| From HoliRoli (Q1041. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:32 pm. Skeptic) |
I mean if you are a good person why would you still go to hell. The only reason i could think of is because jesus made it up so people would be scared into warshipping him. Had he done the same thing now it would have been known as a cult. Interested in seeing your views on this. |
No good persons will go to hell.
Any person who has never ever sinned will automatically go to heaven when they die.
Having said that -- I have never come across any human being (older than the age of innocence) who has never sinned.
That would suggest that there are no human beings who are good enough to make it to heaven on the basis of their "goodness".
Cordially,
John
| From Sidra (Q1039. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:32 pm. Skeptic) |
Can you logically explain it and understand it? Explain why or why not you believe in it. |
Here is a brief synopsis of the Trinity:
There is only ONE God. He manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestations for the purposes of the redemption of, and relationship with, human beings.
Contrary to what some people say, there is nothing irrational or illogical about this concept (of the Trinity).
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From Bob O (Q1037. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:00 pm. Skeptic) |
Is god real? How can you seriously still believe in those ghost stories? how old are you? grow the f*** up, all of you. |
Yes. The Christian God is real.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
Cordially,
John
| From Atheist_Rules (Q1036. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:00 pm. Skeptic) |
I think it's because women need to feel protected. |
Could it be that women are smarter than men ? :)
Cordially,
John
| From Atheists_Rule (Q1035. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Skeptic) |
How did everything come about? I dont know. I guess god did it. I'm too stupid and lazy to think about any other possibilities. It's too hard. oops. Did I just doubt god? I better stop thinking like this before god catches me and send me to hell. |
You may be aware that your statements above are caricatures (and biased stereotypes) rather than a true representation of all Christians.
To see this, consider switching the object in your paragraph...
"How did everything come about? I dont know. I guess some Atheistic process did it. I'm too stupid and lazy to think about any other possibilities. It's too hard. oops. Did I just doubt Atheism? I better stop thinking like this before my atheist friends catch me and send me to the atheist hell (of being ridiculed by other atheists."
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
One of the reasons why I moved from Atheism to Theism is because there is scientific and rational intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
Cordially,
John
| From Noname (Q1034. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Skeptic) |
"Bob" was an atheist & CEO of a biotech company. He quit scientific work and became a Southern Baptist. Why? |
He abandoned Atheism because he recognized that there is evidence for the existence of God?
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
Cordially,
John
| From MikeDIrishGuy (Q1032. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Skeptic) |
... if they all worship the same God? |
I wish there were no fighting between Jews, Muslims, Christians.
Having said that...
From everything I have read and studied, the Jews, Christians and Muslims do ***not*** worship the same God.
Cordially,
John
| From Regladden (Q1031. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Skeptic) |
By definition, if one believes in Christ, doesn't one believe in the same Christ? Most people would agree there really was just one ... |
Paul (in the New Testament) indicates that there are False Christs. He also indicates that if you follow "another Christ" (than the true Christ) then you would not be saved by the "other Christ".
------------
Example #1: The Mormon Jesus
The Mormons for instance believe in a Different Jesus Christ from the Jesus Christ of the Bible.
The Mormon Jesus is the blood-brother of Lucifer. The Christian Jesus is not.
The Mormon Jesus is a created being. The Christian Jesus is not.
The Mormon Jesus is not an eternal being (who always existed). The Christian Jesus is.
The Mormon Jesus was the result of sex between Elohim and Mary. The Christian Jesus was not.
The Spirit of Mormon Jesus was the result of sex between Elohim and one of his many wives in heaven. The Christian Jesus was not.
According to some Mormon church leaders, the Mormon Jesus was married and had children. The Christian Jesus was not married and did not have children.
---------------
Example #2: The Jehovah's Witness Jesus
The JW Jesus is a created being. The Christian Jesus is not.
The JW Jesus is not an eternal being (who always existed). The Christian Jesus is.
The JW Jesus is the archangel Michael. The Christian Jesus is not.
----------------
Example #3: The Hare Krishna Jesus
Based on the writings of some of their leaders... The HK Jesus is the son of Krishna. The Christian Jesus is not.
The HK Jesus is not an eternal being. The Christian Jesus is.
----------------
I hope these examples above show that there are indeed different alleged Jesus' and different alleged Christ's (and that it is possible to believe in different "Jesus Christs". The Bible indicates however that there is only one true Jesus Christ and that is the Jesus Christ of the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From Little_morphing_annie (Q1024. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 6:09 pm. Skeptic) |
I found some fungai filled mud yesterday and figured " this is it ". I wanted to hear some music and ran an electric charge over the mud, dumped a protein based solution in and asked for ANYONE to jump out of that goo and play me Nocturne in C sharp Minor.Nothing happened! What did I do wrong ? I compromised and asked for " Fer alyce " and nothing! Did I offend some amoeba ? I settled for " Boogey woogie blues " and still Nada'! I took my violin to the zoo and offered free lessons to any gorilla or monkey. NOT ONE TAKER! One of them kinda plucked at it a little but still nothing. Is it my approach or my demeanor ? I asked nicely. I moved on over to the fish tanks and reptile section and just asked for a simple back rub. Nothing.Do you think they sense Im a fish eater and are resentful? I mean Id be mad to if I found I char- grilled my cousins or something. Am I in need of a carbon based additive to in the fungai stuff to at least get someone to evolve out and sing Moriah Carey ? |
Enjoyed reading your question...
I too am skeptical of Macro*Evolution (read on if interested)...
------------------------------...
I believe in Micro*Evolution, but not Macro*Evolution...
---
After reading and studying this topic (evolution) for hundreds of hours, I have come to the reasonable conclusion that Micro*Evoluiton is correct, and Macro*Evolution is wrong.
What I have found is...
Ultimately people believe in Evolution because they want to believe that God does not exist and/or he did not participate in creating life on earth.
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.ht...
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From Little_morphing_annie (Q1023. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 6:09 pm. Skeptic) |
Im sitting here at my pool of primordial goo that I concocted. As I said before I ran an electric charge over it and added my carbon based solution. I called forth this time a hottie cutie atheist to marry me and nothing! Whats my problem? I was thinking also...what if hes a fish ? Should I go to college for oceanography so we can swim off into the deep together ? Or...what if hes a primordial bug ? Then he certanily would be a pest at times ...now wouldnt he ? And what if my Mom hated him and sent the Orkin man over to our house ? ( i.e. mother in law thingie ). If he jumps out as a primordial amoeba...where the heck will we live ...in a petrie dish ? Can someone please advise me? Also...someone told me I had to wait " 50 million years for him to evolve out of my primal stew ". Well NO WAY! My biological clock is ticking..I want to have a baby! Uhh...a tadpole ? Ummm...a amoeba ? hmmmm.....ummmm....a monkey child ? ummmm Tarzans cousin ? Please advise me guys.Can u help? |
Enjoyed reading your question...
I too am skeptical of Macro*Evolution (read on if interested)...
------------------------------...
I believe in Micro*Evolution, but not Macro*Evolution...
---
After reading and studying this topic (evolution) for hundreds of hours, I have come to the reasonable conclusion that Micro*Evoluiton is correct, and Macro*Evolution is wrong.
What I have found is...
Ultimately people believe in Evolution because they want to believe that God does not exist and/or he did not participate in creating life on earth.
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.ht...
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From TobyKeogh (Q1022. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 6:09 pm. Skeptic) |
i'm curious to know which age groups are more likely to believe one thing over the other. |
Humankind -- created by God.
Age - n/a.
------------------------------...
I believe in Micro*Evolution, but not Macro*Evolution (if interested read on)...
---
After reading and studying this topic (evolution) for hundreds of hours, I have come to the reasonable conclusion that Micro*Evoluiton is correct, and Macro*Evolution is wrong.
What I have found is...
Ultimately people believe in Evolution because they want to believe that God does not exist and/or he did not participate in creating life on earth.
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.ht...
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From Inufan92 (Q1021. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 6:09 pm. Skeptic) |
I understand that this has been asked before, but I am curious to hear more answers. |
After reading and studying this topic (evolution) for hundreds of hours, I have come to the reasonable conclusion that Micro*Evoluiton is correct, and Macro*Evolution is wrong.
What I have found is...
Ultimately people believe in Evolution because they want to believe that God does not exist and/or he did not participate in creating life on earth.
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html)
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From Spindle123 (Q1020. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Jesus tells us that he is the only way to God; and that he is the only mediator between God and Man.
Jesus also presents himself as Uniquely God in human form.
Given that Jesus is God incarnate, this would indicate that God did not incarnate himself in the other forms you mention.
Cordially,
John
| From BadJes (Q1019. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Hindus and Buddhists have free-will and many of them are choosing to accept Jesus as their savior.
Through the years, I have come across many individuals (from various worldviews and religions including Hinduism and Buddhism) who sought God with humility, sincerity and perseverance, and he revealed himself to them.
For instance, see here for examples of people who have come to the Christian God from a variety of worldviews and religions.
Cordially,
John
| From Yeldarb (Q1017. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I believe in God...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
God was never created. He always existed. This is a rational viewpoint (i.e., it is neither illogical nor irrational).
Cordially,
John
| From Atheist4U (Q1015. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
In the past, I did accept Atheism as my world-view (I cant say it was my personal light and savior though)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Johnusmaximus1 (Q1014. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
Is there a scripture that specifically says that God is a trinity? If so, where can I find it? If it is the most important doctrine, surely there is a scripture that speaks of a trinity |
There is Biblical evidence for the Trinity.
