Controlling?

Question

Why is it that when religion is brought up some of you believe that religion is controlling? I will agree that there are some extremists out there that do control, but religion is not meant to be controlling. We have our agency to choose for ourselves, its only when we sin are we denied any blessings promised to us from God. He cannot bless us when we do not obey. Ever since the beginning, Adam and Eve, we have had our agency. We all choose differently. So God rewards us differently. It's fact.

Its the same concept as rewarding a child or a pet genius. Do you reward your little brother if he breaks something? "Good job Billy. Mommy wanted that vase broken. Let's go to Chuckee Cheese." Not likely bright star?

I think hidden down deep into the non-believers comments is a fear of believing in something that punishes for wrong doing. Non-believers just can't face the facts of having to be accountable for their lives. I see the truth now. Non-believers believe in something, just not a God that punishes them because they are having too much fun in enjoying their sins, or law breaking. Thanks non-believers you just proved me right.

OUT

Fantasy? Your fantasy is believing in nothing. Just remember this, no commitment at all is a commitment to failure. You my friend are on the road to failure. Good luck on that well traveled path. Its broad and I guarantee the road markers are sure to point you in the right direction. The direction to temporary happiness and extreme misfortunes. Yeah, I sure won't be following you DREAMER.

My faith is based solely on my own understanding of it combined with factual knowledge that is only obtained through unselfish charity. Probably something that you have never participated in a single day of your life. Its amazing. Go back to playing you PS2 dude. Accomplish nothing and give zero to society. Thank you non society giver/society milker.

Answer 1

I believe religion is actually very "freeing," the opposite of controlling. By having guidelines, commandments to follow, it allows me to enjoy life to the fullest.
Having bad habits, like drugs, tobacco, and other addictions....now that is controlling. Ever try to give up an addiction? It is the very definition of being controlled. Religion frees you from those oppressions.

Answer 2

I guess it is a matter of degree. Some consider control as any aspect that alters behavior. Religion certainly alters behavior.

Consider christianity, with its concepts of heaven and hell. It is fundamentally a carrot/stick approach to behavior modification. Certainly, some would consider that approach very controlling.

Answer 3

Some?Most of the people here are Christ-rejecting fools.Don't bother with long rants.It is what they thrive on.Just keep holding fast the faith and answer questions.The planting of seeds is worthwhile.Some will take root,you know.

Answer 4

Ah, I think I see the misunderstanding here. Religion IS controlling. God is not "controlling" except when we allow Him to be ... and thank goodness He controls me, otherwise I'd be a big ole mess!

Answer 5

"We have our agency to choose for ourselves, its only when we sin are we denied any blessings promised to us from God."

That's not a tad controlling? Doesn't being cast into hell for eternity follow on from being denied blessings?

Answer 6

It attempts to rule you life with the empty threat of punishment and the empty promise of reward.

Answer 7

If you want to train your dog, you reward the good behavior and discipline the bad behavior. If that is not controlling, then what is controlling?

Answer 8

would u believe what u believe if u hadnt been told what to believe by your church leaders?

i love your last sentence ...its fact ...LOL

Answer 9

Good point.

Answer 10

Adam and Eve? hahahahahahahahahaha. People still take that part of bible literally??