(April 5, 2017 at 10:00 am)Mister Agenda Wrote:SteveII Wrote:I see time after time objections lodged against Christians where it is clear that the writer does not know what they are talking about. Many of you argue about a caricature of Christianity to strengthen your arguments or justification in your mind that you are right. Other times, you fail to distinguish the actions of a person from what a Christian is. I think some clarification and discussion is in order.
What Christians are called to be (all based in the NT):
1. Has an undiluted devotion to Jesus.
2. Pursues a biblically informed view of the world.
3. Is intentional and disciplined in seeking God's direction.
4. Worships, and with a spirit of continuous repentance.
5. Builds healthy human relationships.
6. Knows how to engage the larger world.
7. Senses a personal "call" and unique competencies.
8. Is merciful and generous to those who are weaker.
9. Appreciates that suffering is part of faithfulness to Jesus.
10. Is eager and ready to express the content of his faith.
11. Overflows with thankfulness.
12. Has a passion for reconciliation.
Above list from http://www.christianitytoday.com/pastors...stian.html
What Christians are not required to have:
1. A specific view on Genesis 1
2. Anti-science opinions and/or philosophy
3. Belief that evolution is false
4. Misogynistic views
5. A worldview with gaps of logic or reasoning
6. Hatred for any group of people
Any additions to the list?
Other thoughts?
That rules out almost every American who calls themselves a Christian. So you're calling us ignorant because we deal with the majority of people who call themselves Christians (team Jesus people), not the true Christians as you define them. Sounds like the problem is really on your end, not ours.
I don't think that is true that this list rules out almost everyone. This is not my definition. I agree it is not your problem to remind Christians of their obligations--but making the distinction changes an argument from "Christianity is wrong because of xyz" to "these Christians are not living according to their instruction manual, so are therefore wrong on xyz".