NDL

Trinacria, having read many of your fair-minded posts, it doesn't surprise me that it's the latter. There's no question that hypocrisy can be found in Christian circles; that's something that I myself am highly guarded against, and it's something that I often speak out against. Yet even I myself, can be found guilty of hypocrisy at one time or another - hence the direction of my first post: God is perfect. Therefore, I preach and teach God's perfection. But I myself am largely flawed. Therefore, does that disqualify me from teaching God's perfect way?

While I think it's great that you're exploring your friend's motives, the theory of insecurity doesn't make sense. Let's say you opened the paper, and saw a 2005 GTO listed for $5,000. You think it's a scam, but you decide to call anyway. Sure enough, the owner, a widow, wants to sell her newly-deceased-husband's GTO - one of two GTO's he owned. She doesn't need the money; she just wants to get rid of the car. Of course, you buy it. Later that night, you tell your closest friend about your purchase, and of course, he's happy for you, and wishes he could buy the car too. Luck runs in your friend's favor: the owner calls you up a day later, and asks if you want to pick up the second GTO. While you don't have the money, nor do you have access to the money, your friend does - and he said that he'd pick up the 2nd GTO in a nanosecond, if the owner decided to sell. Assuming the above story were true, would you sit on your hands? Or would you try every method to reach out to your best friend; that he might have a 2005 GTO of his own? That's very much the motive of many religious people; they see their faith as something great, and wish that everyone had faith. Here's the problem: Many religious people forget the human condition: some are judgmental; some slam the door in the faces of people needing the most help, and others force their faith down people's throats. And while I am far from perfect, I try not to do any of the above things.

I agree 110%. I wish I had more to say, but I don't; you're right.

I'm sorry to hear you say that, Trinacria. Why? Because if I behaved in an improper way, I'd want someone to correct me. Or perhaps I am misunderstanding the meaning behind your post: Do you truly want people to SHUT UP, or is your remark really just a notation on the hypocracy found in people?

I seldom get involved in discussions between posters, but since I have seen the above sentiment expressed by many different people over the years, I think the aforementioned quote deserves a response; not towards any one individual, but to all: With all sincerity and respect, what is the ultimate goal of believing Christians? To draw unbelievers to Christ. And how do people get to know Christ? By knowing His Word. But who would want to become acquainted with Christ, when His representatives are judging the hearts, and motives, of people? I have said it before, and I'll say it again: Denominations are not a determining factor in who loves Christ, and who doesn't. Fruit of the Spirit, are often good indicators about how someone is walking. Certainly, who could question the faith of men like Mel Gibson, or Alan Keyes? Both men are men of great faith. And both men are professing Catholics. On the flipside, are men like Benny Hinn or Frederick Price, who are recognized by some as prominant members in the Evangelical Christian community, good representatives of Biblical Christianity? I dunno, but Matthew 7:21-23 comes to mind, when I think of those two... One final thought: While much has been said about 'sitting in judgement of others,' I hope it's realized that while *no one* is to judge another person's heart, Ephesians 4:15 does tell us that as Christians, we have an *obligation* to speak the truth in love.

I agree with you totally, for Mary's virginity was not an 'invention' of the Church (Matthew 1:18 ). Speaking of which, I have yet to find the Church's official position on Mary's status of co-redeemer. Either I haven't searched deep enough, or her co-redemptive status is a position taken by the local (regional) Church.

I agree. Political correctness, while well intentioned, cuts off dialogue. And a lack of dialogue (and respect), lead to gross misunderstanding.

Croc, your replies are very insightful. I'd like to answer them properly; give me a day or two to get back to you...

I agree. That approach annoys me, as much as it does you. Agreed. Open the door to any Catholic, Protestant, or Lutheran, church, and you'll find people who are believers, and people who aren't. My main beef with many Evangelical Christians, is that many seem to forget this fact.

