By the following scriptures we see that 1.) without God's spirit, the things of God cannot be understood, meaning atheists can't understand our points, and 2.) that God is revealing Himself to them already and the ball is in their court. We should testify, this is certain, but should we argue "on their turf?
1 Cor 2 12-14 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. ...we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
2007-02-21 14:42:05 · 17 answers · asked by celebduath 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Argue? No.
Debate? Yes. This could be considered a very gray area, yes?
But we are to do it with love. We are not supposed to be judgemental or condemning. We're not supposed to be quarrelsome. And if no one accepts the message, we're told to shake the dust from our shoes and leave town.
Having said that, we never know what seed might just be planted, do we? It's about time we started sharing what Christ has done for US, instead of pointing out (being judgemental?) what Christ can do for someone else. You're never going to win anyone to Christ by beating them over the head with your Bible.
2007-02-21 14:52:30 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no point in arguing. If someone chooses not to believe, its their choice. Belief in god cannot be forced or proven. And an Atheist saying such things could be viewed as a hate crime. Terrorism and wars resulted from religious conflicts. Archeology has proven many of the biblical events did occur, thats undeniable, but whether god had a hand in it is left open for interpretation.
2007-02-21 22:54:55 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Does it do any good? If an atheist argues with a Christian, will that change our mind so that we become atheists? If not, then what is the point of anyone arguing with anyone over their beliefs? One can state their beliefs and pray to God for wisdom in how they share their beliefs. One can ask God to help make the other person receptive to what they hear, but ultimately, we all have a free will and an independent mind. Arguing over beliefs does nothing but solidify the other person's beliefs and cause them to turn a deaf ear to anything we have to say. Now if we talk respectfully with one another and share our viewpoints on how we believe, then and only then, will the other person be likely to be receptive to what we have to say. I didn't quote any Bible verses for this one, but as a Christian, this seemed pretty obvious to me.
2007-02-21 23:06:57 · answer #3 · answered by Chimichanga to go please!! 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The thing is that Atheists don't have the burden of proof. They don't have to prove anything not to believe. In order to convert someone to your religion, you would have to prove to that person that your religion was the answer for their life.
So I believe the argument is moot. Instead of debating, why not casual conversation. The sharing of ideals and philosophies. Getting to know your fellow man is alot better than standing against him.
2007-02-21 23:03:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's the duty of a Christian to spread the word and help those far from Christ, to come unto Him! Yes we should lovingly persuade, but not debate til hatred
2007-02-21 23:04:07 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i try not to argue. u cant force some 1 to believe something they dont want to believe or disbelieve. i think ppl should just state their feelings and leave it at that. arguing on ANY subject really does no good. it may be a little fun to have a nice considerate debate but it really wont do any good.
2007-02-21 22:54:25 · answer #6 · answered by emilybailey1980 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think christians should show what they believe through their actions, it is good to be able to back those actions up with words, but with the way things are words mean very little.
2007-02-21 23:17:34 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It doesn't really get anyone anywhere, but it is nice to know the opinions of the opposing sides every once in awhile. And, like the first poster said, it's fun to debate...
2007-02-21 22:55:10 · answer #8 · answered by third_syren_of_seduction 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why argue? I befriended one and learned a LOT about how the "other side" thinks. We are still dear friends and we both respect each other's view.
2007-02-21 22:59:07 · answer #9 · answered by Jennifer D 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
read about the apologetics (1 or 2 Peter)
you need to be ready to give a defense of your faith.
2007-02-21 22:47:15 · answer #10 · answered by n9wff 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