First, here is a brief synopsis of the Trinity:
There is only ONE God. He manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestations for the purposes of the redemption of, and relationship with, human beings.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From Seekthetruth (Q1009. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
My goal is to show Protestants the truth, that the Catholic Church is the one founded by Jesus (God in the flesh). If other Christians could know this then there would be no reason for them not to be in the Church that was founded by God. |
I appreciate your motives. I too am dismayed to see Christianity so divided.
I do not view you as attacking Christians. Your sincere questions help us to dialog so we can all grow to the truth in the unity of Christ.
Having said that, I find that some of the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church are consistent with the Bible, and some are not.
I accept those teachings that are consistent with the Bible, and do not accept those teachings that disagree with the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From Jerald D (Q1006. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I am convinced that the Christian God exists.
This conviction arises out of a combination of intellectual & scientific evidence in addition to experiential evidence (prayers answered; peace; presence of God etc) and mystical experience.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
The link above describes the things that influenced me away from Atheism and towards Christ.
Also, for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From TeenChatter10 (Q1003. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Christian Bible teaches that both men and women are made equally in the image of God.
So, one is not a retarded form of the other.
Cordially,
John
| From some_hand2001 (Q1002. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Yes I do believe that miracles are possible (for God to perform).
There is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, e.g., see here.
It is rational therefore to believe in the existence of God (and the Christian God in particular).
Given the existence of God who is powerful enough to create the entire physical universe, it is rational to infer that He has the power to perform miracles (which are actually much smaller and less extraordinary events than the creation of the entire universe).
Cordially,
John
| From OzzieUSA (Q1000. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Yes, there is a God (the Christian God).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Chaz (Q998. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Skeptic) |
What were the deciding factors in your (lack of) faith? |
I used to be an Atheist.
However, over a period of time, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
There was no one single point where I knew I no longer believed in Atheism but rather a gradual process.
The deciding factors in my lack of faith in Atheism -- are discussed at the link above.
Also, for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here. These contributed to my moving away from Atheism.
Cordially,
John
| From Crazyman (Q996. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
before or after he became a zombie ... |
There is no historical evidence that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene or that he had any kind of intimate relationship with her.
The DVC is a murder-mystery which claims (incorrectly) that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a child.
The problem with this thesis is that it is not supported by any meaningful historical evidence.
For an evaluation of the concepts presented in the Da Vinci Code, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/dvc/
Cordially,
John
| From Elreybrown (Q995. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
Genisis 1:26 says "Let Us make man in Our image, in Our likeness,...Could God be male and female. Two instead of one as we see in nature. |
Actually, Genesis 1:26 when considered with other verses in the Bible is consistent with the Trinity.
Here is a brief synopsis of the Trinity:
There is only ONE God. He manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestations for the purposes of the redemption of, and relationship with, human beings.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Atheists Rule (Q994. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
Christians have no problem believing the bible stories like a talking bush, talking animals, angels blowing trumpets in the sky, wizards and all kinds of absurd fictional stories like men walking on water but wont believe in evolution to save their life. |
First, it is rational to believe in God... there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see here).
Given that God exists and has the power to create this universe, it is rational that he has the ability to perform miracles (such as the ones mentioned in the Bible).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
I used to believe in Evolution. However, over a period of time I have grown skeptical of the claims of Macro*Evolution... this is largely due to the weakness of the evidence for Macro*Evolution, and the fact that the evidence, rationally interpreted does not support the overarching claims made by Macro*Evolutionists...
For scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From valkyrie_hero (Q993. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
I was born in a Christian household, I was loosely raised. Over a course of time however doubt came into my mind. I found myself challenging every religion at the age of 9. I found myself an outcast due to children teasing me and saying "you're going to hell when you die" or "I'm gonna laugh when I'm in heaven." For years I tried to find my place, not only in Christianity, but in all religions, but I found myself an outcast. I found the way of the agnostic, and it made sense to me, I had tried to lie to myself for years and say I'm Christian for years, but I had found the way that suited me best. Now I see people calling us lost, and hell-bound, but I couldn't convert to Christianity, it would be a lie to myself, it's not that its hard for me to do, it's IMPOSSIBLE for me to do. |
I empathize with you.
I too ended up leaving the faith of my early years (youth in my case)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Please be aware that there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From MarkinProvide (Q992. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
just curious |
No I am not offended by your statement.
There are aspects of Christianity (Christendom if you wish) that I do not think very highly of. The Christian God however I hold in high esteem.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Digilook (Q991. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
Why the need to prove ones belief to another? |
I join you in wishing that all human beings would get along.
Having said that, it is relevant to note that Pascal's Wager makes the point that it makes more sense (it is more rational) to live as a Christian than as an Atheist.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Kevin T (Q990. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
Is that the love of Christ? or Buddha, or Allah? |
Thank you for this reminder.
I am a Christian and I am not mad at you.
I used to be an atheist myself. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Bryan G (Q988. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Skeptic) |
like the meaning of life. they LOVE to spout off about the same BS evolution, but it takes more faith to believe that horsecrap than it does to believe in God. |
I empathize with your sense of frustration.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
You are right that it takes more faith to believe in Macro*Evolution (and Atheism in general) than in God.
Cordially,
John
| From Bob D (Q983. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:53 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Good question.
Please see below for a non-exhaustive list of peer-reviewed literature/articles supportive of Intelligent Design.
The Info below is from The Discovery Institute.
Peer-Reviewed & Peer-Edited Scientific Publications Supporting the Theory of Intelligent Design (Annotated)
By: Staff
Discovery Institute
February 22, 2006
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Editors's Note:: Critics of intelligent design often claim that design advocates don’t publish their work in appropriate scientific literature. For example, Barbara Forrest, a philosophy professor at Southeastern Louisiana University, was quoted in USA Today (March 25, 2005) that design theorists “aren’t published because they don’t have scientific data.”
Other critics have made the more specific claim that design advocates do not publish their works in peer-reviewed scientific journals—as if such journals represented the only avenue of legitimate scientific publication. In fact, scientists routinely publish their work in peer-reviewed scientific journals, in peer-reviewed scientific books, in scientific anthologies and conference proceedings (edited by their scientific peers), and in trade presses. Some of the most important and groundbreaking work in the history of science was first published not in scientific journal articles but in scientific books—including Copernicus’ De Revolutionibus, Newton’s Principia, and Darwin’s Origin of Species (the latter of which was published in a prominent British trade press and was not peer-reviewed in the modern sense of the term). In any case, the scientists who advocate the theory of intelligent design have published their work in a variety of appropriate technical venues, including peer-reviewed scientific journals, peer-reviewed scientific books (some in mainstream university presses), trade presses, peer-edited scientific anthologies, peer-edited scientific conference proceedings and peer-reviewed philosophy of science journals and books. We provide below an annotated bibliography of technical publications of various kinds that support, develop or apply the theory of intelligent design.
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Featured Articles
Meyer, S. C. DNA and the origin of life: Information, specification and explanation, in Darwinism, Design, & Public Education (Michigan State University Press, 2003), Pp. 223-285.
Meyer contends that intelligent design provides a better explanation than competing chemical evolutionary models for the origin of the information present in large bio-macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. Meyer shows that the term information as applied to DNA connotes not only improbability or complexity but also specificity of function. He then argues that neither chance nor necessity, nor the combination of the two, can explain the origin of information starting from purely physical-chemical antecedents. Instead, he argues that our knowledge of the causal powers of both natural entities and intelligent agency suggests intelligent design as the best explanation for the origin of the information necessary to build a cell in the first place.
Behe, M. J., Design in the details: The origin of biomolecular machines, in Darwinism, Design, & Public Education (Michigan State University Press, 2003), Pp. 287-302
Behe sets forth a central concept of the contemporary design argument, the notion of “irreducible complexity.” Behe argues that the phenomena of his field include systems and mechanisms that display complex, interdependent, and coordinated functions. Such intricacy, Behe argues, defies the causal power of natural selection acting on random variation, the “no end in view” mechanism of neo-Darwinism. Yet he notes that irreducible complexity is a feature of systems that are known to be designed by intelligent agents. He thus concludes that intelligent design provides a better explanation for the presence of irreducible complexity in the molecular machines of the cell.
Dembski, W.A., Reinstating design within science, in Darwinism, Design, & Public Education (Michigan State University Press, 2003), Pp. 403-418.
Dembski argues that advances in the information sciences have provided a theoretical basis for detecting the prior action of an intelligent agent. Starting from the commonsense observation that we make design inferences all the time, Dembski shows that we do so on the basis of clear criteria. He then shows how those criteria, complexity and specification, reliably indicate intelligent causation. He gives a rational reconstruction of a method by which rational agents decide between competing types of explanation, those based on chance, physical-chemical necessity, or intelligent design. Since he asserts we can detect design by reference to objective criteria, Dembski also argues for the scientific legitimacy of inferences to intelligent design.
Stephen Meyer, “The Origin of Biological Information and the Higher Taxonomic Categories” Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington 117(2004):213-239.
Meyer argues that competing materialistic models (Neo-Darwinism, Self –Organization Models, Punctuated Equilibrium and Structuralism) are not sufficient to account for origin of the information necessary to build novel animal forms present in the Cambrian Explosion. He proposes intelligent design as an alternative explanation for the origin of biological information and the higher taxa.
