Live and let live

David Robertson thinks anyone who does not accept what Jesus Christ was claimed by gospel writers to have said – Jesus never wrote anything and they never met him so no-one can know if they were right – is not really a “Christian”. That is only Mr Robertson’s personal definition, as Jesus never used the term. It was coined after his death. According to scripture he said that his followers would be known by their actions, not their beliefs. There is no reference to him ordering that they had to agree with his opinions on everything.

Does Mr Robertson think, like Jesus, that madness is caused by “demons” which can be transferred into pigs, and that people who remarry are adulterers? Is it his stance that the many who don’t agree are not “Christians” I do not think that those opposed to same-sex marriage should be stigmatised any more than those who favour it. They have a legitimate view. But it is not superior to other views and they should not claim so on the basis of “Christian” ideas (Most Muslims also oppose same-sex marriage). Any opinions should be supported by reason and evidence if they are to be respected.

What is unacceptable is the wish of Mr Robertson and his ilk to use the law to stop others exercising their freedom to choose. No one proposes that anyone should be legally obliged to marry another of the same sex.

“Live and let Live” should be the rule. ALAN MATHIESON Glasgow Road, Perth