Bible question and answers

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
This is a blatant attempt to turn the attach personal, and it has no effect. Please, if you can’t focus on the debate, then do not try to make it personal, just stop.

Originally posted by peejayd
* you are the one who's making this personal now… so why don't you stop?

Originally posted by peejayd
* no, but frankly, I just want you to stop replying on my posts…

Originally posted by peejayd
* likewise… I don't freakin' care… I just want you to stop…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
You want me to stop posting on a public forum?

* this proves of your hypocrisy… 🙄

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
It seems I am not giving you the answer you wish. We don’t always get what we want.

* no, it means you CAN'T give the answer I want because you're too stubborn to admit you're wrong…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
There is only one sin my form of Buddhism, and that is slander of the Mystic Law.

* YOUR form of Buddhism? so who's making an interpretation now? it only proves you're the one slandering your own book…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Then you will never understand the answer to the question you keep asking me.

* I don't freakin' care…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
It is your interpretation of that book.

* look who's talking… "my form of Buddhism"… what a hypocrite… 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Just because you believe the bible one way does not mean that is the only way to see it.

* in idolatry, it's self-explanatory, there's no other freakin' way to see it…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Life is never that absolute.

* we're not talking about "life", it's about idolatry… please compose yourself…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Only to you.

* maybe, only to those rational people believing in the Bible… but an anti-Bible like you? you'll only refuse to accept reason eventhough it's clearly under your nose…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
It doesn’t really matter to me.

* you deny that the catholics worship graven images… sure, it does not matter to you because you don't care for other people… telling people what they're doing is wrong, is a form of love for them… so ignoring them - like what you're doing - is not "winning"… it's not you just don't practice what you preach - you really do not preach what you should preach… you're just an arrogant hypocrite…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So, you are afraid I’m going to do what? I’m going to hit two birds with one stone? I don’t have to artificially connect Catholics and Christians together: Catholocs are Christian.

* in society, yes… in Biblical doctrines, no… what's hard to accept?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
It’s just a disagreement on what idolatry means between two Christian groups.

* Jesus reiterated what kind of disciple is His true disciple… His true disciple continues to abide by His words… idolatry is prohibited in Christianity, if catholics do idolatry, then they are not disciples of Christ according to the Bible… but according to society, since they believe in Jesus, they are also considered "Christians"…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Which part?

* all of it…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Was that kind of a “I know what you are, but what am I”?

* no… it's a "look who's talking, you hypocrite"-liner… 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
1. You haven’t ask any questions about Nichiren Buddhism.
2. You have not read any of the links I have posted.

* why should I?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
3. We were talking about Idolatry, and how looks can be deceiving.

* okay…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
This thing about “boundaries of Buddhism” should be on another thread.

* sure thing…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Ha ha ha If I said I had a stomachache, you would say it’s because I have a big ego. How silly?

* now THAT'S silly… 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So anyone who does not except you as right has a big ego? Wow.

* it's not about accepting me… we're talking about idolatry, the topic is in the scope of Christianity, you're arguing outside your tree because you're a Buddhist, the basis of doctrine for Christianity is the words of God in the Bible… you refuse to accept my argument is right… you're way out of line, the only slight connection you have is your claim to be a former Christian which you continuously badmouthing to be teaching you how to hate other people… you're using this poor excuse of an argument because to hate to admit my argument is right… that's how big your ego is…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That is true. You do not fully understand your interpretation of the bible.

* oh? try me… but you? you're already tested… how you badmouth Christianity proves you don't understand Christianity and the Bible one slight bit… so the easy way out is? to go to a religion where you can do whatever you want, and Buddhism satisfies your self-gratification and hypocrisy that's why you converted to it…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That would be true if I worship the Lotus Sutra, but it is just a book written by humans. It would be silly to worship a book.

* no one's worshipping a book even if we say the book is holy… when I say I find the Bible holy, and you accuse me of worshipping it, it's a stupid conclusion and a dirty mind…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Nichiren Buddhists believe that only those who chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo can achieve enlightenment. I do not believe this to be true. I believe you can gain enlightenment without chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo. It is just a lot harder.

* thank you for supporting my deduction… 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
The question was about Idolatry, and Catholics. You are the one who starting in on the Buddhist angle.

