Why do religious people often say *I'm not religious*? Is that supposed to mean theyre special?

Answer 1

No... it means that they're stupid. Apparently, they never heard of a dictionary, or don't know how to interpret a very simple definition.

Answer 2

Why are they religious if they say they're not religious?

Not being "religious" simply means they do not attend any church with an "established" religious doctrine or denomination i.e., Methodist, U.C.C. , Catholic, etc.

I am non-denominational. The church I attend every so often is not a state-chartered 501(c) 3 Incorporated church subject to the IRS or government. The pastor speaks on any topic or other concern he sees fit. He/we are not bound by any state or federal statute. The interior of the church is not adorned with anything-no religious paintings, no statues, no religious symbolism of any kind.


And no- we don't think we're "special". The pastor has a BAdegree in theology and his Master's degree in Christian Apologetics. He also holds a BS degree in Architecture, and works for a highly successful Architectural design firm.

Also, there is no collection plate passed around. That might qualify as special.

Answer 3

I have never heard a religious person say that. I have heard them say they are non-denominational or that they don't belong to a certain religion. It is said because some of us are religious and spiritual and believe in and love God, but we do not belong to a specific religion or church because we believe in following Christ's teachings of love, honor, charity, no judging, etc. and do not believe in following some man made church law. There are many non-denominational churches where the beliefs are following the teachings of Christ and not some idiotic doctrine where criticizing, judging, mocking, insulting etc. are followed rather than showing love, charity and equality. We do not want to be associated with Sunday religious people(those that only show religion when they are at church and the rest of the time show intolerance). I hope this makes it a little more clear for you.

Answer 4

Trying to clarify your beliefs does not mean that you are trying to be "special." A guy says, "I'm not a lawyer - I'm an accountant." Would you respond, "What, does that make you special?"

There was a movement among American Protestants in the 70's that was focused on eliminating all non-essential elements of Christianity (i.e. everything but 'decisional regeneration,' or 'getting saved'). Heirs to this movement insist that they are not religious, and they are right. Religion typically involves rites, traditions, theology, ceremonies, etc. Some people fore go all of the above and stick to one central concept.

Answer 5

You are saying the same words, but you have different meanings attached to the words.

To the Muslim jihadists, Americans are infidels.
By the same token, a Muslim radical might ask this question, "Why do infidels often say, 'I'm not an infidel'? Is that supposed to mean they are special?"

Simply put, when someone appears "religious" in your eyes, and they say, "I'm not religious," rather than snubbing and judging them, why not seek clarification.
Say to them, "How so?" Explain your definition of "religious," and how you see them fitting that mold... then, if you dare, be willing to listen to THEIR deifintion of "religious" and why they think they DO NOT fit that mold...

Answer 6

"Religion" has a broad spectrum. Most often, it is a general term applied to "Christians" when in fact it applies to anyone with a set of beliefs, from agnostics to witches/warlocks. The word "religious" has come to mean "fanatical", and "religion" implies rules and laws you fanatically adhere to as a means to an end. Most people who decline "religiosity" have found a relationship with God that far surpasses any man-made religion. As Jesus said, "In vain do they worship me, teaching for commandments the doctrines of men (religion)." It's not about wanting to be thought of as "special", but what they have found is indeed special.

Answer 7

No actually when I say I`m religious but I love Jesus means that I have a personal relationship with God but I don`t practice religion which is just going thru rituals and rules all the time but I obey the law`s and commandments of God.

Answer 8

I've said it before, I have no problem with religious people saying they are not religious, as long as they are prepared to give up the benefits of religion, like protection in some societies....

You can't say my religion's not a religion and still expect the benefits of a religion.

Answer 9

They say that to mean that they aren't really big churchgoers and don't go as far as fundamentalists. However, they think that makes them sound more believeable than the other ones.

Answer 10

It means they have a personal relationship with their invisible friend Jesus.

I guess they have tea parties together?