Here I don't include Christians who keep their own beliefs in their heart and hold their own counsel.
2007-01-21 13:53:04 · 17 answers · asked by CHEESUS GROYST 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
sometimes i am ashamed when christians are unable to see past what they believe so they can relate to people, and maybe even draw them to Christ through example, and kindness. I am christian and im trying very hard to be a better, all around CHRIST-LIKE person. I have friends of other religions and faiths as well. I dont wanna be the, 'you're wrong!' 'you're going to hell!' christian. I love all people. I dont even think gay people are the worst people in the world like some christians!
2007-01-21 13:59:55 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
I agree that singling Christians out doesn't take into account the fact that people from all races, religions, colors and creeds are incapable of empathy. However, I must agree with Hush - this is a place to share one's faith, etc., but NOT the place to condemn others one knows very little about. I see it happen too often, and it's rarely the non-believers (this is a site for them too; note "spirituality". They too are discussing their beliefs on the topics).
I think Hush here is saying, "I can respect your beliefs, but if you cannot respect mine why speak out?" And he's right. I understand that convincing others to convert is a big part of Christianity but it is ridiculous and futile to attempt it with those who have are quite obviously hoping NOT to hear it. Sometimes preaching the Bible comes off more as an "I'm right, you're wrong" debate. For the most part, those on here who do not agree with Christianity (or other forms of religion) give very intelligent responses as to what they believe and only get angry when they are judged or preached to. Atheists, Agnostics, etc. rarely push their ideas on others unless duly threatened. We're all human. There are many people on here thinking of converting. I would imagine that the "talk" is far more fulfilling with them, rather than trying to convince someone they are not who they are.
Judge not...
2007-01-21 22:04:03 · answer #2 · answered by Me, Thrice-Baked 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, I obviously don't keep my beliefs strictly to myself, or else we wouldn't be having this discussion. :-) But I *do* try to live peaceably with others and understand where they're coming from.
Lack of empathy isn't strictly a Christian problem. From what I've seen around this forum, it's spread evenly throughout the population. Being able to see things from another person's viewpoint takes compassion and concern. . .and those two traits tend to take a powder whenever someone is convinced that theirs is the only way.
If someone wants to know why I believe what I believe, I'll be happy to tell them. But I'd much rather live my faith and attract others to Christ by example than try to cram my beliefs down someone else's throat. If you're not walking the walk, talking the talk just makes you look like a hypocrite.
That's why my favorite quote is the one attributed to St. Francis: "Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary."
2007-01-21 22:01:05 · answer #3 · answered by Wolfeblayde 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
One of the answerers said:
"Who told you Christians are not to judge?"
Look, I'm not a Christian, but I recall hearing about a certain first century Jewish preacher who had more than a few words on the subject. In fact he banged on about it so much that it's hard to deny this was his central message, at least according to the records that survive to this day*. He also had one or two things to say about compassion and empathy, but these seem to take a back seat to the finger pointing fire and brimstone judgement-fest that seems to characterise modern evangelical "Christianity".
2007-01-22 05:36:39 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think if you are really trying to be a good christian you need to try to act as you believe JC would have. I realize none of us are perfect but I think JC was all about love...he put himself in others shoes...so if you discriminate so freely...you are just a christian in words and not in your heart.
2007-01-21 22:10:15 · answer #5 · answered by kenslydale 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Who told you Christians are not to judge? That is not true. We are to judge righteously. You seem to confuse judging and discrimination with telling the truth of what God has commanded.
Who is more empathetic? Someone who tells you the truth or someone who pats you on the back and says it's o.k. continue in your sin, we all are sinners anyway, so who cares, God won't care.
Telling the truth shows ultimate love, not making excuses.
2007-01-21 22:03:00 · answer #6 · answered by JohnC 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
To judge is to be judged, I am a catholic my beliefs belong to me, and I share them with no one, the faith I have in my heart are for Gods eyes only,
2007-01-21 22:06:54 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Probably, just like many unbelievers are incapable of empathy. If you come to this site, why do you expect us to keep our beliefs to ourselves? That is why we are all here to share our faith.
2007-01-21 21:56:54 · answer #8 · answered by angel 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Some people in general are incapable of empathy.
2007-01-21 21:56:48 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 1⤋
I am a christian who does not have empathy for those who choose not to help themselves. I do have empathy for people who really need help and are trying to help themselves.
2007-01-21 22:03:03 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