* you're the one who sprouted when you see words related to Buddhism in this topic…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
I thought all that was required to be a Christian was to believe in the salvation of Jesus.

* this proves how SHALLOW your argument is about being a Christian…

Originally posted by peejayd
* this proves of your hypocrisy… 🙄

When I said stop, I was talking about you personally attaching. I wanted you to stop calling me names. When you said stop, you meant stop posting. I am not telling you to stop posting. Please post as much as you wish, but please stop calling me names.

Originally posted by peejayd
* no, it means you CAN'T give the answer I want because you're too stubborn to admit you're wrong…

So, because I have different opinions then you, that make me stubborn? Have you come to realize that there are a lot of stubborn people in the world?

Originally posted by peejayd
* YOUR form of Buddhism? so who's making an interpretation now? it only proves you're the one slandering your own book…

My denomination, or school, or sect. Is there a problem with language here. I say something simple like “my form of Buddhism”, and you go off. I am saying, the type of Buddhism that I follow. It is simple shorthand.

Originally posted by peejayd
* I don't freakin' care…

Then stop asking.

Originally posted by peejayd
* look who's talking… "my form of Buddhism"… what a hypocrite… 😂

You don’t understand that kind of wording? It would be like saying “I work out at my gym“. That does not mean I own the gym. It means I am a member of a gym.

Originally posted by peejayd
* in idolatry, it's self-explanatory, there's no other freakin' way to see it…

There is the Catholic way to see it, and that is different from yours.

Originally posted by peejayd
* we're not talking about "life", it's about idolatry… please compose yourself…

Ok, you seem to not understand when I use the word life in that way either. Hmmmm

Originally posted by peejayd
* maybe, only to those rational people believing in the Bible… but an anti-Bible like you? you'll only refuse to accept reason eventhough it's clearly under your nose…

The meaning of the bible is simple to you, because you have an interpretation, as a key, to understand what you are reading. However, that is different depending of the denomination you are a part of.

Originally posted by peejayd
* you deny that the catholics worship graven images… sure, it does not matter to you because you don't care for other people… telling people what they're doing is wrong, is a form of love for them… so ignoring them - like what you're doing - is not "winning"… it's not you just don't practice what you preach - you really do not preach what you should preach… you're just an arrogant hypocrite…

That is not what we are talking about, and if you call me another name, I will repot you, so please stop personally attacking me.

When I say it does not matter to me, I am talking about Idolatry. Idolatry does not exist in the religion I belong too, because there is no god in that religion.

Originally posted by peejayd
* in society, yes… in Biblical doctrines, no… what's hard to accept?

But I am a member of society, and do not wish to define things by your religion’s interpretation.

Originally posted by peejayd
* Jesus reiterated what kind of disciple is His true disciple… His true disciple continues to abide by His words… idolatry is prohibited in Christianity, if catholics do idolatry, then they are not disciples of Christ according to the Bible… but according to society, since they believe in Jesus, they are also considered "Christians"…

According to the Catholics, they do not worship Mary or the saints:

“Devotion to the saints comes back to the theology of image: Christ is God's image, the saints are Christ's image. We honor them because we desire to imitate them. We pray to them the same as we call upon earthly friends to do a favor for us. This too, is scriptural. In Acts we read of Peter and John going up to the Temple for prayer and encountering a beggar. Peter says to him, "I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk" (Acts 3:6). Peter makes it clear that he has the power of Christ in his possession.

To be sure, it is Jesus who heals, but Peter holds the right to extend that power. The same can be said of Paul. In Acts 19:11-12 we read, "So extraordinary were the mighty deeds God accomplished at the hands of Paul that when face cloths or aprons that touched his skin were applied to the sick, their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them." These texts are the basis of the Catholic practice of asking saints to help us, of honoring (not worshiping) the bodies and relics of saints.”

http://www.americancatholic.org/features/customs/rosary/mary_worship.asp

Originally posted by peejayd
* all of it…

I don’t think you know what you are talking about. You say that I have a delusion, but cannot point it out to me. Saying “all of it” is just a way of getting out of having to point to something that is not there.

Originally posted by peejayd
* no… it's a "look who's talking, you hypocrite"-liner… 😂

What I said was a child’s expression. Perhaps it is different in your culture.

Originally posted by peejayd
* why should I?

