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Posts Tagged ‘truth’

Can We Stop Saying “Biblical Values” – What Are They Anyway?

Posted in Acceptance of Others, Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , , on September 23, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

If you read my weekly Post you are probably tired of my harping on the Bible. The word Bible has occurred over a hundred times in the title of my Post in the past decade or so. See here. Honestly, I sometimes share some of the same content, just change the Post title to look at the topic asking a different question. Christian leaders assume to much when saying we as a nation or people should adhere to biblical values! We all don’t agree on what those values are when interpreting the Bible, and we shouldn’t push supposed principles on those who don’t have the same beliefs regarding God or the Bible.

 Where do our rights come from?

There is debate in the public arena where our rights come from. America Founders personal beliefs were that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. The founders rebelled against the idea that our rights come from government or man, to avoid government overreach regarding freedom of religion, freedom of speech.

The truth is if there is a Creator, God or universal laws should be the same – rape is evil regardless. I would express it this way – Our right come from God/Creator or universal laws. It depends on if what your personal beliefs are in a Creator. Our Constitution does guarantee freedoms concerning religion, Government cannot restrict the press or rights of individual to speak freely. 

We must respect freedom of belief in our language toward others

It is often implied supposed biblical values are a mandate for all. The presence of so much evil in the world, without God’s interference, suggests God’s respect for freedom of belief. Force loved is an oxymoron. A relationship with God is an invitation. It can’t be genuine love unless there is the freedom to enter such a relationship. For leaders to suggest we are a Christian nation is to disregard individual freedom of belief. This seems to imply not mandating Ten Commandments for public display. This doesn’t lead to a lawless nation as there are universal moral principles all should believe in regardless whether contained in their holy book or not.

Truth is Christians don’t agree on what biblical values are

Christian leaders of companies or religious institutes often claim they are guided or adhere to biblical principles. This implies biblical understandings are agreed upon by all who follow the Bible, and non-followers have less than ideal morals. Ancient literature subject to human interpretation (you could be wrong) cannot be the definitive word on truth. Besides, it can’t be proven God inspired all written down about God in their cherished book. I’m not convinced the writers always understood God perfectly. See here.  Biblical scholars who respect Scriptures don’t agree what the Bible teaches about many moral values – women rights, gay condemnation, and the afterlife.  See here.  See here.  See here.

 What values can we agree on?

Common moral sense isn’t the enemy. Good and evil existed before any Holy Book came into play. Universal values include: kindness, goodness, thankfulness, self-control, love, etc. How are these just biblical principles? You don’t have to be a Christian or reader of the Bible to know those are simply humane principles. The problem is that supposed biblical values thrust on all are: spanking of children, capital punishment, that God condemns gays, that mutual submission in marriage isn’t biblical, etc. Biblical scholars don’t agree what the Bible teaches on these morals and others.  

No, truth isn’t determined just on feelings. A murderer or sexual predator cannot claim innocence because they felt their actions were justified. Laws aren’t possible if there aren’t differences between good and evil such as rape, physical abuse, etc. Some truth is self-evident.   

How to be together in a diverse world

Faith in God is a freedom or invitation not demand. That is how a God of love acts!. We can be respectful of others who believe differently. We don’t need to imply Truth only comes from one’s view of their Holy Book. I would personally share that my God only seeks to love you like you wish you were always able to love others. This is the God you can believe in to live a purposeful, meaningful live. I am a better friend, husband, father because of a belief in my God.

See further rants on the Bible here.

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like 

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A Loving God Can’t Be All-Powerful!

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , , , on August 5, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

How can God be all-powerful and humans have some power or control? The Bible claims love does not insist on its own way (I Cor 13:5). A loving spiritual or human parent must limit their supposed total power. Keep in mind that even if God stopped all bullets, that doesn’t change the gun holder. God can’t solve human selfishness. It is worth considering that God can’t be all-powerful or controlling and be true to God’s nature. Evil and suffering in the world may be because God cannot intervene single-handedly without being controlling. God can’t intervene in suffering without human help.

