[Hiram Sedai]

Originally posted by Yorick: Fair concerns. [img]smile.gif[/img] All through the New Testament are quotes from the old. There are copies of the originals as well. For me the single biggest 'proof' is what is the fruit in people that read it. When I read it. Is my life enhanced? Do I feel closer to God? Do I gain an insight into human nature, into how to have a relationship with God? Into perceptional enhancements? Do I gain tools with which to relate to my fellow humans? The Bible consistently touches people on an emotional, intellectual and spiritual level. I wouldn't read it if I didn't hunger for the 'soul food' it provides. I read it tonight with a group of friends. Our lives are a bit better as a result. Reading it fostered connection, discussion, healing, prayer and musical creation. So I could go into the thread of preservation and dedication to accuracy that the Bibles books have had, but if it all does nothing in my life, what is the point? That ends up being the final litmus test. It teaches me that God loves me, who desires relationship with me. When I look at the planet I see a God of love who created so artistically, designing so much for connection and exploration of him. Three things are in harmony - what I read in the Bible, what I experience of the world, and what I feel in my spirit. When I read the Qu'ran I do not experience that same harmony.; I do not read about a God who loves so much he dies for me. I do not read that in the Bhagavad Gita. I don't read it in the works of Tacitus, Homer, Freud, or Shakespeare. [img]smile.gif[/img] But I appreciate your concerns. One cannot be told the Bible is the word of God for them. They have to experience it. Experience it emotionally heal them. [img]smile.gif[/img]

Why can't I stop responding? An emotional response to any book isn't proof enough for me. Just so you know, my hero was Thomas called Dydimus, or Thomas the Twin. He is one who showed a bit of courage in the New Testament.

You have a personal connection with the text that you read. I respect that.
I see something much different at the moment because of what is happening in my life. I won't delve into that here and now.

So, you tell me it's all true because it feels right. I'm glad that it works for you. But I need more.

[ 12-05-2002, 01:13 AM: Message edited by: Hiram Sedai ]