Because you posted things that have nothing to do with Nichiren Buddhism, and then asked me questions about it. I figured that if you know a little bit about Nichiren Buddhism, you might be able to ask more relevant question to me.

The choice is yours.

Originally posted by peejayd
* now THAT'S silly… 😂

Yes, you were being very silly, in a mean kind of way. Just think about how much you have been trying to hurt me? Is that what a Christian should be doing?

Originally posted by peejayd
* oh? try me… but you? you're already tested… how you badmouth Christianity proves you don't understand Christianity and the Bible one slight bit… so the easy way out is? to go to a religion where you can do whatever you want, and Buddhism satisfies your self-gratification and hypocrisy that's why you converted to it…

That was a misstatement on my part. I meant to say “That is true. I do not fully understand your interpretation of the bible.” I get typing to fast and words like “you” and “I” get flipped. It is my dyslexia.

Originally posted by peejayd
* no one's worshipping a book even if we say the book is holy… when I say I find the Bible holy, and you accuse me of worshipping it, it's a stupid conclusion and a dirty mind…

That was long time ago. Wow! Do you hold grudges? Should a Christian be holding grudges?

Originally posted by peejayd
* thank you for supporting my deduction… 😂

So, you would rather me be a radical who believes that all other people are lost, except for those in my religion?

Originally posted by peejayd
* you're the one who sprouted when you see words related to Buddhism in this topic…

This is only speculation on your part. You have no way of knowing what is going through my mind.

Originally posted by peejayd
* this proves how SHALLOW your argument is about being a Christian…

So, are you saved by works then?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
When I said stop, I was talking about you personally attaching. I wanted you to stop calling me names. When you said stop, you meant stop posting. I am not telling you to stop posting. Please post as much as you wish, but please stop calling me names.

* you were implying something else:

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
This is a blatant attempt to turn the attach personal, and it has no effect. Please, if you can’t focus on the debate, then do not try to make it personal, just stop.

* you were saying that me calling you names has no effect, and if I can't focus on the debate, I should stop posting… that's how I see it, that's why I find it ridiculous the way you replied when I told you to stop…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So, because I have different opinions then you, that make me stubborn? Have you come to realize that there are a lot of stubborn people in the world?

* different opinions are part of a debate/discussion… bring all your opinions, it does not matter… however, in this topic, we are under the boundaries of the Bible or Christian doctrines… I hope you realize that…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Then stop asking.

* after you stop replying… 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
You don’t understand that kind of wording? It would be like saying “I work out at my gym“. That does not mean I own the gym. It means I am a member of a gym.

* slip of your tongue, maybe? you are under Nichiren Buddhism, yet you do not believe some of it's doctrines (i.e., chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo)… isn't it obvious that you are just relying on your own interpretation? you're just staying because of convenience and when they have a belief that you don't want, you reject it…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
There is the Catholic way to see it, and that is different from yours.

* because in Christianity, there are wrongs and rights… come to think of it, why don't you ask what kind of act do catholics consider as idolatry? and what is the difference of that compared to what they are doing?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Ok, you seem to not understand when I use the word life in that way either. Hmmmm

* while I also believe life is not "absolute", connecting it to idolatry is really far-fetched… 😐

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
The meaning of the bible is simple to you, because you have an interpretation, as a key, to understand what you are reading. However, that is different depending of the denomination you are a part of.

* oh, educate me… 🙄 I'm exposed to many interpretations of the Bible… but that does not discourage me to think that Christianity is a wrong religion though… many people twist the words in the Bible, but once you try and research, you'll find out the truth… that's what you lack when you were once a "Christian" -> perseverance… the truth is not spoon-fed… it is not simple, and it requires work…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That is not what we are talking about, and if you call me another name, I will repot you, so please stop personally attacking me.

* you said it has no effect on you? since when did you became so touchy?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
When I say it does not matter to me, I am talking about Idolatry. Idolatry does not exist in the religion I belong too, because there is no god in that religion.

* why did you say, "worshipping Buddha is a no-no in Buddhism" in the first place? 🙄 come to think of it, you started this mess! 😂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
But I am a member of society, and do not wish to define things by your religion’s interpretation.

