Replies

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.

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".

Good question. The answer could be as unique as each individual. There have been suggestions on these threads that the Catholic Church appeals to those who like both order and complexity, that Protestantism appeals to those who are more individualistic, that pentacostals like disorder... ;o) Individual personality may predispose us to relating to God in certain ways. Many converts have an incentive to believe because they want to marry someone of that faith. Perhaps a person is seeking, and reads a book or is evangelized by a person of that faith.

You can't tie "Protestants" into one neat little bundle.

I agree, and was reluctant even to use the word "Protestant" here. Perhaps I should start saying "Reform Christians" as a general category for those who are neither Catholic nor Orthodox.

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.

I wasn't speaking so much about the church building itself as about the style and order of service. An order of liturgical prayer has always been more appealing to me than a few hymns and a 45 minute sermon. Just a matter of taste.