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I have a question for all: Has anything on these threads changed your mind in a major way? If yes, what was it?

I gave this some consideration, and have a few thoughts:

1. I have learned that, within the framework of Christianity, the case for Catholicism is not as clear-cut as I once thought (sorry guys). I have a better understanding of the Protestant critique of Catholicism, including problems with the authenticity and interpretation of the writings of the early church fathers.

2. I have learned that, in general, the apologetics for any particular denomination or religion are most persuasive to those already within the fold, or those already predisposed to it.

3. I have learned that Protestants seem to have the hardest time recognizing the difference between the "text-in-itself" and their own interpretation (sorry guys).

4. I have a better understanding of the nuances of the Protestant sola scriptura.

5. In terms of ecclesiology, I like the model of the AOG. But I still give the Catholics the edge in liturgy.

6. I have an improved understanding of Eastern Orthodoxy.

7. I have an improved perception of Jesus, and a diminished opinion of Paul.

8. I have an improved appreciation of Christianity as a way for gentiles to come to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I think the movement should be a grafting of the gentiles onto Judaism, not a 'gentilization' of Jews.

9. I still do not believe that Jesus is either the messiah or divine. I have a better understanding of how he fit into the Judaism of his time. I appreciate Christianity best as a discipleship, a 'walking in the way' of Jesus. I don't see that a belief in the incarnation or the trinity is necessary for this.

10. I have been challenged in my beliefs, and have grown as a result. I have delved further into the teachings of Judaism in order to answer all your questions!

11. I have seen that, despite our significant theological differences, we can be friends.

Once again, excellent observations. I would like to respond to a few:

2. I have learned that, in general, the apologetics for any particular denomination or religion are most persuasive to those already within the fold, or those already predisposed to it.

This is true of course but it is difficult to explain just what makes one "predisposed" to it. In the case of most "ex's" you, me, other "converts", just what made us "predisposed".

3. I have learned that Protestants seem to have the hardest time recognizing the difference between the "text-in-itself" and their own interpretation (sorry guys).

I agree, but maybe for different reasons. You can't tie "Protestants" into one neat little bundle. There is no Magisterium, no Catechism, to fall back on when all else fails. They tend to think, or not think at all, by themselves accepting help but reserving final judgment to themselves.

4. I have a better understanding of the nuances of the Protestant sola scriptura.

Once again, there is no Catechism which gives the "official" definition of Sola Scriptura to Protestants. This may explain the frustration of some RC's when they wish to attack something which is solid and concrete rather than a balloon filled with water.

5. In terms of ecclesiology, I like the model of the AOG. But I still give the Catholics the edge in liturgy.

Personal taste. I still remember how, the first time I entered a Protestant Church, how beautiful I thought it was in its' simplicity and lack of distraction. Ours, on the other hand, reminded me of a house full of clutter. I sometimes wondered if I had been Protestant in a prior life.

7. I have an improved perception of Jesus, and a diminished opinion of Paul.

Don't let Becky hear you. My behind still smarts. But, on the qt, I agree with you.

10. I have been challenged in my beliefs, and have grown as a result. I have delved further into the teachings of Judaism in order to answer all your questions!

I, too, have found myself reading and thinking more than I had done in many years. I may actually be on my way to becoming a full fledged (liberal) Protestant. My position on the sanctity of life is however very conservative.

11. I have seen that, despite our significant theological differences, we can be friends.

My liberal Protestant belief is that there is room enough for all of us. We can all find God in our own way and we can all be saved.

3. I have learned that Protestants seem to have the hardest time recognizing the difference between the "text-in-itself" and their own interpretation (sorry guys).

Hi, Angelo. Could you give a simple example of this problem? I may be misunderstanding it, because I see just the opposite (big surprise, huh?). So perhaps an example would help me. Thanks.
-- Hopefulpilgrim

8. I have an improved appreciation of Christianity as a way for gentiles to come to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I think the movement should be a grafting of the gentiles onto Judaism, not a 'gentilization' of Jews.

I think what you said is what was intended. Instead the victors gave us a romanization or hellenization of Jesus, stripping him of his Jewishness.