For a long time, going back to when I was a Christian, I have always thought Gal 5:22, 23 were pivotal verses.
To begin with, these verses give us an 'operational definition', a way of discerning people who are 'holy', or on the 'right track'. When I was a Christian I mixed in Christian circles and saw people who I recognised were living these verses. I admired and respected them greatly I still do.
However, since becoming a 'non-Christian', my circles have expanded and I've met people involved in many faiths and none who also exhibit what seem to me to be these very same characteristics.
When I see a Buddhist engaging in 'metta', or lovingkindness meditation, I see him or her engaged in much the same practice as petitionary prayer and at the same time developing and expanding compassion and lovingkindness to all beings.
I cannot distinguish between their compassion and kindness and a Christian's.
Even as a non-Christian, I still strive to practise these fruits, and I engage in 'spiritual' practices that develop them.
I wonder if Matthew 8:5-13 has some clues in this?
And also Luke 9:49, 50
And to be fair Matthew 12:30
I am very fortunate. I've met quite a few 'saints'. Some of them are Christians.
Thoughts?
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
However, since becoming a 'non-Christian', my circles have expanded and I've met people involved in many faiths and none who also exhibit what seem to me to be these very same characteristics.
When I see a Buddhist engaging in 'metta', or lovingkindness meditation, I see him or her engaged in much the same practice as petitionary prayer and at the same time developing and expanding compassion and lovingkindness to all beings.
I cannot distinguish between their compassion and kindness and a Christian's.
Even as a non-Christian, I still strive to practise these fruits, and I engage in 'spiritual' practices that develop them.
I wonder if Matthew 8:5-13 has some clues in this?
And also Luke 9:49, 50
49John answered and said, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name; and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow along with us." 50But Jesus said to him, "Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you."
"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
Thoughts?
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