Freedom is a good thing. In God’s defense, it is not logically possible for God to create freedom unless there is the possibility of love or hate. Human parents hope their children freely reciprocate their love than being forced. Without freedom we could accuse God of not creating the very best world where only true, authentic relationships can develop. Freedom also allows humans to develop qualities of moral character that cannot be created initially. Freedom though cannot guarantee a pain free universe.

Read the entire article for free HERE:

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What Is Destroying Religion And Politics?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, religion, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on July 20, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

You may be asking what could religion and politics possibly have in common. Both arenas resort to name calling and leads to stifling of free speech. Religion much more in the past, and now politics has followed in its path. In religion if you don’t agree with one’s view of God or interpretation of the Bible, you are labeled a heretic. In politics if you disagree with one on immigration, climate change, etc. you are labeled a conspiracist. Often, these uncivil actions lead to denying or attempt to censor the opposing view point.

What is Free Speech.

It may shock some people that I believe the use of the N _ _ _ _ _ word should be allowed on any media platform to remain consistent in my views of free speech.  Even the evil behavior in my opinion behavior of denying that the Holocaust actually happened. Those who engage in such actions exhibit hate for black people or Jews. I say why let them hide behind such beliefs by not having the freedom to express themselves. One can be a racist in their thoughts or words but they cannot advocate violence toward those not of their color. I didn’t say race. There is one human race in my opinion. The melatonin of your skin determines your color.

Without such free speech, there can be no debate of ideas or information if blacks are inferior to whites or that Jews have not been grossly persecuted over the centuries. Such ideas should be exposed in public for others to know one’s beliefs. By chance one is open to change, free discussions can only possibly lead to change. I like my chances of winning the debate.

The problem with labels

What are often labeled conspiracies are really just theories/speculations. It isn’t a conspiracy if it could be true!  Truth should be viewed as a journey to be discovered. Anyone who accuses one being a conspiracist or heretic should have to defend their views that are supposedly truer, rather than attempting to censor. How can a conversation remain civil when name-calling begins. When one says they doubt a loving God would create a literal Hell, each should have to defend their position which may mean looking at different biblical passages. Many who believe in a literal Hell believe so because of their interpretation of Scriptures. Name-calling allows one to not have to defend their point of view and veers the conversation off the topic/disagreement at hand. The path to change is considering opposing beliefs. I find it hard to trust one when avoiding discussion/debate. It often turns out labelers/accusers are the source of misinformation.

What is a supposed Heretic?

Matters labeled heresies today are much different than earlier in history perhaps, but past and present accusers share something in common – accusers are claiming their interpretation of the Bible is the correct one. Many will proclaim “the Bible says” without acknowledging many don’t agree with their interpretation. Scholars do not agree on many moral issues. I was told often when younger that the Bible teaches there is a literal hell where unbelievers in the afterlife or tortured with fire forever after a few short years living here on planet earth. 12 Reasons To Believe Hell Is A Myth! Moral of story – don’t believe everything you hear claimed about God! See here. Other viewpoints are also claimed to be heresy without discussion:

  • God didn’t inspire the Bible, thus approved, all written in the Bible See here.
  • Salvation in the Bible isn’t about avoiding Hell and getting into HeavenSee here.
  • One can’t be a Christian if not attending the institutional church. In the Bible “Church” was not a building or a place attended once a week. Jesus referred to His followers as being the Church.  Jesus did not specify where followers must gather or what they must do. Find environments to be encouraged and inspire others to love as radically as Jesus did. Some of us grew weary of religion but not God. See here.

What is a supposed conspiracist?

The truth is settled science isn’t science. Turns out the so-called conspiracists weren’t the misinformers. For only a few examples:

  • Covid virus leaked from a lab – Many were kicked off/censored from mainstream platforms because they suggested the Covid virus came from a Chinese lab. Turns out they were right. The Government now agrees years later. We weren’t allowed to ask questions
  • Masks – Those who claimed masks didn’t prevent the spread of a virus were called mis-informers. Turns out a review that dug into findings of 78 randomized controlled trials discovered wearing masks made little or no difference in stopping the virus. See here. Lots of my friends who wore masks got Covid. Their level of symptoms no different than mine.
  • It has been declared in the past that the Covid vaccines prevented infection and transmission of the disease. That was the purpose of mandates and protecting grandma. Scientists and doctors who declared otherwise were censored, but it turns out they weren’t the mis-informers.

