Why not Christianity?

» ahwatien - Hi,

Hi,
I love Richard Foster's books and through his books, I became aware of Quakerism. But after I read some articles on Quakerism, I have some fundamental questions that I would like to ask.

First of all, Quakerism took its roots in Christianity, wasn't it? If so, why do we need another branch under this Christianity umbrella? Are the differences somewhat like baptist church in relation to Christianity? But why do we have different branches anyway? (I did read the history of Quakerism and know the stories of the founders and so on.) Is it all because we believe in different ways to pursue God?

Secondly, I read a book titled "A Quaker Book of Wisdom" by Robert Smith. He mentioned that Quakers do not believe baptism, hell, nor heaven. But these subjects are mentioned in the bible. I can't quite comprehend it. But I suppose Quakers do read the bible?! (Please pardon my total ignorance about Quakerism.) Could you tell me why?

Thanks for your help.

-- posted by ahwatien

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» Bill_Samuel - Re: Hi,

In response to message posted by ahwatien:

1. The first Friends found that the existing churches were apostate, and wanted to return to primitive Christianity. They really didn't start out to found a new denomination.

2. Unfortunately Robert Smith is widely read. He grew up a Quaker and mistakenly thought he knew a lot about Quakerism so he didn't need to do research before writing. Basically he is writing about one small wing of Quakerism which is not very representative of either traditional Quakerism or the spectrum of Friends today. But he was apparently ignorant of that. Traditionally Quakers believe in baptism (of the Holy Spirit), hell and heaven.

-- posted by Bill_Samuel

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