THE MORNING RANT: Ayaan Hirsi Ali’s Latest Religious Conversion & the Act of Choosing to Become a Christian

Ayaan Hirsi Ali recently announced that she has decided to become a Christian. She had previously renounced the Islamic faith of her youth, embracing atheism while also educating westerners on the truth about the teachings and practices of radical Islam.

Ms. Ali’s account of her latest religious conversion generated much discussion among Christian conservatives, some of it critical, because the account of her decision to become a Christian lacks any actual discussion about faith or acceptance of Jesus as her savior. In fact, she never mentions Jesus at all.

As Ms. Ali makes clear, she is making a calculated decision – a decision that is somewhat political - to become a practicing Christian. My journey to become a practicing Christian was similar in some ways, which I’ll briefly delve into, so I pray that the rational decision process that has led Ms. Ali through the chapel doors will blossom into genuine faith with all of its rewards.

“Why I am now a Christian; Atheism can't equip us for civilisational war” [Unherd – Aayan Hirsi Ali – 11/11/2023]

To understand why I became an atheist 20 years ago, you first need to understand the kind of Muslim I had been. I was a teenager when the Muslim Brotherhood penetrated my community in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1985.

Suffice it to say, the religious indoctrination that she received from the Brotherhood, along with its accompanying hatreds, was rather ugly.

You can see why, to someone who had been through such a religious schooling, atheism seemed so appealing.
So, what changed? Why do I call myself a Christian now?

Here she begins to describe the socio-political reasons why a person would want to identify as a Christian.

Part of the answer is global. Western civilisation is under threat from three different but related forces: the resurgence of great-power authoritarianism and expansionism in the forms of the Chinese Communist Party and Vladimir Putin’s Russia; the rise of global Islamism, which threatens to mobilise a vast population against the West; and the viral spread of woke ideology, which is eating into the moral fibre of the next generation.

Ms. Ali has come to understand that the foundation of western civilization is Christianity, that western civilization is under assault, and that it cannot be saved without once again making Judeo-Christianity the cornerstone of the western world.

But we can’t fight off these formidable forces unless we can answer the question: what is it that unites us? The response that “God is dead!” seems insufficient. So, too, does the attempt to find solace in “the rules-based liberal international order”. The only credible answer, I believe, lies in our desire to uphold the legacy of the Judeo-Christian tradition.

As she continues to point out, not only is radical Islam and its colonizing forces a religious threat to western civilization, so are wokeness and the Church of Climate.

We can’t fight woke ideology if we can’t defend the civilisation that it is determined to destroy. And we can’t counter Islamism with purely secular tools.

While it is easy to criticize Ms. Ali for her seemingly faith-less embrace of Christianity, she does reveal that a seed has been planted in her that can grow into real faith as she learns the good news of the gospel.

Yet I would not be truthful if I attributed my embrace of Christianity solely to the realisation that atheism is too weak and divisive a doctrine to fortify us against our menacing foes. I have also turned to Christianity because I ultimately found life without any spiritual solace unendurable — indeed very nearly self-destructive. Atheism failed to answer a simple question: what is the meaning and purpose of life?

Seth Dillon of The Babylon Bee points out, fairly, that there is a lack of actual belief in Ms. Ali’s conversion story. ”There’s a big difference between believing that Christian values are good for the world and believing in Jesus Christ as your savior. There’s no mention of Jesus in this conversion story.”

There's a big difference between believing that Christian values are good for the world and believing in Jesus Christ as your savior. There's no mention of Jesus in this conversion story.https://t.co/i2JTB6PrH3 pic.twitter.com/Mw3VmJvI4l
— Seth Dillon (@SethDillon) November 13, 2023

Mr. Dillon also embraces the hope that Ms. Ali becomes a Christian in faith, not just in affiliation. ”I hope that she does become a Christian. But it’s important that people understand that being a Christian means more than finding Christianity attractive, useful, or preferable to some other religion.”

Seth Dillon - I hope she becomes a Christian.JPG

Like Ms. Ali, I chose to become a practicing Christian even though I was not necessarily a believing Christian at the time. I hoped the faith would follow.

Unlike Ms. Ali, I grew up in what was technically a Christian church before I abandoned organized religion. The mainline protestant church I grew up in was “Christian” in name, but by the time I left in the ‘90s it had been captured by left-wing activists who loved the rituals and vestments, but clearly didn’t believe in the tenets of the faith.

I had reached a point where I couldn’t handle one more ”forgive us for placing material wants over worldly needs” type of prayer-read-in-unison, and frankly, I couldn’t honestly state that I was a believer. I disaffiliated from my congregation, and for about 20 years thereafter I only attended a worship service as a guest of family.

Over those next 20 years I felt comfortable calling myself agnostic, although I remained culturally Christian, as well as a political ally of actual, practicing Christians. I also still loved the great hymns of the Faith, and in low moments I could still gain comfort from sitting down at the piano and playing those beautiful old hymns. The seed of Christian faith remained in me.

It was about a dozen years ago that my wife and I chose to leave the deep-blue Texas city where we had lived most of our lives. It wasn’t just the heat and the traffic we sought to escape, it was also the oppressive religiosity of the left-wing culture warriors who had gained control of local power, and who were implementing a woke, green sharia with theocratic zeal. This is when I started referring to the religion of these people as “The Sustainable Organic Church of the Carbon Apocalypse.”

People are inherently religious. It was almost certainly a factor in our evolution and survival as a species, helping to create family units, parenting structures, agricultural practices, forbidden destructive behaviors, etc. which allowed humans to flourish. But being inherently religious, we’ll rapidly adopt evil religious practices where there is a void from good religions. Anti-humanity death cults (the Church of Climate, radical Islam) have filled the void where Judeo-Christianity has retreated.

Compared to Austin, the southern bible-belt city we moved to was a refreshing breath of fresh air for how indifferent it was to how people lived their lives. You might hear “Have a blessed day” at a restaurant or dry cleaners, but no one was going to hector you for not composting your napkin.

About this same time, my wife wanted to learn more about the “spiritual solace” enjoyed by so many Christians in our new town, and I was eager to inoculate myself against the alternative religious practices of anti-Christian America. So, we found a solid, non-denominational, bible-based church that stressed faith, forgiveness, and Jesus as the savior. My wife’s faith was developing faster than mine, but I was definitely on board with the two of us identifying as practicing Christians.

A couple years later I received an unfavorable medical diagnosis which necessitated major surgery with a difficult recovery, and possible life altering (or shortening) results. Then something very powerful happened that accelerated my faith. Without me requesting prayer, people that I wasn’t even particularly close to kept telling me that they were praying for me, and not just a casual “I’ll pray for you,” but specifics on how and when I’d been prayed for. A co-worker whom I had no relationship with outside the office informed me that his congregation was lifting me up in prayer. A friend of my mother in another state – a person whom I had never met – sent word that her church was lifting me up in prayer. Clients told me that they were including me in their daily prayers.

I healed successfully from the surgery and my body was rid of the disease. Did the prayers on my behalf help my body heal? Perhaps. Maybe not. But I know for a fact that those prayers helped my soul heal at a scary time, and it helped strengthen my faith. And I also knew that I wanted to be part of that special fellowship of believers that was praying for me, and to start actively praying for others.

I no longer tell people facing adversity or pain that “I’ll pray for you.” I now say a prayer for them, and then inform them that they’ve been prayed for, hoping it will benefit them the way I benefited from prayer.

Returning to Ms. Ali, she now considers herself a “lapsed atheist,” and having made the decision to become a Christian, she is seeking to learn how to practice Christianity.

The lesson I learned from my years with the Muslim Brotherhood was the power of a unifying story, embedded in the foundational texts of Islam, to attract, engage and mobilise the Muslim masses. Unless we offer something as meaningful, I fear the erosion of our civilisation will continue. And fortunately, there is no need to look for some new-age concoction of medication and mindfulness. Christianity has it all.
That is why I no longer consider myself a Muslim apostate, but a lapsed atheist. Of course, I still have a great deal to learn about Christianity. I discover a little more at church each Sunday. But I have recognised, in my own long journey through a wilderness of fear and self-doubt, that there is a better way to manage the challenges of existence than either Islam or unbelief had to offer.

I have said a prayer for Ms. Ali that she finds true faith now that she has embraced the idea of Christianity. I have also prayed for all those Christian-curious people who decide to take that first visit to church, not yet possessing faith, but bravely willing to walk through the chapel doors and expose themselves to a possible new way of life.

And like Ms. Ali, I pray that a Judeo-Christian revival can save the western world.

*****

As I mentioned earlier, even when I lacked faith, at low moments I still liked to sit down at the piano and gain solace from playing old hymns, and this one was always near the top of my playlist - “Softly and Tenderly.”

Here is Alan Jackson accompanied by some beautiful piano playing. (It’s not by intent, but this performance is also compliant with Throckmorton’s First Law of Live Music: “If there’s an upright bass in the band, it’s probably going to be good.”)

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling
Calling for you and for me
See on the portals He's waiting and watching
Watching for you and for me
(Refrain)
Come home, come home
Ye who are weary come home
Earnestly, tenderly Jesus is calling
Calling, "O sinner come home"
O for the wonderful love He has promised
Promised for you and for me
Though we have sinned He has mercy and pardon
Pardon for you and for me
(Refrain)

“He has mercy and pardon,” something that won’t be found in the anti-humanism of wokeness or The Sustainable Organic Church of the Carbon Apocalypse.

Have a blessed week.

[buck.throckmorton at protonmail dot com]

Posted by: Buck Throckmorton at 11:00 AM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 1st?

Posted by: Gristly Bears at December 11, 2023 11:01 AM (JrojV)

2 Dammit, off sock.

Posted by: Gristly Bears at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (JrojV)

3 Morning.

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (DOM8d)

4 Nooded.

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (DOM8d)

5 Sia Kordestani @SiaKordestani Dec 9
🚨🚨 NEW video shows @Columbia's School of Social Work @ColumbiaSSW faculty helping pro-Hamas students to facilitate a pro-terrorism event with an AK-47 in the flyer that the school previously announced would be canceled.

Fyi @JaredEMoskowitz @EliseStefanik
piped.video/5zNMK35BJ6E?si=_TKl…

Christina Hoff Sommers @CHSommers 22h
Wild. Two of the grad student speakers defend Hamas savagery by citing Chairman Mao. What’s going on at @Columbia U School of Social Work. For one thing, almost anyone can get in provided they can pay 60K-plus per year. And check out its mission statement. What a farce.

Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (krqg6)

6 God works in mysterious ways

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (Ch8ev)

7 Man, the content sure is girthy this morning.

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:02 AM (DOM8d)

8 Welcome back, Buck.

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, celebrating anarchy and 50s B-movies with Joe Dante at December 11, 2023 11:03 AM (GBKbO)

9 Hey, what's one more fatma?

Posted by: BignJames at December 11, 2023 11:03 AM (AwYPR)

10 Dammit, off sock AGAIN!

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:04 AM (JrojV)

11 Praxis comes before belief. I think by converting she has opened her heart to the Holy Spirit

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at December 11, 2023 11:04 AM (Ch8ev)

12 'If you act like you are brave, maybe eventually, you won't even notice you're not acting anymore.'

Posted by: Aetius451AD Work Laptop at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (zZu0s)

13 Have read little on her, seems she is on a better path, seen a comment on a different article they hope she finds a good Shepherd to help her way.

Posted by: Skip at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (XIuDF)

14 Arsen Ostrovsky @Ostrov_A 17h
Wow, this is incredible!
At his swearing-in ceremony today, the new President of Argentina, @JMilei, invokes the Jewish holiday of #Chanukah & says how “the victory of the Maccabees, represents the victory of truth over falsehood & light over darkness.”

Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (krqg6)

15 Dammit. What is that movie?

Posted by: Aetius451AD Work Laptop at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (zZu0s)

16 I on other hand am having a disaster day and so far none my fault

Posted by: Skip at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (XIuDF)

17 Dang. AlanJackson does it right!

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (W/lyH)

18 14 Arsen Ostrovsky @Ostrov_A 17h
Wow, this is incredible!
At his swearing-in ceremony today, the new President of Argentina, @JMilei, invokes the Jewish holiday of #Chanukah & says how “the victory of the Maccabees, represents the victory of truth over falsehood & light over darkness.”
Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (krqg6)

If he is trolling, at least he has a sense of style.

Posted by: Aetius451AD Work Laptop at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (zZu0s)

19 15 Dammit. What is that movie?
Posted by: Aetius451AD Work Laptop at December 11, 2023 11:05 AM (zZu0s)

=======

What the fuck is a movie?

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (GBKbO)

20 Putin made this chick into a Christian. There is nothing that Putin can't do.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (ntk8v)

21 Hey, what's one more fatma?
Posted by: BignJames at December 11, 2023 11:03 AM

Willowed from the last thread. Mopar did indeed have a 360 V8. It was a great engine, fast as all get out too. It looked like a Grandpa car but it was fast.

Posted by: Minnfidel at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (4p0Xq)

22 Skip

Strength to persevere, and a wide and loud collection of curse words and phrases.

Posted by: NaCly Dog at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (u82oZ)

23 I'm blanking on his name (it's one of the guys who wrote the fake scholarly papers to prove "peer reviewed" meant nothing) has a recent tweet thread that is similar to AHA's, although he admits he *isn't* a Christian. His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (nC+QA)

24 How come she didn't consider becoming a Jew?

*never mind*

Posted by: Martini Farmer at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (Q4IgG)

25 excellent post Buck

Posted by: DanMan at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (8uzBS)

26 What the fuck is a movie?

It's "cinema," stupid American.
-- The French

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (JrojV)

27 'I have also turned to Christianity because I ultimately found life without any spiritual solace unendurable — indeed very nearly self-destructive. Atheism failed to answer a simple question: what is the meaning and purpose of life?'

That's the only reason, toots.

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (G0bXQ)

28 What the fuck is a movie?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (GBKbO)

I keep thinking John Wayne. A guy is a coward or something. The quote is not correct. But I cannot think of the movie.

Posted by: Aetius451AD Work Laptop at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (zZu0s)

29 23 I'm blanking on his name (it's one of the guys who wrote the fake scholarly papers to prove "peer reviewed" meant nothing) has a recent tweet thread that is similar to AHA's, although he admits he *isn't* a Christian. His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (nC+QA)

========

Traditional Christian values > letting TikTok raise your kids

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (GBKbO)

30 I guess there was a commie/muzzie riot in Los Angeles last night. Property destruction and Jews being whipped with belts. LAPD said they are getting to the bottom of it. Nothing on the national news, of course.

Sorm clouds on the horizon are ugly.

Posted by: Mr Aspirin Factory, red heifer owner at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (R4t5M)

31 We can’t fight woke ideology if we can’t defend the civilisation that it is determined to destroy. And we can’t counter Islamism with purely secular tools.

The problem is modern weak Christianity doesn't work either. And I say that because its let the left and Islam do whatever they want.

