Is there a point to dialoguing small points?

[nebula]

I mean this post to be an open question. On the surface of it, it seems like a pleasant distraction to discuss with Mormons (or Muslims, or JWs, or…) the pros and cons of the Word of Wisdom or similarities and differences that Catholics and Mormons have in ecclesiological views or in their approaches to reading the Bible or… just fill in x. My question is, in the bigger view of things, can that possibly get anywhere if the larger theological questions are put out of the way? For instance, even if Catholics come to some kind of agreement with Mormons on some point, the fact that the Mormon is likely to have a completely different view of deity than the Catholic is going to make any true theological agreement impossible. That’s one of those large theological questions which will color thinking in all other areas whether we are aware of it or not.

What I tend to see is that Catholics will refuse to agree with Mormons even on smaller points with fear that Mormons will get the impression that even on a smaller issue they really see eye to eye since this is impossible as long as Mormonism is Mormonism.

So what do you think, is there a point to these kinds of smaller conversations besides diversion? Perhaps friendship making or paving the way for discussing the larger points of theology?

 

[ralphinal]

Sometimes, the smaller points must be discussed to understand termenology on the big ones. At other times, it is just an easier conversation.

I like being able to discuss little things. Take the Catholic vs. the EO issues. By and large, there are only a handfull of issues. It makes every discussion more intense.

 

[nebula]

ralph,

Those are good points. I suppose the smaller topics can provide some basics for the larger, harder issues.

 

[ralphinal]

ralph,

Those are good points. I suppose the smaller topics can provide some basics for the larger, harder issues.

SOmetimes, we cannot properly dialog because we are speaking two different languages. We have to iron these things out first.

 

[CHRISTINE77]

SOmetimes, we cannot properly dialog because we are speaking two different languages. We have to iron these things out first.

Also, Mormons tend to ignore things that they can’t answer. They just change the subject. It’s annoying. I don’t see how you can have a discussion if people won’t respond to the questions.

 

[ralphinal]

Also, Mormons tend to ignore things that they can’t answer. They just change the subject. It’s annoying. I don’t see how you can have a discussion if people won’t respond to the questions.

Muslims tend to do that as well. Same effect.