When people say "'Catholic' means 'univeral'" I often suspect (yeah, actually I'm SURE)they mean "all-inclusive", but "catholic" means "worldwide" or "generic" -the opposite of "local" or "particular".

Listening to everyone has too long meant that I was also absorbing their prejudices.

If I'm picking on you, rather than just chatting, please excuse and forgive me.
 

No quibbling here. I've understood "universal" to mean "world-wide." I don't support the idea of total inclusiveness, even though it is a common misconception. I use the term 'catholic' (lower-case) to refer to Christians everywhere.
The trick is to listen for truth, and dismiss the prejudices of a speaker. It doesn't mean anyone must listen, but we must not dismiss one person completely just because they are mad and call for the death of public officials they don't like.
 

I agree to a point. On one hand, I am averse to the in-your-face-politics of Falwell, but have been greatly blessed by attending Liberty Theological Seminary. I would not have had this superb blessing if I had avoided the school because of Dr. Falwell. But, at the same time, there are those who have major theologically flawed teachings that strike at the heart of Christianity. They do this by providing half-truths and some correct information to sway people to their theological viewpoint on other issues where they are completely outside of scripture's guidance. For instance, Adolph Hitler used the churches of Germany to make his case against the Jewish people. This is extreme, but there are people who use these techniques for much less vile pursuits which end up with a similar result by putting people's souls in jeopardy. Many of the Christian cults have done this in their teachings against the Trinity. I'm not talking about those who disagree on disputables, but those who teach against the basis of faith in Christianity. Spong does this to a great degree in his statements against Scripture. So, while we should listen to those we disagree with in attempts to learn and be blessed when they are right, we must also know when to draw the line and for what purpose we should draw that line.
 

Josh, this is a great blog. I wish more people would be understanding and listen to the MESSAGE and not the Messenger. Even if you do hear their bias in their message, you can still pull the truth out... it's called 'gleaning' the truth... which is a very biblical concept.

If you want, you can check out my blog. It may let you understand the mind of a twenty-something. I just started it, so there isn't too much yet. Also, I would love some intelligent comments and conversation, so feel free to let me know what you think!
 

Josh,
Thanks for the blog. I just discovered it by looking for Martin Heidegger quotes. Good Stuff, being a Episcopalian also!

Philip
 

I found this blog through blogging episcopalians. Thanks.
I run a spirituality and worship site "Liturgy" www.liturgy.co.nz
I hope you will visit back.
If you link please let me know so I acknowledge that and link back.

Blessings
Bosco
www.liturgy.co.nz