Free speech is necessary to allow the battle of ideas when certainty doesn’t exist 

A preacher can’t claim God condemns gays because the Bible says so. Many of us don’t believe the Bible says any such thing. See here. Most of us believe except true racists that all humans are created equal, not that one’s skin color determines superiority. Yes, the KKK is allowed to state their hate speech on public platforms. I like my chances of winning that argument in the free market of ideas.  I enjoy racists being exposed for their ideas. The only free speech that should be censored is that which encourages others to commit violence on others. You can’t say “any Jew you see should be killed.” 

How do we move forward

We should question authorities in all areas of our life in case they are wrong. Because of my early religious experiences and contrarian personality – I knew to question health experts who said to trust them without debate. I would suggest you are better off doubting what you have been told and verify it for yourself. It can save you from regretful decisions in the arenas of religion, science, and politics. Assume uncertainty if you have one rational friend who believes differently from you whether it’s about religion, science, or politics.

It should be intuitive those who reject diverse opinions is unloving and controlling. Most don’t except such behaviors in their personal relationships. Having good intentions by believing you are right for the whole doesn’t matter if you could be wrong.  We should all be discussing “What leads to the greater good.” Religious leaders seem hell-bent in telling people what they must believe about God according to their understanding and interpretation of the Bible. Scientists or Politicians who refuse debate of their policies are no different. Leaders play God (Superior) in the lives of others by claiming to know the truth and we can’t decide for ourselves.

Imagine a world that openly pursued truth

“When you tear out a man’s tongue, you are not proving him a liar, you’re only telling the world that you fear what he might say.” ― George R.R. Martin 

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like 

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We Are Not All Going to Agree So Let’s Work on Loving One Another

Posted in Acceptance of Others, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on June 20, 2025|

by Michael Donahoe

Do you notice the fact that no matter what you believe, or what your interpretation is someone always has a completely opposite view. You get excited about hearing some truth that really connects, and the next thing you read an article by another Christian that completely disagrees with what you just heard.

Even more than that, most of us Christians get mad when someone disagrees with us and is different. We get on Facebook and make ourselves look crazy because we talk about brotherly love, then we fight and argue with someone because they interpret things differently, and mostly about things we cannot prove one way or the other.

Overall, this is really not that unusual because we are all different. We have different backgrounds, different viewpoints and opinions, and different ideas on how to live. We really have to stop and think that whatever it is we believe, whatever our interpretation, everyone is not going to agree with us. There is no reason for us to get mad at someone else for being different.

This life is all a matter of faith. No matter what it is spiritually speaking, no one can really prove what is right and what is not. Just because someone has a different interpretation does not mean they are right or wrong.

We need to keep our ears open to the leading of the Spirit, and follow on our own path looking to Jesus. That does not mean any and every path is the right one, but we cannot be the judge of who is right and who is wrong. Jeremy Myers, in his book ‘Dying to Religion and Empire’ states, “The beautiful thing about following Jesus is that while He leads us all in the same direction, there are millions of different paths He can take to get us there. His goal, of course, is to advance the Kingdom of God on earth through the people of God who are being conformed into the image of God”. Our goal is to follow Christ as he leads us individually, and then be ready to love all people, no matter if they are on the same path or not.

Let’s stop arguing, fighting, and demanding that everyone agree with us, and love and accept those we meet along the journey. I think God is big enough to lead us all to the truth in proper timing.

*******

Michael Donahoe was added as a writer for Done with Religion as his views fit perfectly with those that are shared on this site. He and his wife have been outside the walls of religion for fifteen years. He enjoys writing about his experiences and thoughts, and he wants to encourage others who are going through the religious deconstruction process. He also writes on Substack at https://personalmeanderings.substack.com/

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What is One Main Way To Discern Who May Be Telling The Truth?

