I have voted for religion.

To me, they are both quite the same. Simply philosophical views of nature. Both incorporate logic, combined with observation.

However, science affects material things, religion affects souls.

What good would it be if you were to gain the whole world but lose your soul?

Quote by Afthartoswell i personally disagree and it's pretty annoying to think that many ppl believe that only sex matters in a relationship..Still i have some thoughts that it is essential to retain one relationship.What u think?

The physical body of someone is very superficial. ...While it's important for mates to have a physical attraction to each other, if they don't have respect for the soul or mind of their mate, then neither partner is anything more than a sex toy. ...And well... That's wrong. Everyone has ambitions. Part of a relationship is partnership. If they don't respect each other, and trust each other, that will make things pretty hard.

It's a tragedy. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.

Well ... ...At one point I would have said math. ...I mean I was getting teased by the teacher even. :P ...Then I scored in the 98% for math on a standardized test.

Really, History... ...And anything that involves nice handwriting. ;-)

Quote by ArnyGood point, I didn't consider that option. Even if you could get them to agree on an ideal state, you'd still have a fair bit of trouble counting the number of people that have reached that state. Is there some sort of Census office in Heaven and what's the number?

Wouldn't it be nice if there was? Feedback and all? ...In some ways there is. The Catholic Church looks at Miracles and Saints and Apparitions. determining which ones actually originate from God... ...The Church has effected some changes in direction due to miracles that have happened in the past 2000 years. ...Doing so while remaining true to the Bible. Truly, no Christians were abandoned by the death of Christ... And I'm pretty sure most Christians will agree, God is quite alive and active, even today, 2000 years since Jesus came.

...Man, I hope the population is a REALLY big one though. ;-)

Success could be measured by counting how many people have been transfigured to the "ideal state" (i.e. heaven, enlightenment, etc.). ...But then, it will be hard to get any religion to agree on what that ideal state is.

...But I'm pretty sure there's only one. (Personally, I believe that "state" is going to Heaven when you die. )

And I will openly state that I find your decision to break out Christianity into "Christendom" and "Christianism" as offensive. ...First of all, your "Christendom" appears to siginificantly reference the Catholic denomination, while being utterly incorrect and misleading to what is actually believed. Christians are Christians. ....They claim/seek salvation in the name of Jesus Christ, and all of God through Him. Your attempt to segregate a part of the church to mock it is deplorable.

Quote by yukiyodo you believe that your destiny was chosen for you by God, and you cant change it?

do you succumb to belief that you just cant change your life?

do you think God had a good reason for it?

do you believe God is just?

do you think that others are favoured compared to yourself?

personally, i dont approve of this whole 'your destiny is chosen for you by God'. even if you seem poorly proportioned compared to others, surely you can just incorporate a teeny bit of what you want in your life?

i understand that some people started off a little more worse than others. theres just factors that you cant control.

but still, for all those people who think that their destiny was to be a drunk or a failure, they just go about it. they lament, and don't try sufficiently to bring what you want in your life.

well - enough of me talking. feel free to disagree or agree. i posted this thread to see your opinions.

I like questions like these.

I believe I have control over my destiny. ...And I have placed my destiny into God's guidance, because I trust Him, and I know He has love for me - and everyone. IMHO, it's a much better destination than that ordained by a selfish human. Yet, I still apply my own discernment to make sure what I do is right. (Okay, well sometimes, I go for fun and the wrong choice sometimes too.)

Do I believe I cannot change my life? -- No. That is, I believe I can change it. ...And ironically, I believe God can catalyze it more than I ever could, having been put places by Him where I learned and experienced things that I would have never looked for otherwise. ...And met people who have reinforced me and developed me for the better.

Do I believe God has a good reason for "it"? ...I don't know exactly what "it" is. Life or Destiny? ...In either case, yes. ...What is love without knowing loss, or life without knowing death, or grace without isolation, or mercy without condemnation? ....Or the many different meanings to "beauty". Life is a great adventure, and one ordained by God. ...Destiny is but part of the ride.

