Actually WT, thats kinda MacDowel's point. It isnt that we christians have made this religion so dog-gone extreme, its that Jesus taught it that way. One way(His Way) or the highway. Thats it. Thats what he taught.
I wont say that we christians dont ahve our issues. In fact I probably know of more than you do. I dont let them control my thoughts on the faith though. I understnad that once a christian, it doesnt mean I'm perfect, only trying to be. we all are hypocrites and that is the side that the rest of the world usually sees. Its a shame, especially for you WT. You cant seem to get past our inconsistencies. I wish you could, but I also understand that it is extremely hard to look at somthing, claiming to be the truth when the only real example of that claim is constantly turning away from that which it preaches. But jesus never did. And thats why we have faith, not saints. No one is perfect, excepting Jesus. We have forgotten His teachings from day-to-day and live a life that is no longer honoring to Him. judge jesus' validity and truth, not the christian sinners around you. His love will overcome all doubts of yours in the end, if you truly desire to know truth.
jane