Posted in Bible, christian living, religion, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on May 26, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

We can’t know for sure who is telling the truth when opinions exist on both sides of either religious or political debates. We have to make up our own mind. I admit I don’t always know who is telling the truth, so I am going to answer what trait pisses me off the most. By the way, if you think there is only one rational viewpoint on matters dividing us, please reconsider. I consider it irrational if one refuses to consider an opinion contrary to their own. In religion we have to decide whose view of God to believe – does God condemn gays or not. In politics we have to decide who to believe on matters such as immigration or climate change. Even in science, should we wear masks or not. Afterall, everyone who wore a mask ended up getting Covid. I wrote here several reasons how one might discern who may be more on the side of truth than others.

Question or doubt those that refuse investigation or debate 

One main reason to not trust one’s opinion when they refuse discussion or investigation. Dr. Fauci claimed rejecting him is rejecting science. But science is questioning science (i.e. some drugs approved initially are taken off the market). Religious leaders who claim their views are God’s Word and don’t invite debate – are they afraid to defend their views in public so individuals can decide for themselves and possibly disagree. Theologians who hide behind the Bible (“God said,”) are claiming to be holier than those than disagree with them. When voter fraud is claimed why refuse investigations unless hiding something? Politicians who don’t invite debate – don’t trust them further than you can throw them. Run from those who claim certainty and don’t try to defend their opinions. Why don’t they seek to defend the supposed truth to convince others?

Claiming certainty is a way to avoid investigation 

We must avoid claiming our truth is certain if not universal agreement. Who doesn’t think rape or incest is evil? Adultery isn’t only wrong in the eyes of the betrayer. Assume uncertainty if you have one rational friend who believes differently from you whether it’s about religion or politics. Couples who claim certainty when differences arise are headed toward divorce or a sucky relationship. God-followers and religious leaders seem hell-bent in telling people what they must believe about God according to their understanding and interpretation of the Bible. Politicians who refuse debate of their policies are no different. Religious or political leaders play God (Superior) in the lives of others by claiming to know the truth and we can’t decide for ourselves.

Censorship is a way to avoid investigation 

Free speech is necessary to allow the battle of ideas when certainty doesn’t exist. A preacher can’t claim God condemns gays because the Bible says so. Many of us don’t believe the Bible says any such thing. See here. Most of us believe except true racists that all humans are created equal, not that one’s skin color determines superiority. Yes, the KKK is allowed to state their hate speech on public platforms. I like my chances of winning that argument in the free market of ideas.  I enjoy racists being exposed for their ideas. The only free speech that should be censored is that which encourages others to commit violence toward others. You must peacefully protest without blocking the rights of others to go where they want. You can’t say “any Jew you see should be killed.”

We don’t always know what is truth, so it is important how we openly purse truth 

  • If only religious leaders didn’t always claim their biblical interpretation is correct and at least acknowledge literature requires interpretation despite supposed divine intervention. What are religious leaders afraid of if they have the truth?
  • If only we listened to everyone’s opinion civilly and sought to discern together what was the most loving action for the greatest good. It’s complicated!
  • If only we closely guarded one’s freedom to choose when the possibility exist you could be wrong, rather than calling others heretics or conspiracists.

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like 

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How Do We Know What Is True According To God Or Whoever?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , on February 2, 2025|

By Mike Edwards

Truth is often declared because the Bible says so or because it feels true. It is important what we decide is truth. Laws are often made according to what is right or wrong. Debate or the pursuit of truth is often prohibited because one is labeled a mis-informer, conspiracist, or heretic.  Those who censor or label others mis-informers assume they know the truth, but often they are discovered to be wrong later. It is important how we go about the pursuit of truth.    

Truth isn’t based on a supposed Divine inspired Book 

Ancient literature subject to interpretation cannot be the definitive word on truth. Even if the writers understood their God perfectly, which we can’t prove, we can’t claim our interpretations are perfect. The truth is biblical scholars who have a deep respect for the Bible don’t agree what God thinks about gays, women, hell, and other moral issues. See here. See here. See here.  Gays are often condemned and women’s leadership roles are limited, despite their gifts, in God’s name. It is suggested a fiery torturous afterlife awaits infidels. How do we go about determining what is true about God? Surely, perfect Godly and human love must be the same if a Creator’s exist. One’s interpretation (possibly wrong) of a supposed inspired Book isn’t always the Gospel!

