This is the quote from the pope's remarks that I suggested were consistent with preaching the gospel, because this is indeed "teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." It definitely falls under the aegis of "Love your neighbor. Love your enemy."
While loving your enemy and your neighbor are wonderful teachings from the Lord, they are not the heart of the Gospel.
I believe that this is the Gospel Message.
Meanwhile, an entire church is being persecuted, members of his flock are being gunned down in front of their church, an archbishop is kidnapped and found dead, and some people think the pope shouldn't give his lamentations voice, but rather should focus his attention on sex abuse.
My initial response in this thread was not along the lines of the sexual abuse issue. It was between two other Freepers where that issue came up - and I responded with my thoughts and feelings on the matter (which is what we do here).
I can understand the Pope is hurt, frustrated, and angry with the torture and murder of Catholic missionaries and clergy.
Please accept my prayers to them. They are true martyrs to the faith, and I didn't in any way mean to marginalize that tragedy. If I did, then I apologize to you.
Take care.
Thank you. Yours is probably the most cordial post I have ever recieved on FR. Am I in the right forum? :o)
While loving your enemy and your neighbor are wonderful teachings from the Lord, they are not the heart of the Gospel.
While I appreciate the emphasis you place on faith alone, I would disagree that Christ's teachings on love and forgiveness are merely wonderful. But to delve into all that would open all kinds of cans of worms concerning grace and free will and man's response to grace, etc. etc. ad nauseum. Who wants to get into that? Not me.
Thanks again for your uplifting response.