'So too for that matter with Tony Abbott and the other staunch Christian true believers in his soon-to-be cabine '

could you please name them Daffy. There might be some hope for our nation after all. As far as I know there are nearly as many god deniers in the Liberals as Labour. Its about time we had some with enough guts to cut the baby cull and the promotion of porn and perversion. Unfortunately plenty of people would like to see that but few pollies with the guts to do anything about it. They would rather be sanctimonious about 'concern 'for the environment. They can no longer bang on about refugees because their conpassionate policies have led to about 4000 drownings according to the PM.

And the Lord sayeth smite those who are different to us. For we are tolerant Christians guided by a book redacted by Romans some time ago. We will forever be disappointed with a world that is secular and free from guilt.

His Eminence

Tomás de Torquemada
"I Discipline to Save Severely".

Who would want the votes of ignorant bigots anyway?

In my experience, people who claim to speak on behalf of Christianity usually represent the views of only a proportion of Christians. This is certainly the case with Adam’s article.

I’m Western Australian Anglican. In its 2012 synod (roughly equivalent to an annual general meeting), a large majority of lay representatives and a significant majority of clergy voted in favour of recognising same-sex civil unions – not quite the same as gay marriage, but certainly reflecting the same values Rudd propounded. Unfortunately, the resolution was overturned by the Archbishop (a synod is not an AGM). But the vote shows that many in mainstream churches recognise the value and legitimacy of gay relationships, and support formal social recognition of them.

I’d be far more inclined to challenge how Rudd’s position on asylum seekers is consistent with Christian principles, than his position on gay marriage.

I think the fatal flaw in any argument relates to religion and politics.

Do we really care or need to know what Rudd or Abbott believe?

The only time we should be concerned is when religious belief imposts on public policy, yes a long bow I know, but really people its 2013, religion is pretty much seen for what it is, morally bankrupt.

As far as I can see, believe what you want, just don't allow your own beliefs to affect others, pretty simple.

Unfortunately fundamental christians like 'Runner' and his ilk will continue to spew forth their hatred no matter what anyone says.

Tragic really, but that is the outcome when one is blind and indoctrinated beyond any sense of what one should call normal, what a wasted life.

Geoff

I have just skimmed through todays Australian and the Herald Sun in my local library - both featured essays on this button-pushing topic. Rick Morton Scripture is All Greek To Rudd in the Oz, and an essay by Andrew Bolt in the Hun.
Both were essentially hysterical and displayed the authors in-your-face religious and cultural illiteracy.
And yet somehow the Oz (in particular) pretends that its function is to "inform" the people. As for the Hun and the dolt - what else could you expect from a tabloid "news"-paper.