Trust isn’t necessarily based on what “experts” claim

It has been declared in the past that the Covid vaccines prevented infection and transmission of the disease. That was the purpose of mandates. Scientists and doctors who declared otherwise were censored, but it turns out that weren’t the mis-informers. Those who claimed masks didn’t prevent the spread of a virus were called mis-informers. Turns out a review that dug into findings of 78 randomized controlled trials discovered wearing masks made little or no difference in stopping the virus. See here.  Lots of my friends who wore masks got Covid. Even during a pandemic, we must be open what we can’t be certain about.  “Undebated science/censored ” isn’t science. 

Truth isn’t based just on feelings as certain truths are obvious to all

One may argue truth isn’t objective. I understand why one may take such a stance. Since their opponent often claims they know the truth and then proceed to lord that opinion over others because they supposedly stand on higher moral (biblical) grounds. But I don’t think we can afford to suggest there aren’t objective truths. If truth is determined just on feelings, a murderer or sexual predator could claim innocence because they felt their actions were justified. Laws aren’t possible if there aren’t differences between good and evil such as rape, physical abuse, etc. Some truth is self-evident.

We must avoid claiming our truth is certain if not universal agreement

There are surely self-evident rights with almost universal agreement, but they aren’t hidden in the Bible or any Book. Some Holy Books condemn or justify the killing of gays based on one’s interpretation being correct because their God inspired words written down. I would argue consensual same-gender sexual relationships are justified because some can’t explain their attraction to the same gender any more than straights can explain their attraction to the opposite gender. Certainty is an enemy when debate is not allowed by censoring the freedom of others to speak their opinions. We may not always know what perfect love is, but we somehow know we ought to love others like we want to be loved. We must allow a debate what perfect love is.

We don’t always know what is truth, so it is important how we openly purse truth

  • If only religious leaders didn’t always claim their biblical interpretation is correct and at least acknowledge literature requires interpretation despite supposed divine intervention. What are religious leaders afraid of if they have the truth?
  • If we listened to everyone’s opinion civilly and sought to discern together what was the most loving action according to the circumstances
  • If we closely guarded one’s freedom to choose when the possibility exist you could be wrong, rather than calling others heretics or conspiracists

How Do We Know What Is True According To God Or Whoever?

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How Do You Know Who Is Telling The Truth?

Posted in Acceptance, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , , , , on December 1, 2024|

By Mike Edwards

I admit that I can’t read hearts and minds to know if one is telling the truth or lying for power, financial gain, avoiding liability, or trying to save their job.  I will try to not make this political but religion and politics have much in common. Politicians often discourage civil discussions concerning disagreements and may resort to calling one a conspiracist, just like religious leaders calling those they disagree with a heretic. Open dialogue leads us to getting closer to the truth in religion, political issues, or science. Those who suppress debate – what are they worried about?

Trust those who openly acknowledge when they were wrong 

Religion and politics are somewhat different – biblical interpretation cannot be proven due to future observation but science allows objective future observations. Scholars of biblical interpretation disagree if God condemns gay relationships. Future observations will not prove one right or wrong. But in science we did learn conspiracists turned out to be proven right that Covid shots didn’t stop infection and transmission of the virus. It seems to me that science has a way of correcting opinions that biblical interpretation of ancient literature doesn’t. Trust religious leaders who admit they could be wrong, or politicians who acknowledge when proven to be wrong. Many remain silent and hope you don’t notice.

Trust those who admit immoral actions 

Would you forgive a spouse, leader, or politician if they committed adultery? That is up to you. But watch their actions when clearly caught betraying! Do they admit failure and agree to be held accountable 24/7, or do they blame their partner/stress/etc. for their actions? I am not excusing moral failures but many fail. Betrayal is a choice. I trust more those who accept responsibility and blame themselves as opposed to others.

