Extrapolation is for scientists...in this case, you could also extrapolate the reasoning for why is there a need for police officers...anywhere. If there's no crime or illegal activity going on in MY neighborhood, then why should I have to pay for an officer to stand around and do nothing? Why have an officer at all?

We, as a nation, had seen the dark side of communism and in some ways, attempted to remove it from everyday life. Didn't work. We attempted to remove it from countries...didn't work. There are too many folks that still think it's a utopia that "needs a chance" to just have its day in the sun. And they'll take any route or routine to get it in the spot-light.

So it goes...

As for us being "God's chosen..."

We definately are. But, God put CERTAIN men in charge while we are on this earth and prior to his return (Jesus's). As such, he also gave us the laws by which we should live and obey his teachings.

Laws and getting along have benefits and consequences. As such, He gave those, in charge, the ability to enact and enforce those laws. And as such, some folks don't agree with those laws. So...we are back to having a "police presense" and as such, criminals that think they can do what they want, when they want. Whether it be the mugger in the shadows in your neighborhood, or a whole government of despots that usurp life, liberty and pursuit of happiness by whatever means at their disposal.

Some may say those times are over and some may say it's a "greased side to hell" right now.

To each their own.

But, if we continue to think that we can "pick and choose" when to use the Bible and His Words when the mood hits us, then we are no better than the fool that quotes "an eye for an eye" and believes it as the end all for all arguments.

The NT is the book that is current. The OT is a "history lesson" as to how and why things were the way they were. Until you begin to understand that, the Bible will ALWAYS remain the paradox most think it is...

I'm off the soap-box and out of the pulpit...

Have a happy blizzard today... :thumbup1:

What, God speaks to you and not just W? I think perhaps God will have the say on who is or is not "his chosen." Assuming an earthly ability to define such things sounds like pride to me.

And he put CERTAIN men in charge? Dang, God shares a lot with you.

I'm not picking choosing $h!t. I read that line years ago and it sounded solid to me so it stuck with me. The NT is hardly current. Both books have useful and not so useful parts IMHO.