Clergies, Sextortion, & Fanaticism
#thedarkknaik #filmreview #moviereview #conclave #ralphfiennes #isabellarossellini #robertharris #romancatholicchurch #romancatholic #pope #cardinal #oscar #academyaward #religiousintolerance
#religiousintolerance
A quotation from Robert Ingersoll
A trial for heresy means that the spirit of persecution still lingers in the church; that it still denies the right of private judgment; that it still thinks more of creed than truth, and that it is still determined to prevent the intellectual growth of man. It means that churches are shambles in which are bought and sold the souls of men. It means that the church is still guilty of the barbarity of opposing thought with force. It means that if it had the power, the mental horizon would be bounded by a creed; that it would bring again the whips and chains and dungeon keys, the rack and fagot of the past.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) American lawyer, agnostic, orator
Lecture (1874-05-03), “Heretics and Heresies,” Free Religious Society, Kingsbury Hall, Chicago
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/ingersoll-robert-gre…
#quote #quotes #quotation #qotd #ingersoll #churchandstate #creed #freedomofthought #heresy #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #theocracy #torture #trial
A quotation from Robert Ingersoll
Millions upon millions were sacrificed upon the altars of bigotry. The Catholic burned the Lutheran, the Lutheran burned the Catholic, the Episcopalian tortured the Presbyterian, the Presbyterian tortured the Episcopalian. Every denomination killed all it could of every other; and each Christian felt in duty bound to exterminate every other Christian who denied the smallest fraction of his creed.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) American lawyer, agnostic, orator
Lecture (1874-05-03), “Heretics and Heresies,” Free Religious Society, Kingsbury Hall, Chicago
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/ingersoll-robert-gre…
#quote #quotes #quotation #qotd #Christianity #holywar #intolerance #persecution #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution
A quotation from Robert Ingersoll
According to the theologians, God, the Father of us all, wrote a letter to his children. The children have always differed somewhat as to the meaning of this letter. In consequence of these honest differences, these brothers began to cut out each other’s hearts.
In every land, where this letter from God has been read, the children to whom and for whom it was written have been filled with hatred and malice. They have imprisoned and murdered each other, and the wives and children of each other. In the name of God every possible crime has been committed, every conceivable outrage has been perpetrated. Brave men, tender and loving women, beautiful girls, and prattling babes have been exterminated in the name of Jesus Christ.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) American lawyer, agnostic, orator
Lecture (1874-05-03), “Heretics and Heresies,” Free Religious Society, Kingsbury Hall, Chicago
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/ingersoll-robert-gre…
#quote #quotes #quotation #qotd #ingersoll #Bible #Christianity #God #heresy #holywar #killing #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #zealotry
A quotation from Robert Ingersoll
I do not say, and I do not believe, that Christians are as bad as their creeds. In spite of church and dogma, there have been millions and millions of men and women true to the loftiest and most generous promptings of the human heart. They have been true to their convictions, and, with a self-denial and fortitude excelled by none, have labored and suffered for the salvation of men. Imbued with the spirit of self-sacrifice, believing that by personal effort they could rescue at least a few souls from the infinite shadow of hell, they have cheerfully endured every hardship and scorned every danger.
And yet, notwithstanding all this, they believed that honest error was a crime. They knew that the Bible so declared, and they believed that all unbelievers would be eternally lost. They believed that religion was of God, and all heresy of the devil. They killed heretics in defense of their own souls and the souls of their children. They killed them because, according to their idea, they were the enemies of God, and because the Bible teaches that the blood of the unbeliever is a most acceptable sacrifice to heaven.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) American lawyer, agnostic, orator
Lecture (1874-05-03), “Heretics and Heresies,” Free Religious Society, Kingsbury Hall, Chicago
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/ingersoll-robert-gre…
#quote #quotes #quotation #Christianity #Christians #damnation #error #evangelism #execution #heresy #holywar #infidels #mission #morality #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #selfsacrifice #salvation #unbelievers #ingersoll
We are told by some of the Jewish Rabbins, that the first Murder was occasioned by a religious Controversy; and if we had the whole History of Zeal from the Days of Cain to our own Times, we should see it filled with so many Scenes of Slaughter and Bloodshed, as would make a wise Man very careful how he suffers himself to be actuated by such a Principle, when it only regards Matters of Opinion and Speculation.
Joseph Addison (1672-1719) English essayist, poet, statesman
Essay (1711-10-02), The Spectator, No. 185
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/addison-joseph/53201…
#quote #quotes #quotation #bloodshed #holywar #ideology #intolerance #murder #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #slaughter #violence #zeal #zealotry
I love to see a Man zealous in a good Matter, and especially when his Zeal shews it self for advancing Morality, and promoting the Happiness of Mankind: But when I find the Instruments he works with are Racks and Gibbets, Gallies and Dungeons; when he imprisons Mens Persons, confiscates their Estates, ruins their Families, and burns the Body to save the Soul, I cannot stick to pronounce of such a one, that (whatever he may think of his Faith and Religion) his Faith is vain, and his Religion unprofitable.