Lönnig, W.-E. Dynamic genomes, morphological stasis and the origin of irreducible complexity, Dynamical Genetics, Pp. 101-119. PDF(2.95MB)HTML
Biology exhibits numerous invariants -- aspects of the biological world that do not change over time. These include basic genetic processes that have persisted unchanged for more than three-and-a-half billion years and molecular mechanisms of animal ontogenesis that have been constant for more than one billion years. Such invariants, however, are difficult to square with dynamic genomes in light of conventional evolutionary theory. Indeed, Ernst Mayr regarded this as one of the great unsolved problems of biology. In this paper Dr.Wolf-Ekkehard Lönnig Senior Scientist in the Department of Molecular Plant Genetics at the Max-Planck-Institute for Plant Breeding Research employs the design-theoretic concepts of irreducible complexity (as developed by Michael Behe) and specified complexity (as developed by William Dembski) to elucidate these invariants, accounting for them in terms of an intelligent design (ID) hypothesis. Lönnig also describes a series of scientific questions that the theory of intelligent design could help elucidate, thus showing the fruitfulness of intelligent design as a guide to further scientific research.
Jonathan Wells, “Do Centrioles Generate a Polar Ejection Force?," Rivista di Biologia/Biology Forum 98 (2005): 37-62.
Most animal cells contain a pair of centrioles, tiny turbine-like organelles oriented at right angles to each other that replicate at every cell division. Yet the function and behavior of centrioles remain mysterious. Since all centrioles appear to be equally complex, there are no plausible evolutionary intermediates with which to construct phylogenies; and since centrioles contain no DNA, they have attracted relatively little attention from neo Darwinian biologists who think that DNA is the secret of life. From an intelligent design (ID) perspective, centrioles may have no evolutionary intermediates because they are irreducibly complex. And they may need no DNA because they carry another form of biological information that is independent of the genetic mutations relied upon by neo-Darwinists. In this paper, Wells assumes that centrioles are designed to function as the tiny turbines they appear to be, rather than being accidental by-products of Darwinian evolution. He then formulates a testable hypothesis about centriole function and behavior that—if corroborated by experiment could have important implications for our understanding of cell division and cancer. Wells thus makes a case for ID by showing its strong heuristic value in biology. That is, he uses the theory of intelligent design to make new discoveries in biology.
Scott Minnich and Stephen C. Meyer, “Genetic Analysis of Coordinate Flagellar and Type III Regulatory Circuits,” Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Design & Nature, Rhodes Greece, edited by M.W. Collins and C.A. Brebbia (WIT Press, 2004).
This article underwent conference peer review in order to be included in this peer-edited proceedings. Minnich and Meyer do three important things in this paper. First, they refute a popular objection to Michael Behe’s argument for the irreducible complexity of the bacterial flagellum. Second, they suggest that the Type III Secretory System present in some bacteria, rather than being an evolutionary intermediate to the bacterial flagellum, is probably represents a degenerate form of the bacterial flagellum. Finally, they argue explicitly that intelligent design is a better than the Neo-Darwinian mechanism for explaining the origin of the bacterial flagellum.
Peer-Reviewed Scientific Books Supportive of Intelligent Design Published by Trade Presses or University Presses
W.A. Dembski, The Design Inference: Eliminating Chance through Small Probabilities (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1998).
This book was published by Cambridge University Press and peer-reviewed as part of a distinguished monograph series, Cambridge Studies in Probability, Induction, and Decision Theory. The editorial board of that series includes members of the National Academy of Sciences as well as one Nobel laureate, John Harsanyi, who shared the prize in 1994 with John Nash, the protagonist in the film A Beautiful Mind. Commenting on the ideas in The Design Inference, well-known physicist and science writer Paul Davies remarks: “Dembski’s attempt to quantify design, or provide mathematical criteria for design, is extremely useful. I’m concerned that the suspicion of a hidden agenda is going to prevent that sort of work from receiving the recognition it deserves.” Quoted in L. Witham, By Design (San Francisco: Encounter Books, 2003), p. 149.
Michael Behe, Darwin’s Black Box: The Biochemical Challenge to Evolution (The Free Press, 1996).
In this book Behe develops a critique of the mechanism of natural selection and a positive case for the theory of intelligent design based upon the presence of “irreducibly complex molecular machines” and circuits inside cells. Though this book was published by The Free Press, a trade press, the publisher subjected the book to standard scientific peer-review by several prominent biochemists and biological scientists.
Charles B. Thaxton, Walter L. Bradley, Roger L. Olsen, The Mystery of Life’s Origin: Reassessing Current Theories (Philosophical Library, 1984, Lewis & Stanley, 4th ed., 1992).
In this book Thaxton, Bradley and Olsen develop a seminal critique of origin of life studies and develop a case for the theory of intelligent design based upon the information content and “low-configurational entropy” of living systems.
John Angus Campbell and Stephen C. Meyer, Darwinism, Design, & Public Education (Michigan State University Press, 2003)
This is a collection of interdisciplinary essays that addresses the scientific and educational controversy concerning the theory of intelligent design. Accordingly, it was peer-reviewed by a philosopher of science, a rhetorician of science, and a professor in the biological sciences from an Ivy League university. The book contains five scientific articles advancing the case for the theory of intelligent design, the contents of which are summarized below.
Scientific Books Supportive of Intelligent Design Published by Prominent Trade Presses
Guillermo Gonzalez and Jay W. Richards, The Privileged Planet: How Our Place in the Cosmos is Designed for Discovery (Regnery Publishing, 2004).
Gonzalez and Richards develop a novel case for the theory of intelligent design based on developments in astronomy and planetary science. They show that the conditions necessary to produce a habitable planet are extremely rare and improbable. In addition, they show that the one planet we are aware of that possesses these characteristics is also a planet that has characteristics uniquely adapted to scientific exploration, thus suggesting not simply that the earth is the recipient of the fortunate conditions necessary for life, but that it appears to be uniquely designed for scientific discovery.
William Dembski, No Free Lunch: Why Specified Complexity Cannot be Purchased without Intelligence (Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2002).
Dembski refines his scientific method of design detection, responds to critics of his previous book (The Design Inference) and shows how his method of design detection applies to the kind of molecular machines analyzed by Michael Behe in Darwin’s Black Box.
Michael Denton, Evolution: A Theory in Crisis (Adler & Adler, 1985).
Denton, an Australian molecular biologist, provides a comprehensive critique of neo- Darwinian evolutionary theory. In a penultimate chapter, entitled “The Molecular Labyrinth,” he also develops a strong positive case for the design hypothesis based on the integrated complexity of molecular biological systems. As a religiously agnostic scientist, Denton emphasizes that this case for design is based upon scientific evidence and the application of standard forms of scientific reasoning. As Denton explains, while the case for design may have religious implications, “it does not depend upon religious premises.”
Peer-Reviewed Philosophical Books Books Supportive of Intelligent Design Published by Academic University Presses
Del Ratzsch, Nature, Design, and Science: The Status of Design in Natural Science (State University of New York Press, 2001).
Michael C. Rea, World without Design : The Ontological Consequences of Naturalism (Oxford University Press, 2004).
Articles Supportive of Intelligent Design Published in Peer-Reviewed Scientific Journals
Ř. A. Voie, "Biological function and the genetic code are interdependent," Chaos, Solitons and Fractals, 2006, Vol 28(4), 1000-1004.
In this article, Norwegian scientist Řyvind Albert Voie examines an implication of Gödel’s incompleteness theorem for theories about the origin of life. Gödel’s first incompleteness theorem states that certain true statements within a formal system are unprovable from the axioms of the formal system. Voie then argues that the information processing system in the cell constitutes a kind of formal system because it “expresses both function and sign systems.” As such, by Gödel’s theorem it possesses many properties that are not deducible from the axioms which underlie the formal system, in this case, the laws of nature. He cites Michael Polanyi’s seminal essay, Life’s Irreducible Structure, in support of this claim. As Polanyi put it, “the structure of life is a set of boundary conditions that harness the laws of physics and chemistry their (the boundary condition's) structure cannot be defined in terms of the laws that they harness.” As he further explained, “As the arrangement of a printed page is extraneous to the chemistry of the printed page, so is the base sequence in a DNA molecule extraneous to the chemical forces at work in the DNA molecule.” Like Polanyi, Voie argues that the information and function of DNA and the cellular replication machinery must originate from a source that transcends physics and chemistry. In particular, since as Voie argues, “chance and necessity cannot explain sign systems, meaning, purpose, and goals,” and since “mind possesses other properties that do not have these limitations,” it is “therefore very natural that many scientists believe that life is rather a subsystem of some Mind greater than humans.”
S.C. Meyer, “The Origin of Biological Information and the Higher Taxonomic Categories,” Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington, 117(2) (2004): 213-239.
This article argues for intelligent design as an explanation for the origin of the Cambrian fauna. Not surprisingly, it created an international firestorm within the scientific community when it was published. (See Klinghoffer, The Branding of a Heretic, WALL STREET JOURNAL, Jan. 28, 2005, as well as the following website by the editor who oversaw the article’s peer-review process: http://www.rsternberg.net.) The treatment of the editor who sent Meyer’s article out for peer-review is a striking illustration of the sociological obstacles that proponents of intelligent design encounter in publishing articles that explicitly defend the theory of intelligent design.
M.J. Behe and D.W. Snoke, “Simulating Evolution by Gene Duplication of Protein Features That Require Multiple Amino Acid Residues,” Protein Science, 13 (2004): 2651-2664.