If you want to oppose either ideology you are going to need something much closer to the Christianity of 100 or more years ago.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (XqcwY)

32 Considering her background in Islam, which is heavily political, she may not understand yet that being a Christian is a completely different ballgame.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (Sf2cq)

33 I am happy she is choosing differently. I will not criticize her, it's one step at a time. Hopefully she will eventually realize it's less about religion than it is with having a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Posted by: Minnfidel at December 11, 2023 11:09 AM (4p0Xq)

34 I am a bit irritated at the smug superiority of some of the criticism (not Buck's) of Ali.

Buck says: Compared to Austin, the southern bible-belt city we moved to was a refreshing breath of fresh air for how indifferent it was to how people lived their lives.

Perhaps Ali should be afforded the same? She has participated in the fight for Western Culture and Western Religion to a much greater extent than many of her critics.

Judaism makes no particular demand for faith...the way one lives one's life and how one treats others is paramount. I will extend that to Ali.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (sM1IA)

35 at least she ditched islam

give her that

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (geLO8)

36 I'm blanking on his name (it's one of the guys who wrote the fake scholarly papers to prove "peer reviewed" meant nothing) has a recent tweet thread that is similar to AHA's, although he admits he *isn't* a Christian. His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM

Sokal?

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (aQy7p)

37 What the fuck is a movie?
-----
It's "cinema," stupid American.
-- The French
===
Do you mean a 'fillum"??

Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (krqg6)

38 Great post, Buck! I absolutely love that old hymn Softly and Tenderly.

Seth Dillon is correct in his theology. One can be affiliated with Christianity without being a true believer. That’s okay… I welcome such folks with open arms. We all take a different journey. I was truly blessed to be raised in a preacher’s home in a small town and most all the church folk I knew (especially my parents) were true believers who lived genuine lives of simple piety. I’d much rather have that upbringing than all the money of Bezos and Musk

Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (I/4F+)

39 My church held a conference this past weekend meant to strengthen and develop our faith as Christians.

It was a "spiritually transformative" experience for me. Unless you've been through it yourself, it's nearly impossible to describe.

I now know and feel what my new brothers in Christ have been feeling on my behalf for the past several months. It's a good feeling and one that I whole-heartedly embrace.

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (7fElN)

40 I suspect a lot of rumps planted in pews each week have no real faith. It's probably always been that way. That's human beings. What distinguishes Ali is that she's essentially saying the quiet part out
loud. It's her soul.

Posted by: shoulder shrug olympics at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (pjs7m)

41 ... His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (nC+QA)
++++
I have never seen any flavor of atheism that doesn't at least use the underlying Christian (or Judeo-Christian, if you prefer) structure of society as scaffolding. I dunno about the East and if they have atheism without using the local major religions (and assumptions thereof) as scaffolding, but I kind of doubt it.

Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (zxP/x)

42 What the fuck is a movie?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:06 AM (GBKbO)

It's where you get to see big explosions and tits.

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (qBpho)

43 His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.

Louise Perry had been making the rounds pointing out that Christian values make for a better society all around even if you aren't a Christian.

I guess one way to look at it is as a variant on Pascal's wager but...its also interesting how well Christian works as a social tool and if you discount the theology did Christianity just get "lucky" in that regard? Seems rather unlikely...

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:12 AM (XqcwY)

44 It's where you get to see big explosions and tits.

+1

Posted by: Michael Bay at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (XqcwY)

45 I wonder if the "urgency" of the Fatwa against Ms. Ali changes now that she has professed a faith. In other words, is she "more" of an apostate now than she was before, or is she in the same priority on the hit list? She is certainly a brave woman either way. She and the animosity she creates at U.S. universities is also proof of how @#$^# hypocritical they are.

Posted by: Dr. Fausti - I AM The Science at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (lg881)

46 41 I have never seen any flavor of atheism that doesn't at least use the underlying Christian (or Judeo-Christian, if you prefer) structure of society as scaffolding. I dunno about the East and if they have atheism without using the local major religions (and assumptions thereof) as scaffolding, but I kind of doubt it.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (zxP/x)

========

Wokeism is a form of atheism that rejects Christian undergirding assumptions, isn't it?

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (GBKbO)

47 church image looks AI

Posted by: kallisto at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (dCxaZ)

48 It's where you get to see big explosions and tits.
Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (qBpho)
---
Hopefully not exploding tits...

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (7fElN)

49 Thank you for your story, Buck. It resonates.

Posted by: t-bird at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (HjfVN)

50 Just a great post, Buck. Thank you.

Posted by: Notorious BFD at December 11, 2023 11:14 AM (V8he0)

51 Any chance Bicorn hats will make a comeback? I'm asking for a friend.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:14 AM (ntk8v)

52 Finding Jesus or not, she's putting a.big target on her back.

Posted by: Field Marshal Zhukov at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM (nnp+f)

53 I have never seen any flavor of atheism that doesn't at least use the underlying Christian (or Judeo-Christian, if you prefer) structure of society

If you just taking this to basic principles with atheists it gets interesting.

Yes they'll claim you are arguing, for example, killing (in most cases) is wrong just because your "sky god" claims it is but when you provide the same argument to them it either ends with "I guess plenty of killing actually is ok" or "uh, its just wrong ok!"

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM (XqcwY)

54 Wokeism is a form of atheism that rejects Christian undergirding assumptions, isn't it?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (GBKbO)
++++
Sort of. It is most detached from them, and thus is alien. It still uses some of those assumptions, though - albeit as a weapon in the form of "*you* have those assumptions, so you must listen to me."

Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM (zxP/x)

55 Great post Buck. I understand Dillon's point but considering that Ali is a heretic/apostate to the Muslims , one step at a time is pretty good. Everyday in Ali's life there is the threat of her being murdered.

Posted by: Smell the Glove at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM (0bAao)

56 Pudinhead

Any chance ~~Bicorn hats~~ Cake Girl will make a comeback?

FIFY

Posted by: NaCly Dog at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (u82oZ)

57 Any chance Bicorn hats will make a comeback? I'm asking for a friend.
Posted by: Pudinhead

I think YD is wearing one in his ongoing conquest of Liechtenstein.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (JrojV)

58 I have never seen any flavor of atheism that doesn't at least use the underlying Christian (or Judeo-Christian, if you prefer) structure of society as scaffolding.

Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (zxP/x)

Take a look at Peter Singer...just have a vomit bag handy.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (sM1IA)

59
I guess one way to look at it is as a variant on Pascal's wager but...its also interesting how well Christian works as a social tool and if you discount the theology did Christianity just get "lucky" in that regard? Seems rather unlikely...
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:12 AM (XqcwY)

You have to consider if humans are born with morality or if morality is a social construct. Per Pascal, I think we are born with God's fingerprint on our soul and that is the genesis of a moral longing from which all good things spring forth, including society.

It's our sin that corrupts that perfect moral fingerprint but it's there.

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (G0bXQ)

60 All culture is religious; you can't have a culture without a religion.

There is no just society without Christianity.

Christianity is hard, compared to all other religions, though.

Which is why most Christians are not practicing Christians.

And even that creates a more just, more equal and more prosperous society than any other system ever has or can.

Posted by: People's Hippo Voice - Personality Commentator at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (TzW+Y)

61
Wokeism is a form of atheism that rejects Christian undergirding assumptions, isn't it?

Islam borrowed heavily from Judaism and Christianity but used those ideas for a completely different end.

I guess uou could argue Wokeism is the Islam of this millennium in that regard...

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (XqcwY)

62 But I know for a fact that those prayers helped my soul heal at a scary time, and it helped strengthen my faith.

*******

Thanks for sharing your story of faith, Buck.

There is great solace in embracing the notion of "Yhy will and not mine, be done"

Posted by: Muldoon at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (991eG)

63 54 Wokeism is a form of atheism that rejects Christian undergirding assumptions, isn't it?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM (GBKbO)
-------------------
Wokeism is Christian in construct it just reverses good v evil. What else would you come up with when your goal is to knock out the competition?

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (ntk8v)

64 Prayer availeth much.

Posted by: Eromero at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (NxC5+)

65 Sokal?
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (aQy7p)

No. James Somebody. I'll remember when I'm in the car and can't post.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (nC+QA)

66 As Ms. Ali makes clear, she is making a calculated decision

out: pascal's wager
in: ayaan hirsi ali's calculated decision

Posted by: anachronda at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (sGtp+)

67 Posted by: Smell the Glove at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM (0bAao)

I agree. All this parsing about "BUT DO SHE REALLY LOVE JESUS" is besides the point. To declare oneself a Christian nowadays is a radical act. It's counter-culture, and identifies one as a target of other groups besides muslims.

Posted by: kallisto at December 11, 2023 11:19 AM (dCxaZ)

68 It's where you get to see big explosions and tits.
Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:11 AM (qBpho)
---
Hopefully not exploding tits...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:13 AM

Machinegun jubblies are definitely not my bag, baby!

Posted by: Austin "Danger" Powers at December 11, 2023 11:19 AM (aQy7p)

69 65 Sokal?
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (aQy7p)

No. James Somebody. I'll remember when I'm in the car and can't post.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (nC+QA)

James Lindsay?

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:19 AM (qBpho)

70 I'm blanking on his name ...
---

Sokal?

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (XeU6L)

71 66 As Ms. Ali makes clear, she is making a calculated decision

out: pascal's wager
in: ayaan hirsi ali's calculated decision
--------------
She just wants a Christian civilization to protect her whithout the fuss of bearing a cross.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (ntk8v)

72 Sokal?
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (aQy7p)

No. James Somebody. I'll remember when I'm in the car and can't post.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM

Ah. Glad there are other people out there trolling the academic left.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (aQy7p)

73 Hen Mazzig @HenMazzig 17h
Palestinian journalist Miriam Barghouti confirms Hamas’ war crimes, admitting that all of Hamas terrorists are dressed in civilian clothing and hiding within civilian populations in Gaza as they attack Israel.

This is an incredible account that confirms many of the reported civilian casualties from Gaza are actually Hamas terrorists.
====
No shit, Holmes.

Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (krqg6)

74 73 Hen Mazzig @HenMazzig 17h
Palestinian journalist Miriam Barghouti confirms Hamas’ war crimes, admitting that all of Hamas terrorists are dressed in civilian clothing and hiding within civilian populations in Gaza as they attack Israel.

This is an incredible account that confirms many of the reported civilian casualties from Gaza are actually Hamas terrorists.
====
No shit, Holmes.
Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (krqg6)

========

Seems to be a sign that Hamas is dying, if a Palestinian journalist is allowed to say this stuff.

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (GBKbO)

75 Speaking of atheists I saw Sam Harris was asked in an interview if looking at the state of the modern west he supported the changes that have come with the move away from Christianity he himself helped usher in.

He pointedly refused to answer the question.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (XqcwY)

76 69 65 Sokal?
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (aQy7p)

No. James Somebody. I'll remember when I'm in the car and can't post.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:17 AM (nC+QA)

James Lindsay?
---------------
Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (ntk8v)

77 There is no just society without Christianity.

Christianity is hard, compared to all other religions, though.

Which is why most Christians are not practicing Christians.

And even that creates a more just, more equal and more prosperous society than any other system ever has or can.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice - Personality Commentator at December 11, 2023 11:16 AM (TzW+Y)
----
Christianity is not meant to be difficult. God *wants* us to have a personal relationship with Him. It's just that humans are complicated creatures that tend to make things a lot harder than they need to be.

It doesn't help that there are a lot of spiritual distractions that can get in the way, thanks to a certain malevolent serpent....

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:21 AM (7fElN)

78 James Lindsay?
Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 11:19 AM (qBpho)

Yes! That's it. I think the tweet thread was yesterday, at least that's when I saw it.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:22 AM (nC+QA)

79 77 It doesn't help that there are a lot of spiritual distractions that can get in the way, thanks to a certain malevolent serpent....
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:21 AM (7fElN)

========

*nods sagaciously*

Nagini.

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:22 AM (GBKbO)

80 Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.
Posted by: Pudinhead

I love 'em, but the last couple packs that I bought gave me diarrhea.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:22 AM (JrojV)

81 Speaking of Austin, they have a hamburger joint owned by a Jewish guy raised in El Paso. It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

It’s also funny because some of the lefty austinites have complained of the name .

Posted by: Drive By at December 11, 2023 11:22 AM (MNhXM)

82 Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.
Posted by: Pudinhead
---
Emo Philips approves of this message.

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (7fElN)

83 It doesn't help that there are a lot of spiritual distractions that can get in the way, thanks to a certain malevolent serpent....
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 11:21 AM (7fElN)

Huh? My ears are burning.

Posted by: Hillzabub at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (Angsy)

84 "While it is easy to criticize Ms. Ali for her seemingly faith-less embrace of Christianity, she does reveal that a seed has been planted in her that can grow into real faith as she learns the good news of the gospel."

Quite so. Well said.

Posted by: RS at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (E7m29)

85 Speaking of Austin, they have a hamburger joint owned by a Jewish guy raised in El Paso. It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

Can you get cheese on them?

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (XqcwY)

86 hiya

Posted by: JT at December 11, 2023 11:24 AM (T4tVD)

87 The other day a graduate student in my old department stopped me for a chat. I'd mentioned to him that I avoided the clot shot with a religious exemption, so he wanted to ask where I went to church and if it were close by (he doesn't have a car). Imagine that.

I had to admit I pretty much only go when Miss Linda brings me to her Catholic church on special times like Christmas Eve. I told him, though, I'd rather live around even annoying people who practice Christianity than around people who believe in lopping your head off for not being what they are. He agreed heartily.

He says there's a church within walking distance of his apartment, and that he'll try that one.

Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at December 11, 2023 11:24 AM (J2vNu)

88 73 Hen Mazzig @HenMazzig 17h
Palestinian journalist Miriam Barghouti confirms Hamas’ war crimes, admitting that all of Hamas terrorists are dressed in civilian clothing and hiding within civilian populations in Gaza as they attack Israel.

This is an incredible account that confirms many of the reported civilian casualties from Gaza are actually Hamas terrorists.
====
No shit, Holmes.
Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (krqg6)

There are no civilians in Gaza.

Posted by: ourcountryisscrewed@gmail.com at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (N39Ws)

89
“The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult; and left untried.”
― G.K. Chesterton, What's Wrong with the World

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (XeU6L)

90 *nods sagaciously*

Nagini.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison,

Bless you. Take some Vit C and D.

Posted by: weft cut-loop at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (IG4Id)

91 it ain't warm out thar

Posted by: JT at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (T4tVD)

92 gript @griptmedia 2h
New Zealand government says it will "refocus” school curriculum “on academic achievement and not ideology” as it plans to move focus off LGBT education amid what PM says are “worst” PISA literacy test scores

Colin Wright @SwipeWright 19h
New Zealand is set to overhaul its existing gender, sexuality, and relationship guidelines in schools, aiming to shift the focus towards academic achievement rather than ideology.

The Australian @australian 17h
Opinion: NZ’s 42nd Prime Minister will introduce a bill to parliament nominating English as the country’s official language. The re-anglification of civic life is high on the agenda of the new woke-busting, swamp-draining conservative coalition. Read on: bit.ly/3teKUhR

Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (krqg6)

93 She just wants a Christian civilization to protect her whithout the fuss of bearing a cross.

I suspect a lot of similar non-Christian figures are starting to realize that being the rebel in a deeply Christian society is a lot better then having most people have your theological views and a profoundly non-Christian society

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (XqcwY)

94 His point was that Christianity had a mechanism for admitting, and turning away from, error that could be used even by secular people.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at December 11, 2023 11:07 AM (nC+QA)

Interesting when you consider that John the baptizer's ministry of introducing the Savior to the world was basically "Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is near!"

