Requirement for Chritianity and Other Religions (gospel, Deist, beliefs, America)

[The Seeker]

A doctor can't be called a Dr. unless they earn a PhD. One has to pass the Bar Exam to become a lawyer. So why not apply similar requirements for religions? There are a lot of people who consider themselves Christians, Muslims, etc. yet most of them have never fully read the religious texts associated with their beliefs.
A recent book titled "Religious Literacy" highlights American's lack of knowledge of Christianity despite the fact that it is the country's dominant religion. The book reveals that only one-half of adult Americans can cite one of the four Gospels. Also, 10% of adults believe that Joan of Arc was Noah's wife. Given this apparent lack of religious knowledge, a standardize test should be given to those who wish to belong to a particular faith. After passing the test, you would earn the right to be called a Christian, Muslim, etc. I believe this would help weed out the religious ignorance that is so prevalent in our society today. Do you agree or disagree?

[angellous_evangellous]

Do you agree or disagree?

I disagree. The requirement to dutifully read religious texts usually comes after one has been initiated into the religion.

[Scarlett Wampus]

I dunno Seeker. Individual religious groups can and sometimes do adopt that kind approach but what are you suggesting here? Something like a state monitored standardised exam for being recognised as authentically representing your religion? *shudders*

Improved Religious Education in schools should suffice when it comes to religious literacy.

[Green Gaia]

And for religions without a specific religious doctrine or holy text?

[The Seeker]

Something like a state monitored standardised exam for being recognised as authentically representing your religion?

No, the government should stay out of such matters. I was thinking that the heads of each religious organization could come together to create a standardized test.

Improved Religious Education in schools should suffice when it comes to religious literacy.

I agree, but due to the religious divide in this county, I don't see it happening anytime soon.

[The Seeker]

And for religions without a specific religious doctrine or holy text?

No requirement would be necessary for such religions, only a understanding of the beliefs of the religion. I am a Deist (a relatively new convert) which has no religious book, but I have research the doctrines of Deism.

[PetShopBoy88]

Yes, I agree there should at least be a minimum standard before somebody can enter a religion. For example, most christian religions that require adult baptism require some sort of statement of their faith before they can be baptised. I think that's appropriate.

[yuvgotmel]

Originally Posted by The Seeker

Given this apparent lack of religious knowledge, a standardize test should be given to those who wish to belong to a particular faith. After passing the test, you would earn the right to be called a Christian, Muslim, etc. I believe this would help weed out the religious ignorance that is so prevalent in our society today. Do you agree or disagree?

That is exactly what happens for converts to Judaism. Converts to Judaism are given a test and sent to a review board of at least three Rabbis. But all that comes AFTER the years of study and teachings with a rabbi. To convert Orthodox, there is at least a 2-year minimum time before the potential convert is allowed to take the test and go before a review board. Often time, the timeframe for waiting (during study and preparation) can take 7 years! In the Reform and Conservative branches, there is a minimum of about 6 months, and usually goes on to about a year.

All potential converts must learn Jewish tradition, Jewish laws, Kosher requirements, and much more. Plus, their rabbi is required to attempt to sway the potential convert out of conversion at least three times!

When someone converts to Judaism, they do so because they know exactly what they are getting into.

Conversion (to Judaism) does not come with a simple prayer. Unlike Christianity, among other religions, the people are NOT told what the requirements are afterwards. Instead, they are told upfront. And if the rabbi does not think that the person is really ready yet, he can postpone the test and review board as long as he/she likes too.

I looked into conversion to Judaism in four separate branches. It is a long process. And they take conversion very seriously. They are not trying to gain new members. There are no sells gimmicks. And, like I said, the rabbis are required to try to talk people out of the decision to convert.

[yuvgotmel]