Mouse, I didn't see too much wrong with the original thread. Not really a debate at all, let alone a mudsling. I didn't see insulting generalisations, it was more like people expressing their personal experiences. How can we argue with that?
For what it's worth guys, I've been "burnt by the church" too. I too went to a Baptist school and heard some bizarre statements and attitudes as I grew up. I later taught at a couple of Christian Music/Bible colleges, and when I divorced I became a Pariah to some there, and experienced quite bizzarre irrational behaviour from those I would have called friends, who were within the church.
Even perfect strangers have harshly told me their views on Gods position on divorce (about which I read verrrry extensively I can tell you.)
However, God is real to me. Jesus Christ is real to me. The Holy Spirit is real to me. I could not, and never will discount all the wondrous things that have worked into my life as a result of knowing him.
Also, while I recieved a lot of crap, I also recieved much wondrous positive encouragement and healing from other believers - some from the same church where my detractors were from.
I chose to focus on these people, and let their strength be stronger than others attacks.
What am I saying? That Christians are human. That they come in all shapes and sizes and a myriad of practices and beliefs. Some are judgemental, others are not. Some are forgiving, others are not. We all have different strengths and weaknesses, but rest assured, without the tempering effect of Christ, the individuals concerned would be ten times worse.
This is not to say Christians are better than those who are not. Just that Christ is the medicine to a sick and hurting individual. Do you go to a hospital when you are not ill?
At the end of the day, I looked at my own life and what God had done. I looked at those from whom I drew strength and love and saw God in them. I looked at the harmony in the creation and the care and artistry involved, and I healed from my negative church experience.
There is a good book covering a similar situation called Soul Survivor by Phillip Yancey. It seems it's an all too familiar occurrence especially in America, where somehow religious rigidity got entangled up in the message of Christs grace and liberty.
Have a good day all. [img]smile.gif[/img] Happy searching, and living.
Hugh