Second greatest command: "Love your neighbor as yourself" -Matthew 22:39
2007-08-08 07:28:06
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answer #1
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answered by johnusmaximus1 6
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Most Christians mean well when they defend their faith. But, too often, many make fundamental errors when dialoguing with atheists and those of other religions, We need to make as few errors as possible, not simply to win an argument, but to help the atheist and non-believers come to a saving relationship with the Lord Jesus.
Some Christians have labeled atheists as evil, stupid, devil-worshippers, or morally void. Though there may be some atheists who fit these categories (as would many in the general population), atheists are not categorically evil, stupid, devil-worshipping degenerates with no morals. Many of them are fine citizens, honest, caring, loving, and patient. For a Christian, or anyone for that matter, to make a blanket statement about atheists in a derogatory manner is wrong. It is the same thing atheists sometimes do when they accuse Christians of being irrational, psychotic, or stupid. Such accusations have no place on either side of the argument of truth.
Generally speaking, atheists are not stupid. Many of them have thought through their position over a long period of time and arrive at conclusions after much thought. Some were raised in religious homes, have seen what religion has to offer, and have rejected it. Of course, I think that atheists have drawn incorrect conclusions about God, but it doesn't mean they are dumb. Some atheists have presented very cogent arguments against the existence of God, which need to be addressed.
So, just because someone believes in God and encounters someone who doesn't, that does not mean that either side is stupid. Labeling and name-calling have no place in the discussion.
Ignoring Atheists' Questions
If you were standing on a railroad track and a train was heading your way, closing your eyes and ignoring the locomotive will not make it go away. If an atheist asks a question and you ignore it repeatedly, it would be fair for him to conclude you were incapable of answering the objection. Of course, this does not mean you have to always answer everything, because dialogue flows both ways. But it is important that you face issues. If you don't have an answer, admit it. That's okay. It doesn't mean you are wrong. It means you don't have an answer. Go study and get an answer and get back to him.
Stating that Atheism is a religion
Atheists will repeatedly tell you that they are not in a religion. A religion almost always is defined to include belief in a deity of some sort. Atheism is non-belief in a deity. It isn't necessarily a "belief that there is no God" (though it can be), but is "not believing either way."
To label an atheist as a religious person is to put up a roadblock to effective communication. It would be like someone saying to a Christian, "You believe in a mean, tyrannical being who likes to torture people." The Christian would simply role his eyes and think that the person doesn't know what he's talking about. So, how much effective conversation could there be in either instance? Not much.
Stating unsupportable facts
No one has all the documentation for everything he says. It is not reasonable to require proof from an atheist on everything said. Nevertheless, if you are going to state a fact or two, it is good to have the documentation at the tip of your tongue -- at least occasionally, of having access to it. It adds to your credibility. Of course, you don't have to document everything, but if you have some illustrious fact to use, try and have it documented.
Never admitting when you are wrong
Pride is a harmful thing. It caused the Fall. It ruins marriages. It leads to anger and self-righteousness. It has no place in the Christian's life. Never admitting you are wrong is being prideful. If an atheist, or anyone, proves you wrong in something, be kind and courteous. Admit you made a mistake and go on. Everyone makes mistakes, even atheists. There is nothing wrong with admitting an error. It no more proves you are wrong about Christianity than being wrong about the color of a boat means boats don't exist. But if you never admit when you are wrong, you will not be able to convince anyone in a discussion of your position. You will simply lose the respect of the one with whom you are debating.
2007-08-08 14:30:49
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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I understand your where you are coming from. I come across people like that from all beliefs. I try to speak kindly and show them kindness. If all fails they mess up in the head and no help for them in any form. But I won't single out a religion and diss it.. What about those who go above and beyond their calling of faith? do you call on those for doing greatness and send praise for being respectful and teaching peace? it works both ways. Not calling out those who faults but giving a blessing to those who does greatness or ones who do the little things in life that try and make a difference. Just a little food for thought.
2007-08-09 04:42:34
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answer #3
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answered by "Priest" 3
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Salam Aleykum!
I think it is not a good idea to talk about this person behind its back and then ask his fellow religious buddies why s/he is like this to you. I don't know but it gives me a feeling of generalizing.
Why don't you talk to this person in private? Maybe it is not as evil as it may seem, who knows.
edit: Maybe later? But her behavior can be a result of many things. What if she has her period, or s/he is getting divorced and have this anger in herself. I have an idea. I will let you know.
2007-08-08 20:10:26
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answer #4
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answered by waterlily 2
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Yes it does. When I'm on here, some of the comments from atheists and non-believers make me upset, but I try not to say anything rude about it and answer the question to try and help people.
2007-08-08 14:29:04
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answer #5
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answered by Errin 2
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Respect yes, peace... depends, tolerance not really. Jesus himself told us we are on a narrow path which implies we can't and shouldn't tolerate everything. We should be loving to people we disagree with, even enemies, but that's not necessarily tolerance.
2007-08-08 14:28:08
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answer #6
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answered by Rossonero NorCal SFECU 7
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i really dont know who you are referring to but as for religions i claim none(Jesus didnt)they are to carnal(man-made)i am a follower of Christ and Gods word is the blueprint for my life nasty and offensive is the farthest thing from God He is love,kindness,peace all wonderful things
2007-08-08 14:32:04
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answer #7
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answered by loveChrist 6
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We all have bad days. Help point her in the right direction; I’m sure she will eventually get the point in the end!
2007-08-08 14:34:31
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answer #8
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answered by Freeman 2
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God's greatest gift is love.... Sorry about someone saying some thing that hurt your feeling.... Have a great day..... @
2007-08-08 18:52:39
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answer #9
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answered by Ellen Fudpucker 5
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Hmm...lets not say religion as much as faith. Anyways, this person whom you described doesn't sound like a real Christian. "Many will come but few are chosen".
God Bless...
2007-08-08 14:45:45
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answer #10
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answered by You Ask & I Answer!!! 4
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