[Cerek the Barbaric]

Spelca, here are just a couple of (paraphrased) statements that have been made in other posts

Statements such as "I prefer actual facts over fantasy characters" or (my favorite) "I prefer to think for myself, rather than have somebody else or thier book tell me how to think."

Statements of that nature are directly insinuating that Christians are scared little sheep that are afraid to have an original thought. It also implies that we are not as "enlightened" (ergo intelligent) as those who disagree with us. That type of accusation naturally makes a person defensive.

Don't get me wrong, Christians can be just as insulting and arrogant towards non-believers. I acknowledge that is true and I understand where you are coming from.

I admit that it is difficult for me to fully understand your point of view because I was raised in a Christian home and I have never questioned the existence of God. So, I have a difficult time seeing things from that perspective. That's not to say your viewpoint is less valid, just that I cannot fully understand it because my experience has been different.

I respect your right to NOT believe in God. It saddens me, but I respect your right to believe or not as you see fit.

You asked why Christians keep trying to convince you that God exists. The answer is two-fold. First, the Bible commands us to tell the Good News of God and Jesus. The second reason is that our relationship with God is SO exciting, we want everyone to experience it.

For example, my cousin LOVES rollercoasters, but they scare me to death. When we were younger, she would always try to get me to ride the rollercoaster when we went on vacation. Was she just trying to be mean and scare me? No. She just enjoyed the thrill of rollercoasters so much that she wanted me to experience that same thrill. In her opinion, I was missing out on something that was very exciting.

Christians feel the same way. I don't want you to believe in God to prove that I'm right and you're wrong. I want everyone to experience the joy and exhiliration I have found in having a personal relationship with my Creator.

However, just like I have never gotten on a rollercoaster, I understand there will be many who simply have no desire to seek the experience I have had. But, as I've gotten older, my fear of rollercoasters has subsided and I've at least considered giving them a try.

All I can do is hope that the joy and happiness I feel as a Christian will make non-believers at least a little curious - and maybe they will reconsider their viewpoint too.

[ 06-18-2002, 09:22 AM: Message edited by: Cerek the Barbaric ]