* feel free… i already said catholics are Christians in society… what are you arguing about? I'm just saying that if we make the Bible as basis (and not the society), then catholics are not Christians due to doctrinal differences… now, if you will IMPOSE that catholics are Christians according to the Bible despite of doctrinal differences, it's wrong… you know it's wrong to impose, right? 🙄

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
According to the Catholics, they do not worship Mary or the saints:

* of course they will deny it… how can you be so gullible? read this:

"They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work."
Titus 1:16

* don't get irritated, we're talking about the Bible so get used to me quoting passages from it… now, here… the Bible acknowledges that there are people who profess to know God but their works speak for themselves…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
“Devotion to the saints comes back to the theology of image: Christ is God's image, the saints are Christ's image. We honor them because we desire to imitate them. We pray to them the same as we call upon earthly friends to do a favor for us. This too, is scriptural. In Acts we read of Peter and John going up to the Temple for prayer and encountering a beggar. Peter says to him, "I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk" (Acts 3:6). Peter makes it clear that he has the power of Christ in his possession.

To be sure, it is Jesus who heals, but Peter holds the right to extend that power.

* that's a lame excuse for worshipping the saints… it's not wrong to honor or respect them but to worship them is prohibited even from Saint Peter himself:

"When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him.
But Peter lifted him up, saying, Stand up; I too am a man."
Acts 10:25-26

* see how Saint Peter rejects worship? what more if Saint Peter saw Cornelius worshipping his picture or statue?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
The same can be said of Paul. In Acts 19:11-12 we read, "So extraordinary were the mighty deeds God accomplished at the hands of Paul that when face cloths or aprons that touched his skin were applied to the sick, their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them."

* again, another lame excuse from catholics… Saint Paul and Saint Barnabas reject worship also, see Acts 14:14-15…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
These texts are the basis of the Catholic practice of asking saints to help us, of honoring (not worshiping) the bodies and relics of saints.”

http://www.americancatholic.org/features/customs/rosary/mary_worship.asp

* the saints CANNOT help people because they are literally and physically dead… but they can help people if people will follow the examples they left behind which were written in the Bible… asking them for help is tantamount of saying they are praying to the saints, which is wrong… in the Bible, a Christian should pray directly to God, in the name of Jesus… not through Mary or any of the saints, apostles or disciples… Philippians 4:6…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Because you posted things that have nothing to do with Nichiren Buddhism, and then asked me questions about it. I figured that if you know a little bit about Nichiren Buddhism, you might be able to ask more relevant question to me.

The choice is yours.

* questions about Nichiren Buddhism is not appropriate for this thread… I only involved Buddhism as part of an argument, but not wholly…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Yes, you were being very silly, in a mean kind of way. Just think about how much you have been trying to hurt me? Is that what a Christian should be doing?

* truth sometimes hurts… but I would never ever hurt anyone physically…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That was a misstatement on my part. I meant to say “That is true. I do not fully understand your interpretation of the bible.” I get typing to fast and words like “you” and “I” get flipped. It is my dyslexia.

* if that's what you want, we can cut this discussion, and you can just ask me what I believe about the Bible… and see if my belief is okay or not (you can comment regarding Christianity and what-not, but don’t react the "Buddhist-way" because the connection will always fail)…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That was long time ago. Wow! Do you hold grudges? Should a Christian be holding grudges?

* I don't, I just remembered it… just tell me if that's what you still believe or not… I'm sure you remember what you said to me obviously… do you still believe that when I find the Bible holy, I'm worshipping it already? please do tell…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So, are you saved by works then?

* in the Bible, there are works that can save a person… and there are works that cannot…

Originally posted by peejayd
* slip of your tongue, maybe? you are under Nichiren Buddhism, yet you do not believe some of it's doctrines (i.e., chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo)…

What? I believe in chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

Originally posted by peejayd
isn't it obvious that you are just relying on your own interpretation? you're just staying because of convenience and when they have a belief that you don't want, you reject it…

You have no way of knowing anything like that.

Buddha taught us to reject extremism and find our own path. The idea that there is only one way to enlightenment is contrary to this teaching. Nichiren Buddhism is a beautiful practice, and chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is uplifting. However, it is not divine or sacred. It is like a potluck dinner. You do not have to partake of every dish to enjoy the evening.

Originally posted by peejayd
* while I also believe life is not "absolute", connecting it to idolatry is really far-fetched… 😐

So, Idolatry is only hypothetical?

