The thread has remained, to varying degrees, on topic and for that I thank you. The brief diversion of questioning usernames has been noted by me, though.

Please do not derail this thread by such trivialities again, since some have put so much hard work into it already.

I envision this debate to continue unabated for many more pages. Please remember, when attacking the thoughts of others, to refrain from attacking them personally.

Also, I would point out that theologies require solid thinking and that pure assumptions on the beliefs of another are dangerous remarks.

Some have commented that I have stopped posting on this topic. I just want to take a moment and explain why.

In my humble opinion the discussion had deteriorated into personal attacks on some members character, unchecked name calling and cutting sarcasm. It has been my experience that such does not result in a calm atmosphere for unbiased thinking, but rather a tense climate that plays on emotions and personal prejudices.

PLease note that I am not exempting myself from blame. It is very easy to get caught up inthe "point-counterpoint" style of debate and begin to consider any disagreement or question posed as a personal challenge.

For these reasons I felt that my further participation in this discussion was not in my, or others, best interests.

I base this decision on the following scripture which I had failed to apply in some of my earlier posts;
2Tim 2:23-25
"23Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. 24And the Lord's servant[d] must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, " (ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION)

I sincerely hope none were offended in my posts.

[edit on 25-9-2006 by Sparky63]

[edit on 25-9-2006 by Sparky63]