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (Sf2cq)

95 How come she didn't consider becoming a Jew?

Posted by: Martini Farmer at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (Q4IgG)
-

Who wants to go through two circumcisions!!!

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (PTdof)

96 Beautiful song. Thank you so much. Merry Christmas!

Posted by: Art at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (hT6kd)

97 Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling
Calling for you and for me...

Ahhh...just to be clear, he's calling for us to accept Him, right. It's not like...you know...the final call?

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (W/lyH)

98 92 The Australian @australian 17h
Opinion: NZ’s 42nd Prime Minister will introduce a bill to parliament nominating English as the country’s official language. The re-anglification of civic life is high on the agenda of the new woke-busting, swamp-draining conservative coalition. Read on: bit.ly/3teKUhR
Posted by: andycanuck (krqg6) at December 11, 2023 11:25 AM (krqg6)

=======

Second look at NZ?

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:27 AM (GBKbO)

99 Christianity is not meant to be difficult. God *wants* us to have a personal relationship with Him. It's just that humans are complicated creatures that tend to make things a lot harder than they need to be.
--
Ah, good point.
It is hard, because we make it hard.
But, all of it is really simple.

Posted by: People's Hippo Voice - Personality Commentator at December 11, 2023 11:27 AM (TzW+Y)

100 It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

It’s also funny because some of the lefty austinites have complained of the name .

I'll wait to hear what Kinky Friedman thinks.

Posted by: Oddbob at December 11, 2023 11:27 AM (nfrXX)

101 Who wants to go through two circumcisions!!!

The left: Female circumcision is an african thing not an islamic thing!

Also the left: And its racist to complain about african traditions!

Also, also the left: And bigoted against Islam!

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (XqcwY)

102 Ahhh...just to be clear, he's calling for us to accept Him, right. It's not like...you know...the final call?

No, the local bar stays open until 12;00. You're probably good for another round.

j/k

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (RSbhh)

103 93 I suspect a lot of similar non-Christian figures are starting to realize that being the rebel in a deeply Christian society is a lot better then having most people have your theological views and a profoundly non-Christian society
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:26 AM (XqcwY)

=======

I remember some beatnik saying that he was unusual amongst his peers because he loved the normies. The normies existing in large numbers kept society in place which allowed him his existence as a beatnik.

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (GBKbO)

104 Ah, good point.
It is hard, because we make it hard.
But, all of it is really simple.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice - Personality Commentator at December 11, 2023 11:27 AM (TzW+Y)

Salvation is made easy through Christ's sacrifice.

Sanctification is hard.

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (G0bXQ)

105 She just wants a Christian civilization to protect her whithout the fuss of bearing a cross.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:20 AM (ntk8v)

Right...because Ayaan Hirsi Ali has always done the easy thing.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (sM1IA)

106 Christians sin, confess the sin, repent, and are forgiven. Every day. This cycle ends when a Christian draws that last breath. Only in heaven are we free from sin.

Posted by: Eromero at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (NxC5+)

107 Buck, my journey is so like yours. Old Line Protestant denomination with gorgeous outward forms and rituals... but it had become hollow inside.

Crisis of faith when I realized I was alcoholic. Then into the spiritual practicum of Alcoholics Anonymous where I saw literal Miracles happening and realized that God at least is real.

Then I moved back to the South where I started going to a fundamentalist Baptist Church which was a real change from my upbringing: and I find that "taking your whiskey neat," so to speak, is far more powerful than watering it down with all sorts of weird ideas and ice cubes and heresies and such.

Just stick to the Bible; and I do not worry about things like whether evolution is real or not. I just put all that on the shelf and leave it to the Lord because it's not central to my faith journey.

I was somewhat dismayed to see a lot of Christians hopping all over Ayaan because she was making a logical and considered intellectual decision to become a Christian. Give the lady time, folks. This kind of behavior just turns people away from the path to faith in Jesus.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM (Epeb0)

108 Until you just let go entirely and accept Jesus as your savior you can’t really know Christianity. I admit this is hard for intelligent people who evaluate and question but all things are possible with God.

I wish I could explain ‘being born’ again but it’s like trying to explain to someone with no children what’s it’s like having a first child.

Posted by: Road to Damascus at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM (MNhXM)

109 Only problem with this was putting Putin's Russia in the category of enemy. I'm willing to hope that Orthodox Catholics are Christian brothers. In which case, Putin's Russia is our ally.

Posted by: Eric2 at December 11, 2023 11:31 AM (t7mrP)

110 Story behind hymn "Softy and tenderly":

https://tinyurl.com/3ueycebp

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:31 AM (RSbhh)

111 Ahhh...just to be clear, he's calling for us to accept Him, right. It's not like...you know...the final call?

No, the local bar stays open until 12;00. You're probably good for another round. j/k
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (RSbhh)

Oh.
Not quite what I was thinking, but I like where you're going with it.
Kidding aside, I remember when I accepted Jesus as my savior...I was young, and the church sang this weird song, The Old Rugged Cross. I was sitting there thinking about it and then it all made sense.

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:31 AM (W/lyH)

112 . . . Crisis of faith when I realized I was alcoholic. Then into the spiritual practicum of Alcoholics Anonymous where I saw literal Miracles happening and realized that God at least is real. . . .

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023

***
Same here, Beverly, at least in part. It's amazing. If you have told me in 1985 I woujld someday believe in a higher power and turn things over to Him, I'd have said you were nuts. But here I am.

Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (J2vNu)

113 How come she didn't consider becoming a Jew?

Posted by: Martini Farmer

Bacon.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (ous9O)

114 I was somewhat dismayed to see a lot of Christians hopping all over Ayaan because she was making a logical and considered intellectual decision to become a Christian. Give the lady time, folks. This kind of behavior just turns people away from the path to faith in Jesus.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM (Epeb0)

Well put.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (sM1IA)

115 If I recall correctly C.S. Lewis made a fairly rational and intellectual decision to become a Christian.

Posted by: That Northernlurke embracing the suckd at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (hCt6Y)

116 115 If I recall correctly C.S. Lewis made a fairly rational and intellectual decision to become a Christian.
Posted by: That Northernlurke embracing the suckd at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (hCt6Y)

========

"Lousy academic...I give him the basis and he just runs with it without giving me credit."
-JRR Tolkien

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:33 AM (GBKbO)

117 Wokeism is Christian in construct it just reverses good v evil. What else would you come up with when your goal is to knock out the competition?
Posted by: Pudinhead
---------
Calvinism with no forgiveness, no redemption, predestination based on trivial racial and sexual practices. It also features Calvinball follow the leader doctrines and emphasis on earthly matters. Wokeness more resembles a cult pitting itself against humanity far more than Christianity. For example, a command to do as thy wilt unless you piss off someone higher up in the oppression hierarchy that doesn't like what you do or who you are.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:33 AM (JAi95)

118 Only problem with this was putting Putin's Russia in the category of enemy. I'm willing to hope that Orthodox Catholics are Christian brothers. In which case, Putin's Russia is our ally.

Putin is the enemy of our enemies, at least for now. I wouldn't call him an ally, but he isn't OUR enemy at least for now.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:33 AM (XqcwY)

119 Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.
Posted by: Pudinhead

Rock on!

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:33 AM (W/lyH)

120 Can you get cheese on them?
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (XqcwY)

Hah don’t remember because I don’t do cheese but they put a latke on them.

Posted by: Road to Damascus at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (MNhXM)

121 Christianity is not meant to be difficult.

Oh yeah, take up your cross and follow me is definitely life on easy mode.

Posted by: if you don't find Christianity difficult, you're probably doing it wrong at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (pjs7m)

122 Only problem with this was putting Putin's Russia in the category of enemy. I'm willing to hope that Orthodox Catholics are Christian brothers. In which case, Putin's Russia is our ally.

Posted by: Eric2 at December 11, 2023 11:31 AM (t7mrP)

Putin's support for many things that drive the post-modern world apoplectic with rage is complicating things.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (sM1IA)

123 It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

It’s also funny because some of the lefty austinites have complained of the name .

I'll wait to hear what Kinky Friedman thinks.
Posted by: Oddbob

I'll be disappointed if Kinky doesn't have some kind of ownership stake.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (ous9O)

124 How come she didn't consider becoming a Jew?

Posted by: Martini Farmer

Bacon.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 11:32 AM (ous9O)

Bacon: The reason Jews are morally strong and crazy all at the same time.

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (gmo/4)

125 The Ali story is kind of interesting because if a guy like me was going to (re)join a religious affiliation, in the absence of a Shadowrun style explosion of supernatural stuff it'd probably be on purely practical grounds.

Posted by: CppThis at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (PZvjL)

126 I was somewhat dismayed to see a lot of Christians hopping all over Ayaan because she was making a logical and considered intellectual decision to become a Christian.

there's always a certain type that can't wait to tell you their brand of Christian is better/the only real way and you're doing it incorrectly

Posted by: brak at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (25k9m)

127 Putin is the enemy of our enemies, at least for now. I wouldn't call him an ally, but he isn't OUR enemy at least for now.
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:33 AM (XqcwY)

Who are “our enemies” exactly? China and Iran out out besties according to the current government.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:34 AM (Tll0L)

128 Greetings! Of all the challenges you will find in Christianity, none are more difficult than loving one's enemies. I struggle with that one.

Posted by: gourmand du jour at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (MeG8a)

129 For some people, it's intellectual and that's fine. For some, it's hitting rock bottom and that's fine.

The reason isn't as important as what happens next.

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (G0bXQ)

130 I have sympathy for those who lack faith but still choose to stand with Christ. Not everyone is gifted evenly and even if once chooses based on reason (Pascal comes to mind), it still counts, I think. You're choosing a side and choosing to walk that path.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (xcxpd)

131 80 Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.
Posted by: Pudinhead

I love 'em, but the last couple packs that I bought gave me diarrhea.
------------------
Jimmie's sausage can do that now and again.

Posted by: Pudinhead at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (jFCkp)

132 Beautiful post, Buck. Thank you.

Posted by: bluebell at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (pTb/Z)

133 Howdy, Buck. Thank you for sharing your personal story in relation to this. Very much appreciate your writing style and the topics you focus on.

Posted by: Doof at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (+cH+C)

134 The left: Female circumcision is an african thing not an islamic thing!

Also the left: And its racist to complain about african traditions!

Also, also the left: And bigoted against Islam!
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:28 AM (XqcwY)
-
Also, the left: Jewish circumcision should be banned because it should be a decision made by the child when he grows to be an adult and not in infancy by the parents.

Also, the left: gender is fluid. Parents should be encouraged to let their children decide what body parts they can cut off and switch.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (PTdof)

135 When I was desperate and struggling and knew I needed faith in God, I talked to a friend of mine who had been to all sorts of adventures on her journey to faith, and she said this.

"Every morning when you wake up, ask God to reveal himself to you. Then at night, thank him for getting you through this day. And then you will see what happens."

So I asked her, "How long is that going to take?"

And she replied with a laugh, "How the f*** should I know? Just DO it!"

I did, and I had an amazing experience 8 months later that revealed to me that yes, it is all true: that Jesus really is the Son of God, and that He loves you far more than you can begin to imagine.

For the intellectuals among us, there is always Pascal's Wager (q.v.).

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (Epeb0)

136 Alan Jackson's "Precious Memories" is a wonderful collection of songs with which to feel The Lord's presence and comfort.

Posted by: Kathy at December 11, 2023 11:36 AM (LPNLk)

137 Softly and Tenderly

Well, if ya gotta have an earworm, this is a good one.

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:36 AM (W/lyH)

138 It also features Calvinball follow the leader doctrines and emphasis on earthly matters.

I think that's a large part of the point. By changing your supposed fundamental beliefs on a regular basis and demanding the laity follow along you can see who the true believers are.

Also, religious/ideologies with beliefs set in stone often limit with the leaders of those societies can do. Wokeism puts literally nothing off limits.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:37 AM (XqcwY)

139 I was somewhat dismayed to see a lot of Christians hopping all over Ayaan because she was making a logical and considered intellectual decision to become a Christian. Give the lady time, folks. This kind of behavior just turns people away from the path to faith in Jesus.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM

Yep, I said something similar. Sometimes, fellow Christians are our own worst enemy.

Posted by: Minnfidel at December 11, 2023 11:37 AM (4p0Xq)

140 Yes; Thanks for sharing your story, Buck.

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:37 AM (RSbhh)

141 Alan Jackson's Chattahoochee is a good song too.

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (gmo/4)

142 Oh and thanks Buck

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (xcxpd)

143 Imho your top post ever, Buck. Your personal story resonates with me as well, specifically how angry I have become at the mainstream "christian" churches that have falllen away. Ayann Hirsi Ali is on the way; it's a lifelong journey but she's on the way.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (i9ffA)

144 I was somewhat dismayed to see a lot of Christians hopping all over Ayaan because she was making a logical and considered intellectual decision to become a Christian. Give the lady time, folks. This kind of behavior just turns people away from the path to faith in Jesus.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM (Epeb0)

Unfortunately, some of the worst ambassadors for Christ are self-professed Christians. The folks who have to tell you that they are a Christian. If you have to tell me, then you're not doing it right. Or as I have heard it said -- "preach the Gospel always; use words when necessary".

Posted by: Doof at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (+cH+C)

145 I was texting with my buddy last week. He's going thru a rough patch and I am having issues myself. He was raised in the South as a fundamental Baptist and turned away from his religion long before I met him. I once called him an evangelical atheist-his fervor for atheism being so strong. Anyway, he sent me something very spiritual and motivational and after I thanked him, he wrote: "Guess the atheism isn’t so strong anymore. Weird how that happens when you step back and look around as you age." Indeed: God is good! That can be all too easy to forget.

Posted by: Johnny Lanctot at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (OrDr0)

146 Who are “our enemies” exactly? China and Iran out out besties according to the current government.

Our enemies? The people currently running the American government, FNM, the WEF, and the like.

China and Iran are secondary enemies compared to this list.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (XqcwY)

147 Speaking of Austin, they have a hamburger joint owned by a Jewish guy raised in El Paso. It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

Can you get cheese on them?
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:23 AM (XqcwY)
-

Yes. JINO Burgers. Not kosher at all:

https://jewboyburgers.com/

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (PTdof)

148 128 Greetings! Of all the challenges you will find in Christianity, none are more difficult than loving one's enemies. I struggle with that one.
Posted by: gourmand du jour
-------------
Hate the sin, not the person. The person can be redeemed; sins though lead to eternal death and should be hated because sinning leads people astray.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (JAi95)

149 Judaism makes no particular demand for faith...the way one lives one's life and how one treats others is paramount. I will extend that to Ali.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (sM1IA)

"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! And you shall love the LORD your God with all of your heart and with all of your soul and with all of your mind and with all of your strength."