Trust those that invite investigation or debate 

Dr. Fauci claimed rejecting him is rejecting science. But science is an ongoing discussion. Some drugs approved initially are taken off the market. Religious leaders who claim their views are God’s Word and don’t invite debate – are they afraid to defend their views in public so individuals can decide for themselves and possibly disagree. Theologians who hide behind “God said,” are claiming to be holier than those that disagree with them. Politicians who don’t invite debate – don’t trust them further than you can throw them.

Trust those who have more to loss 

Admire theologians who disagree with their congregation or superiors because they differ in their views of God. They are taking a risk in losing their job! There is not much risk agreeing with the common narrative. Watch for politicians who oppose the popular narrative. They may be more principled. Doctors who risk being de-licensed because of their medical views as opposed to Doctors who stand to benefit from the common narrative. Notice those who stand to gain financially or because of job security.   

Trust more those that admit uncertainty 

Those who claim certainty often are naïve and may have other internal motives. Certainty is an illusion unless talking about universal moral sins such as rape or incest. Most decisions are not black and white and require open debate. Assume uncertainty if you have one rational friend who believes differently from you whether it’s about religion or politics. Couples who claim certainty are headed toward divorce or a sucky relationship. God-followers and religious leaders seem hell-bent in telling people what they must believe about God according to their understanding and interpretation of the Bible. Politicians who refuse debate of their policies are no different. Religious or political leaders play God (Superior) in the lives of others by claiming to know the truth and we can’t decide for ourselves. 

Kids are lying when they don’t want to talk about what they did or believe

Trust your instincts whether one is telling you the truth. Trust those who admit wrong or invite investigation of their beliefs. Few such leaders seem to exist!

How Do You Know Who Is Telling The Truth?

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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What I Am Hanging Onto

Posted in christian living, Jesus follower, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on November 20, 2024|

by Glenn Hager

It is so easy to enumerate what I am done with when it comes to religion. It is profoundly more difficult to figure out what to hang onto. I feel like I should occasionally ask myself this question to see if I am total heretic or just a free spirit.

Less and less, is an accurate description of what I am hanging onto, but I am hanging onto those things tighter and tighter.

I could make a massive list of stuff I let go of and another massive list of stuff I don’t know. But this list will be short.

I am hanging onto Jesus.

He is my model for how to live and it’s a model I very often fail to live up to.

He loved outcasts, the diseased, the foreigner, the poor, and the hated.

He rebuked the corrupt and powerful, especially, the religious power brokers.

He was humble, but shockingly truthful.

He told stories that people related to. He was not a theologian and did not preach an expository sermon.

He occasionally confounded and challenged people to go deeper in their understanding.

He was a healer. Though I do not possess divine ability, I can still be a healer of hearts.

He gave people hope for now and for eternity.

I am hanging onto love.

It’s hard to do when people are unlovely.

It’s hard to remember when we get consumed with ourselves and forget about others.

It’s hard to figure out what loves means for an individual.

It’s hard to be nice, or even decent, at time, let alone loving.

But love really works to touch people deeply, like nothing else.

It’s our primary responsibility here on earth.

I am hanging onto truth.

I do believe in objective truth, but what I am referring to is belief and behavior that is so true, it works its way out in regular life. It is real, raw, and not academic, esoteric, or theoretical. It doesn’t require its own subculture. It works in life with all its celebrations and challenges, achievements and disappointments, and triumphs and tragedies. It’s integrated not separated.

I am hanging onto hope.

I believe we can live in peace in this life. I believe we can become more loving. I believe we can live gracefully, gratefully, and joyfully. I believe we can reset to living life this way, even when we get thrown a few curve balls.

I believe there is hope for this life and the next and the next, though we have only a scant few clues and promises about that.

I don’t have any ideas about how to “fix church” or make it more relevant. I often wish I did because after all those years of church, that slot is still not completely filled.

It seems like it gets messed up when we begin to organize it and institutionalize it.

This is a pretty strange statement of beliefs, but it is mine.

Glenn Hager is a former pastor, newspaper columnist, magazine contributor, blogger (glennhager.com), and author of two books. He also designs lighting (http://doo-dads.com/). Glenn and his wife, Patty live in northeastern Illinois.

