I genuinely wonder - and I say this without glee, just weariness while watching Christofascism's rise in the US - how many folks who draw strength from their idea of an all-loving Christ are now discovering for the first time some of the nastier things his Biblical character says & does.
For instance, I don't think most folks who adore Christ & believe him perfect were aware of the Millstone verses (Matthew 18:6, Luke 17:1-2).
That must be a shock for many. I sorely feel for them at this time.
My position has always been that most folks who identify as Christian are already far better people than their Christ.
We're all of course working to do better - I know my weaknesses, and I work hard to improve upon them; I don't doubt you do, too.
But I also can't imagine any of the lovely Christians I know calling a desperate mother of a sick child a dog, or calling for the death penalty, or endorsing slavery, etc.
The story inspired many who then surpassed the original. As it should be.
@MLClark
Being more spiritually awake is something I consciously aspire to, but I think it is always a solitary journey.
The business of religion is to indoctrinate belief when the senses and logic do not support it, obedience when the raw conscience would rebel.
The population this creates is a very tempting one for despots to manipulate.