On Holding Fast to Principles and Expecting Sacrifice

[Anonymous]

One thing our religion has done is hold fast to many of its principles –even those that are controversial. LIke the WoW, its stance on same sex relationships etcetera, as well as requirements of demanding sacrifices from its membership.

There seems to be consensus that the religions that hold fast to its principles and require large sacrifices from its membership tend to survive longer than religions that are more wishy washy….now my question:

Is it the principles themselves that accomplish this staying power? Or is it simply the steadfastness and consistency that does it? For example, does it matter WHAT people are sacrificing, or is it simply that they are sacrificing something of great personal value for a principle? Does it matter WHAT principles/beliefs the organization sticks to, or is it simply that they take a consistent stand on principle that engenders such commitment? Is it simply that people need the sense that they stand for something, and that principles are unchanging, or is it the nature of the sacrifice and the fabric of the principles themselves that breeds commitment and longevity?

[Anonymous]

Both – depending largely on the individuals within the organization.

[Author]

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