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Question

Why do we argue and debate religion?

It makes me happy to see that no one is getting angry at this thread LOL

If people feel threatned of offended by religious debate, why then do they continue to come here and argue?

If you found true peace through Christianity, and someone else found true peace through Islam, why would you want to de-rail them from their peacefull path? Or are you abandoning your own views of helping others become happy, to simply "open their minds" when all you are achieving is closing your own? (this is not specifically directed at most of you, it is more common in the real world, but there are some like this on yahoo answers)

Are we all trying too hard to impress (either God, ourselves, or others) when we debate. Are we trying to flaunt the strengths in our beliefs?

Answer 1

Good, honest question, Tim

Hopefully we debate more and argue less, or at least be as civil with one another as possible.

I believe the reason, for most people, is that this is one of the most, if not THE most important issue of our lives.
It deals with a matter that has eternal consequences.

For those who believe in God, it is obvious why it matters so much. Jesus told His followers to go and share their faith. So not only are believers doing so because He said to, but also out of concern for their fellow human beings.

For the unbelievers it matters because it is important to them to not relinquish their sovereignty and turn it over to God. They feel threatened by anyone or anything trying to hold them to a moral standard that did not originate within themselves.
They want to decide their own morality to suit themselves; even to the point of denying the very existence of the God who created them so that they can feel less uncomfortable about it.

Jesus Himself debated life's issues with His critics, and left them speechless and embarrassed.

Answer 2

Everyone has beliefs about religion and other things. When these beliefs are particularly strong, they are convictions.

Religion, like politics, is something that people have strong feelings about. There are differing views in all religions from Christianity to Islam. When someone disagrees with you about something you have a conviction about, you express your feelings. Some of us can conduct a discourse on religion with respect for another person's beliefs. Many clergy do just that. Religion for some is a philosophy for living.

Anything that stirs emotion, like a strong belief, will create debate. Personally, I don't mind listening to people who express their differences in a respectful manner. I often learn something about another religion in the process. If we could listen to each other and respect our differences, we would realize that we actually have a lot in common when you break down the beliefs to a common denominator.

Good question.

Answer 3

Very well said, sir, and I asked this same question a while ago. Just look at the last question on my Q and A. I think if somebody believes something, good for them. As long as they are not harming anyone, what's the problem of other people? We have freedom of religion, and we are not able to control the minds or feelings of others. When will people wake up and realize this?

Answer 4

Religious beliefs are very personal and most people feel they have to defend them. Sometimes I would say its a matter of pride. Just think of it this way, when someone makes fun of you, you might react negatively although perhaps you should ignore it and walk away right? That is what happens here.

Answer 5

I guess in a way that is what yahoo questions and answers are all about when it comes to religion. People who have different beliefs will rush to defend them and I for one believe that is their right. Also, maybe....just maybe....some new person will come on the forum and find just the right words of wisdom.

Answer 6

Since God disclosed the truth to me through the Gospel of His Son, I would have to be a most callous person to keep the truth to myself.
What if you found a cure for cancer and told no one?
I have found the the secret of eternal peace with God.
A few have listened.

Answer 7

Why not? It's better to argue and debate about something that at least has some substance than, say, why Britney shaved her head, or who's on the worst -dressed list.

Answer 8

I find it quite entertaining, to be truthful. I do get irritated with the close-minded that beleive their way is the only way. Sure, it irritates me, but then I get to laugh when I irritate them.

I do it person, mostly. I once meantioned praying in front of a friend of mine who is baptist. She said "You? Were talking to Jesus?" and I said "No, I talk to god because I find Jesus's veiws rather immature."

i savored that punch, and the bruise was there for about a week.

Answer 9

I cant speak for everyone but I do it because it's fun. I love all you guys and I like debating you and sometimes pulling your leg a little. And no offense but you are all the most hilarious people imaginable.

Answer 10

I just like to answer questions that may help someone . I hate to debate or argue.