Joseph Addison (1672-1719) English essayist, poet, statesman
Essay (1711-10-02), The Spectator, No. 185
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/addison-joseph/53567…
#quote #quotes #quotation #faith #inquisition #intolerance #persecution #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #torture #zeal #zealot
A quotation from Robert Ingersoll
Men and women have been burned for thinking there is but one God; that there was none; that the Holy Ghost is younger than God; that God was somewhat older than his son; for insisting that good works will save a man without faith; that faith will do without good works; for declaring that a sweet babe will not be burned eternally, because its parents failed to have its head wet by a priest; for speaking of God as though he had a nose; for denying that Christ was his own father; for contending that three persons, rightly added together, make more than one; for believing in purgatory; for denying the reality of hell; for pretending that priests can forgive sins; for preaching that God is an essence; for denying that witches rode through the air on sticks; for doubting the total depravity of the human heart; for laughing at irresistible grace, predestination and particular redemption; for denying that good bread could be made of the body of a dead man; for pretending that the pope was not managing this world for God, and in the place of God; for disputing the efficacy of a vicarious atonement; for thinking the Virgin Mary was born like other people; for thinking that a man’s rib was hardly sufficient to make a good-sized woman; for denying that God used his finger for a pen; for asserting that prayers are not answered, that diseases are not sent to punish unbelief; for denying the authority of the Bible; for having a Bible in their possession; for attending mass, and for refusing to attend; for wearing a surplice; for carrying a cross, and for refusing; for being a Catholic, and for being a Protestant; for being an Episcopalian, a Presbyterian, a Baptist, and for being a Quaker. In short, every virtue has been a crime, and every crime a virtue. The church has burned honesty and rewarded hypocrisy. And all this, because it was commanded by a book.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) American lawyer, agnostic, orator
Lecture (1874-05-03), “Heretics and Heresies,” Free Religious Society, Kingsbury Hall, Chicago
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/ingersoll-robert-gre…
#quote #quotes #quotation #belief #Bible #burning #Christianity #church #denomination #disbelief #doubt #execution #heresy #intolerance #miracle #orthodoxy #persecution #punishment #questioning #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution
There is nothing in which Men more deceive themselves than in what the World calls Zeal. There are so many Passions which hide themselves under it, and so many Mischiefs arising from it, that some have gone so far as to say it would have been for the Benefit of Mankind if it had never been reckoned in the Catalogue of Virtues. It is certain, where it is once Laudable and Prudential, it is an hundred times Criminal and Erroneous; nor can it be otherwise, if we consider that it operates with equal Violence in all Religions, however opposite they may be to one another, and in all the Subdivisions of each Religion in particular.
Joseph Addison (1672-1719) English essayist, poet, statesman
Essay (1711-10-02), The Spectator, No. 185
Sourcing, notes: wist.info/addison-joseph/53093…
#quote #quotes #quotation #commitment #dedication #enthusiasm #fanaticism #holywar #intolerance #onetrueway #religion #religiousintolerance #religiouspersecution #sectarianism #truebeliever #vice #virtue #zeal #zealot
A savory fritter has become a symbol of resistance in Brazil’s fight against religious intolerance and racism. As evangelicals seek to erase Afro-Brazilian traditions, the Axé community stands firm, demanding religious freedom and cultural respect in a nationwide movement for justice and solidarity.
https://wildhunt.org/2025/02/a-sacred-food-is-the-center-of-religious-intolerance-in-brazil.html
#maegilda #candomble #acaraje #colonization #racism #religiousintolerance #religion
A quotation from Roosevelt, Franklin Delano:
«
If the fires of freedom and civil liberties burn low in other lands, they must be made brighter in our own.
If in other lands the press and books and literature of all kinds are censored, we must redoubl…
»
Full quote, sourcing, notes:
https://wist.info/roosevelt-franklin-delano/5326/
#quote #quotes #quotation #America #censorship #civilliberties #freepress #freedom #freedomofreligion #freedomofthepress #liberty #religiousfreedom #religiousintolerance
Sudan Faces the Crisis Of Christian Persecution
Sudan becomes a battleground for religious freedom. Christians face severe persecution amid ongoing political and social turmoil. Examine the alarming rise in violence against Christians in Sudan as struggle for faith and survival - https://ecspe.org/christian-persecution-in-sudan-a-crisis-of-faith-and-survival/
#ChristianPersecution #SudanCrisis #ReligiousFreedom #FaithAndSurvival #HumanRights #Sudan #ReligiousIntolerance #Advocacy
Canada is witnessing a troubling trend of church arson, with another church recently burned to the ground. This incident reflects the rising hostility towards religious institutions and the alarming increase in attacks against places of worship. 🏛️ Stand against church arson and support the sanctity of places of worship.
