This article clearly expresses the reasons I no longer call myself Christian, despite a long-standing acceptance of the teachings and example of Jesus of Nazareth. The Christian Church, to the extent that it follows the trail blazed by Saul of Tarsus and solidified at the Council of Nicea into the standard under which the Holy Roman Empire was united, has become a tool -- more often, a weapon -- in the hands of those who would use it for their own gain.

Unfortunately, 1700 years of practice at using this weapon and the same of the devout being lulled into complacency by the promises of salvation have increased its potential for destruction through covert means -- as we see happening all too frequently today.

How many people today are willing to read the gospels again, as Jefferson did, and reconsider what Jesus actually said, did, and taught?

I did, and I can no longer condone what is done in his name.