I do believe God is just. ...Perhaps not fair. ;-) "The beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair." ...He is beyond just. He gives mercy to the condemned, and grace/gifts to those who are corrupt. ...So that love and healing may prosper. ...Many people say they have not seen miracles. ...Personally, I would suggest that if you want to see God working in your life, you should first make it possible for God to be in your life, and then work with Him. -- And ask for those things that really matter. ...But never expect your solution to the problem. ...I think God's an artist of sorts...

Some of the most beautiful people I have known are those who have a pure heart, helping others.

Ironically, I guess I feel like I'm one of the more favored. Not as if I've done anything to deserve it. I wanted to be an aeronautical engineer. ...God put me someplace different, someplace better. ...And I'm not complaining. He truly knows the desires of my heart. Yet, I see so many opportunities passing by me due to my own personality defects. ...But everyday is a new day. ...A new experience, a new lesson. I try to share some of the highlights of God's work with those people I run into every day, like y'all.

...I don't feel that anyone is receiving anything less than they deserve. ...But everyone has a chance to move past where they are. ...And hope is something that I hope everyone can have, yet so many don't. I know my life could have been much, much worse. ...Goodness knows, I've had some hard points, and points where I felt abandoned. ...But just know there is hope. ...For everyone.

I believe your concept of pre-destination is only partially true. God is Omniscient, which means He knows everything, including that which hasn't happened yet. This implies that He knows what paths you will choose, and what is best for you - and for everybody. He can - and will - position you for the best. You are not abandoned, but He will grant you your free will. ...That you may truly love, and truly find your way. ...And He will allow you to rebell against Him, even choose Hell. ...He will be there for you when you stumble. ...All you need to do is ask for the help. ...Sometimes, I've heard He bluntly offers. I've had enough desperate times, that typically, I go for the "ask" option pretty quickly.

....On that note, God is love, and his kingdom is one of love. ...Christian theology clearly indicates there are those who rebel from his kingdom. ...I do not believe they are for love, or anything so noble. In fact, I truly worry about those who choose the other path, for there is nothing there for them, except loss for someone/something else. If angels are more powerful than humans, woe is to anyone who is left outside Heaven's Gate.

But blessed is God who sent his only Son that the gate to Heaven could open for any man or woman. ...Providing sacrifice sufficient for almost any sin. (The bible mentions one unforgivable sin.) ...This becomes the critical importance of Jesus. ...And what some denominations call being "saved". If you choose God via His son Jesus, he will guide your path, and destiny will be His.

But this is an important note...

...The gift of Jesus doesn't condemn us. ...We were already condemned. ...Many of us still feel/find ourselves condemned. It is SOOO hard for some people to abandon all that which binds them, simply because they don't want anyone or anything to know how hard-bound they are. It is ironic that the people who have the greatest need have the greatest fear of being fulfilled.

Have hope. - Good people and God's intervention stopped the Nazis, thermonuclear war... ...Pray, and ask His intervention world-wide. He has that which is truely good in mind for us all. ...And no man nor machine will be able to stand against God's justice. If you are downtrodden, know that God's power becomes perfect in powerlessness.

...Anyhow, I rant. Regarding predestination, do not fear that someone already knows where you're going. ...Just make sure where you're going is good, and it's good for your heart. It will not always be pleasant, it won't be easy, but it will be right for you. ;-)

I was saved by Jesus death on the cross. Today, I am being refined/salvaged that I might be saved when I die, and I will be saved when Jesus rises again. ...And I have hope, despite my broad imperfections. I hope you have hope too.

I'm a Republican.

Most Republicans would say that an increase in minimum wage is a bad idea. - I don't.

I believe that a man who's willing to work to make his way deserves some chance at actually making a life. ...Personally, I don't see the current minimum wage providing enough of that. The USA does not have sufficient mass-transportation, nor security (in lower-income locales), to get people to work easily. This means people must only marginally afford an old clunker, or find other alternatives. I have worked at Burger King... ...Carl's Jr., and Texaco stations. ...I'm also fortunate that I had a scholarship that let me propel beyond that. ...Otherwise, I'd become lost in a sea of car insurance, feul costs, and automobile maintenance. ...Barely able to afford my food, and perilously unable to obtain healthcare.

