Leo Tolstoy on Christianity?

[thephilosopher6]

I am currently reading his book: “The Kingdom of God Is Within You.” I enjoy it very much, but disagree with his views on the Church and doctrine. However, I like his simple approach to Christs Sermon on the Mount. That is, a literal interpretation and total pacifism. This of course strays from Augustine. But I do truly think Christ meant what he said on the sermon on the mount. Tolstoy calls us to step back from our “animalistic natures” and to access our “divine natures.” I do think Tolstoy rejection of doctrine is where he made a big error. Christianity has truths. Not just moral truths, but also doctrinal truths that tell us who and what God is. What is your take on Tolstoy?

 

[TAllan]

I’m just starting to read Tolstoy’s “What I Believe”. My take thus far is that the author rejected the organized religion of Christianity, and effectively made himself his own “church”. It seems to me so far that he focuses in one one part of Christ’s teaching, and runs with it, even as he ignores other parts of the teachings. Like I said though, I’ve really just begun to read this, but this is my opinion so far.