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Please Stop Claiming You Know Biblical Truth!

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, religion, tagged , , , , , , , on June 23, 2024|

By Mike Edwards

Christian leaders of companies or religious institutes often claim they are guided or adhere to biblical principles. This implies biblical understandings are agreed upon by all who follow the Bible, and non-followers have less than ideal morals. Supposed biblical truths have harmed billions of people – women, gays, non-Christians.

The Bible can’t be the sole determinant of truth 

Ancient literature subject to interpretation cannot be the definitive word on truth. The truth is biblical scholars who have a deep respect for Scriptures don’t agree what the Bible says about gays, women, hell, and other moral issues. See here. See here. See here.  Gays are often condemned and women’s leadership roles are limited, despite their gifts, in God’s name. It is suggested a fiery torturous afterlife awaits infidels. Is this how a loving God would love? A Creator surely loves the way creatures intuitively think they ought to love. Please consider that your interpretation isn’t necessarily biblical or more moral.

Truths aren’t hidden in a Book

Self-evident rights aren’t hidden in the Bible or any Book. We all have an inborn sense of good and evil. No reasonable human being doesn’t respect the universal compulsion to treat others like we want to be treated. Who but the guilty don’t agree sexual abuse or murder is evil. We must have open discussions which laws are the most caring for the greater good concerning non-universal matters such as immigration or climate policies. Personal beliefs about God can be shared in the public arena without imposing or assuming we all agree what biblical truths are.

Belief in God or unbelief is not an excuse for chaos

Politicians often claim or imply that our rights are given by God. Any such belief is personal not universal and should be stated so. Self-evident rights may be found in a Book or natural law, as we all have an inborn sense of good and evil. Rational beings know sexual abuse is evil. We can though have healthy debates what policies are for the greater good. Christians can share their personal beliefs in the public arena without imposing or assuming all agree what biblical values are.

What language did Jesus use in personally representing God?

Jesus did not come to overthrow Roman rule to establish a Christian nation. Jesus seemed to understand freedom of personal beliefs is necessary for authenticity, the highest good in personal relationships or a relationship with God. Jesus never told anyone to take a knee and express certain beliefs to be saved. See here.  When Jesus was asked what were the greatest commandments, He said to start loving God and your neighbor as yourself (Mt. 22:34-40). Jesus understood loving God influences and inspires loving others to the fullest. Jesus told the woman who had committed adultery: “go now, and leave your life of sin” (John 8). Sin destroys and doesn’t lead to personal happiness in the long-run! God desires to help avoids regrets in this life. 

How can Christian express their views of God in the public arena 

We can avoid accusations of Christian nationalism by the words we use. Jesus didn’t come to establish a Christian nation. You may personally believe your rights come from God, but not all believe in or have a relationship with God. Respect the beliefs of others through your words. And rights don’t come from man/woman (Government) either. Don’t come off pushing God or your own beliefs on others. Regardless of beliefs, until we all ask ourselves “am I acting toward others like I want to be treated,” we are destined to fail. I would argue that natural law and biblical law, if we could assume perfect understanding of God, are surely one and the same. We can at times express our beliefs about God to others and how personally God encourages us to carry out our mission to treat others well. But we can all discuss what is loving referring to personal beliefs!

Please Stop Claiming You Know Biblical Truth!

MikeEdwardsprofilepic125

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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How Do We Pursue “Truth” That Will Heal A Nation?

Posted in Acceptance of Others, christian living, Jesus follower, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 28, 2024|

By Mike Edwards

Claiming Truth falsely can be destructive. Many Christian leader claim that we as a people and nation must rely on biblical truth. Can we always know what biblical truth is? Attempts have been made to censor mis-informers in the public arena. Can we always know what misinformation is concerning science or political policies? We must be careful what we claim as Truth and how we interact with others during uncertainty.

What is scientific or biblical truth? 

The bedrock of science use to be considering hypotheses to explain a phenomenon in the natural world. It is an educated guess based on the information we have currently have and could change if we get new information in the future. Drugs are often approved initially, only to be pulled from the shelves later after causing death. The truth is that it isn’t science if there isn’t debate!

