Is religion 'built upon lies' (read more)?

Question

OK first, if you are not interested in reading or thinking, please DO NOT answer my question.

If you are, the link is to a debate between a religious person and an athiest. It is a bit long (It took me about 10 minuets to read all or it) but it gets more interesting as you read it. I promise it is worth the read.

I see it as more of a discussion of HOW we know the things we know. I would like for you to read it and then give your feedback/thoughts.

http://www.beliefnet.com/story/209/story_20904.html

Answer 1

Took me more than 10 minutes, but it was a worthwhile read.

I'm glad these two could (mostly) civilly discuss their positions. It was a worthwhile effort that clarified a lot about what they both thought.

Is religion built upon lies? Of course it is -- that's demonstrably provable. Does that completely invalidate religion? Well, maybe not -- at least not as something that at certain times can be useful. Religion does sometimes induce people to do good things, to behave better, to be happy. Those are all good things. But --and this is a big but -- any intellectually honest person needs to recognize that the occasional utility of religion doesn't in any way prove its fundamental claims of divinity, or offer any proof that religion is in any sense "true." There is no proof for such claims. The intelligent religious person understands this, and accepts that what they believe is not based on rationality or evidence. As Sam said in the exchange above...all others are either lying to themselves or lying to everyone else.

Peace.

Answer 2

OK, that was a long article. I read some great points, some decent points, and some points that seemed way too off-base/opinionated. But it's obvious that both of those guys have a great grasp on language and philosophy and know how to make their case. For me, though... it was too much. I am a Christian teacher/minister and consider my faith to be so much more simple! It's so easy to get caught up in defending against science and violence and all the other accusations that are launched against religion. But I'd much rather just show people my faith through love. I can't defend what others do as I don't really know them. I can't defend what scientists do because I don't really know them. I can only defend what I do and take accountability for my own actions. I don't speak for Christians. I speak for me! But I did enjoy reading the debate - it's so interesting to see how other people think. And I must admit - I continue to realize that I don't really fit into any category except "believer in Christ". Good job!

Answer 3

All I want to know is, did Jesus come back to life after being dead three days, and get up and start walking around like nothing ever happened; and then later did he rise into the sky...

I say he didn't, but I'll let a guy who has a degree in church science explain to me how Jesus did it. And it better be good. Don't give me a bunch of mumbo-jumbo.

Answer 4

okay