I've been taught that this is the central tenet in Judaism.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (Sf2cq)

150 Great rant Buck.

Congratulations on your wife and you finding faith.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (oW3Iu)

151 There has been infighting in the church since Paul's time.

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (G0bXQ)

152 But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD. I will put My law in their minds and inscribe it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. 34No longer will each man teach his neighbor or his brother, saying, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquities and will remember their sins no more.”…

Thus the arguement that we innately know right from wrong and the search for the God gene by the athiests.
He has imprinted on our souls.
Anyone sensitive to their own feelings looks for Him, hopefully Ali will come to actual faith through the acting of it.

Posted by: OneEyedJack at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (FCbAQ)

153 If you read CS Lewis' telling of his own conversion it was quite similar; it began intellectually, because that's the kind of man he was. It then grew into far, far more, but it took time.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (i9ffA)

154 lots of people out there, nominally on "our side" who either don't want to win or are actively (if secretly) working against us; these, I suspect, are the ones who are criticizing Ali.

Posted by: sock_rat_eez - these lying bastardi e stronzi have been lying for decades at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (zer5o)

155 I think that's a large part of the point. By changing your supposed fundamental beliefs on a regular basis and demanding the laity follow along you can see who the true believers are.

Also, religious/ideologies with beliefs set in stone often limit with the leaders of those societies can do. Wokeism puts literally nothing off limits.

Posted by: 18-1
----------------
You said it better than I did.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (JAi95)

156 There has been infighting in the church since Paul's time.
Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (G0bXQ)

Lime jello with carrots AGAIN???

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (W/lyH)

157 IIRC after she died some of Mother Theresa’s private journals were made public. She apparently struggled with belief…. But the lady was a great Christian in action! We all have our doubts from time to time

Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (I/4F+)

158 mmmm.....burgers. My favorite food...

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (xcxpd)

159 I've been taught that this is the central tenet in Judaism.
Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (Sf2cq)
-

Correct.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (PTdof)

160 128 Greetings! Of all the challenges you will find in Christianity, none are more difficult than loving one's enemies. I struggle with that one.
Posted by: gourmand du jour at December 11, 2023 11:35 AM (MeG8

Yes that’s a hard one but I don’t think it means surrendering to your enemies and their desires. To me it means while kicking their ass you remind them that you’re doing it out of love and the option of peace and redemption will always be on the table.

Posted by: Road to Damascus at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (MNhXM)

161 That's a beautiful story. Everyone's path to Jesus is different but we all have one, whether we choose to stay on it or not. (Sorry I missed you when you were in Austin!)

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (bLe0J)

162 I was never an atheist, but in my youth I did question a lot of Christian doctrine. However, that never stopped me from going to church, and I have succeeded in finding answers to most of my theological questions. The other things that I don't have complete answers to (e.g., the creation of Genesis v. evolution), I just leave aside for now in the expectation that eventually I will know the truth.

I have grown in faith a lot in the last several years. However, because I was raised a Christian, and always had it around me growing up, I regret that I still tend to take it for granted. I still need to have that final "come to Jesus" moment when I can confidently say that I am born again, but I'm not there yet. However, with God all things are possible.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (JrojV)

163 This is about the SNL post - but I don't want to comment on old posts.

I don't think the writers of skits like that are "lying" - I think that they are so far gone that they see the congressional testimony the way they portrayed it. In other words, people that far to the left literally see the world differently. Their view of reality is so skewed that instead of seeing the obvious reality, they see a leftist reality where Stefaniak was shrill and crazy and the three university presidents were calm and reasoned and made sense.

You could probably watch the testimony with them and try to break it down frame-by-frame to show how out-of-touch their version of it is, and they wouldn't be able to see it.

I honestly believe that leftists must have different brain wiring. I've never been able to understand some of their policy positions - such as the desire for open borders. No sane rational argument can be made for open borders, yet they want open borders. It seems impossible to understand.

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (ky+MF)

164 Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (i9ffA)

Very true.

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (RSbhh)

165 158 mmmm.....burgers. My favorite food...

i certainly hope this isn't about me

Posted by: burgermeister meisterburger at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (sGtp+)

166 Wow, this hit me hard as I am in almost exactly the same place you were, Buck -- especially the part about hoping faith will follow.

Wife and I recently began going to a church in our neighborhood. I sit, listen, attempt to absorb, and then feel bad that I'm such a cynic by nature. I want to believe. I do believe, but I have not put Jesus Christ at the center of my life just yet.

I know this is a failing, and the worst part is that I don't know if I'll ever get past it. I'm trying. I'm asking for help in making it happen but it won't be a short time coming.

Great piece!

Posted by: The Central Scrutinizer at December 11, 2023 11:42 AM (KbCG3)

167 Nice to see the struggle framed as a spiritual one.

Posted by: torabora at December 11, 2023 11:42 AM (OUiUM)

168 158 mmmm.....burgers. My favorite food...
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (xcxpd)

=======

Pizza > burgers

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:42 AM (GBKbO)

169 God is good! That can be all too easy to forget.
Posted by: Johnny Lanctot at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (OrDr0)
-----------

Yes, He is and yes, it is. I try to make a point of thanking Him for all the good things that happen besides just asking Him for what I desire. I don't always remember but I'm getting better at it. It's quite consoling to reflect on what is good when things are otherwise bad, and to let God know I am thankful.

Posted by: bluebell at December 11, 2023 11:43 AM (pTb/Z)

170 Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (ky+MF)

It's like the last Narnia book where the dwarves can't see heaven, they are stuck seeing the reality they believe in only. I think that is where today's true hard-core leftists are. They can only see the reality they imagine, not actual reality.

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:43 AM (ky+MF)

171 Judaism makes no particular demand for faith...the way one lives one's life and how one treats others is paramount. I will extend that to Ali.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:10 AM (sM1IA)
-

OK, may have misunderstood you above. Are you referring to the Torah's outlook on gentiles? Then you're still incorrect:

https://tinyurl.com/5bysczrs

(Chabad)

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:43 AM (PTdof)

172 Unfortunately, some of the worst ambassadors for Christ are self-professed Christians. The folks who have to tell you that they are a Christian. If you have to tell me, then you're not doing it right. Or as I have heard it said -- "preach the Gospel always; use words when necessary".
Posted by: Doof at December 11, 2023 11:38 AM (+cH+C)

Yes and they aren’t following the Bible.

Peter 3:15

Posted by: Road to Damascus at December 11, 2023 11:44 AM (MNhXM)

173 like the old joke:

Once I saw this guy on a bridge about to jump. I said, “Don’t do it!” He said, “Nobody loves me.” I said, “God loves you. Do you believe in God?”

He said, “Yes.” I said, “Are you a Christian or a Jew?” He said, “A Christian.” I said, “Me, too! Protestant or Catholic?” He said, “Protestant.” I said, “Me, too! What franchise?” He said, “Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Baptist or Southern Baptist?” He said, “Northern Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Conservative Baptist or Northern Liberal Baptist?”

He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region, or Northern Conservative Baptist Eastern Region?” He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region.” I said, “Me, too!”

Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1879, or Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912?” He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912.” I said, “Die, heretic!” And I pushed him over.

Posted by: brak at December 11, 2023 11:44 AM (25k9m)

174 Pizza > burgers

—

And so it begins

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:44 AM (Tll0L)

175 In other words, people that far to the left literally see the world differently.

One of the ideas looked at in 1984 was Big Brother literally driving people crazy enough to see the world he/they wanted it seen.

The goal was for Winston to really believe he saw however many figures O'Brien wanted him to see.

And that's what the left does in the real world constantly. Don't believe your lying racist sexist eyes. Believe...us.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (XqcwY)

176 Excellent essay Buck.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (h/xVB)

177 I've been taught that this is the central tenet in Judaism.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (Sf2cq)

One of them, but there is no overriding requirement for belief. Look at the requirements for conversion.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (sM1IA)

178 They can only see the reality they imagine, not actual reality.

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:43 AM (ky+MF)

And this explains why they seem to honestly believe that Trump will "destroy democracy" even though there is no evidence to support that claim and all the evidence is that Biden is the most corrupt president of all time.

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (ky+MF)

179 Pizza > burgers
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:42 AM (GBKbO)

Pizza is also good. Burgers are easier to eat while driving.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (xcxpd)

180 Lime jello with carrots AGAIN???

Posted by: Diogenes at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM

Looks like the aquarium froze up.

Posted by: Minnfidel at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (4p0Xq)

181 I have an honest question for the MOTs in the Horde.

How does Judaism deal with forgiveness? Like, if you commit a ritual transgression, like, say, not observing the Sabbath, can you just pray to God asking for forgiveness? Or do you have to go to rabbi and confess your sin and have the rabbi forgive you (like Catholic confession)?

What about really bad stuff like murder? Is there any provision in Judaism for forgiveness for that?

Just curious.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (JrojV)

182 Finding Jesus or not, she's putting a.big target on her back.
Posted by: Field Marshal Zhukov at December 11, 2023 11:15 AM

-------------------------

The target went on her back years ago, when she publicly renounced Islam.

Posted by: Bigsmith at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (upEr7)

183 So this past Saturday starts out interesting. Tornado watches that turn into warnings. I'm sitting out on the front porch watching the heavy clouds passing by to the north with a u-tube storm chaser live feed going. I see them coming down the highway I live on during their feed. Luckily, they made a u-turn before getting to my house. No damage here just lots of rain later. Has anyone heard from Tony Pete today? Lots of storms out his way I think.

Posted by: Swamp Rabbit at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (X4yCj)

184 148 128 Greetings! Of all the challenges you will find in Christianity, none are more difficult than loving one's enemies. I struggle with that one.
Posted by: gourmand du jour
-------------
Hate the sin, not the person. The person can be redeemed; sins though lead to eternal death and should be hated because sinning leads people astray.
Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:39 AM (JAi95)

and related - when it comes to defending and protecting the people you love, you still to what you have to do, even though you must do it regretfully. Loving does not mean surrendering to evil.

but it's worth pointing out that groups like Hamas are examples of what happens when people totally give themselves over to hatred. They destroy others, and then are destroyed.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (i9ffA)

185 179 Pizza > burgers
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:42 AM (GBKbO)

Pizza is also good. Burgers are easier to eat while driving.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (xcxpd)

========

This is an interesting measure, "ease of eating while driving."

Where does a steak with blue cheese on top fall on that measure?

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (GBKbO)

186 It’s called Jewboy Hamburgers. Great burgers unless you want tomatoes on them.

Can you get cheese on them?
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:23
-------------
Yes. And Swiss on their grilled pastrami.

https://jewboyburgers.com/menu/

Posted by: olddog in mo at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (ViCCR)

187 I too left Austin a decade ago. After a 3 year sojourn in Sodom on the Potomac, a sabbatical in Baghdad, I returned to the small Texas town where I grew up. Life is much better. There are over 40 churches in a county of 25,000 people!

Posted by: Stacy0311 at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (MNlW6)

188 The target went on her back years ago, when she publicly renounced Islam.
Posted by: Bigsmith at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (upEr7)

They will never forget either. Ask Rushdie

Posted by: AlaBAMA at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (G0bXQ)

189 125 The Ali story is kind of interesting because if a guy like me was going to (re)join a religious affiliation, in the absence of a Shadowrun style explosion of supernatural stuff it'd probably be on purely practical grounds.
Posted by: CppThis
-------
You might try reading Mere Christianity by CS Lewis based on his BBC radio lectures. Short book but he relies on logic to explain Christianity. Read St. Thomas Aquinas if you want the master class in Christianity via logic. Even St. Thomas simplified version of Summa Theologica that he did for monks at the time will do.

St. Thomas led to Catholicism's reconciliation with science and logic with faith.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (JAi95)

190 Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (i9ffA)

And there was a movie out recently-can't remember the name, and I didn't see it around -but it was about a modern woman and writer_She may be in her 40's or 50's who went to Oxford and that was the beginning of her conversion expereince.

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (RSbhh)

191 Shoulda Ctrl-F'd. See Biden's Dog beat me to it.

Posted by: olddog in mo at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (ViCCR)

192 One of my kids has a friend whose parents are ultra leftists. Which is kinda the norm for my ‘hood. One day my kid mentioned something about the friend going to church. I was like whaaaaa? Turns out the family is really religious while simultaneously super leftists and woke.

I’m not at all religious whatsoever. But my mind can’t do the math on that one.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (Tll0L)

193 and related - when it comes to defending and protecting the people you love, you still to what you have to do, even though you must do it regretfully. Loving does not mean surrendering to evil.

but it's worth pointing out that groups like Hamas are examples of what happens when people totally give themselves over to hatred. They destroy others, and then are destroyed.
Posted by: Tom Servo
----------
Excellent points that should be repeated.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:48 AM (JAi95)

194 Wokeism... the left's ideology is pretty much their religion. They make a pretty significant effort to enforce it among the followers. They're really, really serious about having everyone follow this ideology too.

So much that they're basically Woke Jihadi's. They've already demonstrated the lengths to which they'll go to push this ideology on everyone else.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at December 11, 2023 11:48 AM (Q4IgG)

195 The goal was for Winston to really believe he saw however many figures O'Brien wanted him to see.

And that's what the left does in the real world constantly. Don't believe your lying racist sexist eyes. Believe...us.
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (XqcwY)

THERE....ARE....FOUR...BIG....BROTHERS!!!!

Posted by: Capt. Jean-Luc Picard at December 11, 2023 11:48 AM (N3zMI)

196 All she needs is the faith of a mustard seed. It will grow from there.

Posted by: Lancelot_Link at December 11, 2023 11:48 AM (uxAXv)

197 Are you referring to the Torah's outlook on gentiles?

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:43 AM (PTdof)

Nope.

I am referring to Judaism's acceptance of doubt. Yes, we are commanded that "I am the Lord thy God," and "Thou shalt have no other gods before me," but there is no penalty for not believing, as long as we follow the law.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (sM1IA)

198 Has anyone heard from Tony Pete today? Lots of storms out his way I think.
Posted by: Swamp Rabbit

#176. He's here.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (ous9O)

199 Pizza is much easier to eat while driving than burgers or any kind of sandwich.

Popcorn shrimp, mozzarella sticks, and chicken tenders are the easiest of all.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (JrojV)

200 One of them, but there is no overriding requirement for belief. Look at the requirements for conversion.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (sM1IA)
-

Where did you get that idea from?

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (PTdof)

201 Pizza is also good. Burgers are easier to eat while driving.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (xcxpd)

========

This is an interesting measure, "ease of eating while driving."

Where does a steak with blue cheese on top fall on that measure?
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:46 AM (GBKbO)

Well I don't like blue cheese...so below burgers and pizza, for me. But you take that blue cheese off, put some butter and salt and pepper on it...you got something special.

I love steak. But I can't eat steak every day. I can, and have, eat burgers every day. And I never get tired of them. That's kinda special.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (xcxpd)

202 NYU student caught tearing down posters of people kidnapped by Hamas complains of being outed and suffering consequences for supporting terrorism and kidnapping

It's called consequences, bitch. If I aired my opinion (that I shouldn't be made to use pronouns that don't fit the biological realities of mentally ill people) in public and it was filmed, don't think for a nanosecond that I would be doxxed and lose my job; it's almost a certainty. The Left has made heinous rules about violating their orthodoxy, so the Left has to be tied down and waterboarded according to the same rules until they choke to death on them.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (ynpvh)

203 I honestly believe that leftists must have different brain wiring. I've never been able to understand some of their policy positions - such as the desire for open borders. No sane rational argument can be made for open borders, yet they want open borders. It seems impossible to understand.

