10 · answer #3 · answered by templeman 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would not deceive or coerce anyone into becoming a Christian. in any manner. If I did this, they may say yes, but then not 'really' be getting saved ... as they may just be saying yes, doing what I ask, and not be led to make a decision with their heart.
When I talk with someone, I just share what God has done in my life, then they will usually ask how, or I ask if they would like me to share with them..
2006-09-24 09:02:37 · answer #4 · answered by son-shine 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The end never justifies the means. Jesus is the way the truth and the life. It is impossible to convert someone to the truth by telling lies. There are no other ways than to preach the truth of the gospel.
2006-09-24 08:56:45 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Christian - Lying or deceiving is unacceptable.
I only will speak the truth found and backed up with the Holy Bible.
It's not my teaching...It's God's Word.
May everyone find the grace of the living God and His Son Jesus!
2006-09-24 08:53:00 · answer #6 · answered by Salvation is a gift, Eph 2:8-9 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
By deceiving people that would be false witnessing. Though many practiced that, they have formed false religions.
I simply live my life, share my past and they see for themselves what God has done for me. I don't have to preach.
2006-09-24 08:54:56 · answer #7 · answered by i serve HIM 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Of course they do. The religious will stop at nothing to convert you. They see their beliefs as the only truth, so anything is ok to get others to believe it.
2006-09-24 08:52:02 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
No. Deception is the devil's work. Do not accuse Christians of deceptive practices!
2006-09-24 08:55:24 · answer #9 · answered by Preacher 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nope.
If one spreads negative energy some day, some how it will come back and bite them on the butt.
Besides I have no desire to convert anyone to my religion.
But I'll give you a nickel if..........
;-)
2006-09-24 08:53:23 · answer #10 · answered by Pablito 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