Quote
Rade
The use of intercessors is an abstraction away from the personal relationship with God.

Not really. I'm sure there are plenty of Baptists (who you say use a direct line to God) who have asked a friend to pray for them. Asking a saint for intercession is no different. Catholics who are worth their salt pray directly to God as well.

Though I'm not well-versed in Islam, my understanding of the Muslim God does seem rather impersonal. As Christians, we are the adopted sons of God. In Islam, such a concept is grave blasphemy; we are the slaves of Allah. There is something cold and imposing -- though awesome -- about Allah, and he would never condescend to becoming the very flesh he created.