Nothing like proving the point-

[Strangler Lewis]

Originally Posted by scaeagles

To the contrary.

The New Testament (Paul's writings specifically) is about how none are worthy. Paul called himself the least of all and the greatest of all sinners. Paul was despised by the religious establishment during his day because not only did he turn from being a member of that very leadership, he dared to extend the circle from Jews only to include gentiles.

I won't bore people here by referencing his writings, but I very much disagree with your assessment.

I said impliedly, and I didnt' say anything against Paul. Paul was a ballsy MF (though a bit of a smug prig). However, the reality is that Acts and Paul's letters are a major part of the New Testament. The plot of those writings is conversion. If you're looking for an excuse--and a lot of people are--how hard is it to leap from that general concept to the persecution of others (which, of course, was Paul's first job).

[scaeagles]

Originally Posted by Strangler Lewis

I said impliedly, and I didnt' say anything against Paul. Paul was a ballsy MF (though a bit of a smug prig). However, the reality is that Acts and Paul's letters are a major part of the New Testament. The plot of those writings is conversion.

Well, Paul was an Apostle, so his entire purpose in life was the establishment of the Christian church through Italy and Greece (primarily). And yes, there large majority of the NT is the writings of Paul (and we could get into the whole "inspired by God" aspect, but that's not the point).

I suppose the problem that I had with your original statement was that there is an implication that the unconverted are not worthy. The unconverted are not worthy of what?

As far as Paul being smug....there's a fine line between smug and certain. I suppose you could describe him that way, but being in prison, under house arrest, blind in later years, ship wrecked, facing beheading among other things.....those things might have a tendency to be humbling.