Originally posted by peejayd
* oh, educate me… 🙄 I'm exposed to many interpretations of the Bible… but that does not discourage me to think that Christianity is a wrong religion though… many people twist the words in the Bible, but once you try and research, you'll find out the truth… that's what you lack when you were once a "Christian" -> perseverance… the truth is not spoon-fed… it is not simple, and it requires work…

So, all of the people who have spent their entire life’s studying the bible, but have come to a different conclusion then you, are just feeble minded?

Originally posted by peejayd
* that's a lame excuse for worshipping the saints… it's not wrong to honor or respect them but to worship them is prohibited even from Saint Peter himself:

There are a lot of lame things in Christianity. It all depends on your point of view.

Originally posted by peejayd
* the saints CANNOT help people because they are literally and physically dead… but they can help people if people will follow the examples they left behind which were written in the Bible… asking them for help is tantamount of saying they are praying to the saints, which is wrong… in the Bible, a Christian should pray directly to God, in the name of Jesus… not through Mary or any of the saints, apostles or disciples… Philippians 4:6…

Jesus cannot help people because he is also dead, but that does not stop people from praying to him.

Originally posted by peejayd
* questions about Nichiren Buddhism is not appropriate for this thread… I only involved Buddhism as part of an argument, but not wholly…

But you asked questions about so other form of Buddhism, and then got all upset when I knew nothing about them. I was trying to help you.

Originally posted by peejayd
* truth sometimes hurts… but I would never ever hurt anyone physically…

You really expect me to believe that all that name calling was something other then anger from you?

Originally posted by peejayd
* in the Bible, there are works that can save a person… and there are works that cannot…

I really don’t see why anyone would want to ask you questions about the bible, in the first place.

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Please prove there is a soul.

Originally posted by long pig
Seriously? Out of everything I said, that may be the easiest thing to prove. The hebrew word for soul is Ruach, which is also the word for mind and spirit. They are all one and the same. Do you have a mind? If yes, then you have a soul.

LOL!!!!!!!

prove there is a "mind"

Originally posted by long pig
Seriously? Out of everything I said, that may be the easiest thing to prove. The hebrew word for soul is Ruach, which is also the word for mind and spirit. They are all one and the same. Do you have a mind? If yes, then you have a soul.

OK, my mind is my brain, and my brain is physical, and that means the soul is physical. When you die, does your mind live on? No. The brain dies, that means the soul also dies, unless the soul is not the mind.

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
OK, my mind is my brain, and my brain is physical, and that means the soul is physical. When you die, does your mind live on? No. The brain dies, that means the soul also dies, unless the soul is not the mind.

your mind is not your brain, but I agree with the rest

the "mind", like "consciousness", is one of the most difficult things to pin down in terms of modern science

the best we have are synchronized frequencies of activation between various localized neuronal areas, but even then, it become dichotomus to the point that a singular term like "mind" is essentially useless

Originally posted by inimalist
your mind is not your brain, but I agree with the rest

the "mind", like "consciousness", is one of the most difficult things to pin down in terms of modern science

the best we have are synchronized frequencies of activation between various localized neuronal areas, but even then, it become dichotomus to the point that a singular term like "mind" is essentially useless

Sure, but without the brain, you cannot have a mind. The mind is a product of the brain. Would you agree with that?

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Sure, but without the brain, you cannot have a mind. The mind is a product of the brain. Would you agree with that?

I would qualify it with: What the western philosophical tradition calls the mind is a product of some functions of the brain, and entirely based on materialistic processes

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
What? I believe in chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Nichiren Buddhists believe that only those who chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo can achieve enlightenment. I do not believe this to be true. I believe you can gain enlightenment without chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

* you don't even believe Nichiren Buddhism 100%... why don't you just admit that you're just following your own interpretation of Buddhism? 🙄

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
You have no way of knowing anything like that.

Buddha taught us to reject extremism and find our own path. The idea that there is only one way to enlightenment is contrary to this teaching. Nichiren Buddhism is a beautiful practice, and chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is uplifting. However, it is not divine or sacred. It is like a potluck dinner. You do not have to partake of every dish to enjoy the evening.

* what you are saying is enough for me to know how you deal with your religion… and you're just staying because of convenience… you know, in spirituality, we should not shape our own religion, but let the religion shape and mold us into holiness and perfection…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So, Idolatry is only hypothetical?

