You know, when i was growing up, taking catechism lessons in a Lutheran school, I was taught that any sin, no matter how small, is a blot that would prevent entry into heaven (without the sacrifice of Jesus, or course). So, I asked the pastor whether that meant stealing a pencil was weighted the same as murder. "A sin is a sin," he replied. Now, I know he meant to make the point that even small sins were inexcusable, but to my twisted way of thinking, I also thought: "Then if you're going to sin, you might as well sin big. It's all the same on the scale of forgiveness."
Which is sort of a way to back into this question. Why are some religious zealots so focused on single issues (or "sins," if you will). Why the narrow focus on homosexuality? Why not murder, corporate greed, environmental waste, exploitation of the poor? Aren't these "sins" important?, too?
I'm not looking to argue, but I am looking for enlightenment. Any thoughts?
Hi, Matt:
ReplyDeleteYou know, when i was growing up, taking catechism lessons in a Lutheran school, I was taught that any sin, no matter how small, is a blot that would prevent entry into heaven (without the sacrifice of Jesus, or course). So, I asked the pastor whether that meant stealing a pencil was weighted the same as murder. "A sin is a sin," he replied. Now, I know he meant to make the point that even small sins were inexcusable, but to my twisted way of thinking, I also thought: "Then if you're going to sin, you might as well sin big. It's all the same on the scale of forgiveness."
Which is sort of a way to back into this question. Why are some religious zealots so focused on single issues (or "sins," if you will). Why the narrow focus on homosexuality? Why not murder, corporate greed, environmental waste, exploitation of the poor? Aren't these "sins" important?, too?
I'm not looking to argue, but I am looking for enlightenment. Any thoughts?
jawn