Why do athiests seem to know more about Christianity than christians?

Question

I always found it funny how athiests knew more about religion than actual Christians, why is that?

Answer 1

Because most Athiests (such as myself) study and read about other religions... Buddism, Christianity, Paganism, and the like... that is how I learned so much about other religions... I don't 'follow' these religions or agree with what they say and believe; however, I do find them facinating, especially how they are all so much alike but yet the people who follow such religions hate each other... I'm spiritual but not religious. I believe in a higher power. More powerful than we could ever imagine.

I hope this answered your question. This is actually one of them most sincere questions I've seen on here! Thanks for giving me the oppurtunity to voice my opinion! ~eah~

Answer 2

Speaking only for myself, I was sent to a parochial school. After discovering that (as a general rule) Christians use a lot of unscrupulous methods to achieve their goals, I began to question most of what they told me, and investigated it. I found I was being told outright lies on many things, so obviously no longer trusted them on the things I could not determine one way or the other.

In addition, Christians (mostly evangelicals) tend to follow "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." more than any other passage in the entire Bible. When you consider the small percentage of Atheists in this country and the large number of Evangelical zealots... we get a lot of practice whether we want it or not.

Also, the Average Atheist tends to be more curious, open-minded, and willing to learn about new things. As a matter of fact, these traits were a major factor in becoming an Atheist for me and numerous others I have known. The inverse holds true, as some of the most devout Christians (most faithful) do not want to know of anything that is not in support of their beliefs, and are unwilling to consider their beliefs might not be absolute truth. As a matter of fact, I recall a scripture that demands the scriptures not be questioned... that is a very close-minded approach, don't you think? And most people realize that having a closed mind retards learning.

So there's your answer: Atheists are more willing and capable of learning new things about Christianity than Christians are, or perhaps being willing and capable of really learning about Christianity tends to turn one into an Athiest.

Answer 3

First of all we are skeptics that like to debate, so we research and research so we know our stuff before we get in the ring. The route of atheism for many I think is that we are former beleivers. I for one stopped believing in the bible after I actually read it throughly. Well, a few chapters. I actually studied religion and realized how bogus it was and that it is only man's attempt to explain the unknown. Because of my bitterness towards my upbringing, I found that I had become obsessed with it and wanted to show others how false it was. And on the other hand, bragging and showing off my common sense makes me feel good! Lol.

Answer 4

Maybe the same reason sports nuts know more about sports statistics than the actual athletes...? Just being a fact-monger is a hobby in itself.
But seriously, I, a Christian, have noticed this to be true and see the reason as being because Atheists are analytic by nature and therefore gather all the facts they can to have a case for their not believing in God. The reason that these Biblical facts don't cause them to believe in God is because, remember, they are creating a case for their own agenda which overrides any spiritual effect that would occur if they were into it for the purpose of seeking God.

Answer 5

Well Nathan, that means you know more about Christianity, comparative religions and Atheism than the Christians and Atheists. Good show.

In addition, I am awe struck that you can ID the "actual Christians" on this venue.

You are on target when you say atheists "seem" to know more. They 'seem" or appear to know more because the critics job is always the easy one.

Atheists are free to spend time finding fault with religion (mostly Christianity) because atheism has nothing of its own. Somewhat like the movie critics who know all about movies; but don't take the training, go to rehearsal or display any talent.

Answer is: Atheists have more free time and nothing of their own to attend to.

Answer 6

I, in contradiction, find it funny that atheists know more about a religion and a God that they are fighting so hard to prove doesn't exist. If he doesn't exist, then why do they spend so much time trying to prove it??? They must believe, deep down, that he does indeed exist and rule and reign over all, or they would not see the need to prove his non-existence.

Please just ponder that thought...

I will agree that some Christians lack knowledge of their beliefs. I confess that I too am a growing Christian and I don't know all the pillars of my faith, either. I do, however, love to learn more about it and fall deeper in love with Jesus, who loves you despite your obvious opposition towards Him!

Answer 7

To qualify as a Christian in the US these days only requires that you say that you believe in Jesus, be sure to tithe, and (in some congregations) vote Republican.

There aren't the standards of behavior or discipline that you would expect from a religious organization, and far too many grow their flock through mass-market commercialism, having fun events, and catering to convenience (both spiritually and in terms of services).

To be an athiest is to have made a choice, probably an informed one. To be a Christian these days requires less.

Answer 8

Most Atheists I have conversed with seem to have many facts wrong; or haven’t really critically thought out their conclusions. However, I have also found that many Christians do not have a good apologetic. So when one compares the two, it seems as though the Atheist knows more; though most have not met their challenge.

Answer 9

I'm an atheist, and I know a lot about many religions. I didn't just give up on religion because I was mad at god. I did a lot of research, even tried to find solace in other religions. I finally figured out I wasn't buying any of it, and I never really had.
I get really irritated by people who turn to atheism because of a tragedy in their lives where they think god abandoned him. That's not true atheism- more like giving god the cold shoulder.

Answer 10

Obviously some atheists know more than some Christians, and some Christians know more than some atheists.

I don't think they necessarily know more in general. . . I just think that atheists question more what Christians don't need explained. Christians have faith that lets them accept the mysticism in Chrisianity, while atheists will go point by point and say "these things don't make sense."