Christian victimization?

Question

I've heard and read about a growing sentiment among some Christian groups that they are being singled out and discriminated against.

My entire life I've watched many Christians be hateful and judgmental toward others. I see a major shift in society by those who are tired of being picked on by those so-called Christians. And I see some Christians being very quick to jump on the "poor me" bandwagon as if they couldn't wait for their turn to be the victim.

Do Christians know other Christians that are like this? Is "Christian Discrimination" being preached in churches? Where is this sentiment coming from? Are there Christians who have experienced discrimination based on their religion in the U.S.? Can you provide examples?

David T: I have seen plenty of Christians treat others very well as well. I was raised by a Baptist. My personal beliefs are not an issue here. If you read my responses to other religion/spirituality questions, you'll know where I stand, and that is not negotiable. Thank you for your concern.

Julia: Yes, I know, "Hate the sin, not the sinner." I understand the difference between viewing homosexuality as a sin, but not hating homosexuals. Sadly, this is the one area where I see the most hatred.

My best example would be Fred Phelps, albeit an extreme example.

Other examples would be the hatred I see on here toward atheists.

Additional examples come from working with college students in both Kansas and Iowa.

If you want very specific details, I can provide them. It just might take me all night. :)

Answer 1

There IS Christian discrimination, though its not in every area of the country. I spoke about this today on a similat thread. I am a Christian and I live in Philadelphia... my friend is Agnostic and lives in Lexington KY....where he is, the majority of the people are Christian and are very nasty to him for being Agnostic and nasty to Jews, Muslims or any other non-christian.. In the city I'm in however, it;s just the opposite. I get looks of scourn and disapproval all the time if I say I am Christian and sometimes people can be downright nasty. One church in this city, for years and years had a cross and a sign that lit up at night that said "Jesus Saves" this was on a Church... not a Courthouse.. and someone who lived accross the street complained it was offensive and the Church HAD to remove it. This might not happen in KY or Alabama or some other states but it does happen in this one.

Answer 2

It is actually written in the Bible that if you decide to be a christian, you must be prepared for persecution.
I just don't know what passages it is...
heheheh...
When I decided to become a christian, I know that there would be some "discrimination" but it just seems like a small thing. But when you kinda grow a bit far from God, it could really get into your nerve. When it does get into your nerve, means you're missing some time with Him...
If you want examples, just read some of the answers to your question...
But of course sometimes it's our fault when we get ticked & take it out on other people.
But then again we're also people aren't we...

Answer 3

A Christian druggist has demurred from offering the morning after pill because of his faith. This is not a prescription based medication, but must be asked for in our state. Since his is the only pharmacy in the small town, albeit only 15 from the next town/pharmacy, the government is suing to shut him down.
There are some who preach victimization because fear and its twin, hatred, are crowd pleasers and press feeders.
You have some acute observations. It would be interesting to examine similar historical shifts in the morality basis of a society. On a parallel track, if Christians begin to feel the heat of judgement in this, then it is important for all to know the Bible is quite clear that God's people are the first to be judged.

Answer 4

I don't think discrimination against Christians and the persecution of Christians is real, but if it is happening, they are bringing it on themselves. I think many people are just sick and tired of the hypocritical, self serving, and condescending attitude many Christians have about other people and what they believe in. Also, I think people are tired of the way Christians fight to have their beliefs turned into legislation. They are so convinced that they are right and everyone else is wrong, and that everyone one else is going to hell, that they seem to think it is their duty to safe everyone from that imaginary fate. It makes others feel put off, and it is very annoying, and causes others to upset and counter attack. Sometimes I really don't think they realize how they are coming across. I think many of them really believe that they are being kind and helpful, when they are really just being condescending.

Answer 5

Bill O'Reilly and Fox News are perpetrating the myth of the "war on Christmas," which instead should be termed "The blessings of inclusion." Companies, in an effort not to discriminate against anyone, have encouraged employees to say "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas." But the religious right, in an effort to make themselves look trod upon, have taken this up as an afront. They are now saying "Merry CHRISTmas" as if the words are an attack.

This is just fear mongering by Fox News in an effort to attract and keep viewers. Hitler learned that if he named the Jews as an enemy, he'd have the Germans eating out of his hand. Republicans have figured out if the Christians feel disenfranchised because of the "liberal media," they'll vote Republican. Were it not for the war, they'd still be right.

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Answer 6

When a threatening issue can be magnified and spread throughout a group as a danger to its individuals, the group expresses its solidarity in defense. Hitler used this tactic to consolidate his political power and unify the German people against several groups of enemies - Judaism, homosexuals, gypsies, Communists and others provided the threats to the German people and united Germany as a victimized nation with a right to "clean house" and fight its common threats.

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Answer 7

There are Christians that get persecuted more then others. For instance The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints, from the beginning of the church we have been killed, our women raped, our homes burned driven from town to town, eventually from the United States it's self. Even when we left the U.S. we were still persecuted by the U.S. War was even declared against us.

I have personally been on the receiving end of discrimination or persecution, and I try to show loving kindness as Jesus Christ has taught.

Answer 8

i don't think it has anything to do with the preaching of 'christian victimization.' I'm a Christian and not unlike racial descrimination, i dont see how the actions of christians in the past should be linked to me. if people of other religions don't want the wrongs of their counterparts blamed on them then i think i deserve the same respect.

Answer 9

I grew up in a "christian" school and church and family. Ppl are christians to presevere a sense of togetherness OR to further their own agendas. These to agendas lead christians to persicute others to preserve what they believe while at the same time playing the victim of those that they ostricize. It's hypocritical but what about any religion isn't?

Answer 10

"My entire life I've watched many Christians be hateful and judgmental toward others"

Thats sad....have you ever seen a real Christian at work, or only ones like this.

I am sorry and saddened that you have this experience. I just beg of you, don't reject G-d because of His followers.

Blessings
David