* no, idolatry can be literal and/or spiritual…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
So, all of the people who have spent their entire life’s studying the bible, but have come to a different conclusion then you, are just feeble minded?

* no one should come to a conclusion… the Bible itself can tell you which is which… all you have to do is to search and research…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
There are a lot of lame things in Christianity. It all depends on your point of view.

* lame things in Christianity is your point of view… no one will ever have a logical and rational conversation with you when it comes to Christianity… is that what Buddhism taught you? to hate Christianity? if that's what it is, then Buddhism is a lame religion…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Jesus cannot help people because he is also dead, but that does not stop people from praying to him.

* in Christianity, Jesus is not dead and He is a God, the Only Begotten Son of God…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
You really expect me to believe that all that name calling was something other then anger from you?

* I'm not angry… and even if I was, it depends in the intent of the heart… there is anger that does not constitute sin… in fact, being angry at evil things is not a sin…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
I really don’t see why anyone would want to ask you questions about the bible, in the first place.

* I'm not forcing anyone to ask me… if you think I'm not capable enough, try me… and if I'm not capable enough, much moreso you because all you do is badmouth Christianity and the Bible… I was wondering what kind of Buddhist are you? I don't think Buddhist ethics does not even allow these things your spewing in the forum esp. about Christianity and the Bible…

Originally posted by peejayd
* you don't even believe Nichiren Buddhism 100%... why don't you just admit that you're just following your own interpretation of Buddhism? 🙄

just like every other religious followers who follows his own interpretation of his religion and or philosophy.

at least some ppl recognize it when they do it.

Originally posted by peejayd
* you don't even believe Nichiren Buddhism 100%... why don't you just admit that you're just following your own interpretation of Buddhism? 🙄

I have already told you what part of Nichiren Buddhism I do not believe.

Your question doesn’t make any sense. The reason is because you do not understand Nichiren Buddhism, nor are you willing to learn. Because of that, I will no longer reply to questions about Buddhism.

Originally posted by peejayd
* what you are saying is enough for me to know how you deal with your religion… and you're just staying because of convenience… you know, in spirituality, we should not shape our own religion, but let the religion shape and mold us into holiness and perfection…

That is how extremists are made. What you are describing is a cult.

Originally posted by peejayd
* no, idolatry can be literal and/or spiritual…

What is spiritual idolatry?

Originally posted by peejayd
* no one should come to a conclusion… the Bible itself can tell you which is which… all you have to do is to search and research…

If that was true, then there would only be one denomination of Christianity.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Christian_denominations

There seems to be a lot of them. I bet they all believe that their interpretation of the bible is true, but different for all others. How can you have so many different interpretations that are all true?

Originally posted by peejayd
* lame things in Christianity [b]is your point of view… no one will ever have a logical and rational conversation with you when it comes to Christianity… is that what Buddhism taught you? to hate Christianity? if that's what it is, then Buddhism is a lame religion…[/B]

Would you call handling poisonous snakes lame?

Originally posted by peejayd
* in Christianity, Jesus is not dead and He is a God, the Only Begotten Son of God…

Yes, and in Catholicism, the saints are a reflection of Jesus and his relationship to god. That is why Catholics do not worship idols.

Originally posted by peejayd
* I'm not angry… and even if I was, it depends in the intent of the heart… there is anger that does not constitute sin… in fact, being angry at evil things is not a sin…

Being angry at someone on the internet only makes you look foolish, and that diminishes your religion in the eyes of all who read. Is that a sin?

Originally posted by peejayd
* I'm not forcing anyone to ask me… if you think I'm not capable enough, try me… and if I'm not capable enough, much moreso [b]you because all you do is badmouth Christianity and the Bible… I was wondering what kind of Buddhist are you? I don't think Buddhist ethics does not even allow these things your spewing in the forum esp. about Christianity and the Bible… [/B]

I have been trying you, and you have not done well.

Denominations aren't around because the bible doesn't explain itself, they are around because of power hungry ego maniacs who want thier own religion. There is no excuse for believing the wrong things because knowing the truth is too easy

Originally posted by long pig
Denominations aren't around because the bible doesn't explain itself, they are around because of power hungry ego maniacs who want thier own religion. There is no excuse for believing the wrong things because knowing the truth is too easy

I would have to disagree, to a point. There are those people who wish power, and form their own church. However, most divisions is religions are caused by difference in the beliefs. These differences are supported on both sides as being backed up by the bible (holy book). The Reformation is a good example.