I know there are good people in the ranks of those who do not have the wealth to pursue superior careers. ...At the same time, I realize the bulk of those people in these jobs would just as soon sue their employer as come to work. ...And it's sad.

People should be able to terminate unwilling employees without fear. ...And people who are employees should be able to work without worrying about their heath failing them. ...But alas, health insurance isn't quite what it should be... (But that's another topic.)

I propose that the wage be increased to sustain those who are trying to live the American Dream, while making their own way. Towards the same, I realize that this means there will be an increase in unemployment, and advancement towards automation/the elimination of employees. ...I think that's a good thing. Do-nothing employees shouldn't be compensated for doing nothing. ...And a human life is a terrible thing to waste.

...So let's put a premium on people's time, and pay them what they're worth.

...And on the flip-side, I say decrease - or at least don't increase - the amount spent in welfare. There are too many people mooching off the hard-working in America as it is. (But make sure folks can get the grants and loans for education. ...Hope, and return on your effort/investment, is just recompense for hard work.)

Quote by jennicai have three questions here, hope you can answer it all..

1. is cloning moral or immoral?
2. are you in favor of human cloning?yes or no?justify your answer.
3. is cloning allowed in Holy Books of Christians and Muslims?

1. Immoral. Offspring should be begotten, not made.
2. No, I'm not in favor of it. This will seperate generations and economic classes, not to mention further devalue the important value of a human life.
3. I'm not sure, but... ...Anyone would be ill-advised to "play God". Besides, how many innocents must suffer before this technology is stable? How many innocent babies will need to die? ...That in itself becomes its own ethical issue.

Quote by GodGundam10If history has taught me anything, it is that history repeats itself. During the history of the modern Summer Olympics, which began in 1896, there have been two World Wars. The Winter Olympics began in 1924 and were interruppted by World War II. When the Olympics resumed following the respective World Wars, certain nations were barred from the next Olympiads.

The 1916 Summer Olympics(to be held in Berlin, Germany) were cancelled because of World War I. The Olympics resumed in 1920 in Antwerp, Belgium. Because of their actions in the war, the Central Powers(Germany, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria and Turkey) were barred from participating.

The 1940 Winter and Summer Olympics(to be held in Sapporo and Tokyo, Japan, respecitvely) were cancelled because of the onset of World War II. Japan was forced to give both games back to the IOC when the Second Sino-Japanese War broke out in 1937 and the IOC eventually cancelled the games. The 1944 Winter and Summer Olympics(to be held in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy and London, England, respectively) were cancelled as World War II was still happening. The Olympics resumed in 1948 in St. Moritz, Switzerland for Winter and London for Summer. Because of Germany and Japan's action in the war, both nations were barred from participating.

I believe that because of the United States actions in the last few years, such as the illegal invasion and war in Iraq, the torture in Abu Gharib, the illegal internment camp at Guantanamo and many other war crimes, the United States should not be allowed to participate in the upcoming 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing. I am probably the only who believes this, but I am entitled to my opinion. What are your thoughts?

Clearly, you have an opinion.

...And a desire to cause division in the one thing where the whole world can find unity. Even the Communist USSR was well-welcomed to the Olympics during the cold war. If you are actually concerned about peace, you should be promoting peace, not division.

Perhaps you have a better plan for combating madmen who blow up innocent people in the name of forcing them into a religion? Personally, I have no intention of joining Islam, and I feel the war is entirely justified. We have been at war with this enemy for decades, and only now have we acted in self defense. ...And acted decisively.

I can only imagine the reason why there have been no major additional terrorism attacks in the USA is just so they can return to picking on those who can't actually stand in between them and the innocents. ...But then, perhaps we should stop just because you an some others mistakenly believe we're the bad guys?

In the United States, we call them 'parties'. Each party represents a specific political network. ...And well... ...Political networks are always there in politics. At least with a network/party, you know what (on average) they are likely to stand for. ...When it comes to individuals, it's a greater unknown.