In this article, Behe and Snoke show how difficult it is for unguided evolutionary processes to take existing protein structures and add novel proteins whose interface compatibility is such that they could combine functionally with the original proteins. By demonstrating inherent limitations to unguided evolutionary processes, this work gives indirect scientific support to intelligent design and bolsters Behe’s case for intelligent design in answer to some of his critics.
W.-E. Lönnig & H. Saedler, “Chromosome Rearrangements and Transposable Elements,” Annual Review of Genetics, 36 (2002): 389-410.
This article examines the role of transposons in the abrupt origin of new species and the possibility of a partly predetermined generation of biodiversity and new species. The authors’ approach is non-Darwinian, and they cite favorably the work of design theorists Michael Behe and William Dembski.
D.K.Y. Chiu & T.H. Lui, “Integrated Use of Multiple Interdependent Patterns for Biomolecular Sequence Analysis,” International Journal of Fuzzy Systems, 4(3) (September 2002): 766-775.
The opening paragraph of this article reads: Detection of complex specified information is introduced to infer unknown underlying causes for observed patterns. By complex information, it refers to information obtained from observed pattern or patterns that are highly improbable by random chance alone. We evaluate here the complex pattern corresponding to multiple observations of statistical interdependency such that they all deviate significantly from the prior or null hypothesis. Such multiple interdependent patterns when consistently observed can be a powerful indication of common underlying causes. That is, detection of significant multiple interdependent patterns in a consistent way can lead to the discovery of possible new or hidden knowledge.”
M.J. Denton, J.C. Marshall & M. Legge, (2002) “The Protein Folds as Platonic Forms: New Support for the pre-Darwinian Conception of Evolution by Natural Law,” Journal of Theoretical Biology 219 (2002): 325-342.
This research is thoroughly non-Darwinian and teleological. It looks to laws of form embedded in nature to bring about biological structures. The intelligent design research program is broad, and design like this that’s programmed into nature falls within its ambit.
Articles Supportive of Intelligent Design Published in Peer-Reviewed Scientific Anthologies
Lönnig, W.-E. Dynamic genomes, morphological stasis and the origin of irreducible complexity, Dynamical Genetics, Pp. 101-119. In Dynamical Genetics by V. Parisi, V. de Fonzo & F. Aluffi-Pentini, eds.,(Research Signpost, 2004)
Biology exhibits numerous invariants -- aspects of the biological world that do not change over time. These include basic genetic processes that have persisted unchanged for more than three-and-a-half billion years and molecular mechanisms of animal ontogenesis that have been constant for more than one billion years. Such invariants, however, are difficult to square with dynamic genomes in light of conventional evolutionary theory. Indeed, Ernst Mayr regarded this as one of the great unsolved problems of biology. In this paper Dr.Wolf-Ekkehard Lönnig Senior Scientist in the Department of Molecular Plant Genetics at the Max-Planck-Institute for Plant Breeding Research employs the design-theoretic concepts of irreducible complexity (as developed by Michael Behe) and specified complexity (as developed by William Dembski) to elucidate these invariants, accounting for them in terms of an intelligent design (ID) hypothesis.
Granville Sewell, Postscript, in Analysis of a Finite Element Method: PDE/PROTRAN (Springer Verlag, 1985) (HTML).
In this article appearing in a 1985 technical reference book, mathematician Granville Sewell compares the complexity found in the genetic code of life to that of a computer program. He recognizes that the fundamental problem for evolution is the "problem of novelties" which raises the question "How can natural selection cause new organs to arise and guide their development through the initial stages during which they present no selective advantage"? Sewell then explains how a Darwinist will try to bridge both functional and fossil gaps between biological structures through "a long chain of tiny improvements in his imagination," but notes that "the analogy with software puts his ideas into perspective." Major changes to a species require the intelligent foresight of a programmer. Natural selection, a process which is "unable to plan beyond the next tiny mutation" could never produce the complexity of life.
Five science articles from Darwinism, Design, & Public Education, edited by John Angus Campbell and Stephen C. Meyer (Michigan State University Press, 2003) (hereinafter DDPE):
Meyer, S. C. DNA and the origin of life: Information, specification and explanation, DDPE Pp. 223-285.
Meyer contends that intelligent design provides a better explanation than competing chemical evolutionary models for the origin of the information present in large bio-macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. Meyer shows that the term information as applied to DNA connotes not only improbability or complexity but also specificity of function. He then argues that neither chance nor necessity, nor the combination of the two, can explain the origin of information starting from purely physical-chemical antecedents. Instead, he argues that our knowledge of the causal powers of both natural entities and intelligent agency suggests intelligent design as the best explanation for the origin of the information necessary to build a cell in the first place.
Behe, M. J., Design in the details: The origin of biomolecular machines. DDPE Pp. 287-302
Behe sets forth a central concept of the contemporary design argument, the notion of “irreducible complexity.” Behe argues that the phenomena of his field include systems and mechanisms that display complex, interdependent, and coordinated functions. Such intricacy, Behe argues, defies the causal power of natural selection acting on random variation, the “no end in view” mechanism of neo-Darwinism. Yet he notes that irreducible complexity is a feature of systems that are known to be designed by intelligent agents. He thus concludes that intelligent design provides a better explanation for the presence of irreducible complexity in the molecular machines of the cell.
Nelson, P. & J. Wells, Homology in biology: Problem for naturalistic science and prospect for intelligent design, DDPE, Pp. 303-322.
Paul Nelson and Jonathan Wells reexamine the phenomenon of homology, the structural identity of parts in distinct species such as the pentadactyl plan of the human hand, the wing of a bird, and the flipper of a seal, on which Darwin was willing to rest his entire argument. Nelson and Wells contend that natural selection explains some of the facts of homology but leaves important anomalies (including many so-called molecular sequence homologies) unexplained. They argue that intelligent design explains the origin of homology better than the mechanisms cited by advocates of neo-Darwinism.
Meyer, S. C., Ross, M., Nelson, P. & P. Chien, The Cambrian explosion: biology’s big bang, DDPE, Pp. 323-402.
Meyer, Ross, Nelson, and Chien show that the pattern of fossil appearance in the Cambrian period contradicts the predictions or empirical expectations of neo-Darwinian (and punctuationalist) evolutionary theory. They argue that the fossil record displays several features—a hierarchical top-down pattern of appearance, the morphological isolation of disparate body plans, and a discontinuous increase in information content—that are strongly reminiscent of the pattern of evidence found in the history of human technology. Thus, they conclude that intelligent design provides a better, more causally adequate, explanation of the origin of the novel animal forms present in the Cambrian explosion.
Dembski, W.A., Reinstating design within science, DDPE, Pp. 403-418.
Dembski argues that advances in the information sciences have provided a theoretical basis for detecting the prior action of an intelligent agent. Starting from the commonsense observation that we make design inferences all the time, Dembski shows that we do so on the basis of clear criteria. He then shows how those criteria, complexity and specification, reliably indicate intelligent causation. He gives a rational reconstruction of a method by which rational agents decide between competing types of explanation, those based on chance, physical-chemical necessity, or intelligent design. Since he asserts we can detect design by reference to objective criteria, Dembski also argues for the scientific legitimacy of inferences to intelligent design.
Peer-Edited or Editor-Reviewed Articles Supportive of Intelligent Design Published in Scientific Journals, Scientific Anthologies and Conference Proceedings
Jonathan Wells, “Do Centrioles Generate a Polar Ejection Force?," Rivista di Biologia/Biology Forum 98 (2005): 37-62.
Most animal cells contain a pair of centrioles, tiny turbine-like organelles oriented at right angles to each other that replicate at every cell division. Yet the function and behavior of centrioles remain mysterious. Since all centrioles appear to be equally complex, there are no plausible evolutionary intermediates with which to construct phylogenies; and since centrioles contain no DNA, they have attracted relatively little attention from neo Darwinian biologists who think that DNA is the secret of life. From an intelligent design (ID) perspective, centrioles may have no evolutionary intermediates because they are irreducibly complex. And they may need no DNA because they carry another form of biological information that is independent of the genetic mutations relied upon by neo-Darwinists. In this paper, Wells assumes that centrioles are designed to function as the tiny turbines they appear to be, rather than being accidental by-products of Darwinian evolution. He then formulates a testable hypothesis about centriole function and behavior that—if corroborated by experiment could have important implications for our understanding of cell division and cancer. Wells thus makes a case for ID by showing its strong heuristic value in biology. That is, he uses the theory of intelligent design to make new discoveries in biology.
Granville Sewell, "A Mathematician’s View of Evolution," The Mathematical Intelligencer, Vol 22 (4) (2000) (HTML).
Mathematician Granville Sewell explains that Michael Behe's arguments against neo-Darwinism from irreducible complexity are supported by mathematics and the quantitative sciences, especially when applied to the problem of the origin of new genetic information. Sewell notes that there are "a good many mathematicians, physicists and computer scientists who ...are appalled that Darwin's explanation for the development of life is so widely accepted in the life sciences." Sewell compares the genetic code of life to a computer program--a comparison also made by computer gurus such as Bill Gates and evolutionary biologists such as Richard Dawkins. He notes that experience teaches that software depends on many separate functionally-coordinated elements. For this reason "[m]ajor improvements to a computer program often require the addition or modification of hundreds of interdependent lines, no one of which makes any sense, or results in any improvement, when added by itself." Since individual changes to part of a genetic program typically confer no functional advantage (in isolation from many other necessary changes to other portions of the genetic code), Sewell argues, that improvements to a genetic program require the intelligent foresight of a programmer. Undirected mutation and selection will not suffice to produce the necessary information.
