"...How could they have identified witches in error, when the HOLY BIBLE said there were witches?..."
I'm no biblical nor theological scholar, nor even particular well-read in that vein, but, if I'm not mistaken, the Christian Bible does not delve into how to identify a witch, merely that witches should die, when unmasked.
"...How could the bible be wrong on what was a FAIRLY IMPORTANT point?..."
Again, I don't believe that the Christian Bible was wrong, with respect to identification; actually, I believe that it was probably silent in matters of identification. I dunno. Mebbe
I'm wrong.
"...Also, what 'detrimental effects' of homosexuality, other than, 'I think it's icky' are there? (I can't wait to hear this one.)..."
The detrimental effects are legion. Why don't you open-up a thread on '
What's wrong with homosexuality' someplace, and watch for the feedback. Besides, you've heard it all before.
But, to prime that pump for later follow-up...
The institutionalizing and legitimizing of effeminacy within the male population and its resultant impact upon male-dominated roles in society.
That's probably the single most detrimental macro-level effect that occupies the concerns of those who hold a traditional, disapproving view of homosexuality.
"...Just because you and Phil have sexual hangups, don't put it off on the rest of us..."
It's not a 'hangup', to hold and articulate a traditional, disapproving view of homosexuality.
Given the tremendous public outpouring of support for the Duck Folk in the wake of this, including a massive surge in related merchandising sales...
It would appear that Mainstream America is saying the to the LGBT community and its supporters:
don't put your depraved, perverse practices and behaviors and lifestyle off on us.
I stand with the Mainstream in that respect, rather than on the outside, looking in.
"...Frankly, I've known a lot of gays who were really decent people..."
I've known several 'decent types' myself; and several embarrassing 'flamers' and militant types who were far more of a pain in the ass then they were worth.
"...I've known a lot of 'Christians' who were the most backstabbing, lying mother-fuckers I've ever met in my life. Mormons being the worst offenders."
Yes. I, too, concede that a variety of so-called 'Christians' are not, in actuality, good people, although I simultaneously stipulate a difference between 'nominal' Christians and 'practicing' Christians...
Practicing ones - who follow and practice the Core Teachings of that belief-system (Love Thy Neighbor, Turn the Other Cheek, good works, etc.) - are Quality Folk and far better and more trustworthy than their 'nominal' counterparts.
As to 'Mormons', well... I have a similar bias... to the extent where I'm not even sure that I'd label them as 'Christians'... so I'll recuse myself from further comment on them.