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:41 AM (ky+MF)

----------

EVERY Leftist policy leads to poverty, misery, destruction, and premature death (and eventually mass graves).

It's no coincidence that Marx was a Satanist ...

Posted by: ShainS -- CISA Cognitive Security Agent at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (PjBDh)

204 Wonderful piece, Buck.

Thanks for including this: one of the points she makes while discussing her life journey is that the Muslim Brotherhood is effective in motivating its constituency. People can read the ancient texts and relate them to the teachings of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Posted by: KT at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (rrtZS)

205 The left has been trained to KNOW (not think) that the Democrat is always right and Republican always wrong. So of course for SNL Stefanik is the bad guy in the story.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (Tll0L)

206 IIRC after she died some of Mother Theresa’s private journals were made public. She apparently struggled with belief…. But the lady was a great Christian in action! We all have our doubts from time to time
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (I/4F+)

yes, apparently she felt no consolation from prayer for years and years, but still kept on. Truly humbling and inspirational.

For the horde members looking for more ways to learn I highly HIGHLY recommend Hallow. Do the 3 months free (Jeff Cavins is the code?) and delve into the Bible in a Year, the ignatious teachings, the daily reflections, and daily exegesis. You won't be disappointed.

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (bLe0J)

207 199 Pizza is much easier to eat while driving than burgers or any kind of sandwich.

Popcorn shrimp, mozzarella sticks, and chicken tenders are the easiest of all.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (JrojV)

Your technique must be refined or your pizza different from what I usually buy.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (xcxpd)

208 202
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (ynpvh)

And in my case, I wouldn't even be guilty of vandalism.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (ynpvh)

209 And there was a movie out recently-can't remember the name, and I didn't see it around -but it was about a modern woman and writer_She may be in her 40's or 50's who went to Oxford and that was the beginning of her conversion expereince.
Posted by: FenelonSpoke
-----------
Don't know about that movie but the excellent Shadowlands about CS Lewis, faith during trying times, and redemption is right up there. True story although I am sure the movie had a few embellishments.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (JAi95)

210 THERE....ARE....FOUR...BIG....BROTHERS!!!!

Posted by: Capt. Jean-Luc Picard at December 11, 2023 11:48 AM (N3zMI)

I've seen the Star Trek version and it is somewhat dumbed down. Patrick Stewart is a decent actor but the writing...

I think its a good thing to expose people to and I'm not sure how much the Star Trek audience overlaps with the 1984 audience but TBH the leftist trekkies I've talked with just do not get the point of the scene.

The Cardassians are space nazis doing space nazi things...and that's all they take from it.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (XqcwY)

211 207 199 Pizza is much easier to eat while driving than burgers or any kind of sandwich.

Popcorn shrimp, mozzarella sticks, and chicken tenders are the easiest of all.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (JrojV)

Your technique must be refined or your pizza different from what I usually buy.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (xcxpd)

maybe a calzone?

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (ynpvh)

212 One of my kids has a friend whose parents are ultra leftists. Which is kinda the norm for my ‘hood. One day my kid mentioned something about the friend going to church. I was like whaaaaa? Turns out the family is really religious while simultaneously super leftists and woke.

I’m not at all religious whatsoever. But my mind can’t do the math on that one.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:47 AM (Tll0L)

Most Christian churches have been captured by the left. the current catholic pope is a communist.

In catholic masses they basically preach for open borders. The catholic church regularly advocates for leftists ideas - they are huge on the gov't spending on various entitlements.

Remember, even Glen Beck flirted with open borders b/c of his LDS faith (LDS is big on open borders too).

Conservatives have assumed for decades that big business (corporations) and churches were on our side. It is not so at all. Both are far more leftist than being on our side on anything.

If you got rid of abortion as an issue - even evangelicals would go left (they support big gov't spending on welfare, etc.)

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (ky+MF)

213 It doesn't help that there are a lot of spiritual distractions that can get in the way, thanks to a certain malevolent serpent....
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel

It's always been fascinating to me that the spectacular fall of lucifer was due to the sin of Pride.

"I know! Let's name our heathen, blasphemous idolatry after it!!"
-- We're Proud, We're Loud!!

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (h/xVB)

214 It's no coincidence that Marx was a Satanist ...
Posted by: ShainS
---------
And a former seminarian, Stalin in an alternative world might have become a priest.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (JAi95)

215 210 The Cardassians are space nazis doing space nazi things...and that's all they take from it.
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (XqcwY)

========

The Cardassians are Trump!

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (GBKbO)

216 The Cardassians are space nazis doing space nazi things...and that's all they take from it.
Posted by: 18-1

Kim Cardassian has whole solar systems orbiting her butt.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (JrojV)

217 I am referring to Judaism's acceptance of doubt. Yes, we are commanded that "I am the Lord thy God," and "Thou shalt have no other gods before me," but there is no penalty for not believing, as long as we follow the law.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (sM1IA)
-

Then the first reply to you was correct. The words in Deuteronomy 6:4-9 are rather clear. So is are the inverse implications of the first 2 of the 10 Commandments.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (PTdof)

218 I have a strict no eating policy in the car. Keeps the cars clean.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (Tll0L)

219 One of them, but there is no overriding requirement for belief. Look at the requirements for conversion.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (sM1IA)
-

The Credo literally means "I Believe."

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (bLe0J)

220 CBD, see #181. Also honestly curious because I have no idea.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 11:53 AM (ous9O)

221 I have a strict no eating policy in the car. Keeps the cars clean.
Posted by: Montec

Talk about skewed priorities...

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:53 AM (JrojV)

222 The road to true Christian faith is a long one, with a lot of obstacles and roadblocks and potholes. Just read Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" for a fine description of how long and tough it can be. But you have to begin somewhere, and Ms Ali's decision to start walking down the Christian road is the most important decision of them all. She too will run into problems and challenges along the way, but I hope that she reaches her destination: the shining city on a hill.

I get the impression, too, that Ms Ali was writing for her fellow agnostics/atheists, rather than for believers. If so, her approach - pointing out the pragmatic and historical role of Christianity - would be understandable by that audience. It reminds of Shusaku Endo's "Life of Jesus", which Mr. Endo, himself a practicing Catholic, wrote for his fellow Japanese, who were mostly either Buddhists or areligious. In his book, he emphasizes the historical role of Jesus, and the psychological impact of Jesus on his disciples: how his influence turned a rag-tag bunch of misfits and laborers into giants who changed the world. That approach would be understood by his audience.

Posted by: Nemo at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (S6ArX)

223 maybe a calzone?
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (ynpvh)

Ooh, I love calzones and stromboli. Hard to find a good one around Monroe though.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (xcxpd)

224 IIRC after she died some of Mother Theresa’s private journals were made public. She apparently struggled with belief…. But the lady was a great Christian in action! We all have our doubts from time to time
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:40 AM (I/4F+)

We have a relic of hers at my church, a little of her blood.

Posted by: Zombie Robbo the Llama Butcher at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (N3zMI)

225
EVERY Leftist policy leads to poverty, misery, destruction, and premature death (and eventually mass graves).

How it starts: This revolution will bring heaven on earth because the real socialists are in charge!

Then: Any claims of mass murder or death camps are just capitalist lies. We can see they are on their way to the perfect socialist utopia and the capitalists, wreckers, and saboteurs are mad about it

Finally: Of course that revolution led to mass murder and death camps. As we always said those people in charge were fake socialists just using it as a veneer for a brutal capitalist system.

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (XqcwY)

226 In catholic masses they basically preach for open borders

-

That’s just a recruiting tool.

Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (Tll0L)

227 Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (JAi95)

Yes; That was a good movie.

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (RSbhh)

228 If you got rid of abortion as an issue - even evangelicals would go left (they support big gov't spending on welfare, etc.)
Posted by: I forgot my name
----------
A host of strawmen. What religion does essentially is temper love of money with a love for community and harmony. Despite the fact that others may try to hijack faith, it remains despite what foolish people do including church leaders.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (JAi95)

229 Your technique must be refined or your pizza different from what I usually buy.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (xcxpd)

NY style vs Chicago style?

Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (I/4F+)

230 Where did you get that idea from?

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:49 AM (PTdof)

From many descriptions of Jewish conversion. It is allowed when the motivation is to lead a Torah-observant life. Hell, I'll bet Chabad says exactly that.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (sM1IA)

231 216 The Cardassians are space nazis doing space nazi things...and that's all they take from it.
Posted by: 18-1

Kim Cardassian has whole solar systems orbiting her butt.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:52 AM (JrojV)

Watch out for those Kingons...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (ynpvh)

232 #176. He's here.
Posted by: rickb223
--------------------

Good

Posted by: Swamp Rabbit at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (X4yCj)

233 One of them, but there is no overriding requirement for belief. Look at the requirements for conversion.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:45 AM (sM1IA)

We may be talking past each other. If it's a central tenet, I'm not sure how it can be disregarded. What is the purpose of Judaism if it isn't being in a right relationship with YHWH?

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (Sf2cq)

234 225 Finally: Of course that revolution led to mass murder and death camps. As we always said those people in charge were fake socialists just using it as a veneer for a brutal capitalist system.
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (XqcwY)

=========

I note that I never hear the left talking about the classless utopia of communism anymore.

It's literally just advocates for feudalism by this point.

Posted by: TheJamesMadison, watching some more Best Pictures at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (GBKbO)

235 Star Trek has always tracked Western liberalism by design. Someone (Claremont?) did a great writeup on it a few years back. The Patrick Stewart stuff would have been made during the time when said liberalism was shifting its auspices from libertarian to authoritarian, so perhaps not surprising that it would be confusing and muddled for fans looking for the moral of the story.

Posted by: CppThis at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (PZvjL)

236 229 Your technique must be refined or your pizza different from what I usually buy.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (xcxpd)

NY style vs Chicago style?
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (I/4F+)

Good heavens, I can't imagine trying to drive and eat a Chicago style pizza. Tomato sauce everywhere....

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (xcxpd)

237 The good thing about the Star Trek episode was that it visualized and dramatized the idea of what is going on in a repugnant way.

The left does the exact same thing now- they have just not gotten to the torture and insist that is not what they are doing.

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 11:57 AM (GmPfo)

238 It's called consequences, bitch. If I aired my opinion (that I shouldn't be made to use pronouns that don't fit the biological realities of mentally ill people) in public and it was filmed, don't think for a nanosecond that I would be doxxed and lose my job; it's almost a certainty. The Left has made heinous rules about violating their orthodoxy, so the Left has to be tied down and waterboarded according to the same rules until they choke to death on them.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:50 AM (ynpvh)

--------------

I really liked Ace labeling it "consequences culture" as he hates the phrase "cancel culture" -- associated with a Lefty tactic -- and was hoping that it would gain traction among we on the Right.

Posted by: ShainS -- CISA Cognitive Security Agent at December 11, 2023 11:57 AM (PjBDh)

239 What is the purpose of Judaism if it isn't being in a right relationship with YHWH?

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (Sf2cq)

To follow the law! The law describes how we live, and how we relate to other people.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (sM1IA)

240 Good heavens, I can't imagine trying to drive and eat a Chicago style pizza. Tomato sauce everywhere....
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards

One possible benefit - With the crusts Chicago style thick, no air bags needed in the event of a crash.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (h/xVB)

241 240 Good heavens, I can't imagine trying to drive and eat a Chicago style pizza. Tomato sauce everywhere....
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards

One possible benefit - With the crusts Chicago style thick, no air bags needed in the event of a crash.
Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (h/xVB)

lol

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (xcxpd)

242 Watch out for those Kingons...
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (ynpvh)

Klingons off the starboard bow!
Starboard bow
Starboard bow
Klingons off the Starboard bow,
Get em off, Jim!

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (GmPfo)

243 The problem when I eat any sandwich is that, no matter where I take my first bite, all the contents start falling out the other side. Makes for a big mess, which is not good for driving.

But a nice thin crust pizza works just fine.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (JrojV)

244 What will our relationship with God be when we enter his kingdom? I wonder if, when God made us in his image, it is not that he resembles us physically, but rather that our intellectual potential actually is Godlike, or sufficiently Godlike for us to be interesting to him. Otherwise, what would be so important about us that Jesus would be sent to walk this earth and die a horrific death so that we might be forgiven our sins and enter God's presence?

Posted by: Oglebay at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (ogTiX)

245 From many descriptions of Jewish conversion. It is allowed when the motivation is to lead a Torah-observant life. Hell, I'll bet Chabad says exactly that.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:55 AM (sM1IA)
-

It's so elementary, even to Chabad (of course):

Also, this needs to be done out of a sincere desire to serve G‑d as a Jew, not because of any other motive, such as the desire to marry a Jewish man or woman.

https://tinyurl.com/2bus5j65

(Chabad)

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (PTdof)

246 237 The good thing about the Star Trek episode was that it visualized and dramatized the idea of what is going on in a repugnant way.

The left does the exact same thing now- they have just not gotten to the torture and insist that is not what they are doing.

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 11:57 AM (GmPfo)

"That's a man in a dress"
"No, That's a woman. Look at her again"
"That's a man in a dress, I tell you"
::: slap :::
"No! That's a beautiful woman. Look at her again"
...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (ynpvh)

247 239 What is the purpose of Judaism if it isn't being in a right relationship with YHWH?

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (Sf2cq)

To follow the law! The law describes how we live, and how we relate to other people.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (sM1IA)

I just got an idea for a Jewish version of Judge Dredd

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (xcxpd)

248 A host of strawmen. What religion does essentially is temper love of money with a love for community and harmony. Despite the fact that others may try to hijack faith, it remains despite what foolish people do including church leaders.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (JAi95)

What strawmen? You deny that many churches are letist? You deny that the Catholic church is leftist? What exactly are you claiming?

I never said faith itself was leftist - I said the churches. I know for a fact that LDS is for open borders as an institutition as is the Catholic church. Many other churches are as well.

Having worked in gov't, I've seen a lot of different churches' lobbying. It was NEVER for a conservative cause EXCEPT occassionally the catholic chuch lobbying for a pro life cause. Otherwise, the advocacy of churches was exclusively for left wing causes.

Maybe that's anecdotal - but I've never heard or seen a church lobbying for a right wing cause (again, with the exception of abortion).

Re: evangelicals - polls routinely show evangelicals supporting leftists causes but staying with republicans over abortion

Posted by: I forgot my name b/c I haven't posted in 6 months at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (ky+MF)

249 Keeping in mind that Japan was an ally in WWI... they gained possesion of former Spanish then German Flyspeck Islands in the Pacific. Japanese actually encouraged Christian Missionaries from the US to go to Flyspeck Islands. Japan beleived the western Christian religion better suited the Flyspeck Islands than did their own, wholly Japanese, religion.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (cOq4q)

250 Forgive me, but this theological debate between Jews is really interesting.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)

251 To follow the law! The law describes how we live, and how we relate to other people.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (sM1IA)

That Law tells you how you are to relate to G-d as well. Please see the first four Commandments.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (Sf2cq)

252 Is Hillary still thinking about becoming a minister?

Posted by: That Northernlurke embracing the suckd at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (hCt6Y)

253 I was watching the pro pali demonstration in DC. Young punks having to be carried away by the cops. I hope they all get an additional resisting arrest charge. Also, all were masked. I sure hope the mug shots come out for the benefit of anybody thinking of hiring them.