Four science articles from W. A. Dembski & M. Ruse, eds., DEBATING DESIGN: FROM DARWIN TO DNA (Cambridge, United Kingdom, Cambridge University Press, 2004) (hereinafter DEBATING DESIGN)
Dembksi, W.A., The logical underpinnings of intelligent design, DEBATING DESIGN, Pp.
311-330.
In this article, Dembski outlines his method of design detection. In it he proposes a rigorous way of identifying the effects of intelligent causation and distinguishing them from the effects of undirected natural causes and material mechanisms. Dembski shows how the presence of specified complexity or “complex specified information” provides a reliable marker or indicator of prior intelligent activity. He also responds to a common criticism made against his method of design detection, namely that design inferences constitute “an argument from ignorance.”
Bradley, W. L., Information, Entropy, and the Origin of Life, DEBATING DESIGN, Pp. 331-
351.
Walter Bradley is a mechanical engineer and polymer scientist. In the mid-1980's he co-authored what supporters consider a seminal critique of origin of life studies in the book The Mystery of Life’s Origins. Bradley and his co-authors also developed a case for the theory of intelligent design based upon the information content and “low-configurational entropy” of living systems. In this chapter he updates that work. He clarifies the distinction between configurational and thermal entropy, and shows why materialistic theories of chemical evolution have not explained the configurational entropy present in living systems—a feature of living systems that Bradley takes to be strong evidence of intelligent design.
Behe, M., Irreducible complexity: obstacle to Darwinian evolution, DEBATING DESIGN, Pp. 352-370.
In this essay Behe briefly explains the concept of irreducible complexity and reviews why he thinks it poses a severe problem for the Darwinian mechanism of natural selection. In addition, he responds to several criticisms of his argument for intelligent design from irreducible complexity and several misconceptions about how the theory of intelligent design applies to biochemistry. In particular he discusses several putative counterexamples that some scientists have advanced against his claim that irreducibly complex biochemical systems demonstrate intelligent design. Behe turns the table on these counterexamples, arguing that these examples actually underscore the barrier that irreducible complexity poses to Darwinian explanations, and, if anything, show the need for intelligent design.
Meyer, S. C., The Cambrian information explosion: evidence for intelligent design, DEBATING DESIGN, Pp. 371-391.
Meyer argues for design on the basis of the Cambrian explosion, the geologically sudden appearance of new animal body plans during the Cambrian period. Meyer notes that this episode in the history of life represents a dramatic and discontinuous increase in the complex specified information of the biological world. He argues that neither the Darwinian mechanism of natural selection acting on random mutations nor alternative self-organizational mechanisms are sufficient to produce such an increase in information in the time allowed by the fossil evidence. Instead, he suggests that such increases in specified complex information are invariably associated with conscious and rational activity—that is, with intelligent design.
Scott Minnich and Stephen C. Meyer, “Genetic Analysis of Coordinate Flagellar and Type III Regulatory Circuits,” Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Design & Nature, Rhodes Greece, edited by M.W. Collins and C.A. Brebbia (WIT Press, 2004).
This article underwent conference peer review in order to be included in this peer-edited proceedings. Minnich and Meyer do three important things in this paper. First, they refute a popular objection to Michael Behe’s argument for the irreducible complexity of the bacterial flagellum. Second, they suggest that the Type III Secretory System present in some bacteria, rather than being an evolutionary intermediate to the bacterial flagellum, is probably represents a degenerate form of the bacterial flagellum. Finally, they argue explicitly that intelligent design is a better than the Neo-Darwinian mechanism for explaining the origin of the bacterial flagellum.
MERE CREATION: SCIENCE, FAITH & INTELLIGENT DESIGN (William A. Dembski ed., 1998).
This book contains fifteen scientific and philosophical essays supportive of the theory of intelligent design written by Ph.D.-level scientists and philosophers. The book was edited by William Dembski, who holds two Ph.D.’s, one in mathematics from the University of Chicago, and one in philosophy from the University of Illinois.
Articles Supportive of Intelligent Design Published in Peer-Reviewed Philosophy Journals
Behe, M.J., Self-Organization and Irreducibly Complex Systems: A Reply to Shanks and Joplin, PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE 67:155-162 (March 2000)
Craig, W.L., “God, Creation, and Mr. Davies.” British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 37 (1986): 168-175
Craig, W.L., “Barrow and Tipler on the Anthropic Principle vs. Divine Design.” British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 38 (1988): 389-395.
Craig, W.L., “The Anthropic Principle.” In The History of Science and Religion in the Western Tradition: an Encyclopedia, pp. 366-368. Ed. G. B. Ferngren.
Craig, W.L., “Design and the Anthropic Fine-Tuning of the Universe.” In GOD AND DESIGN: THE TELEOLOGICAL ARGUMENT AND MODERN SCIENCE, pp. 155-177. (ed. Neil Manson. London: Routledge, 2003).
Cordially,
John
| From kiran (Q982. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
Does spirit exist? Does ghost exist?Is there any heaven or hell after death??? |
Yes God exists.
And there is a heaven (or hell) after death.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From wantsme32458 (Q981. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
|
The Christian God created us to live in daily relationship with Him (based on what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Desdemona (Q978. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
...told them I'm Wiccan and threatened to turn them into a frog? |
I am a Christian.
And you do not have the power to turn me into a frog :)
Please do consider the offer of salvation through Jesus Christ (here.)
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From pumpkin (Q976. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
A Question for Religious people? |
On the contrary...
As a Christian, I do not defend my beliefs because I know nothing else...
Rather...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From IKWYA (Q974. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
|
If it were in my power to convert you (but without any compulsion), I would.
However it is not in my power to do so.
Why would I wish to convert you?
Because I would like to be your friend for eternity, in heaven, in the presence of the Christian God.
--
I used to be an atheist. A few Christians who cared, spent the time to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with me, and then spent the time to answer endless questions (and/or point me to books and or other resources).
Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Drive (Q972. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
Why how come when some dumb religious gets sick, they pray to there "god" that they get healed? Isnt there "god" supposably the one who gave them the disease in the first place? So do they think by praying there going to sway there "gods plan" and make there mythical god who supposably is always right in what he does, change his mind and say oh maybe your right i shouldnt have given you the disease? |
Speaking as a Christian...
When I get sick, I pray to the Christian God that he would heal me if that is within his will.
The Christian God does not give me any diseases; he permits disease. And it is indeed valid for me to pray that he take away the illness if that is in his will.
Cordially,
John
| From Nour m (Q970. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
I know the truth whats your take? |
All religions have varying degrees of truth within them.
However the teachings of the prophet Isa (in the Injil) are the greatest and the clearest revelation of God.
We are to submit ourselves to God based on the teachings of the prophet Isa (as described in the Injil).
Cordially,
John
| From Amanda B (Q969. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
|
I do pray (to the Christian God).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Over the years I have had numerous prayers answered (more than a 100 at least) -- these have contributed to my confidence that the Christian God is for real.
Cordially,
John
| From ca_license_pl8t (Q968. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
Believers don't do anything to them....but they come and bash on us becuase they don't believe in God.....they say they want respect and that Christians are too pushy but why do they even come to the religion and spirituality section if they are an atheist.......must they make fun of everything that we do....they ask questions like "does anyone hate christians" or "why are christians so dumb"....why don't they just leave us alone....we want to ask the believers their opioion not theirs |
The motives vary from person to person.
Some unbelievers mock Christians because they think Christianity is stupid.
Some mock Christians because they think Christians are stupid.
Some individuals have had unpleasant experiences with individuals who called themselves Christians, and now mock Christians.
Some unbelievers have been influenced (sometimes brainwashed) by anti-Christians and so mock Christians.
I was one such individual who thought Christians are stupid.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Love of Truth (Q967. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
I once believed in such a place till I decided to follow the divine compass placed in my heart. This took a lot of strength because before then my ethos was fear based. Not only do I believe perfect love drives out all fear but I believe God is better than many fundamentalist portray the higher power to be. The Apostle Paul once killed Christians because he thought he was doing God a favor. Just goes to show how wrong you can be. I am asking this question not because I do not have my own opinions but because I think the process is important for people to work through themselves. I just hope they don't spout out something they were told but something they have discovered by not only seeing the mirror of the world but also looking deep within themselves. |
A person's punishment (in the afterlife) will be the just consequence of their life and actions on earth.
If their actions and life merits everlasting punishment, then their punishment will be eternal and everlasting.
If their actions and life merits a non-everlasting punishment, then their punishment will be non-eternal.
The Christian God is just. Any punishment that he hands out (at the judgment) will be proporational to the extent of evil and sin in a person's life.
Cordially,
John
| From IndianaZephyr (Q965. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Skeptic) |
I mean, they have the same amount of solid proof... |
On the contrary...
There is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see here. ).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q959. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
|
Jesus is God in human form.
I pray to and worship God.
Cordially,
John
| From Joa5 (Q956. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
I went to Barns & Noble today and picked up a copy of NewsMax magazine. Right there in big, bold, yellow letters it reads "The Da Vinci CON". Intrigued, I picked it up and read the article. Perhaps I read articles like these just to re-evaluate how ignorant people can be, I don't know. Either way, I still can't believe people are so blind. |
What is it about Brown's first book that convinces you that he is a Christian?
The Da Vinci Code itself appears to have many errors in its discussion of architecture, paintings and church history.
For an evaluation of the concepts presented in the Da Vinci Code, see
here.
Cordially,
John
| From Seekthetruth (Q953. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
Fellow Christians, do you believe that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone? |
In answer your question...
