Hey Chris, Unfortunately there are some people out there who don't realize that we have to respect others and their beliefs. I am a christian myself, and I understand that you feel the way you do. As a christian God wants us to live in a manner where we bring glory to God. But some don't understand that and still live by their human beliefs that we must force someone into believing what we believe. I am sure you have heard of "what would Jesus do" (WWJD) that is how we are suppose to portray ourselves as loving people who accept all no matter who they are and what is going on in their lives because we are not to judge that's what Jesus would do. In the end it is God's job to make the final judgment. I am sorry that you have experienced that, and I will not say that I have not been a part of that. I have been not so perfect, there are times that I read some of the things that are said here with how people say they think we are brainwashed and I get upset but God catches me and helps me understand that maybe they don't understand where I am coming from and it is not right for them to judge me as I should not judge them.
2006-07-05 17:50:09
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answer #1
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answered by vanillagerbera 2
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Right, wrong, or indifferent, people stock their entire lives (and afterlives, for that matter) in their religion. If you follow that through to conclusion, you see that, when you don't understand people's beliefs, they may take that as though you were saying that "your entire life - your whole being - makes no sense to me." Then people get offended and they become defensive and occasionally nasty.
Other people may just be bitter because they perceive athiests as sliding by without any worries or concerns, while they feel as though they have to live a certain lifestyle. In other words, they don't internalize their beliefs and act on them as a sign of love for God, but act only out of obedience.
I am a devout Catholic, and I don't think that this reaction is right, but I've seen it and even acted in such a way once or twice when I perceived that I was under attack. My suggestion: when having such a conversation, don't turn it into a matter of intelligence, by saying things like, "That's stupid," or "You think you have all the answers," or, "Don't you get it?" Also, for those who do believe in heaven and hell, don't turn the conversation into a matter of morals by saying things like, "You're going to hell," or "How can you do / say such a thing?" These are sure signs that the conversation is about to go south!
2006-07-05 17:51:12
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answer #2
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answered by Stephen 2
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because some people are small minded. I am a Christian and I do not believe that just because someone doesn't share my beliefs they should be treated any different than those who do. In my beliefs Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself. He says not to judge anyone and whomever is without sin can cast the first stone.... If someone has a question as to why I believe the way I do I tell thm and mainly it is because of life experiences not just because I was told to. But it is very close minded for some one to hate or show violence toward someone who doesn't share in their beliefs. And vise versa
2006-07-05 17:36:04
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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A person's belief systems are a key component of their 'self-description'. Many people engage in belief-related discussions because they seek 'validation'.... i.e., finding someone who agrees with them, or who they can convince to change their mind and agree with them, reinforces their 'self-description' and makes them feel more secure.
The flip-side of that coin, though, is when someone disagrees with them, or challenges their belief. Since the beliefs make up an important part of one's self-description, such a challenge can be subconsciously perceived as an actual attack on the 'self'. In those circumstances, it is understandable that someone reacts with anger and belligerence... which are really manifestations of fear.
The best thing to do is eliminate 'beliefs' entirely. Beliefs are an insidious mind-killer... they cut off the mind from consideration of alternative possibilities. They should be stamped out like cockroaches.
Just think of Mr. Mackey, on South Park: "Beliefs are baaaaddd. Okaaaayyyy?"
2006-07-05 17:45:50
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Because some people feel like their religion is right and its a black or white line. Heaven or Hell. Then they become so into it that it becomes a addiction. Thats when they become ignorant, violent and judgmental.. When God is the only being to judge, not them. Those people forget that one point that only God can judge.
2006-07-05 17:37:52
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answer #5
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answered by inneedofhelp 2
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Perhaps they feel a need to have others validate their beliefs? It is a shame that their belief is so shallow that they cannot just be satisfied with their own personal convictions.
I don't know. I really don't fret over what others believe or don't believe. It's their personal business. I live and let live.
2006-07-05 17:39:54
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answer #6
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answered by Witchy 7
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People are just very passionate about their beliefs, and some can be downright fanatical. In a perfect world, people would respect other people's beliefs and keep an open mind. Unfortunately, this isn't a perfect world.
2006-07-05 17:33:28
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answer #7
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answered by Miss U 4
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Well, many are probably just insecure. But, if they have really bought into traditional Christianity, then there may be some who acutally care about you and are worried about you going to hell or something. I'm not saying that makes it any better, and when you don't believe in hell it seems kind of silly, but I really think that some of them just care and don't know how to save all of us.
2006-07-05 17:47:33
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answer #8
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answered by squirellywrath 4
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Because, those who do follow the bible don't show the same tolerance and understanding for others' beliefs. Don't they teach that in the bible? Guess they didn't really read it... Feel the same way as you...
2006-07-05 17:32:58
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answer #9
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answered by ray of sunshine 4
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Who does that? I've never seen any one do that.
But there are people who get offended and upset if you don't see anything else--not just religion--their way.
I'm wondering why your question is directed at religion in particular?
2006-07-05 17:32:27
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answer #10
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answered by Einsteinetta 6
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