Posted by: bill in arkansas, not gonna comply with nuttin, waiting for the 0300 knock on the door at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (0EOe9)

254 238
...
I really liked Ace labeling it "consequences culture" as he hates the phrase "cancel culture" -- associated with a Lefty tactic -- and was hoping that it would gain traction among we on the Right.

Posted by: ShainS -- CISA Cognitive Security Agent at December 11, 2023 11:57 AM (PjBDh)

Well, it was certainly the intent of the Left to cancel folks on the right guilty of the smallest infraction of their orthodoxy. Now, as the rules are, it's fair game to do the same.
They Cancel, we merely push the Consequences of their rules applied to them.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (ynpvh)

255 I don't like to eat while driving. Sure, I've done it on numerous occasions but usually when under pressure to get to a destination in a timely manner and stopping somewhere is no option. It is really not enjoyable to me, just filling up to get it over with.

Posted by: washrivergal at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (CmpAD)

256 To paraphrase a fellow, I'd rather be ruled by the 1st 100 Christian sects in the directory than a single secular religion.

Posted by: People's Hippo Voice - Personality Commentator at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (TzW+Y)

257 Star Trek has always tracked Western liberalism by design. Someone (Claremont?) did a great writeup on it a few years back. The Patrick Stewart stuff would have been made during the time when said liberalism was shifting its auspices from libertarian to authoritarian,

I come back to a similar topic from the 1999 game Alpha Centauri. Brian Reynolds was a protege of Sid Meier but more leftwing. The game features a number of factions based various ideologies and you can see Brian had some as good (the UN, the environmental) and bad (the Christians, the militia types)

The defining quote from the good UN faction is As the Americans learned so painfully in Earth's final century, free flow of information is the only safeguard against tyranny. The once-chained people whose leaders at last lose their grip on information flow will soon burst with freedom and vitality, but the free nation gradually constricting its grip on public discourse has begun its rapid slide into despotism. Beware of he who would deny you access to information, for in his heart he dreams himself your master.

And this would be considered far right wing extremism now!

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 12:02 PM (XqcwY)

258 250 Forgive me, but this theological debate between Jews is really interesting.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)

Come here for debates on boobs and bullets. Stay for theological lessons from well learned and spoken Horde.

Posted by: Our Country is Screwed at December 11, 2023 12:02 PM (N39Ws)

259 In catholic masses they basically preach for open borders
That’s just a recruiting tool.
Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (Tll0L)

Yup....commie marxist borderless crap.

Plus there is a lotta money in those warm bodies moving North.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 11, 2023 12:02 PM (mQ8ar)

260 Sorry CBD, I didn't realize your comment addressed the Torah and conversion to Judaism.

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 12:03 PM (bLe0J)

261 *trying to think up a script for Jewish Judge Dredd that somehow includes 'Oy Vey! Guilty!'*

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 12:03 PM (GmPfo)

262 Is Hillary still thinking about becoming a minister?

Posted by: That Northernlurke embracing the suckd at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (hCt6Y)

not right now

https://tinyurl.com/32e76x9m

Posted by: BignJames at December 11, 2023 12:03 PM (AwYPR)

263 Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)

It is interesting. When we have religious debates here, it's usually between stripes of Christians.

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (RSbhh)

264 Posted by: brak at December 11, 2023 11:44 AM (25k9m)

Hahahaha. So true.

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (gmo/4)

265 250 Forgive me, but this theological debate between Jews is really interesting.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)

Reminds me of the joke I posted last week about the Pope's debate with a Jewish rabbi on whether or not to kick the Jews out...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (ynpvh)

266 Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (PTdof)

I am differentiating between serving God by following his laws, and believing in God. One is not negotiable.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (sM1IA)

267 The calculated decision that the Christian God is real and engaging in the tenets of the Christian Faith is not a bad start. It is a different start to Paschal's wager. Ultimately there is hope.

Posted by: Spiff The Spaceman at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (evaxF)

268 18-1 is stealing my favorite Alpha Centauri quote!

J/k

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (GmPfo)

269 Legal Insurrection: Javier Milei Sworn in as Argentine President, Immediately Slashes Ministries in Half
“Long live liberty, damn it!”

https://tinyurl.com/ms8h58d4

Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (G1f0d)

270 262 Is Hillary still thinking about becoming a minister?

Posted by: That Northernlurke embracing the suckd at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (hCt6Y)

not right now

https://tinyurl.com/32e76x9m
Posted by: BignJames at December 11, 2023 12:03 PM (AwYPR)

Here I thought it was because Satan didn't want any competition.

Posted by: Our Country is Screwed at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (N39Ws)

271 I hope her Christian conversion is real. But so were Anne Rice and Kanye's conversions, until they weren't.

Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (kuSTV)

272 Reminds me of the joke I posted last week about the Pope's debate with a Jewish rabbi on whether or not to kick the Jews out...
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia)

That was a great joke. "He brought out his lunch, so I brought out mine." LOL

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (JrojV)

273 >>> Pizza is much easier to eat while driving than burgers or any kind of sandwich.
Popcorn shrimp, mozzarella sticks, and chicken tenders are the easiest of all.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus

Everything is easy to eat when driving with my patented "Feed Bucket" which hangs from the drivers neck and has a special 'slop chute' that tucks up under the neck and returns any spillage back to the Bucket.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (cOq4q)

274 251 To follow the law! The law describes how we live, and how we relate to other people.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (sM1IA)

That Law tells you how you are to relate to G-d as well. Please see the first four Commandments.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (Sf2cq)

Catholic or Protestant version?

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (ynpvh)

275 I agree with Anne Shirley about feeling prayers more than saying them. To me, high church music makes me feel the glory and wonder of God a lot more than any sermon.

Posted by: Oglebay at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (ogTiX)

276 Beware of he who would deny you access to information, for in his heart he dreams himself your master.
---

*blinks*

Posted by: Mark Zuckerberg's skin suit at December 11, 2023 12:06 PM (e8j4m)

277 Futurama: Space Pope

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 12:06 PM (gmo/4)

278 *trying to think up a script for Jewish Judge Dredd that somehow includes 'Oy Vey! Guilty!'*
Posted by: Aetius451AD

Mazel Tov! Just before Judge slots you.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 12:06 PM (ous9O)

279 Legal Insurrection: Javier Milei Sworn in as Argentine President, Immediately Slashes Ministries in Half
“Long live liberty, damn it!”
https://tinyurl.com/ms8h58d4
Posted by: Robert at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (G1f0d)

Good. More Please.

Eliminate All They Asses.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (mQ8ar)

280 18-1 is stealing my favorite Alpha Centauri quote!

That game is such a fascinating insight into the left that existed right before the current woke one.

Christians are still bad...but so is China.

Some things might be sciency but are still immoral.

Oh...and the game had a Trump like leader for the capitalist faction who of course was a bad guy

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (XqcwY)

281 In catholic masses they basically preach for open borders
That’s just a recruiting tool.
Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (Tll0L)

Surprisingly, the Catechism teaches respect for countries and their borders and the law, with compassion for the suffering throughout the world. Not open borders.

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (bLe0J)

282 The Atlantic has an article out that asks "what does the working class really want?"

Maybe not discussed in the third person like a child by smug elites? That's a good start.

Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (kuSTV)

283 It would certainly make kosher discussions more lively.

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (GmPfo)

284 That Law tells you how you are to relate to G-d as well. Please see the first four Commandments.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:01 PM (Sf2cq)

Really just the first two, and they speak to the supremacy of the Jewish God. I am parsing (Talmudically?), but there is no explicit demand to believe.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (sM1IA)

285 Most mainstream Christian Churches/Religions are just the new Pharisees and have nothing to do with being a born again Christian. IMHO

Posted by: Drive By redo at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (MNhXM)

286 I am differentiating between serving God by following his laws, and believing in God. One is not negotiable.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:04 PM (sM1IA)
-

Not what the Torah states and not what Chabad states, contrary to your prior claim.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (PTdof)

287 Legal Insurrection: Javier Milei Sworn in as Argentine President, Immediately Slashes Ministries in Half

It moved.

Posted by: rickb223 at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (ous9O)

288 I read the whole post!
Well said Buck. Wonderful post.

Posted by: Bosk of Port Kar at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (VMFAF)

289 Loving Enemies ... Doesn't mean you have to like them or their behaviours ... Doesn't mean you must invite them into your home for dinner or into any part of your life ... Doesn't even mean you ever need to speak with them ever again ... What it might mean, though, is acknowledging and accepting that they (like all of us) were created by God and (like all of us) were placed on this earthly road to (hopefully) honor Him by consciously walking toward perfection ... Can simply mean loosening your grip on hatred, allowing enough space and grace in your heart to silently pray for an enemy's salvation.

Posted by: Kathy at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (LPNLk)

290 I like the story about the Catholic theologian expressing concerns about the laity misinterpreting the scripture and saying that bibles should come with a warning about this danger, to which the Protestant theologian responded, "Yes, put it inside the front cover and that way only Protestants would see it."

Posted by: Oglebay at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (ogTiX)

291 Surprisingly, the Catechism teaches respect for countries and their borders and the law, with compassion for the suffering throughout the world. Not open borders.

Catholic Charities missed that memo

Posted by: brak at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (25k9m)

292 257 I come back to a similar topic from the 1999 game Alpha Centauri. Brian Reynolds was a protege of Sid Meier but more leftwing. The game features a number of factions based various ideologies and you can see Brian had some as good (the UN, the environmental) and bad (the Christians, the militia types)

Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 12:02 PM

One of the best games of all time IMO. Also, the militia lady may have been 'bad' to an extent, but she was definitely hawt.

Posted by: CppThis at December 11, 2023 12:09 PM (PZvjL)

293 Rabbi Hyman Krustofsky "should I buy a Chrysler?". You have to b a Simpsons watcher.

Posted by: bill in arkansas, not gonna comply with nuttin, waiting for the 0300 knock on the door at December 11, 2023 12:09 PM (0EOe9)

294 Forgive me, but this theological debate between Jews is really interesting.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)
-

You are forgiven, my son.

/points to collection plate

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:09 PM (PTdof)

295 271 I hope her Christian conversion is real. But so were Anne Rice and Kanye's conversions, until they weren't.
Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (kuSTV)

Oh, did they flip back?

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (xcxpd)

296 Catholic or Protestant version?
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (ynpvh)

They have different Commandments?

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (Sf2cq)

297 294 Forgive me, but this theological debate between Jews is really interesting.
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:00 PM (JrojV)
-

You are forgiven, my son.

/points to collection plate

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:09 PM (PTdof)

10% is a tithe...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (ynpvh)

298 what about agnosticism

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (geLO8)

299 Oh...and the game had a Trump like leader for the capitalist faction who of course was a bad guy
Posted by: 18-1 at December 11, 2023 12:07 PM (XqcwY)

I am not sure he was necessarily a bad guy but rather amoral. What the heck was his name? He was black! Talk about not being made today.

Pretty much every faction in there was somewhat Grey scale, from the Spartans to the Religious right (who had some of the best quotes 'We do not consent.' To the environmentalists just being wackadoos.

Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (GmPfo)

300 So many people have seen and realized and commented that what we are dealing with these days very obviously, is a spiritual war between Good and Evil. It is good to love and care for your children and it is evil to mutilate them. That is just one marker and there are so many more.

This is another beautiful rendition of "Softly and Tenderly," from the lovely and elegiac movie "Trip to Bountiful":

https://tinyurl.com/vnfwz4h2

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (Epeb0)

301 Re: evangelicals - polls routinely show evangelicals supporting leftists causes but staying with republicans over abortion
Posted by: I forgot my name
--------------
Depends on what you term 'right wing' positions. Evangelicals do not by and large support all sorts of leftist mucking around with moral values. For the most part, open borders support in religion is driven by people in churches with financial gains via jobs from government grants. They distort faith to do what they do. The rank and file don't necessarily agree.

Regarding taxation, welfare spending, etc, you see considerable disagreement among religious people and part of it is based upon that religion's doctrines regarding wealth and how to use it on earth.

There is considerable complexity regarding any sect's take on sin and sinning because of the surrounding culture interacting with religious views to sequentially highlight some parts of scriptures while denigrating or demoting other parts. When you begin adding government policy to it; even committed Christians divide over such matters as liquor sales on Sunday, faith in the public square, etc.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (JAi95)

302 Catholic Charities missed that memo
Posted by: brak

They are a grifting org. - just like so many others.

A CINO money making machine.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (h/xVB)

303 >10% is a tithe...

Posted by: jim
---

to the big guy

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (geLO8)

304 10% is a tithe...
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (ynpvh)
-

For the Big Guy!

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (PTdof)

305 JINX!!!!

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (PTdof)

306
Jimmie Dean? Great sausages.
Posted by: Pudinhead

You can really rowlf them down!

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (63Dwl)

307 290 I like the story about the Catholic theologian expressing concerns about the laity misinterpreting the scripture and saying that bibles should come with a warning about this danger, to which the Protestant theologian responded, "Yes, put it inside the front cover and that way only Protestants would see it."
Posted by: Oglebay at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (ogTiX)

snort

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (xcxpd)

308 what about agnosticism
Posted by: Don Black

I don't know about that.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (h/xVB)

309 the thing, religion is not hard, the hard part is doing the things that the religion says you have to do that you do not want to do.

religion is not about what you want

Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (RjBju)

310 What is Chabad?

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (JrojV)

311 296 Catholic or Protestant version?
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:05 PM (ynpvh)

They have different Commandments?

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (Sf2cq)
Catholic Version kinda skips over the idols part:
1) I am the LORD your God. You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve.
2) You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
3) Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day.
...
9) You shall not covet your neighbor's wife.
10) You shall not covet your neighbor's goods.

Miss the issue on idols, split the last into two compared to the Protestant one.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (ynpvh)

312 jinx does not apply here, see timestamp

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (geLO8)

313 Nwabudike (sp?) Morgan was the industrialist guy. He had some hilarious quotes and was generally boss tier.

Alpha Centauri is a lot like Watchmen, in that the author clearly had some biases but he was nonetheless willing to explore all the factions including their weaknesses.

Posted by: CppThis at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (PZvjL)

314 Not what the Torah states and not what Chabad states, contrary to your prior claim.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:08 PM (PTdof)

Show me where Jewish law demands that we believe in God. The 10 Commandments? "I Am The Lord Your God" is a statement of fact. I accept that fact as a tenet of Judaism, but does it demand belief?

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (sM1IA)

315 298 what about agnosticism
Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (geLO

Oh, I don't know...

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (xcxpd)

316 24 How come she didn't consider becoming a Jew?

*never mind*
Posted by: Martini Farmer at December 11, 2023 11:08 AM (Q4IgG)

I thought the whole point is that they don't WANT converts.