First we have to define three Concepts.
--
Concept #1 -- "Salvation by works" is the concept that if I do a certain number of good works then I am guaranteed entrance into heaven by God. I.e., God would owe me entrance into heaven because I have paid the price (a certain number of good works).
The Bible does not teach this kind of salvation.
--
Concept #2 -- "Salvation by head-faith" is the idea that if I intellectually believe in Jesus, then I am guaranteed entrance into heaven by God, even if my intellectual-belief results in no repentance or change in my life.
The Bible does not teach this kind of salvation.
--
Concept #3 -- "Salvation by Saving-faith" is the idea that if I truly (heart and mind) believe in Jesus, and commit my life to him, then there will be repentance and life-change and good works in my life. Given such saving-faith, I am guaranteed entrance into heaven by God.
The Bible does teach this kind of salvation.
--
When Paul (in the books of Romans, Galations, and Ephesians 2:8-9) speaks of salvation, he is teaching us that Concept #1 is false. No amount of good works that we do can make it so that God owes us entrance into heaven.
When James (in James 2:24) speaks of salvation, he is teaching us that Concept #2 is false. Mere intellectual assent to Jesus (which does not result in repentance and a change in our lives resulting in good works) will not save us.
--
So what does the Bible teach?
The Bible teaches Concept #3 (Salvation by Saving-Faith).
If I truly (heart and mind) believe in Jesus, and commit my life to him, then there will be repentance and life-change and good works in my life. Given such saving-faith, I am guaranteed entrance into heaven by God.
--
Good works by themselves will not earn us entrance to heaven.
Faith (intellectual assent) by itself will not earn us entrance to heaven.
However, Saving-Faith (which WILL result in good works) will guarantee us entrance to heaven, based on God's promise (not based on our deserving heaven).
Cordially,
John
| From Godislove (Q952. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
To all people who insist on believing that God doesn't exist, I will ask you to do the same as you ask us. |
Good question.
It is relevant to note that there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (see here.)
Cordially,
John
| From Sakeena M (Q949. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
|
Jesus is God in human form.
The term Son of God is an idiomatic phrase that was used in the New Testament to convey aspects of this truth.
Other aspects were conveyed by the terms "Son of Man" (a reference to the Messianic passages in the book of Daniel) and "Logos of God", and "Word of God".
Cordially,
John
| From K-Bone (Q947. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
(referring to religion)? |
I have all the assurance I need that the Christian God is real.
This is in part due to scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm) and in part due to experiential reasons (discussed in link below).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
Cordially,
John
| From Atheist4Choice (Q945. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
1. The virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14) |
Yes, Mary was a virgin.
The Hebrew word Almah (from the Hebrew Old Testament) was translated by Jewish Rabbis (the top Jewish Rabbis and scholars of the day) into the Greek word Parthenos in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament).
Virgin is a valid translation (based on the linguistic usage of the time and day -- as is evidenced by the fact that the translation was made by the top Jewish Scholars of the time).
The prophecy states that Jesus would be called (referred to) as Immanuel. He was and is referred to as Immanuel.
Cordially,
John
| From Chuck S (Q942. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
and Jehovah is his real name |
The Bible refers to YHWH as being the name of God. An approximate pronounciation is Yahweh, not Jehovah.
The Bible uses the name YHWH for God many many times (in the Hebrew Old Testament). Out of respect for God, this has been translated into the English as LORD (Lord spelled in all capitals), in the King James Version of the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From Skeptic Instinct (Q941. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Skeptic) |
Or has christian god made it so hard for hindus? |
If you have **never** ever sinned then you will be saved.
However the truth of the matter is there are no human beings who have not sinned.
If you would like to be saved, see below.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
You mention Hindus... It turns out that many Hindus who are sincerely seeking God are commiting their lives to Jesus Christ.
For instance..
I came across a Hindu woman who had received voice training, and loved to sing. She used to sing songs for romantic movies (in her native language). Gradually, however she felt that she was abusing her talent by singing for movies (which didnt inspire people) and she should start singing to bring people closer to God. So she started doing this, singing songs to the Hindu gods, recording audio-tapes of such songs and selling them (to help people grow in devotion to the Hindu gods). As she did this, she felt a strange sense of incompletion (something missing) in her worship of the Hindu gods. Still she continued with her singing and her devotion to the Hindu gods. And one day, a friend of hers (who knew she loved to sing devotional songs) gave her a devotional tape in her native language. When she took the tape home and started listening to it, she realized that the devotional songs were sung to a god named Yesu (Jesus). She listened to the tape, and the songs captivated her. So she started singing those songs as well, and went on to acquire more of such tapes, listened to them, sang those songs, and over a period of time, learned the gospel of Yesu (Jesus Christ) through the songs... and ultimately committed her life to Christ.
Many people from other faiths (and world-views) including Hinduism are commiting their lives to Christ. E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Kiran (Q933. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
I hope i can find some answer from u with reasons. |
Thank you for your message. Feel free to email me with any further questions.
Regarding Darwinian Evolution... I used to believe in it. However over time I have come to realize that all of the evidence for evolution is really evidence for Micro*evolution and the scientific evidence does not really support Macro*evolution (origin of completely new complex organs and completely new body plans -- allegedly by random chance with natural selection).
The scientific evidence simply does NOT support Macro*evolution.
For scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q931. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Christianity.
There is only One God. That God is the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q929. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
He has no right to put any word in the Bible. he should just write his own Bible. |
Paul was given that authority by the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Drive (Q928. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
why does it seem like everyone is a christian today? |
Not everyone I meet is a Christian.
I wonder why you think it is pathetic that people are Christians.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q927. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
|
He did not.
Cordially,
John
| From Stray_dog (Q925. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Skeptic) |
Yes! It is! Cause in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, it says, "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neitherthe sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor theives nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." Basically it says being gay is a sin, but it's not a sin to have natural instincts. Homo sexuality is just biological disorder not a Hell-worthy pass. Now I know not to believe everything the Bible says and formulate my own logical statements! I wonder what else is wrong? |
No. The Bible is not wrong.
Your lifestyle acting on urges or inclinations is your choice.
Cordially,
John
| From Dragon_dog (Q918. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
Seriously, my family have been hog farmers for centuries. |
Interesting point :)
Cordially,
John
| From LadyLove (Q917. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
okay so some think that just coz the Bible was written by humans these Words were from humans? What about the idea of the Holy Spirit REACHING OUT? And just coz other people think that the idea of religion is silly, it's enough NOT To choose to ACKNOWLEDGE His existence? And just coz there's CRIME and all that??? isn't it true that these were from the very sinful nature of Satan and human beings? And to answer the question, " WHy DO WE HAVe CRIMES and GOD CAN't SEEM TO STOP IT?" GOD GAVE MAN FREE WILL. If He is to control you to love and obey Him, that's not LOVE at all. That's opposing to the nature of a God. Coz many people say that WHY ON EARTH CAn't GOD STOP CRIMES IF HE EXISTS? Coz we were given FREE WILL to obey HIM!!! It's a CHOICE we make and it is important that we make these choices so that we will be fit for His kingdom. But He gave warnings and teachings in the Bible to let people know that all they have to do is believe in Christ, repent, and spread Good nEws. |
Enjoyed reading your question. I agree with the points you make.
Cordially,
John
| From Apostate_Rebel (Q910. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
|
TV pastors are for those who are unable to attend church in person on Sunday morning.
Even for those who attend church on Sunday, listening to a good TV pastor can be encouraging and enriching.
Cordially,
John
| From Apostate_Rebel (Q909. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
|
In general, yes... :)
Cordially,
John
| From IDspudnik (Q906. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
(Matthew 5:28-30 NLT) |
Thank you for your kind reminder.
Cordially,
John
| From Want_me_love_me (Q905. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
you either believe or you dont...who really cares...i dont...i dont believe in god or any other religion... uh oh i guess im going to hell for this question huh? =lol |
I used to not believe, but now I do believe in the Christian God (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html for my journey from Atheism to Christ).
Who really cares? I do. Many others do. And the Christian God does.
And no you will not be going to hell for this question. Please choose God, the Christian God. He created for relationship with Him (as parent-child).
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
Cordially,
John
| From LadyLove (Q902. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
To those who are challenging the existence of GOD, this is for you.? |
Good question.
Actually, I went the other way.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Also, my experience is that Atheism is a kind of Faith of its own.
Cordially,
John
| From Sandra M (Q901. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Skeptic) |
|
On the contrary, there is evidence for the existence of God.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From floatingworld2 (Q898. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
I have heard that Irenaeus circa 180 AD, contributed to the thowing out of many scriptures with equal claim to validity as the remaining 4 ,based on matters such as popularity, ease of comprehension to the multitude,o'doxy ...the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Truth, the Gospel of Thomas, all thrown out , not because of some divine inspiration given the early church leaders, but for reasons of political expedience and to reduce the intellectual effort required to become a Christian, until the doctrine was formed into the off-the-shelf-automatic salvation shallows that now stands - that we merely have to accept Jesus on faith and we r saved...the fact that many of these early scriptures believed that the Christ indwelling in every man was more important than the historical jesus, who was regarded as a temporary vehicle only for the Christ, which was eventually supposed to be obtainable by every LIVING human. Also Athansaius has been mentioned as the chief censor of early scripture. |
The New Testament gospels were accepted by the early Christian Church because they were written by eyewitneses of Jesus Christ (direct disciples/apostles) and/or were authenticated by eyewitnesses of Jesus Christ.