...And of course, weith parties, individuals can be themselves too.

...Just to keep elected officials future actions a little more anticipatable, I think parties are a good thing.

...Silly divisions on partisian lines... Horrible. ...And really, it's a mess. ...But I don't think that banning them will necessarily stop that either.

Quote by GEEarcher79.... Just keep wasting all. Remember that you live in world's most polluting country and even so your government refuses to do anything. Just keep driving your Hummers and Chevy's. Just keep your garbage unsorted and say "America the Beautiful"
In Europe we are actually doing something! Poor people get free insulation, heavy cars are made expensive, fuel is almost twice the price. But no, mighty America thinks she owns the world and keeps polluting. Just keep doing that and you will be even more hated (if that is even possible).

Ironically, I drive a compact pickup most of the time... But regardless, I don't really see how it's your place to pass judgement on me, nor this great nation.

American technology has significantly reduced emissions from our power plants. Just as it helped the Dutch by discovering the internet. (A benefit you've just again turned to bite the hand that fed you ironically.) ...And numerous medical technologies. The facts are simple - a strong, ethical economy saves lives. ...And improves them to boot. Noone has been able to prove that CO2 is responsible for global climate change, much less significant climate change. Yet, simply because we generate more CO2, associated with energy consumption, you'd hate us.

...Real big love from our brothers across the pond. Or did you forget we're human too? Perhaps you have diluded yourself into thinking things would somehow be different if your nation had control of this country. ...Personally, I believe you're wrong.

As far as hating us more than you already do, you already hate us without reason. I have a feeling that even if you did have a reason, you'd still just sit there and sneer. ...And that's fine. In the meanwhile, we'll be creating a better world over here. You can reap the benefits of our big hearts and hard work. We're not nearly as selfish as you apparently believe.

Quote by kyo-tohru-1985All i have to say is this....WE ARE ALL DOOM! also it is all u peoples falt that we are all going to die!

It's our fault that you'll be able to live, being able to afford heat for your house this winter, and allowing inexpensive manufacturing, which translates into an economy strong enough for people to keep jobs! Or would you prefer to set us back to the stone age? You know burning wood happens to release CO2 too, and a whole lot of other nasty stuff! I wonder what burning trash in a barrel does to the environment? Especially when so many might have to do that to stay warm!

Worse. 50 years ago, the United States had emerged as the light and hope of the whole world. They had destroyed the dark facists of Nazi Germany. They had become the centerpoint of the "Good Fight". Men and women accross the country worked hard for their future, and for self respect. Today, this fine, precious blood has been diluted with people who just want to see how far they can milk the system, and "get away with it". It is unfortunate. I stand strong as many stand leeching around me. It's a shame. Perhaps someday something will happen that will once again give rise to this great people. ...I hope, this time, the price will be less. Last time, it took holocausts, and loss of many American lives before the nation made the difference that saved the world...

Most Christians will agree that had Jesus not come, everyone would be destined to go to Hell for eternity. This gives credance that those who are not saved through Jesus are condemned. With sinfulness implied. That, and it's based on the story of creation, from the Bible.

Quote by LITTLECHIISANok, i am from the U.S and i hate it! bush is a faggot and i really hate him he makes treabul desions for our contry and i want to become a europian citizen in the future after i get out of collage but i dont know i just hate america all together but thats just me. i have my reasons and honstly i cant waite to see bush's demise.

Spelling... ...needs spelling.

Last I understood, President Bush is not a homosexual.

President Bush's adminstration has done more for this country than Former Vice-President Gore's adminstration ever would have.

For the benefit of these great United States, I rather hope you enjoy your stay in your European country of choice. Perhaps once you've been educated there, you will understand exactly what you have lost.

We have been under attack by Islamic extremists for 28 years, (http://patriotfiles.org/civilizationcalls.htm <-- Perhaps you need a wakeup call?). The Islamic leaders have warranted the execution of 10 million American lives. President Bush has allowed our country to do something about these attacks for the first time. ...Without any embarrasing screw-ups with cruise missles, unlike his predecessor. (Nor giving the farm away to the Chinese, also unlike his predecessor...)