Ancient literature subject to interpretation cannot be the definitive word on truth. Besides, even if all agreed that the Bible correctly interpreted confirms God condemns gays or forbids women in leadership in religious institutes, we cannot prove that the writers always portrayed God accurately. Any biblical truth claimed must also agree with natural truth such as sexual abuse is evil; otherwise, we must purse truth with an open mind.

Are there self-evident truths we can agree on?

No, one can’t just follow their own heart! What reasonable or rational person doesn’t expect the golden rule from others in their own relationships. Our inborn sense of good and evil, not an ancient Book, tells us sexual abuse or murder is immoral. Most criminals don’t defend their murders or thefts; instead, they deny committing such crimes. We don’t debate many laws, only what is a just punishment. It is a dictatorship not a democracy when we impose our will on issues such as pandemic responses, taxes, climate change, immigration, etc. Dictatorships don’t end well. Benefits and risks exist for most issues.

Freedom of speech is critical 

Denying free expression of belief is playing Superior in the lives of others. God is the example for God-believers. God has respected freedom of beliefs from the very beginning; otherwise, God who is powerful enough to create would annihilate immediately those who oppose God by choosing evil. Freedom is necessary for authenticity, the highest good in relationships, or we could accuse God of not creating the “best” world. A true debate of differing opinions, regardless if you think one is a heretic or conspiracist, is our best chance at arriving at the most caring decision for all concerned. Until we all ask ourselves “am I acting toward others like I want to be treated,” we are destined to fail. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t confront those who reject freedom of speech! 

Uncertainty can be a good thing 

Certainty rather than uncertainty comforts individuals psychologically. One may believe the seemingly certain narrative because unknowing can create anxiety. When only one side is presented, control and power grow intentionally or unintentionally. It should be intuitive denying diverse opinions is unloving and controlling. Couples who act as if they are always right and their partner is wrong are headed toward divorce. Having good intentions by believing you are right for the whole doesn’t matter when certainty isn’t universal. God-followers and religious leaders seem hell-bent in telling people what they must believe about God according to their understanding and interpretation of the Bible. Politicians seem hell-bent in claiming certainty regarding policies such as climate change and immigration, though there are arguments on both sides. 

Should we avoid those who claim certainty and don’t pursue truth civilly?

One has every right to question when one claims certainty regarding non-self-evident truths. Even evil people don’t think others can violate their rights in ways that they violate others. A refusal to openly discuss or defend one’s views suggest an unhealthy dependency on “certainty.” If someone makes false claims of those who oppose them such as calling them racists, without being able to give specific examples, are they really interested in pursuing truth? How about “they have a different opinion!”

What are necessary paths to pursing truth? 

There are truths which almost has universal agreement. Do you know one person who denies adultery is wrong except the betrayer?

  • Shouldn’t Christian leaders quit always claiming their biblical interpretation is correct and at least acknowledge literature requires interpretation “according to their understanding?”
  • Shouldn’t we examine all Books about religion to discern what seems the most universally true? What are Christians afraid of if they have the truth?
  • Shouldn’t we listen to everyone’s opinion and seek to discern together what is the most loving action according to the circumstances?
  • Shouldn’t we first stop claiming our views are morally superior to those we disagree with unless speaking of universal accepted moral truths
  • Shouldn’t we can begin conversations by looking for areas we agree?
  • Shouldn’t we discuss differences by defending our reasoning, respecting the opinions of others, and commit to growing in understanding
  • Shouldn’t we stop labeling those who disagree with our biblical interpretations as heretics?
  • Shouldn’t we can stop calling those who disagree with our views of science as conspiracists?

Open-minded uncertainty, rather than supposed certainty, could go a long way to healing our nation and personal relationships. Imagine how different as a people we would be if religious and political folks had open discussions what are the most caring actions for the greater good concerning non-universal matters such as immigration or climate policies. Most religions agree the overriding moral guide is to love others like you want to be treated. Belief or lack of belief in God doesn’t give you an excuse to not treat others like you want to be treated.

How Do We Pursue Truth That Will Heal A Nation?

MikeEdwardsprofilepic125

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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