Later writings which were not written by direct disciples/apostles of Christ and were not authenticated by such disciples/apostles were rejected from the Canon.
For articles dealing with these and other topics (relevant to claims from the Da Vinci Code), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/dvc/ (the articles/video segments are addressing points brought up by the Da Vinci Code, but are relevant to your question above as well).
Cordially,
John
| From lip11 (Q897. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
If you are a good christian, you will live an eternity with Jesus in paradise? Then why would you support pro-environmental policies? I mean, if you didn't know it was a plastic tree, would it make a difference? |
I am a Christian and I support the environment because God created the Environment and it is beautiful, and because the Christian God calls us to be Stewards of his creation.
Cordially,
John
| From Sud (Q896. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Christians share their faith because they do this in obedience to the command of Jesus Christ (to share his love, and to share the gospel with others).
Why do Christians share their Faith? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/sharegospel.html
Cordially,
John
| From Norman (Q895. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Nope, it was the disciple John. Young men were presented in effeminate manners in several paintings from that period.
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/dvc/ for an evaluation of this claim and the other claims of the Da Vinci Code.
Cordially,
John
| From rsn_hes_upallnite (Q892. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
Has anyone else come to this same conclusion? |
Read your question with interest and some level of curiosity.
I'm a Christian, and am interested in what specific features of Christians (or Christianity) leads you to the conclusion you mention above.
Cordially,
John
| From huntjames32 (Q890. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Christian God encourages us to think for ourselves.
For instance, the Christian God has provided us with scientific and intellectual evidence relevant to His existence (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html )
We are not called to just believe in God by blind irrational faith. Rather we are encouraged to think and to be rational as we seek the Christian God.
It was through such a process of thinking through the evidence that I gradually moved away from Atheism and towards Theism (and ultimately Christian Theism) (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
Cordially,
John
| From sayno2worries (Q889. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
I have heard people state Catholics are not Christian this seems strange to me as Prods and Taigues both seem to believe very similar things; that JC was divine and the Son of God who came to earth and gave up his life to save you from your sins. Many protestants I know rely on the Bible, but that bible is a translation, of a translation of the Vulgate, a latin Catholic Bible. I can understand prods not liking the papacy for obvious reasons of history but then there are some very dubious protestant leaders, like $$$ obsessed televangelists., and Prince Charles, who will one day be head of the Anglicans. I know Catholicism is highly ritualised, the famous, bells and smells but then there are some weird rituals for Prods too, like those serpent handlers. |
Thank you for your post.
I am a Christian (a Protestant), and I do not hate Catholics.
I recognize that many Catholics are committed Christians.
Cordially,
John
| From Drive (Q888. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
My vote is yes |
Thank you for your question.
I am a Christian, and I am not sure what you mean by "Christians are pathetic".
I would not be surprised if some Christians are pathetic (in whatever sense you mean), but I would not be surprised if that is also the case with individuals from any other world-view we come across in this world...
Cordially,
John
| From Sabina_Rois (Q887. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
When I was a child I was a Christian. |
Actually I went the other way...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ ( http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Hillbillies (Q886. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
If you don't pay tithes do you go to hell? |
The Bible does not teach that you will go to hell if you dont pay tithes.
Salvation is by the Grace of God not by works we do. However true saving Faith will result in good works.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Hillbillies (Q884. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
Being God, I assume the penguin would have the omnipotence to become pregnant if it wanted to. |
In what sense would a pregnant penguin with a mohawk be God?
Or alternately, why would the God of the universe choose to manifest himself as a pregnant penguin with a mohawk?
Your post suggests that you might be skeptical regarding the existence of God.
Please be aware that there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From musical k (Q883. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
And I just don't mean something you can see happening in front of you that is possible. I mean really far-fetched and extreme. |
Regarding miracles...
1. It is rational to believe that God exists (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God).
2. If God exits, he can perform miracles.
3. Given that it is rational to believe that God exists, it is therefore rational to believe that miracles are possible.
4. I choose to be consistent and rational in my world-view and in my beliefs. Therefore I believe that miracles are possible.
Cordially,
John
| From Drive (Q882. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Skeptic) |
Wheel of Fortune. Todays puzzle is Three Words |
Enjoyed your post :)
Please consider the following though...
1. If Christians are Retarded then they should not be able to figure your puzzle out.
2. I figured your puzzle out. Therefore I am not retarded.
3. I am a Christian and I am not retarded (see point 2 above).
4. Therefore Christians are not retarded.
Wishing you Joy through Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From arsenic (Q880. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
Free range lions. |
Commit your life to Jesus Christ. Then you wont have to fight the Christian menace any more... :)
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe (through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Blessy_Sammy (Q877. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Not really...
Cordially,
John
| From alwaysbettathanyou (Q876. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
How was the movie? Or was the book better? Do you think its allright to make a profit out of religious beliefs? Like for example { The Passion} Directed by Mel Gibson. It made millions. |
I read the book; havent seen the movie.
I confess that I wasnt particularly impressed with the book (too gimmicky, kind of shallow, not much depth -- and the claims in the book do not make sense to anyone who knows anything about the history of early Christianity -- e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/dvc/ for a discussion of the claims in the book).
Cordially,
John
| From LadyRebecca (Q875. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
Assume a person has been a "non believer" all their life. When they ....reach old age and know that they are on the verge of death, some elderly people turn to religion as they know that they are in their final days and start to get a little bit scared. |
If the person is sincere when they commit their life to Christ, the person is saved. Assuming that they understand and accept the gospel (see below)...
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Manchiller (Q873. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Thank you for your question.
To the extent that it is possible for me to know anything, I know that the Christian God exists and that I am in a father-child relationship with Him.
See below for some reasons why I can be reasonably and rationally certain of the truth of the Christian God.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Wanda D (Q871. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
The people that know more about life dont believe in god. Why? Biologist had the lowest percentage of believers(5%) They know more about the human body than anyone. So they have a better chance of being right. Dont you think? How could theist claim to know more than these people? It feels good to be an atheist knowing this. I share a disbelief with the smartest people on earth. Who believes that god exist? The dumbist people on earth. Study shows that countries with a lowest literacy rate have the highest percentages of theists. Why? |
My experience is that scientists in general have the same amount of faith (or non-faith) as the population at large.
Having said that, the degree to which some scientists dont believe in God does not make their belief or non-belief truth...
To me, what is more important (than the numbers) is the reasons that people (including scientists) give for their belief, or non-belief.
You mention that the people who believe that god exists are the dumbest people on earth...
In response... If you read the information in the links I provide below, and then still think that I am one of the dumbest people on earth (because I am a Christian theist), then please let me know, and I will accept your judgment, with humility.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For information regarding scientists who believe in God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/scientist.html
Cordially,
John
| From Pervy_Pirate (Q867. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Spirit of the Lord does not force a person to do something that is contrary to the core of their being.
Samson was a soldier who fought for his people against the Philistines who were at war against the Israelites.
Cordially,
John
| From Shehab A (Q864. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
i noticed that muslims do not change their religion but soooome christian people become muslim..?!?! |
On the contrary my friend.
Many Muslims are committing their lives to Christ (but have to do so in secret because a Muslim who becomes a Christian is under an automatic death sentence according to Muslim Sharia Law).
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html and links therein for examples of Muslims coming to Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From Chazerai (Q863. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
According to Christian teachings Jesus was bodily restored the Sunday following his execution by the Romans. |
In answer to your questions.
1. Jesus was circumcised.
2. On the third day after he died and was buried, he rose from the grave (this is called the Resurrection).
3. He was alive on earth for 40 days after that, and was seen alive by as much as 500 people. He then ascended into heaven.
4. What happened to the body of Jesus? Ascended to heaven. Did not stay in the grave. The atoms and molecules of Jesus' Resurrected body stayed in his Resurrected body as he ascended up to heaven (which I think is in another dimension than our physical 3 dimensions/1 time dimension).
5. Yes there is a distinction between body and spirit.
Cordially,
John
| From Drive (Q861. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
At least i have class. |
I empathize with you...
Please be aware however that not all Christians are Christians because they are weak (and so need a crutch etc)... There are weak and strong people in all faiths (including Atheism).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Gibby (Q855. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
I'm an atheist and I'm also a very moral person. I think being atheist gives you an even higher morality. |
My experience is that Atheism does not provide us with a universal moral code.
And, I have come across several Atheists who have admitted that one reason why they have rejected the existence of God is so that they can feel sexually liberated (to not feel the need to be celibate until marriage, and then to marry one person and be faithful to that person for life).
I agree that (in principle) there can be individual Atheists who choose to be moral. However their morality is not a logical consequence of Atheism (but rather is a result of values that have come to them from outside of Atheism).
For a relevant discussion, see
http://www.leaderu.com/offices/billcraig.html
(The Indispensability of Theological Meta-Ethical Foundations for Morality: Theism and naturalism are contrasted with respect to furnishing an adequate foundation for the moral life. It is shown that on a theistic worldview an adequate foundation exists for the affirmation of objective moral values, moral duties, and moral accountability. By contrast, naturalism fails in all three respects. Insofar as we believe that moral values and duties do exist, we therefore have good grounds for believing that God exists. Moreover, a practical argument for believing in God is offered on the basis of moral accountability. )
-----
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Light (Q852. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Did somebody here lose someone with an s name like sally shelly or stacy? Its an older female. Ok, they wanted me to tell you that she comes around you in the hallway that when you smell perfume its her presence there you know she liked to go shopping and buy perfume at Macy's she's telling me Macy's was her favorite store she also comes around what is this ring did she give you a ring before she died she passed that on to you she's telling me to remember the ring |
I'm as skeptical of this (kind of stuff) as you are... :)
Cordially,
John
| From phallacide (Q850. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
or how long ago was man created? |
The Bible does not tell us how long people have been on earth. It is open to the concept that true humans (homo sapiens sapiens) have been around for on the order of 100,000 years.
