Originally posted by Lightmare
reply to post by Lucid Lunacy
Well, I believe in the absolutist views of Christian doctrine. Guess that makes me a fundamentalist.
a strict, literal adherence to the doctrine
Yes it does. Technically speaking. Whether you hate it or not. Sucks that it has negative stigma I guess. But it is inline with the definition of a
'fundamentalist'. Again, not saying it is wrong. It's your belief, your conviction. But that would make you a 'Christian fundie'.
I know atheists. I know Pagans. I know gay people. I believe they are going to Hell for the way they live.
I imagine that is even harder for you then it is for them if they do not also believe that. What a juxtaposition!
But I don't hate them. In fact, they are my friends and loved ones.
I have no reason not to believe you. And I am happy to hear.
I'm worried about their eternal well-being. I love them. I cry for them. Does that make me intolerant?
I would need to hear more from them about their thoughts and feelings to know how to answer that
I'm sure most of the other fundamentalists around here feel the same way and will tell you so.
Some definitely I agree

Others have told me not only was I going to burn in hell, but that I was a disgusting vile creature, that no doubt screws
children and dead bodies.
Christians already tolerate those who disagree with them. And we will continue to do so.
I guess it depends on how we are defining 'tolerance'. I think of it as more of
acceptance out of compassion, and not so much 'to
tolerate'.
What we will NOT do is water down our beliefs for the sake of not offending those who do not believe.
Understood. And again, characteristic of Christian fundamentalism. Expect ATS members calling you a 'fundie', for better or for worse.
Personally, I don't want the Christian ATS members to water down their beliefs for our sake, this should always be a personal thing. Just make sure
to water down the way you express them (if they are offensive).
I really hate the term "fundamentalist" because of the many negative implications that it carries.
And I understand thats. Not sure how to get around that issue. Many non-Christians view many aspects of Christian fundamentalism as negative.
Likewise. Believing people are going to rot in hell for eternity has negative implications 
Don't fall victim to double standards. Try and
see both angles, and I will do the same.
But if that is what my absolute belief in Christ makes me, then so be it. But please don't think that makes me a bigot or a hater.
Seriously.
Fair enough! I believe it when you said you love your pagan and your gay friends.
Personally I do not believe viewing homosexuality and paganism as so sinful and wrong that they would rot in hell for all of time, is a belief that is
originated from love. I believe it is fear that drives that. So I wouldn't say you hate them, but I wouldn't say your beliefs are about love
either.
[edit on 18-11-2008 by Lucid Lunacy]