How should I react to all the Christians in my life?

Question

This question is directed more towards non-christians. I decided that I didn't want to be a christian anymore a while ago. I grew up in a very christian family but I've always had beliefs that were "non-christian". It seems like a lot of my christian aquaintances, relatives, and friends treat me differently now that they know this. We live in a community with very little religious diversity. How should I react towards people who think that being non christian is wrong? Why do people treat me differently? Before I told them about my beliefs, everyone thought I was a really great, kind, christian person. I'm still the same person...I just told them that I disagree with the fundamental beliefs of christianity and I'm looking for a new religion. It seems like christians get kind of judgemental when I try to discuss religion (theirs or mine) with them. What should I say to them? I doubt its my actual beliefs, they'd still treat me differently if I converted to Islam or something.

Answer 1

That would be very hard! If I were you I would explain to them why you chose to change your beliefs, what you disagree with, and how you feel. Tell them right away you are still the same person and if they are true christians they won't judge or shun you for changing your religion. Let them know this is your choice and you aren't ready for discussion on the matter right now. Continue being the same person you were before and they should see that your religious decision hasn't changed you.

As a side note, I consider my faith christian, but I like to incorporate things from different religions and haven't ever really gone to church a lot. I understand how the christians you are talking about can be, but they just have to realize that this is what feels right for you and accept it. If you still want relationships with most of these people maybe educate them on what you are learning about, it might be good for them!

Answer 2

I have a few thigs to say about this. First of all, one's religion is a very personal thing. It's between you, and your god. Nobody should judge you based on that, and if they do, they're very small minded. Whether you agree with others' beliefs or not, you should respect them because their beliefs are just as personal as your own.
Second, the concept of religion was devised by man; so is there truly a right or wrong religious belief? I don't think so. God never told us to follow any ONE religion; He only asked that we believe. Sounds pretty simple to me.
As far as what to tell them, just say that you've made your decision, and you'd like them to respect that. If they're still judgemental just say "Judge not, lest ye be judged" Watch their expressions when you say that!
In case you're wondering...no, I'm not an Atheist. I'm a non-practicing Christian. I sincerely hope this helps.

Answer 3

Honestly...sometimes the path of least resistance is the right path. I didn't go through this...I had non-parctising parents...and none of my family were especially religious. We're Jewish...and the Jewish community tends to be more tolerant then the Christians anyway, at least I've found that to be the case.

I think you should remember that you are under your parents roof, and try to respect their values. You're probably best off keeping your faith and religious questions personal. It really isn't any of their business anyway.

If they try converting, I'd probably just nod my head, smile, and wait em' out while being polite.

You can always leave that community as an adult if it doesn't fit your values.

You really don't need to convert them. You really don't need to argue with them. Just be you.

Answer 4

I COMPLETELY understand!

this is what i settle for:

"I choose not to believe in the Christ because the christian religion originates from the Jewish religion *which is proven* and why should i believe in something that is just a knock off. While you believe in some bible written by a guy a long while after Christ actually died then i hope you have fun with that. My point is that i dont and if that is so much of an issue then i should tell you that th bible isnt even the complete version. it was torn apart by the catholic church under the rein of Pope George II because he believed that some of the scriptues didnt belong and should be kept secret. just thought you should know."

dont give in because they decide to judge you. thats what they want! im agnostic.(The term agnostic is also used to describe those who are unconvinced or noncommittal about the existence of deities as well as about other matters of religion.) its not that i dont believe in christ i just dont believe in anything as of right now. i cant believe in something until i believe in myself...for all the right reasons!

GOOD LUCK!

niko.

Answer 5

I'm sorry to hear you get treated differently. You shouldn't. I'm christian and I want you to know not all christians behave the way they should. Then again, you will have to address THEM ONLY for their behavior. The behavior of one is not the behavior of all. Of course as a christian I'm sorry to hear you have decided to go another path, but that's your choice. You should know God doesn't force Himself on people to believe in Him and neither should a person. You sound like a very likeable person. If they don't want to like you, it's their loss. Just continue to be nice, like they say "kill 'em with kindness". They'll come around one day. Maybe it's the "small town"?(and if you don't mind, I'll pray for you to get through this tough time you're having with them.)

Answer 6

You have to understand that it's an unfortunate truth that people tend to get judgmental when you don't see eye to eye. Consider this, if you grew up Muslim and you told your family you don't have the same belief anymore, they would have put you to death; that's the punishment for rejecting your faith.

I'm Christian and I don't like to judge anyone based on their belief. If someone speaks against my God, then that's a problem between them and God. My religion (true Christianity) does not say love those who agree with you but rather love your neighbor as yourself... unconditionally just as Christ displayed his love towards us unconditionally... for we were sinners, yet Christ still died for us.

I do wish you the best of luck in your journey to find the truth. God bless you.

Answer 7

I am a christian, and I would suggest saying this!

I recognize we are both sinners, but I have decided not to accept Jesus as my savior. This does not mean I am an amorral person, and I respect your beliefs. I would like to be your friend on a secular level. I know this may mean at times we will be incompatable and we can adjust our lives accordingly, but I would like you to honor me as a neighbor!

This is formal, you can adapt it to your own words. If you put it in a respectful manor, they should respect you.

I suggest you read this online book. This way you can have a good grasp of christianity and you can hold others in your area to this standard. Scroll down to the pdf format, and I hope you enjoy it.

Answer 8

Just keep being kind, as always. There may not be anything you can do to change their beliefs. But if any of them are open-minded, they will begin to see that you are not less of a person just because you are not a Christian.

Answer 9

You should react however you want. After all, it doesn't matter what other people think. It is YOU who will have to stand before Christ at judgement day and explain to HIM why YOU "changed" YOUR mind. Deep down, being brought up christian, you know that this is indeed the truth. So if you decided that you are no longer a believer, then live it up now, because the end times are at hand.

Answer 10

i think you should move away...FAR away...you only live once, and to be around people who judge your whole being based on what your religious beliefs are, seems very boring and a waste of a life. Go places, see things, have fun, LIVE YOUR LIFE....the way YOU want to, noone one else is gonna do it for you...as for living there...just tell them that it doesnt matter what goes on in THEIR heads or hearts, what matters is what goes on in YOURS. so let em know you dont mind that they follow what they follow, but you'd like to be left to your own way...and thats that. Let em say what they will, ya cant change em and theres no point wasting time to try... GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY V-DAY!!!