When somebody asked a question recently about a hypothetical $500million for which the only requirement was that you stopped praying to God and going to church.
My understanding of Christian thought is that:-
a) You are supposed to love your neighbour and that is not just restrained to those next door, or even just in your city
b) You are supposed to do good works, ie things that would meet with God's approval. In this case the amount of good work could be very large.
The sacrifice asked was only a personal one and did not include going to Hell. The bottom line seemed to be "are you prepared to make sacrifices for the well being of others"? I thought this was a fundamental attitude expected of Christians, the example being set by Christ Himself. Judging by the large proportion of "No"(ie people saying they would not accept the money) answers, then my understanding must be wrong on these points. Please tell me why it is wrong? Funners kindly abstain.
2007-10-18 04:02:25 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I answered that question, and my problem with the idea is this (I didn't really explain it in my answer to the question this is in reference to):
For me, Christianity is more than a religion. It truly is a relationship. I spend a LOT of time in prayer, just communicating with God. I wouldn't give that up for anything.
I've seen what can happen when a person prays. Why would I sacrifice that?
I said in my answer I'd be tempted. But why would I sacrifice my relationship with God for ANYTHING?
While Christians are supposed to do good works, our relationship with God should come fist. It's by grace that we're saved. It's by works that we reflect our Creator. I can do good works without 500 million dollars.
2007-10-18 04:16:16 · answer #1 · answered by The_Cricket: Thinking Pink! 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you think about the proposal logically - if you truly value helping others then for theists wouldn't that be a small thing to ask for the opportunities $500M would allow?
I'm an atheist and work for 2 charities as often as I can. If the situation were reversed I would go to church every week and at least go through the motions of praying for the good that I could do with the $500M.
2007-10-18 11:07:49 · answer #2 · answered by Demetri w 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Christians can't count to 5 let alone 500million
.
2007-10-18 11:06:42 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 2⤋