Posted by: XTC at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (sm6Pk)

317 At the risk of being told off , I found this article very interesting. It is written by a Jewish man who writes the Blog Post, "My Jewish Learning" "Must a Jew believe in God?.":

https://tinyurl.com/ykyt75uu

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (RSbhh)

318 Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.

Posted by: DOYLE at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (Z8Yh2)

319 Good heavens, I can't imagine trying to drive and eat a Chicago style pizza. Tomato sauce everywhere....
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:56 AM (xcxpd)

Invented in 1943 by a Texan. All you need to know. LOL!! Cake with tomato sauce.

Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy now with twice the crazy at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (iODuv)

320 311 What is Chabad?
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (JrojV)

$20?

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (xcxpd)

321 298 what about agnosticism
Posted by: Don Black
----------
See Pascal's Wager.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (JAi95)

322 what about agnosticism
Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:10 PM (geLO

Oh, I don't know...
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards

See also #308.

Gotta be fast around here!

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (h/xVB)

323 What is Chabad?

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (JrojV)

A wonderful Hasidic Jewish organization that seems to be everywhere there are Jews.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (sM1IA)

324 jinx does not apply here, see timestamp
Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (geLO

-

/stops posting comments via usps

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (PTdof)

325 313 jinx does not apply here, see timestamp

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (geLO

We need an arbitrator or Judge to decide who's right.
I nominate the Barrel...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (ynpvh)

326 Miss the issue on idols, split the last into two compared to the Protestant one.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (ynpvh)

I had no idea. Wonder if they translate from different manuscripts.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (Sf2cq)

327 Are we in a ‘silent depression’? TikTokers claim 2023 economy is worse than Great Depression

... these people have no sense of history

Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (RHGPo)

328 I'm don't know if I believe that eggs exist, or not.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (JrojV)

329 Trial by Barrel™.
Only at AOSHQ™.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (ynpvh)

330 EUYKK

Spammer at 309

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (aNACl)

331 I no longer tell people facing adversity or pain that “I’ll pray for you.” I now say a prayer for them, and then inform them that they’ve been prayed for, hoping it will benefit them the way I benefited from prayer.

---

I will do this

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (+gjhA)

332 I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE

Nonsense!! You are a gift from God and wonderfully made!

(Warts and all)

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (h/xVB)

333 10% is a tithe...
-----------
For the Big Guy!

Over/under on the odds that at some point Hunter will try to say that that was what he was really talking about when he wrote that phrase?

Posted by: Oddbob at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (nfrXX)

334 protestants definitely have faults with what they are doing today, however, as far afield as they have gone, it is easier to fix because they do business at the individual church level.

catholicism is a much harder nut

Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (RjBju)

335 What is Chabad?
Posted by: Bulgaroctonus

The opposite of chagood !

Posted by: JT at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (T4tVD)

336 What is Chabad?

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (JrojV)

A wonderful Hasidic Jewish organization that seems to be everywhere there are Jews.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo

Is that like Hillel?

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (JrojV)

337 319 Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE

Christ himself dealt with that one. Who better needs a physician than one that is sick. So Christ through his parables of the Prodigal Son and his direct statements say that he is here to help you and a good church helps cement your relationship with the Lord thorough its fellowship. If you seek redemption and forgiveness, it will be given.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (JAi95)

338 Trial by Barrel™.
Only at AOSHQ™.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:15 PM (ynpvh)
----
Two Morons go in, only one Moron comes out...

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (7fElN)

339 Don't know about that movie but the excellent Shadowlands about CS Lewis, faith during trying times, and redemption is right up there. True story although I am sure the movie had a few embellishments.
Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 11:51 AM (JAi95)

There is a recent (2021) movie about CS Lewis named "The Most Reluctant Convert" which was very good. Really just a one man soliloquy, it started off as a stage production.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (i9ffA)

340 >written by a Jewish man who writes the Blog Post, "My Jewish Learning" "Must a Jew believe in God?.":
---

if not, what's the point

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (geLO8)

341 Are we in a ‘silent depression’? TikTokers claim 2023 economy is worse than Great Depression

... these people have no sense of history
Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM

I think I've spotted the problem.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (aQy7p)

342 327 Miss the issue on idols, split the last into two compared to the Protestant one.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (ynpvh)

I had no idea. Wonder if they translate from different manuscripts.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM (Sf2cq)

It's in the " I am the LORD your God. You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve.", but only if you read the actual scripture.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (ynpvh)

343 Wow, since the Biden administration rescinded the vaccine mandate, the Supreme Court just wiped all Vaccines cases as Moot.

So even though we have actual damage to millions, from being forced to take a vaccine... there is NO way to hold the government accountable for taking our Rights? WTF?

Yeah, I know I arrested and beat the fuck out of you yesterday, but I let you go today... so it's moot....

Posted by: Romeo13 at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (xaFKb)

344 319 Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (Z8Yh2

We don't go to church because we are good. We go because God is good.

Posted by: Emmie at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (Sf2cq)

345 The Bidenites are building an army of mercenaries right under our noses. Migrants here illegally (let’s call them “illegrants” for brevity’s sake) are now welcome in the U.S. military, and in fact, are being encouraged to enlist, all expenses paid, of course. This is no different than turning our military over to the enemy.

.. just read the part about the 'fall of the Roman Empire' to understand what come next

Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (RHGPo)

346 Yes, I know about hate the sin, love the sinner.
In my experience compliance is difficult and is the most challenging. All the other commandments, no problem.

Posted by: gourmand du jour at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (MeG8a)

347 Back in the day... a Big Mac in my lap, drink wedged between the seat and console, a joint in one hand... driving a stick and not dropping a crumb, spilling a drop, burning myself or missing a shift.

"Multi-tasking" before it was a thing.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (Q4IgG)

348 This is my first time go to see at here and i am really happy to read all at
single place.
Posted by: crypto wallets at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM (EUYKK)

Did you bring your lace wig, though? These are required attire.

Posted by: reason at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (e8j4m)

349 I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.

nah, my Catholic ex-gfs go to mass, trust me you're not the worst one there

Posted by: brak at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (25k9m)

350
I have an old friend, known since I was a teenager. Jewish, from Queens NY. Why in the world we became good friends, I cannot fathom. Having come of age in low country SC, and he in NYC, it's difficult to imagine a more apparent cultural difference. But we did.

Now, some *cough* *cough* decades later, he is the leader of two Messianic congregations. He is not given to proselytizing, but is simultaneously a person of profound faith. We do not see each other very often, living very far apart, but on the occassions that we do, I am always struck by his calm, reasoned, and absolute faith. Frankly, I always come away (to my benefit) reminded, by contrast, of my own shortcomings.

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (XeU6L)

351 I thought the whole point is that they don't WANT converts.
Posted by: XTC at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (sm6Pk)
-

Not true. We don't actively missionize, though historically there were times when Judaism sort of did.

But if someone shows interest, we encourage them and warn them of the difficulties and consequences at the same time.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (PTdof)

352 >I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE

---

I know right
like having really bad seats at the game

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (geLO8)

353 I was born catholic. I don't trust man to speak for god, end of story. Man is corruptible and has been since we wandered out of our caves. I had always wondered how much of it all is bullshit. I eventually had experienced a profound genuine miracle in my life that to me proved god exists, or something god like. It made it all clearer to me to never trust man to speak for god.

Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (VwHCD)

354 Thank you for your testimony, Buck.

Posted by: Gredd at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (oawmZ)

355 Christianity's blessing is also its curse.

Anyone can join, you humble yourself before God ask forgiveness for your sins through accepting Jesus into your heart.

The path is hard, all are doomed to fail repeatedly, and you never stop begging forgiveness.

Posted by: sven at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (X0I7i)

356 Posted by: crypto wallets at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM

What have you done with Sarah?!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (aQy7p)

357 Trial by Barrel™.
Only at AOSHQ™.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia)
----
Two Morons go in, only one Moron comes out...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel

*Clears throat - adopts John Facenda voice*

"On any given Sunday. . . . "

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (h/xVB)

358 348 Back in my day. An 8 pack of pony cans and a bag of Lay's.

Posted by: bill in arkansas, not gonna comply with nuttin, waiting for the 0300 knock on the door at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (0EOe9)

359 Late but I just watched this video by Dr Phil excoriating the University Presidents and making it totally clear how evil they are. He went to Israel and witnessed the extent of Hamas's crimes against humanity and very eloquently destroys any argument the left had trying to justify the attack.
https://tinyurl.com/yunz45j4

Posted by: sharon(willow's apprentice) at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (t/2Uw)

360 Show me where Jewish law demands that we believe in God. The 10 Commandments? "I Am The Lord Your God" is a statement of fact. I accept that fact as a tenet of Judaism, but does it demand belief?
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo
-----------
That particular argument has been going on for millennia--does the law redeem one or does the Lord himself.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (JAi95)

361 one good thing about Christianity is that they've already made most of the amateur mistakes.

Posted by: Fenrisulven at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (C73/M)

362 353 Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at December 11, 2023 12:17 PM (VwHCD)

God love, man kills.

Man kills the body, the mind, and the soul.

Through violence, through lies, and through tyranny.

God can absolve or succor all that.

Bless you.

Posted by: sven at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (X0I7i)

363
if not, what's the point
Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (geLO

I'm just saying that he gives the argument.. His blog-from what I've read is not from the perspective of a non believer.

I sort of got the impression that" bearded transgender Rabbi Jessica" was from a Jewish that didn't require a belief in God

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (RSbhh)

364 Not true. We don't actively missionize, though historically there were times when Judaism sort of did.
Posted by: Biden's Dog

And that's how you got the Herods. Ethnic Edomites.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (JrojV)

365 356 Posted by: crypto wallets at December 11, 2023 12:11 PM

What have you done with Sarah?!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:18 PM (aQy7p)

In the cryptowallet, of course.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (ynpvh)

366 Is that like Hillel?

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (JrojV)

Hillel is a campus organization. Chabad is everywhere.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (sM1IA)

367
What have you done with Sarah?!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState
-------

Sarah?
What happened to Dorcas Blimline?

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (XeU6L)

368 Sorry-Jewish tradition, not "faith"

Posted by: FenelonSpoke at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (RSbhh)

369 Christianity's blessing is also its curse.

Anyone can join, you humble yourself before God ask forgiveness for your sins through accepting Jesus into your heart.

The path is hard, all are doomed to fail repeatedly, and you never stop begging forgiveness.
Posted by: sven

that is not a curse though, it is the thing, all yo uhave to do is believe, the thing is, if you believe then you will behave as if you believe.

elegant

Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (RjBju)

370 319 Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (Z8Yh2)

It would feel just patronizing if the preacher wasn't hellfire-and-brimstone, angrily admonishing everyone for their continued sin, and that they're all on the path to burn in hell.

...or maybe that's just the only way it lines up with my... issues.

Posted by: XTC at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (sm6Pk)

371 In the cryptowallet, of course.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM

Is that anything like the Barrel?

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (aQy7p)

372 Wow, since the Biden administration rescinded the vaccine mandate, the Supreme Court just wiped all Vaccines cases as Moot.
Posted by: Romeo13 at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (xaFKb)

Typical SCROTUM move. Avoid any and all responsibility when they can.

Abolish The SCROTUM.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (mQ8ar)

373 I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.

nah, my Catholic ex-gfs go to mass, trust me you're not the worst one there
Posted by: brak

Heh. A reformed stripper acquaintance of mine says every time she dips her fingers in Holy Water, it burns.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (h/xVB)

374 Wow, since the Biden administration rescinded the vaccine mandate, the Supreme Court just wiped all Vaccines cases as Moot.

So even though we have actual damage to millions, from being forced to take a vaccine... there is NO way to hold the government accountable for taking our Rights? WTF?

Yeah, I know I arrested and beat the fuck out of you yesterday, but I let you go today... so it's moot....
Posted by: Romeo13

The miltary said they'd take back those they discharged.
Backpay with interest? Not so much.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (cOq4q)

375 369 Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (RjBju)

The curse is we can allow too many wolves in with the sheep.

There are a lot of Christian leaders more concerned with the world than God.

It is risking the whole faith.

Posted by: sven at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (X0I7i)

376 this subject is very tricky
many landmines

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (geLO8)

377 Hillel a campus organization. Chabad is everywhere.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo

Ah, thanks. I remember Hillel from U. of Michigan. They were one of the places that would screen old classic movies on the weekend.

Posted by: Bulgaroctonus at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (JrojV)

378 In Christianity, the book of James deals with the tension between Faith and Deeds. As it famously says, Faith is essential, but Faith without Deeds is dead. What you *do* in this life, with your life, is more important than what you say you believe, because you demonstrate what you believe by what you do.

Perhaps the prime reason Faith is important is because it is impossible for any man to stay dedicated throughout his life to something he does not actually believe in.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (i9ffA)

379 341 Are we in a ‘silent depression’? TikTokers claim 2023 economy is worse than Great Depression

... these people have no sense of history
Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM

I think I've spotted the problem.

.. makes me think this is a solicitation for positive comments on the economy from Biden's Tik-Tok army

Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:21 PM (RHGPo)

380 >>> Invented in 1943 by a Texan. All you need to know. LOL!! Cake with tomato sauce.

I found out the other day that French dip was invented by a French ex-pat in America. I'm starting to suspect that nothing with the word "French" in front of it was actually invented in France.

Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:22 PM (kuSTV)

381 Show me where Jewish law demands that we believe in God. The 10 Commandments? "I Am The Lord Your God" is a statement of fact. I accept that fact as a tenet of Judaism, but does it demand belief?
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (sM1IA)
-

To keep it simple, now read the next verse.

But I already quoted Chabad from the conversion article, if you could address that, too.

I have no idea where you're coming from, unless it is Reform.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:22 PM (PTdof)

382 In my experience compliance is difficult and is the most challenging. All the other commandments, no problem.
Posted by: gourmand du jour
---------
Every person has at least one stumbling block put in their path. Often the hatred stems from 'good' sentiments such as justice, truth, and mercy but taken to the next step as to deny the humanity of those we hate rather than the sin that they do.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:22 PM (JAi95)

383 69 Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (RjBju)

The curse is we can allow too many wolves in with the sheep.

There are a lot of Christian leaders more concerned with the world than God.

It is risking the whole faith.
Posted by: sven

got it.

Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:23 PM (RjBju)

384 onion dip ftw

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:23 PM (geLO8)

385 Hey! We don't want to give up our winter solstice feast!

- Northern European pagans

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 12:23 PM (gmo/4)

386 Dozens of pro-Palestine protestors arrested inside Hart Senate Office Statement from U.S. Capitol PD: Just after 10 a.m., a group of people started illegally protesting inside the Hart Senate Office Building. It is illegal to demonstrate inside the Congressional Buildings

.. I'm sure they all get the DC-Gitmo /snark

Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (RHGPo)

387 371 In the cryptowallet, of course.
Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM

Is that anything like the Barrel?

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:20 PM (aQy7p)

Probably much nicer; it's newer with the latest appliances.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (ynpvh)

388 onion dip ftw

Posted by: Don Black at December 11, 2023 12:23 PM (geLO

Bacon Horseradish dip.

Fight me!

