26 replies to this topic

[Still Waters]

American megachurches use stagecraft, sensory pageantry, charismatic leadership and an upbeat, unchallenging vision of Christianity to provide their congregants with a powerful emotional religious experience, according to research from the University of Washington.

"Membership in megachurches is one of the leading ways American Christians worship these days, so, therefore, these churches should be understood," said James Wellman, associate professor of American religion at the University of Washington. "Our study shows that -- contrary to public opinion that tends to pass off the megachurch movement as consumerist religion -- megachurches are doing a pretty effective job for their members. In fact, megachurch members speak eloquently of their spiritual growth."

http://www.scienceda...20819153536.htm

[Kasey2601]

While I can certainly understand the appeal of the come-as-you-are mentality and the inclusion of so many with these churches, I'm afraid of waking up one day to learn that this country is now a theocracy run by these very people.

[Seeker79]

Lady Kasey, on 20 August 2012 - 02:44 PM, said:

While I can certainly understand the appeal of the come-as-you-are mentality and the inclusion of so many with these churches, I'm afraid of waking up one day to learn that this country is now a theocracy run by these very people.

It's 1/4 of the way there already.

[Ron Jeremy]

Seeker79, on 20 August 2012 - 03:02 PM, said:

It's 1/4 of the way there already.

Kinda reminds me of the movie Apocalypto. I just wonder which one will play the role of Spanish Conquistadors, though.

[Darkwind]

They got as much right as anybody to gather. We are all just Romans deep down inside looking for a bloody show.

[Seeker79]

Ron Jeremy, on 20 August 2012 - 05:39 PM, said:

Kinda reminds me of the movie Apocalypto. I just wonder which one will play the role of Spanish Conquistadors, though.

I don't know, but one thing is for sure, my family  will be the family that disappears deep into the jungle.

[Seeker79]

Darkwind, on 20 August 2012 - 06:37 PM, said:

They got as much right as anybody to gather. We are all just Romans deep down inside looking for a bloody show.

They do have that right. Unfortunately extremely large groups of people make their own rights regardless of the small minorities. It is the nature of democracy and it's dark side.

[Darkwind]

That is why we have courts.

[Seeker79]

Darkwind, on 20 August 2012 - 07:24 PM, said:

That is why we have courts.

Dosnt matter... A large majority makes the laws that the courts must uphold.

[Darkwind]

No they don't have to uphold them  and sometimes they don't.  The courts in the US have played an important roll in civil rights. We have come a long way with it and done away with a lot of discrimination through the courts. Which is why we have three branches of government, for checks and balances.

Edited by Darkwind, 20 August 2012 - 08:13 PM.

[Seeker79]

Darkwind, on 20 August 2012 - 08:13 PM, said:

No they don't have to uphold them  and sometimes they don't.  The courts in the US have played an important roll in civil rights. We have come a long way with it and done away with a lot of discrimination through the courts. Which is why we have three branches of government, for checks and balances.

I understand but it was the larger public opinion that held the sway. And a continued effort to sway that public opinion. It could go the other way with enough people on board. The minority can have power but only first by gaining support and not being a minority anymore. If enough of America wants a theocracy, they will evenchually have one...... At this point I will no longer be an American.

[Darkwind]

I think that happen when they put god in pledge.  I have often wondered about where I would go if theocracy went offical. Denmark maybe, if they would have me?

[Seeker79]

Darkwind, on 20 August 2012 - 08:27 PM, said:

I think that happen when they put god in pledge.  I have often wondered about where I would go if theocracy went offical. Denmark maybe, if they would have me?

Just stay educated and have something to offer, then you can go anywhere. I'm thinking Australia, I really like all the auzies on um. Or some random jungle island population me.

[Darkwind]

Seeker79, on 20 August 2012 - 08:46 PM, said:

Just stay educated and have something to offer, then you can go anywhere. I'm thinking Australia, I really like all the auzies on um. Or some random jungle island population me.

Too late, I am too messed up. I guess I'll have to stand my ground.

[Seeker79]

Darkwind, on 20 August 2012 - 08:50 PM, said:

Too late, I am too messed up. I guess I'll have to stand my ground.

Hehe well the enlightened UMer seeker79 is a member of the NRA and a staunch libertarian. So if I can't get out I might join you.