Is there any chance of real debate in spiritual matters?

Question

The flaming and stupid questions have really killed what could be a good place to disguss beliefs and ideas.

Atheist belong here. They have many valid points and some time very insightful ideas into religion.

Religious people belong here. Many of them can be intelligent and have some really decent ideas on theology.

What is not needed (Though I am sure I'll get some) Is flames and idiot reponses from either side

Yes I am sure it is fun to make all these silly comments but seriously is any one really up for real discussion and debate?

Oh one other thing
Saying that you can't debate with one side or the other is NOT what I am looking for. so if that is you choice don't bother to answer.

Answer 1

The legitimate & fair approach is to state your own beliefs.
Just state that this is what you believe, or your experience.
Others may differ, but they cannot deny what you believe.
Where we get into trouble is attacking the beliefs of others.

Answer 2

The spiritual is connected with, through the spiritual senses of intuition. Spiritual ideas can be debated, because the spiritual interacts with the material realm. We have a spirit, and it interacts with our body. God has a spirit, and it interacts with the universe as his body. There is logic in both realms, because irrationality does not work well in any system, spiritual or otherwise. Reality is rational, even if part of it is spiritual, and beyond the reach of science and our normal senses. The truth has power and can have impact. I agree with you, that we do have a lot of foolish or frivolous questions, and silly comments. I just hope people can find the good stuff.

Answer 3

"Debate" requires a few things in order for it to be a successful venture for the debaters and those reading and witnessing the debate.

1) Respect for the opinions of those that run counter to your own as long as those opinions are grounded in fact.

2) Debate must be an open exercise in that what is being debated can have various outcomes.

Given both criteria, real debate cannot function in an environment where facts are unavailable for support. It also cannot function in an environment where the expectation of the outcome is absolute truth. That being the case, real debate in R & S is a futile effort. The best we can hope for is a free and open exchange of spiritual and religious ideas and the hope of greater understanding between those of opposing religious views.

Answer 4

Absolutely. Of course, debate implies the questioner is prepared to both offer and listen to suggestions from the other side.

If someone asks an intelligent question in this category (such as this), I'll give an honest and intelligent answer. Might not be the one they /want/ to hear, but that's something else entirely...

And of course, if someone's just being wilfully stupid, arguing from points they found on the back of a cornflakes packet, or just generally being flammable, they deserve what they get. I don't associate with stupid atheists, either. ;)

Answer 5

I am neither religious nor am I not religious. A debate between spiritual matters would only end in the education of each others beliefs unless one person is more aggressive or has a stronger will to try to change the others views. Our society needs the diversities of religions and science to keep us all studying, wondering, talking and debating. A real debate in spiritual matters could only be successful if we had proof of our beliefs...not just faith in them.

Answer 6

Agreed. It would also be great to see more questioners and responders using the 'Additional details' on questions and 'Edit' buttons on their answers to engage in some dialogue on the question once the 'pack' has moved on. Responders could even ask another question that way!!!

Personally, I think many questioners think R&S means, 'rubbish and sexuality'. Seven-eigths like this could just be wiped-out without loss.

So, testing it! I'm really interested in Middle-Eastern Christianity and the history of the faith. What spiritual subjects interest you?

Answer 7

I would love a good debate. Discussions are quite different. They seem to be very one sided and see none but their own ideas [which are very singular as this site seems to prove].
There seems to be more confusion and fear than one could really expect. Their descriptions of any literal part of the bible are unrealistic and childish.

I think they are scared - you know, that rapture thing again.

Answer 8

There is always real debate. The question is if the person will listen now, or if it will enter their subconscious, and then re-appear in dreams, and slowly change the person... like a Fungus, a Barnacle, or a Cancer. Ideas are like that.. They're like Gardens, you only need to plant a few weeds.

Answer 9

I wish we could because that is what I came here for but it seems to be a section to bash on one another

Answer 10

i am always ready for a discusion on religion and i have scriptures to back up everything i say.

“Happy are those conscious
of their spiritual need.”—Matthew 5:3


but i do feel the same way as you... i hate when people are on here just looking to tear everyone down that doesn't believe what they believe. thats not how you go about doing things.