🔗 Read more: https://ecspe.org/the-dark-trend-of-church-arson-in-canada-another-church-burned/
#ChurchArson #Canada #ReligiousFreedom #ChurchBurned #ReligiousIntolerance #CommunitySafety #FaithBasedViolence #ChristianCommunities
Are You Tired of Feeling Unworthy?
In a world where the weight of judgment often feels unbearable, many of us long for a place to belong. What if I told you that Jesus invites us to come just as we are? This invitation to authenticity resonates deeply with the angst expressed in the grunge music I grew up on. As a fan of Pearl Jam and Nirvana, I understand the struggle against societal expectations and the longing for acceptance. Kurt Cobain’s lyrics in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” capture a restless spirit that many of us can relate to: the desire to break free from constraints and find true meaning.
Jesus’s Radical Acceptance
Jesus was a revolutionary figure who turned the norms of His time upside down. He welcomed the weary, the outcast, and the sinner, proclaiming in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV), “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” His message wasn’t about conforming to rigid standards; it was about offering love and grace without preconditions.
However, in today’s religious landscape, we often encounter leaders and organizations that interpret scripture in ways that reinforce legalism and exclusion. Groups such as the American Family Association and the Southern Baptist Convention often emphasize rules over relationships, focusing on personal gain and power rather than the genuine love of Christ. This can lead to a distorted view of God that leaves many feeling unworthy and distant.
The Danger of Misguided Interpretations
Let’s be real: we live in a world where personal agendas can overshadow the true message of the gospel. When scripture is manipulated to serve the interests of a few, it becomes a weapon instead of a tool for healing. Jesus warned against this in Matthew 23:13 (NIV): “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces.”
These interpretations can lead to harmful teachings that leave people feeling rejected or unworthy of God’s love. But Jesus didn’t come to create barriers; He came to tear them down. His call is for all of us, regardless of our past, to step into the light of His grace.
My Journey: Finding Grace in the Darkness
Reflecting on my own life, I can vividly recall a time when I felt completely lost and unworthy. After years of battling alcoholism and addiction, I found myself at a crossroads. I was on the brink of losing everything—my home, my relationships, and even my sense of self-worth.
One day, in a moment of meditation, I turned to prayer. I begged for help, feeling the weight of my failures heavy upon me. I didn’t feel worthy of love or forgiveness. But in that moment of vulnerability, I felt a profound sense of peace wash over me. It was as if God was saying, “Come as you are; you are accepted and loved.” That day marked the beginning of a transformative journey towards grace, where I learned to embrace my flaws instead of hiding them.
This personal experience taught me that we all have struggles and imperfections, but they don’t define us. In my darkest moments, I found that grace is not something we earn; it’s a gift freely given by God.
I’ve written many original songs on my journey and can’t wait to share them on the blog! Explore the lyrics to my heavy Drop D track ‘Overcomers’ linked below.Johnny Cash: A Voice of Redemption
In many ways, Johnny Cash’s story mirrors my own journey. He was a man whose life was marked by struggles, including addiction and personal loss, yet his music always pointed back to hope and forgiveness. Cash once said, “I’d like to be remembered as a man who had a good and decent family life.” He understood the power of grace and the importance of coming as we are, flaws and all.
In many of his songs, Cash explored themes of regret and redemption, inviting listeners to embrace their brokenness and seek forgiveness. His life and music remind us that we are not defined by our past mistakes but by our willingness to seek and accept grace.
The 27 Club: Lives Cut Short
The idea of grace becomes even more poignant when we consider the lives of those in the 27 Club. This informal group of iconic musicians and artists, including Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Kurt Cobain, all died at the young age of 27, often due to substance abuse or self-destructive behaviors. Their untimely deaths raise profound questions about the struggles they faced and the grace they may have sought.
These artists, celebrated for their talents and cultural impact, often grappled with immense pressure, addiction, and feelings of isolation. In their music, they articulated the pain of living in a world that often feels harsh and unforgiving. Imagine how different their stories might have been if they had embraced the message of grace—the idea that no matter how lost or broken we feel, we are still loved and accepted.
For example, Kurt Cobain, with his haunting lyrics and raw emotion, often expressed feelings of inadequacy and despair. In songs like “Come As You Are,” he invites listeners to be true to themselves. Yet, the very message of acceptance that he preached became a stark contrast to his own life struggles. Had he experienced a deeper understanding of grace, perhaps he could have found the hope and healing he desperately needed.