The difficult thing about the bible is knowing what is literal and is metaphor.

I somehow agree with Peejayd's arguments.

Both of us came from a Catholic background, and both of us came from the same country where more than 50% of the demographic are Catholics.

Both of us grew up in a Catholic household as well.
It makes sense that we know more about Catholicism than most of the non-Catholics posting here in this thread.

First, I would like to clear up some of the points that were raised:

1. Catholics DO practice idolatry.
Worship of Saints and Idols are NOT prohibited, as long as they are sanctified by the Vatican and relevant to the Catholic doctrine.

2. Shaky and Peejayd.... your arguments are pointless for the very fact that the basis of your arguments come from two different sources.
Shaky has his own set of principles and beliefs, which he developed from the Lotus Sutra (he admitted that he does not believe in Buddhism 100%, so I assume he has his own interpretation about Buddhism.)
Peejayd, on the other hand, follows The Old Path's doctrines almost 100%. This is a common teaching from the Old Path, that believers should follow the Bible, and nothing but the Bible.
Their leader, Eli Soriano, even has his own TV broadcast station that answers some of the more obscure verses in the Bible.

Originally posted by AsbestosFlaygon
I somehow agree with Peejayd's arguments.

Both of us came from a Catholic background, and both of us came from the same country where more than 50% of the demographic are Catholics.

Both of us grew up in a Catholic household as well.
It makes sense that we know more about Catholicism than most of the non-Catholics posting here in this thread.

First, I would like to clear up some of the points that were raised:

1. Catholics DO practice idolatry.
Worship of Saints and Idols are NOT prohibited, as long as they are sanctified by the Vatican and relevant to the Catholic doctrine.

2. Shaky and Peejayd.... your arguments are pointless for the very fact that the basis of your arguments come from two different sources.
Shaky has his own set of principles and beliefs, which he developed from the Lotus Sutra (he admitted that he does not believe in Buddhism 100%, so I assume he has his own interpretation about Buddhism.)
Peejayd, on the other hand, follows The Old Path's doctrines almost 100%. This is a common teaching from the Old Path, that believers should follow the Bible, and nothing but the Bible.
Their leader, Eli Soriano, even has his own TV broadcast station that answers some of the more obscure verses in the Bible.

Well studies tend to show that atheists actually happen to be more knowledgeable about Religions than their practitioners on average.

Though I am sure you and peejay are the exceptions, and probably well knowledgeable about your religions.

Originally posted by Bardock42
Well studies tend to show that atheists actually happen to be more knowledgeable about Religions than their practitioners on average.

Though I am sure you and peejay are the exceptions, and probably well knowledgeable about your religions.

The problem with Theists, in general, is that their opinions are foreshadowed by their beliefs.

So if someone opposes these said opinions, they tend to assert their opinions as the only valid arguments and regard them as facts.

Btw, I think the debate raised some valid points from both parties, but it quickly turned into a slurry of personal attacks and circular reasoning when one would assert his point to the other.
It could've worked, but in this case it didn't.

Originally posted by King Kandy
He already did say that... several times...

* nope, he is too afraid to admit that…

Originally posted by King Castle
just like every other religious followers who follows his own interpretation of his religion and or philosophy.

at least some ppl recognize it when they do it.

* those people who "recognize" it most often thinks the others are zealots, fanatics and delusional, little do they know, they're not excluded from it…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
That is how extremists are made. What you are describing is a cult.

* the primary definition of "cult" is not negative… a cult is particular system of religious worship, esp. with reference to its rites and ceremonies (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/cult)... but if you are talking about a religion or sect considered to be false, unorthodox, or extremist, with members often living outside of conventional society under the direction of a charismatic leader, then you're wrong… Christianity is a religion that works for the betterment of every person abiding by its doctrines…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
What is spiritual idolatry?

"Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: fornication, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry."
Colossians 3:5

* while literal idolatry is blatant worshipping of graven images, statues, etc…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
If that was true, then there would only be one denomination of Christianity.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Christian_denominations

There seems to be a lot of them. I bet they all believe that their interpretation of the bible is true, but different for all others. How can you have so many different interpretations that are all true?

