I've just got a few little things to add...
Quote:
4. If you have to "confess your sins" and ask for forgivness how do children under the age of 4 get into heaven. If they can't ask for forginess do they all go to hell?
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This presumes a judgement/condemnation model of God...which is part of the picture. That which is totally just and rightious is in opposition to that which is not. But, and this is a huge, J Lo style but, human experience has also felt another influence from the divine: mercy. One of the greatest theological statements i have ever heard is "I believe God's grace has outrun my rebellion. I hope that it will outrun all rebellion."
To me, this is the Christian hope. That while we are indeed in the midst of suffering and sin, that the grace of God will bring forgiveness and healing to all. To play a legalism that sends a toddler to hell is to ignore the justice that God represents...the reason why we worship in the first place. That said...i know that some Christians would not take theological issue with such "justice," but i believe they are gravely mistaken.
As for GLBT issues...i've posted this elsewhere, but i'll plug 'em as many times as i have to:
http://whosoever.org/index.shtml
They're non-denominational, and have great resources on why it makes sense to favor the many verses and themes of God's approval of love, over a few legalistic verses that might be used to condemn homosexuality.
Lebell asnwered the science related material beautifully, so i hope that answers all your queries. on a side note...i would hope that your GF would learn to respect whatever ways you choose to explore life and it's meaning...and the best of luck to you with this all.