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (gmo/4)

389 I kinda always wanted paganism, specifically my Norse gods, to work and be real. I wanted alternate heavens, frankly Valhalla or the Tantric LightBody sounds like a pretty great way to spend eternity. But in the end, I don't think paganism is true.

And that's why I could never really get into Torvaldism and Tantric mysticism. I wanted to but...if it's not true, there's no point.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (xcxpd)

390 I found out the other day that French dip was invented by a French ex-pat in America. I'm starting to suspect that nothing with the word "French" in front of it was actually invented in France.
Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:22 PM (kuSTV)

Caesar salad was invented in Tijuana, Mexico.

Posted by: Zombie Robbo the Llama Butcher at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (N3zMI)

391 To follow the law! The law describes how we live, and how we relate to other people.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 11:58 AM (sM1IA)

I just got an idea for a Jewish version of Judge Dredd
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 11:59 AM (xcxpd)

Judge Dreddstein? I met some Jewish guys in Los Angeles in the 80s. They were in a reggae band called the Dreadsteins.

Posted by: Dr. Fausti - I AM The Science at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (lg881)

392 The curse is we can allow too many wolves in with the sheep.

There are a lot of Christian leaders more concerned with the world than God.

It is risking the whole faith.
Posted by: sven

it is a thing, however, it is not risking the faith, just the churches.

I am of the opinion that the churches / institutions are mostly more of a liability than an asset.

Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (RjBju)

393 383 Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:23 PM (RjBju)

I pray, a lot more these days.

Posted by: sven at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (X0I7i)

394 >>> 341 Are we in a ‘silent depression’? TikTokers claim 2023 economy is worse than Great Depression... these people have no sense of history
Posted by: SMOD at December 11, 2023 12:14 PM

I missed the part where the crops in the Midwest all dried up and turned our former bread basket into a dust bowl. Moose out front didn't tell me.

Does that make the tent cities under all the underpasses "Bidenvilles?"

Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (kuSTV)

395 Nood. Penn.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (aQy7p)

396 NOOD

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (ynpvh)

397 Whether she's "born again" or not, she's right about the necessity of shared Judeo-Christian values as fundamental to a Western society if it's going to survive and to weather the storm of barbarity.

Posted by: It's a good start anyway at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (wtpA4)

398 381 Show me where Jewish law demands that we believe in God. The 10 Commandments? "I Am The Lord Your God" is a statement of fact. I accept that fact as a tenet of Judaism, but does it demand belief?
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:12 PM (sM1IA)

I note, with a touch of amusement, that accepting "I Am the Lord your God" as a statement of fact, is in fact a statement of belief.

Posted by: Tom Servo at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (i9ffA)

399 389 And that's why I could never really get into Torvaldism and Tantric mysticism. I wanted to but...if it's not true, there's no point.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (xcxpd)

The only thing that's ever true is pain.

Posted by: XTC at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (sm6Pk)

400 @287

>>It moved.

This dude is going to either usher in a new super predicate order or one of many Deep States is going to Sic Semper Tyrannis the guy.

I don't see any other outcome.

Posted by: Thomas Bender at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (oj98Z)

401 Bacon Horseradish dip.

Fight me!

Posted by: Archer at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (gmo/4)

Bacon Horseradish Clam dip.

Posted by: BignJames at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (AwYPR)

402 374 Wow, since the Biden administration rescinded the vaccine mandate, the Supreme Court just wiped all Vaccines cases as Moot.

So even though we have actual damage to millions, from being forced to take a vaccine... there is NO way to hold the government accountable for taking our Rights? WTF?

Yeah, I know I arrested and beat the fuck out of you yesterday, but I let you go today... so it's moot....
Posted by: Romeo13

———

Bullshit government.

Posted by: MAGA_Ken at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (IwwlF)

403 392 Posted by: N at December 11, 2023 12:25 PM (RjBju)

The end of the churches will make our faith less desirable to people that get wrapped up in the social aspects and the works organized faith accomplish.

We will survive to some degree, it is His word that matters.

That said we live in dark times and the genocides and pogroms in the heathen hearts is worse than in the past.

You could flee from the Khans and the Huns, you cannot flee from the WEF.

Posted by: sven at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (X0I7i)

404 On really great Christian movies, I recommend Fatima, (the music alone makes it worth watching) , The Passion of The Christ, Nefarious, and one with Ralph Fiennes (cant remeber the name).

Posted by: LASue at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (Ed8Zd)

405 389 I kinda always wanted paganism, specifically my Norse gods, to work and be real. I wanted alternate heavens, frankly Valhalla or the Tantric LightBody sounds like a pretty great way to spend eternity. But in the end, I don't think paganism is true.

And that's why I could never really get into Torvaldism and Tantric mysticism. I wanted to but...if it's not true, there's no point.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards
--------
Norse, Roman, Greek, and most of the 'gods' of ancient mythology act as people do with jealousy, unfaithfullness, theft, lies, etc. You really do not see that in the Bible whether you stop at the Old Testament or go on to the New.

Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (JAi95)

406 And that's why I could never really get into Torvaldism and Tantric mysticism. I wanted to but...if it's not true, there's no point.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (xcxpd)

So a Linux computer is right out, then?

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (aNACl)

407 Hillel is a campus organization. Chabad is everywhere.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 11, 2023 12:19 PM (sM1IA)
-

Hillel university chapters are mostly non-observant and are located in N. America (not sure about Canada).

Chabad is a Torah observant Hassidic sect, with branches and representatives throughout some of the most distant corners of the world.

Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (PTdof)

408 Let's not dump on Ali too much. It's a rational choice. She still has a journey to make. Now it's time for Douglas Murray.

Posted by: MichiCanuck at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (UZ716)

409 402 374 Wow, since the Biden administration rescinded the vaccine mandate, the Supreme Court just wiped all Vaccines cases as Moot.

So even though we have actual damage to millions, from being forced to take a vaccine... there is NO way to hold the government accountable for taking our Rights? WTF?

Yeah, I know I arrested and beat the fuck out of you yesterday, but I let you go today... so it's moot....
Posted by: Romeo13

———

Bullshit government.
Posted by: MAGA_Ken at December 11, 2023 12:26 PM (IwwlF)

The State vs the Citizens. It's out in the open at last.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:28 PM (xcxpd)

410 406 And that's why I could never really get into Torvaldism and Tantric mysticism. I wanted to but...if it's not true, there's no point.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:24 PM (xcxpd)

So a Linux computer is right out, then?
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at December 11, 2023 12:27 PM (aNACl)

Don't get me started on Linux....

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, anti-Marxist, buy ammo at December 11, 2023 12:28 PM (xcxpd)

411 I found out the other day that French dip was invented by a French ex-pat in America. I'm starting to suspect that nothing with the word "French" in front of it was actually invented in France.
Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:22 PM (kuSTV)

Chop Suey > French Dip

Posted by: Phuck Long at December 11, 2023 12:30 PM (mQ8ar)

412 319 Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE

Christ himself dealt with that one. Who better needs a physician than one that is sick. So Christ through his parables of the Prodigal Son and his direct statements say that he is here to help you and a good church helps cement your relationship with the Lord thorough its fellowship. If you seek redemption and forgiveness, it will be given.
Posted by: whig at December 11, 2023 12:16 PM (JAi95)

What he said.
Also, there's a lot of bible devoted to the fact that we ALL fall short and that nobody is worthy of standing before God demanding justification. Not one. Otherwise, what was Christ's sacrifice for? So look around Church and console yourself that everybody else there sucks as bad as you, preacher included.

Posted by: OneEyedJack at December 11, 2023 12:32 PM (FCbAQ)

413 >>> Post messed me up a little. One of my issues is I don't feel worthy in a church. I don't belong. I like church, I just think I'm the worst person there. I'm probably right.
Posted by: DOYLE at December 11, 2023 12:13 PM (Z8Yh2)

You belong!!

The best and worst part of any church is its members. Some truly have hearts of welcome and fellowship, some members are smug judges. A church is a hospital. We go there to heal, not hold court over or judge others. I hope you can find a church that has members that make you feel welcome just as you are, and they know if you do, God will do the rest.

I really hope Kat von D's rejection of the occult and baptism into Christianity is authentic. I loved seeing her get baptized, tats and all, with observers dressed similarly. Church is for everyone!

Posted by: LizLem at December 11, 2023 12:32 PM (kuSTV)

414 Whitaker Chambers, former Soviet spy who then defected from communism and eventually became a Quaker, wrote a fantastic and beautiful book called "Witness."

In it, he said that people would ask him why on Earth he would spy for the Soviet Union when he was born in this wonderful country, and he would always tell them the same thing which explains the left and Lucifer by the way, in one sentence:

"Why? It is the oldest temptation of all: "Ye shall be as gods....'"

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 12:41 PM (Epeb0)

415 Related: the Satanists' creed is: "'Do what thou will is the whole of the law."

Results? Lies, theft, hatred, depravity, destruction for the thrill of it, and eternal damnation.

It's almost like our Creator knows what's best for his children with his Ten Commandments.

"By their fruits shall you know them," he told us. Diseased fruit? Rotten tree.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 12:46 PM (Epeb0)

416 Very thoughtful, Buck, thank you.

I guess I try to be a, "Give it to G*d", Sermon on the Mount Christian and, yes, I fall short. Anyway, last week I went to a Catholic Mass & a Christmas Festival. My all time favorite wedding ceremony & reception was Jewish; beautiful and fun. Neighbors - becoming ever more diversified - include Bosnians, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Vietnamese, Japanese, African and their religions include Orthodox Christian; Buddhist; Taoist; Hindu, Muslim, Shintoism and more. In fact, there's at least one Temple of Gaia within the county.

Family & ancestral ties matter strongly to many including Asian, Eastern European. And being an American citizen also matters.

Posted by: L - They don't have to outrun the bear, they only need to outrun us - for now at December 11, 2023 12:47 PM (GshMh)

417 In catholic masses they basically preach for open borders
That’s just a recruiting tool.
Posted by: Montec at December 11, 2023 11:54 AM (Tll0L)

Depends on the priest. But there is much less of that among the younger priests as they seem to be moving more traditional and Patria is a part of that.

Posted by: Spiff The Spaceman at December 11, 2023 12:59 PM (evaxF)

418 CBD, if you don't believe in God, whom are you obeying? And why?

Is this like being a cultural Christian?

Seems like the easier path would be to bag the whole system and just do our own thing.

Posted by: Beverly at December 11, 2023 01:02 PM (Epeb0)

419 Great post, Buck! I have always been dubious of organized religion which was cemented when my Catholic Church bought into the Scamdemic crap and refused to fight back against closures while strip clubs and liquor stores stayed open by government decree rather than law.

I am a true believer and it is wonderful. My wife and I have found our local 'Free Church' and the pastor is a wonderfully American based believer; by American I mean his devotion to the Constitution and our Declaration which are based on Christ.

Posted by: Danimal28 at December 11, 2023 01:04 PM (klw0w)

420 33 "Hopefully she will eventually realize it's less about religion than it is with having a relationship with Jesus Christ."

Having a relationship with Jesus Christ IS religion.

Posted by: Frank at December 11, 2023 01:23 PM (ePz4m)

421 I am not sure what a practicing Christians is .

Posted by: MAC V SOG at December 11, 2023 01:23 PM (P4Pk9)

422 Ali's turn to Christianity -- as welcome as it would be (for herself, foremost) -- wounds more like a desire to return to the orderliness and functioning of society that drove the forever-upward and forward progress in the US.

One of the most frustrating things in talking to my parents (staunch Obama-loving democrats) is that when they are clear-eyed on the stupidity of the actions of their own party, they refuse to see it to blame for the rampant disintegration of the society around them. It hasn't been conservative ideas that dissolved the meaning of marriage; it hasn't been conservative ideas that pushed race relations back half a century; it hasn't been conservative ideas that destroyed the economy. Etc., etc. It's all your side, folks. It's all you.

So, for Ali, I hope the faith ultimately comes with the adoption of the trappings and a sincere desire to know Christ. And welcome to the party. Let's hope she brings friends.

Posted by: red speck at December 11, 2023 02:01 PM (0Id0S)

423 She wants to battle Islam. I think she wants to start a fourth Crusade. Understandable given her background.
Which is proper: becoming a Christian to advance Western civilization or or to be a worshiper of God under the Kingdom of Jesus Christ?

Posted by: Carl at December 11, 2023 03:00 PM (siAAq)

424 "I'm on Aslan's side even if there isn't any Aslan to lead it."

Posted by: mg at December 11, 2023 04:04 PM (T8sL0)

425 Saved her soul hopefully expose Islam as the Violent false religion

Posted by: Tamaa the Drongo Bird at December 11, 2023 04:30 PM (wGqjj)

426 Until you just let go entirely and accept Jesus as your savior you can’t really know Christianity. I admit this is hard for intelligent people who evaluate and question but all things are possible with God.

I wish I could explain ‘being born’ again but it’s like trying to explain to someone with no children what’s it’s like having a first child.

Posted by: Road to Damascus at December 11, 2023 11:29 AM (MNhXM)
==
I get your meaning, but I disagree with it for this reason. I can make a measured, intellectual argument for God and Christ. I may not have the same fervor for it than someone else. But it is not because I don't really believe it. I believe it for a multitude of reasons, but to my mind very pragmatically. (Part 1)

Posted by: Black JEM at December 11, 2023 05:01 PM (GZYu7)

427 (Part 2) I used to think since I didn't have the raging emotional understanding and love that I was somehow missing something. I mistook what a personal relationship can be. I begrudge no one their faith, or how they choose to practice it (as long as they don't want to chop my head off). It makes sense to me that there is more to the world than what we "see". The desire to find God, our creator, I do believe is planted. My thankfulness for the gift of my life is genuine. My desire to try and be worthy of that gift is real. My thankfulness for His Son is also genuine. He was here. Something happened that the apostles were all willing to die for him. That isn't easily dismissed. Whether one is a cradle Catholic or a born again believer, we are all Christians, and we all believe in our way. None is superior to another one.

Posted by: Black JEM at December 11, 2023 05:06 PM (GZYu7)

428 Hallelujah, Buck!

Posted by: GWB at December 11, 2023 07:12 PM (HMvgH)

429 Montec, what 18-1 said.

Posted by: Eric2 at December 11, 2023 07:47 PM (t7mrP)

430 As a miserable sinner, I second that.
I believe, have always believed even during some years of doubt.
How does materialism and evolution reverse entropy?
Huh, no one ever told me.
I accept the Nicene, Athanasian and Apostle's Creeds, because I'm not a theologian but trust the early Christian Fathers (and their moms, since they certainly helped their children in their faith).
I am content in my older age that God rules this world and Jesus will return.
I am more tolerant, with the belief that the Holy Spirit works every where and Jesus will judge, not me.

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Posted by: interim at December 12, 2023 05:48 AM (SeAh9)

432 Rebbe Nachman from Bratslav, IIRC, said that if you do the right thing for the wrong reason, you will eventually merit to do it for the right reason. Anyone starting to develop faith and practice should be welcomed and encouraged. Many of the earliest Christians never understood fully what they believed in, yet they produced mighty works of faith, and martyrdom -- that is, "witness."

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