The United States has reached world-wide to make the world a better place. Do you think Russia would have done the same? China? Or perhaps the European countries of France or Germany? ....Personally, I don't think so.

This nation you have just verbally urniated on is a beacon of peace, hope, courage and goodness. There is none other like it. There probably never will be.

I salute those who have served, and those who have been lost, to keep this dream come true alight.

I pity those who do not realize what they have.

Well.. I'll be missing it. I'll root for the Colts because I'm a bit of a horse guy. :-)

I hope it's a good game for all those watching it!

I was under the impression that this was a concern before, but now the observed dimming had reversed? Dunno I scanned the Wikipedia article last night. Certainly devloping countries, without at least reasonable EPA-esque regulation, like the USA, could be a definite threat in the future. ...If this is a true problem!

Quote by SneakyTanukiWell, as a Catholic, I'd might as well drop in my two cents as objectively as I can.

To begin, I wouldn't necessarily use the wording of your question. It shouldn't really be "was his crucifixion necessary" insomuch as it should be "should crucifixion have been the means Jesus was killed." In the Christian right, Jesus' crucifixion was necessary for our salvation. Anyway, that's not what you wanted to know nor is it a big complication. Anyway! Onto the core!

Yes, Jesus was to be crucified because that was the means of execution the Romans used to kill non-citizens. Jesus was a Nazarean, so the citizen-granted beheading could not be used. Typically when the jews broke Roman law, they were crucified. Romans who broke the law were beheaded. Crucifixion, however, is a much slower and more painful death.

Did it bear any more symbolism than any other means? I wouldn't say so. The only symbolism I could see is that Jesus brought himself to the level of the jews - or the lowest wrung on the hierarchy - and gave himself for us. He could very much have just killed himself or fought back, but his submitance and willingness to give himself for man is the true meaning - sacrifice.

Anyhow, I hope that answered your question - and was somewhat objective :p.

[/my two cents]

The crucifixion was consistent with prophesy. When the Romans pierced Jesus' heart with a spear, both blood and water flowed. (Also, Jesus' legs were not broken, which was typically the case before people were removed from the cross. ...This was also foretold.)

It was also necessary for the innocent man to stand trial before the whole world. ...Publically denounced. ...Publically slain. He came for all sinners that some might be saved. And... ...When he rose from the tomb, despite the Roman guard placed around the tomb, truly the world, (at least then,) saw proof that Jesus rose from the grave to everlasting life.

The love story surpassing all. He died for those he loved, and in doing so, will spend all forever with those who chose to be with him in paradise.

I too am Catholic, and I am in awe.

There are already laws in place. ...Maybe even a little harsh... ...But nonetheless, they seem to be working fairly well. What I think we need is more enforcers of the law / better equipment for enforcement. ...The laws are there, but the folks that do it aren't afraid of the law enough to stop. ...At least, not until they make it to jail. It's like our border enforcement. ...You can only do so much with so little...

I agree. ...In some ways, I really wish that there was legislation to improve the insulation of houses, etc. ...Think of all the fuel / byproducts that could be spared. I mean we could make a real impact there, and reduce the cost of energy for the poor.

Quote by ProgramZEROYou know, the thing that worries me about global warming is that as of now, the nations that have been contributing the most to pollution are the United States and European countries and we are just barely taking notice of rising temperatures. The countries that concern me are China and India which might one day take up more gas than any other countries due to their large populations.

China is building a new coal-fired powerplant every two days or so. ...They don't have the kind of Anti-CO2 movement there that we have here. ...At least not as strong. Personally, I feel that the "hockey stick" concept was all a lie. ...It's 2007. Isn't the whole world supposed to be flooded? ...Dunno. I hope it's all hype. I worry even more about natural (i.e. solar insolation) changes in our world. ...That could be really bad too.

I used to be a CRT guy, but have to admit. ...This LCD stuff is good!

I don't know.... ...depends on the conditions. Personally, I would like to be in Heaven forever.