That was under the Old Testament Law, from which we were freed. Matthew 11:19 states: "The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is justified by her children.” (NKJV) If Jesus didn't consume wine in moderation, how/why would they have called Him a winebibber? Christians are indeed allowed to consume alcohol (in moderation); it's drunkeness that the Bible warns about.

And that's a tremendous irritant for me too. For it's wrong to come to assumptions, without knowing what an individual actually believes. Thing is, I would agree that not all Catholics are Christian. Just as I would say that not all Protestants are Christian. Nor are all Lutherans Christian. Same can be said with those who call themselves 'born again' Christians. For titles never describe a believer's standing before our Lord, for there are good and bad, in every sect.

Not a misconception at all. Having been raised a religious Catholic, I still attend Catholic Mass service, several times per year. And make no mistake; the Catholic Church is now calling the Madonna (Mary) the co-redeemer. While there's nothing inherently wrong with traditions, Scripture warns us to approach such things with care (Col 2:8 ) Actually, Scripture is quite specific (1 Cor 11:23-26 )

One last thought, before I head off to work: I find it really cool, that a group of people of various beliefs, or non-belief, are having this discussion, and respect is being dealt all around. For I really find that the root of society's problems, are owed to a lack of communication (and respect). (I'll follow this up later tonight, or tomorrow)

Not true; alcohol can be consumed, but in moderation. Certain religious groups prohibit the eating of certain foods, but not 'born again' Christianity. I agree with you 100% (what you wrote is actually in Col 2:8 )

Those are the 'Christians' I have the greatest problem with; their un-Christian behavior is a poor representation of Christ. Matthew 6:5-6 is in reference to hypocrites, who only do what they do for appearances' sake.It's like the person who will donate their time, or large amounts of money, to a public institution, so they will be recognized, and thanked, by all. Yet, if said person's older relative called, to ask them for a ride to the store - at a time of their choosing - they'd be too busy to help.

I too, am a 'born again' Christian (although I simply go by the title 'Christian'). Although there are good, and bad, in everything, I disagree that majority of Christians lose their ability to be open minded. I would simply say that Christians, like other groups, have a clearly defined, and purposed, sense of what is right and wrong. Look at any group, be they religious, or secular (PETA for example); it's undeniable that most people have some sense of guiding principles (the golden rule, for example). As far as Christians being accepting of people, I agree; too many Christians aren't accepting of people. And to such people, I would remind them that Jesus hung around not with the religious peoples of the day, but with outcasts. I understand your concern, and it's somewhat valid - to the extent that there are cults everywhere, and just because someone says that they're a Christian organization, doesn't make it so. But again, cultish behaviors can be found amongst all peoples and beliefs; not just certain one's. I am glad that you're keeping your eyes open for your cousin though...

Interested in hearing the opinions of people other than commentators, I would honestly like to know: Do you vote your candidate, and/or support a party, because: 1) They are the 'Lessor Of Two Evils?' 2) You truly like, and are in agreement with, the majority of what your Party stands for?

Buon Compleanno Paolino!

Thanks all!

Does anyone know of an online parts source that's reasonable? Long gone are the days, when I had friends at the local NAPA store, where I'd get parts for the same as what the local shop paid. Right now I am looking an EGR valve among other things, and two hundred bucks is just too much for a no-name brand replacement. Thanks in advance

Thanks for the heads up Buickman! The dealership wouldn't happen to be Arnold Buick in West Babylon, would it?

Thanks for the heads up Mike :metal:. I only wish that the car were coming out sooner; my Parents' are interested in the Lucerne, but need a car now...

Anyone know when the Lucerne is going on sale? Thanks in advance!

Do you remember the name 'Josie'? What else can I say? Always hope for the very best :)...

Paul, don't walk, but *RUN* in the other direction. I've been down this road before, and it isn't a happy one. Yes, my Wife & I were friends before we started dating, but mine was a 'once-in-a-zillion' situation.