* true Christianity should not utmost interpret the Bible by themselves… I stand by my word that the Bible can speak for itself because it is complete (Isaiah 34:16), however the word of God is sealed until the endtimes (Daniel 12:9), no evil person can understand it but there is a God's messenger who will unlock (not interpret) the mysteries of the Bible for the Christians (Daniel 12:10)… now, what is the manner/style of God's messenger of unlocking the mysteries?

"See this which I have found, saith the Preacher, searching one by one to find out the reason;"
Darby Bible

"Behold, this have I found, saith the Preacher, laying one thing to another, to find out the account;"
American Standard Version
Ecclesiastes 7:27

* God's messenger searches one by one, laying one thing to another to find out the reason… since the Bible is complete, all we need is to search and research:

"Search from the book of the Lord, and read: Not one of these shall fail; Not one shall lack her mate. For My mouth has commanded it, and His Spirit has gathered them."
Isaiah 34:16

* just like what Detective Conan's tagline --- "There is only one truth"… 🙂

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Yes, and in Catholicism, the saints are a reflection of Jesus and his relationship to god. That is why Catholics do not worship idols.

* in their interpretation, they might not be worshipping idols… but in the Bible, they really do…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
Being angry at someone on the internet only makes you look foolish,

* I never said I was, and I never am… I'm just straightforward…

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
and that diminishes your religion in the eyes of all who read. Is that a sin?

* ah, no… for me, being truthful is when you get angry when there's a reason to get angry, you laugh when there's something funny, you're sad when there's something tragic, you're happy when there's something nice… but projecting fake diplomacy when you're really angry in your heart is outright hypocrisy… correct? 🙄

Originally posted by Shakyamunison
I have been trying you, and you have not done well.

* since when did you become a school teacher? 😂

Originally posted by long pig
Denominations aren't around because the bible doesn't explain itself, they are around because of power hungry ego maniacs who want thier own religion.

* while I believe the Bible speaks for itself, I agree about those "power-hungry ego maniacs"-part… add to the mix their extreme love of money (I Timothy 6:10)…

Originally posted by long pig
There is no excuse for believing the wrong things because knowing the truth is too easy

* actually, if they believe wrong things because they were only deceived, it's excusable… it's not excusable when a person willfully continues to, while he already knows it’s wrong…

Originally posted by AsbestosFlaygon
I somehow agree with Peejayd's arguments.

Both of us came from a Catholic background, and both of us came from the same country where more than 50% of the demographic are Catholics.

Both of us grew up in a Catholic household as well.
It makes sense that we know more about Catholicism than most of the non-Catholics posting here in this thread.

* thank you, kababayan! 🙂

Originally posted by AsbestosFlaygon
First, I would like to clear up some of the points that were raised:

1. Catholics DO practice idolatry.
Worship of Saints and Idols are NOT prohibited, as long as they are sanctified by the Vatican and relevant to the Catholic doctrine.

* yes… 🙂

Originally posted by AsbestosFlaygon
2. Shaky and Peejayd.... your arguments are pointless for the very fact that the basis of your arguments come from two different sources.
Shaky has his own set of principles and beliefs, which he developed from the Lotus Sutra (he admitted that he does not believe in Buddhism 100%, so I assume he has his own interpretation about Buddhism.)
Peejayd, on the other hand, follows The Old Path's doctrines almost 100%. This is a common teaching from the Old Path, that believers should follow the Bible, and nothing but the Bible.
Their leader, Eli Soriano, even has his own TV broadcast station that answers some of the more obscure verses in the Bible.

* the funny thing was, he was actually imposing and telling everyone here that only his opinions (even about Christianity and catholicism) are true and correct… I'm just merely expressing and telling him that, that's not the case… he's just proving time and time again that he has limited or zilch knowledge about catholicism and most esp. Christianity in the Bible… the only "connection" he's ever made is to profess that he's a former Christian to create a false credibility for his ridiculous opinions…

Originally posted by AsbestosFlaygon
Btw, I think the debate raised some valid points from both parties, but it quickly turned into a slurry of personal attacks and circular reasoning when one would assert his point to the other.
It could've worked, but in this case it didn't.

* funny thing was, I am the only one being accused of making this personal… when mr.shakyamunison is clearly doing it also but indirectly yet claims it's only part of his "sarcasm"… well, whoop-pee-doo… 🙄