The Grace They Could Have Found
Each member of the 27 Club had a unique story, yet they shared a common thread of searching for meaning in a chaotic world. They often faced judgment from society and the media, which could amplify feelings of unworthiness. In the light of Christ’s teachings, we can see how grace could have been a lifeline for them.
Imagine Janis Joplin, whose powerful voice conveyed deep pain and longing. What if she had been surrounded by a community that understood the transformative power of grace? Instead of judgment, she could have received love and support, enabling her to navigate her struggles with compassion rather than despair.
Grace in a Judgmental World
So, what does this mean for you? It means that no matter where you are on your journey, you are welcome in the arms of Jesus. In John 8:36 (NIV), He declares, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” This freedom is not reserved for the perfect; it’s available to anyone willing to accept it.
As we move forward, let’s commit to fostering an environment where everyone feels they can come as they are, without fear of judgment. Can we challenge ourselves to reflect Christ’s love and acceptance in our lives? Let’s be a community that lifts each other up, where grace reigns over judgment.
A Call to Action
It’s time for us to embrace the truth of Jesus’s message: You are loved, you are accepted, and you are welcome. In a world that often feels cold and uninviting, let’s be the light that points others to the hope found in Christ.
To truly embody this grace, we must start asking ourselves some critical questions:
• How can we ensure our churches and communities are places of acceptance?
• Are there ways we might be unintentionally shutting the door on others?
• What steps can we take to share the radical love of Jesus with those around us?
Becoming Agents of Grace
To be agents of grace in a judgmental world, we must actively work to dismantle the barriers that keep people from feeling welcome. Here are some practical steps we can take:
- Practice Active Listening
Sometimes, the greatest gift we can offer is our attention. Listen to others without judgment, allowing them to express their feelings and experiences. This practice can create a safe space for healing and understanding.
- Share Personal Stories
Opening up about our struggles and vulnerabilities can foster connection and empathy. When we share our own journeys of grace, we help others see that they are not alone in their battles.
- Challenge Negative Narratives
Stand up against judgmental attitudes within our communities. Promote messages of acceptance and love, and remind others that we are all works in progress.
- Create Inclusive Spaces
Make a conscious effort to welcome everyone, regardless of their background or struggles. Host events that emphasize community and connection, showing that all are valued and loved.
- Engage in Outreach
Reach out to those who feel marginalized or excluded. Show them that they are seen and valued, and invite them to be part of your community.
Final Thoughts
As we journey through life, let’s remember that grace is not a destination but a way of living. Embrace your flaws, celebrate your victories, and extend that same grace to others. Together, we can create a world where everyone truly feels they can come as they are—accepted, loved, and free.
Let us walk in the light of Christ, inviting all to experience the radical love of a Savior who calls us to come as we are.
Call to Action: Ready to Talk?
If this resonates with you—if you’ve been feeling lost, judged, or just plain worn out by church traditions—let’s talk. You’re not alone. Share your experiences, ask your questions, or just drop a line below. Jesus’s teachings offer a path to healing and acceptance, even when the church doesn’t.
So, what’s your story? How can we work together to build more compassionate, inclusive spaces where everyone belongs?
Coming Soon: Is Calvinism Blasphemy in Disguise?
I’m working on something that’s gonna ruffle some feathers, y’all. Get ready for a deep dive into how the Baptist Faith and Message 2000 squares up against the five points of Calvinism, better known as T.U.L.I.P. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t look good for the Calvinists.
Calvinism was crafted by John Calvin, a man whose thirst for power and rigid control of his followers bordered on psychopathy. His doctrines didn’t emerge from divine inspiration but rather as a reactionary defense during the Enlightenment—a time when peasants and commoners were just starting to learn to read. With the sudden availability of mass-produced books, people began to question the authority of the church. Calvin’s twisted theology—focused on predestination and the notion that only a select few are “saved”—was a way to maintain control over the masses and keep them in line. ~Sharing Heaven, September 2024
Stay tuned, because once we unravel these beliefs, you’ll see why Calvinism is not just flawed—it’s blasphemous.
In Hope, With Christ- Alan
https://sharingheaven7.wordpress.com/2024/09/29/overcomers/
#alcoholismAndDepression #Calvinism #faithAndMentalHealth #findingHopeAndGraceOutsideOfChurch #howReligiousIntoleranceAffectsMentalHealth #inclusiveChristianity #JesusSTeachings #JesusSWordsOnAcceptanceAndLove #overcomingDepressionThroughFaith #recoveringFromAddictionWithFaithInJesus #religiousIntolerance #rigidReligiousDoctrines #SouthernBaptistChurch #spiritualAwakening #spiritualHealing #spiritualHealingAfterLeavingTheChurch #TULIP_
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