They're all being very mean...?

Question

Every time I ask a question that questions religious teachings all I get back is mean remarks about being immature, stupid, poorly raised and inevitably doomed. I didn't ask them what they thought of me being an atheist, but they seem to prefer that question. You know who you are you mean people. When I questioned an atheist about his lack of beliefs when I was catholic he said things like; "Ooohh, that's a good question, but..." and nice things. "Compliments" even. All his atheist friends were the same. I'm well aware of the fact that atheists (as well as religious people) will often intentionally annoy the other side but that's just some peoples idea of fun. Why the different approaches to answering serious questions though?
It's religions intolerence of pretty much everything that turned me away from it.

Yeah but Miche, there's still the difference between the two groups, no matter where you are.

Answer 1

Religious people are nearly always intolerant.

Answer 2

You have every right to question religious teachings, whether from man or 'direct from the mouth of God' - so to speak. God is more patient than men and his back is broad, so go on, address your moans and criticisms to him. He will not turn round and condemn you as some of his followers have done. You are getting somewhere by communicating.

Scripture says that those who wish to teach others should behave in this manner:
In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth (II Tim. 2:25).

I have to say that it is unlikely that God will give people any 'repentance to acknowledge the truth' if his followers do not come to them in meekness.

I do not think you are saying these things in order to 'get at' Christians, for your words have the sound of sincerity. I think you are speaking from your heart and I am very sorry you have received this kind of treatment from those who profess to follow the Lord Jesus.

You know, even Christians will have to stand before him and give an account of themselves. In the meantime, they must prove by their words and actions that they really ARE his followers. He watches us as well as you. We are not his 'pets'.

As you say, Atheists just messing about with the questions and baiting Christians can be annoying, but you soon learn who is serious and who isn't. The different approaches? Well, sadly some Christians have spent too much time listening to the pastor's opinion and haven't developed their own faculties of discernment at all. They also think that they have a right to respond 'like for like' not realising that the sincere person is often caught in the crossfire. There is a time to 'unleash a few volleys' and a time to refrain and speak to hurting hearts.

I would say that it is these kinds of people - Christian or otherwise - who are being immature. They also need to learn that throwning 'hell' at people cuts no ice nowadays. They need to learn a lot and, again, I am truly sorry that you have been hurt by their lack of wisdom towards you.

On the positive side, there are a small number of very mature and loving Christians on Answers who can really help those in need and point the way. It is a fact that there have always been only a very small number of such people (and there seem to be even less of them today). If you want to know what true Christianity is, you must seek them, for it is only people whom the Lord has humbled who are able to care for and comfort his hurting ones.

Be of good cheer, the Lord has not given up on you! Enjoy your Atheist friends and learn from them, for the Lord, who loves you, moves in mysterious ways ...

Answer 3

When I was a Christian I was practical trained on how to respond to religious questions. Somebody asks you a question about your faith you quote bible verses. If they ask you a question you didn't expect that's when you become defensive.
Now whenever people ask me why I don't believe anymore. The only answer I can give that's from the heart, "I have no desire to be apart of that religion. I just don't trust it anymore." Or any religion for that matter... There's a serious answer...

Answer 4

I think that the easiest way to answer this is too state the obvious - Abrahamic beliefs are insulted so much by Athiests that we feel as if everytime an Athiest askes a question it is out of a need for them to debunk our religious beliefs. So naturally we prepare for how they will react to our original answers, which is always backed by our religious script and answer in an insulting tone unintentionally.

When you're constantly insulted by a certain group of peoples you automatically go into defense, even if you have no reason.

Answer 5

Religious people rely on faith, meaning, don't ask too many difficult questions just believe.

Non-religious people rely on logic, meaning, the more questions the merrier.

If you ask questions, you need to tailor fit it to the group. If you use prying question to religious people and they don't have the answers (where faith comes in), they get defensive. Non-religious people don't take the religious questions as seriously so people ten to be nicer.

Answer 6

The last couple of answers are pretty good. :) I agree that you should put in your heading "Christians only" or "To Muslims" etc.

As far as you being athiest. That's your decision. Those people aren't living your life and so obviously they have their own issues if they do nothing but put down others no matter what their faith or lack thereof.

Answer 7

There are a lot of people who cling to their faith and are afraid of anything that goes against it. Just ignore them, anyone who fully believes in their God should have enough intelligence and knowledge of their own religion to give you an intelligent answer and to get into an intelligent debate without resorting to petty name-calling. Most religions preach tolerance and love, but there are a lot of people out there willing to ignore part of the teachings of their religion in order to use it to hurt people.
Anyways when it comes to religion it's always the loud obnoxious people who get heard, and the rest of the members of the religion who are just trying to live their lives, have faith and be good people, don't get heard because they aren't the one's shouting at you.

Answer 8

Dear Locust Eater, a war buddy of mine who called himself the "High Poke of Scrotism" used to say "You ain't put down until you're put down in your own mind". And it might be helpful to remember that just as a thief meeting a saint can only see his pockets, those with closed minds see those whose minds are open to the challenge of the Way as having minds as closed and cowardly as their own. Of course through the smoky mirror of this medium I can only see you dimly , but every indication is of an inquisitive and beautiful mind!

Oh, and in response to your last question regarding who wrote the Bible, I'd recommend two books by Richard Eliot Freedman, THE HIDDEN FACE OF GOD, and WHO WROTE THE BIBLE. If, of course, you're a reader. They may be available at your public library.

Namaste!

Answer 9

I consider myself tolerant of other peoples beliefs. I try to answer questions politely and don't call people names. What does it achieve? Nothing really. It costs nothing to be polite. My grandmother had a saying, "you can always stoop down, but pick nothing up".

If you have any questions on the Bible, or about God and/or Jesus, I am only too happy to answer them. Just email me.

Answer 10

the main issue with christians though is that they (mainly the fundies) have no sense of humor.

plus they argue among themselves like schoolchildren. im yet to meet two creationists with the same garbage as each other.

Answer 11

Dont sweat it. Take their replies at face value and have a good laugh at some of the ridiculous responses