Cordially,
John
| From I am Serious (Q849. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Clearly the Bible's God approved of slavery...do you?? |
The Bible does not condone Abraham's relationship with his wife's maidservant Hagar. It just records it as a fact.
Abraham's doing this (at the suggstion of his wife Sarah and with the permission of Hagar) was consistent with the practices of the time and the culture that he lived in ~2000 BC.
Regarding slavery -- the New Testament (which is the Christian's primary source of doctrine) sets and example for us in the book of Philemon -- where a slave-owner is the apostle Paul to take back a slave as a brother rather than as a slave.
It was based on this example that Christians started the Abolitionist movement (the anti-slavery movement) and were successful in stopping much of the slave trade around the world.
Cordially,
John
| From truth_seeker (Q848. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Your personal opinion...not tainted with religion. |
My closest response is 7 (though not a complete response).
I believe in the Christian God.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Pervy_Pirate (Q847. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
In response to your question:
1. Samson was not a terrorist.
2. He did tend towards all-muscle no-brains at times (e.g., his relationship with Delilah).
Cordially,
John
| From Angie (Q846. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
As a Christian, I think it's extremely important to do your research. After all, the Bible does state, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, MIND and strength." Sounds to me like the unbelievers haven't done THEIR research. Can I get a witness? :-) |
Very well said... I agree with you :)
There is evidence that Christianity is rational and reasonable. There is evidence for the existence of God and for the truth of Jesus Christ (see below).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From I am Serious (Q845. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Can it be proven? How? Why do so many people quote scripture when it's clear there are so many flaws in it? Do we have to interpret it according to what's more convenient to us? It's like: "Since God approves of slavery (GENESIS and Liviticus) slavery is lawful" or "Since Lot had sex with his daughters, incest is lawful", or stuff like that (remember Ezekiel 25:17?) |
It is true that we do not typically see people living to 800 years of age now-a-days.
However, scientifically, research on ageing indicates that in principle, people could live for much longer than they do today.
Factors which accelerate aging include (a) high protein diets, (b) high cholesterol diets, (c) high sugar and processed food diets, (d) sedentary lifestyles, (e) over-eating leading to obesity, (f) alcohol consumption and abuse, (g) buildup of toxins in our systems -- some of which arise from pesticides, herbicides, preservatives in our foods, (i) exposure to free radicals, and diets which do not minimize free radicals in our systems, (j) exposure to ultraviolet radiation, (k) exposure to cosmic rays, (l) high stress lifestyles, (m) high "wanting/needing" lifestyles without contentment, (n) reduced family relationships, (o) reduced focus on the spiritual and on relationship with the God of the universe.
The majority of these factors were minimized in the lifestyles of the Biblical Patriarchs -- healthier non-sedentary lifestyles with lower stress and marketing-induced artificial-wants/needs; low toxins; natural foods.
Furthermore, I recall reading an article/synopsis by the astronomer Dr. Hugh Ross which indicated that a supernova went off in the general vicinity of the solar system (close enough for cosmic rays from the supernova to come to earth) within the time-frame after the Biblical patriarchs. This would have caused a significant increase in the cosmic ray density that humans are exposed to. Such an increase in cosmic rays would result in increased damage to our cells, resulting in a reduced life-span.
Given these factors, it is indeed possible that the Biblical patriarchs lived for much longer than we currently do.
--
Regarding slavery -- the New Testament (which is the Christian's primary source of doctrine) sets an example for us in the book of Philemon -- where a slave-owner is the apostle Paul to take back a slave as a brother rather than as a slave.
It was based on this example that Christians started the Abolitionist movement (the anti-slavery movement) and were successful in stopping much of the slave trade around the world.
--
Regarding Lot and his daughters.... the Bible does not condone such incest. It just presents the Lot and daughter event as a historical event that happened.
In fact, the Bible explicitly condemns incest (in the Leviticus laws).
Cordially,
John
| From Flight&Fight (Q844. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
I do Zen :) I just like to pizz off the religous right! |
The bottom-line is that that is up to you.
Individuals who hear the Christian gospel will be held accountable for their lives, and for their response to the gospel. If they commit their lives to Christ (with sincere repentance) they are saved and will make it to heaven. If they do not commit their lives to Christ, they will end up in the negative-afterlife.
Individuals who never hear the Christian gospel, will be judged based on their response to the light they were provided. If any individual sincerely seeks the GOd of the universe, with humility and perseverance, the Christian God will reveal himself to the person. If the person commits their life to the Christian God (with sincere repentance, even if they do not know the details of the Christian gospel) they are saved and will make it to heaven. If they do not commit their lives to the Christian God, they will end up in the negative-afterlife.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From EarthAngel (Q843. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
why do you adore him apart from biblical injunctions to do so? |
On the contrary my friend... God does exist.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Love is the principle thi (Q841. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Why does the so called "true" religion keep evolving, Why is God changing his mind/expectations of man? |
True Christianity has not changed in its foundational doctrines/teachings since the time of Christ.
However, as cultures and languages change with time, the the local cultural practices of Christians (and the local churches) change to be relevant to the local cultures.
Cordially,
John
| From Choices (Q840. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I am a Christian, and I do not hate eiter gays or atheists.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From lowonbrain (Q839. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The cause of such evils (as you mention above) is human sinfulness in conjunction with human free-will choices.
Cordially,
John
| From fatasscartmans (Q836. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
I am so sick of the way you whine about everything that doesn't correspond to your way of thinking. It's not my fault that you hate sex or can't find anyone to have it with you. This is the Internet, free speech reigns. Grow up and accept it. Your mommy isn't here to protect you from mere words. |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint :)
And thank you for reminding us that free speech reigns.
I now invoke my right of free speech to invite you to come into relationship with the God of the universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From blindguardian (Q835. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
What makes you better than any other? |
You ask -- what makes you better than any other...
My response -- I am not better than any one else.
I am a sinner (who was and is inclined towards self-centeredness) who is saved by the Grace of Jesus Christ. My salvation is a free gift from God, based on what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross.
Do I think I am right (in being a Christian)? The answer is yes...
Why?
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Adkit (Q834. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
Even say, 2000 years from now when we surely must have gotten smart enough to take in science as our new "belief"? |
Yes, we will always have religion (even 2000 years from now, assuming humans are still around then).
The reason for this is that there is evidence for the existence of God. E.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From abram.kelly (Q830. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
I'm confused. My understanding of the Bible is that Matthew 1:23 is supposed to be quoting from Isaiah 7:14. However, the word used by Matthew is definitely "virgin", whereas the word used by Isaiah very clearly is not. Whenever a virgin is referred to in Scripture, the Hebrew "betulah" is used. |
Good question...
The word Almah can mean both young woman and virgin.
"Virgin" is a valid translation of the word Almah.
For instance, the Jewish Rabbis and Scholars/ Linguists who translated the Hebrew Tanach (Old Testament) into Greek (to form the Septuagint) many years before the Birth of Christ -- they translate the word Almah in Isiah 7:14 into the Greek word "Parthenos" which means Virgin.
When Matthew 1:23 uses the word Virgin, Matthew is using the same language/usage as the Jewish Rabbis who translated the Hebrew Tanach into the Greek Septuagint.
And Matthew's Jewish readers would have been familiar with that usage.
--
In Galatians, Paul is referring to the Humanity of Jesus Christ (hence the reference to "born of a woman")... he is emphasizing the humanity of Christ (rather than making a point regarding the Virgin birth).
--
In Romans, Paul is again referring to the humanity of Christ (hence the use of the phrase 'according to the flesh'). I.e., the phrase "according to the flesh" is not referring to a natural conception (that is not what Paul is addressing in this passage)...
--
"Seed of David" is an idiomatic phrase referring to "descendant of David"... In the Semitic cultures, an adopted son would be legally considered to be a descendant of the family line/ blood line. Joseph accepted Jesus and brought him up as his son (in that sense adopting him). And so the bloodline of Joseph would be considered as being legally applicable to Jesus.
Also, I have heard (need to check this) that following the ancestry of Mary (the mother of Jesus) also takes us up to King David. So ultimately, following the blood-line upward from Mary, would also show Jesus as being "of the seed of David".
Cordially,
John
| From turntable (Q829. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
I think its because at some point in your life you ran into a Christian and had a bad experience. Or you used to be a Christian and got disappointed. Either way it seems childish. I have been a Christian my entire life and have never pushed my faith on anyone. The only time I talk about it if someones asks me about it. Why do people who hates Christians hold on to so much bitterness? |
Well said...
Cordially,
John
| From sanstheism (Q827. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
He keeps putting a new experation sticker over the old one but can't seem to get rid of it. |
Religion could very well be as you describe above.
I'm not so much into religion as into relationship with the God of the Universe (through what Jesus Christ did on the cross for us).
The Christian God promises us that if we seek him with sincerity, humility and perseverance, we can come to know him. I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
Cordially,
John
| From floatingworld2 (Q822. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Skeptic) |
All the time I hear of 'Xians' speak of talking to God, being saved from drugs, seeing angels etc etc, but why do they then think this vindicates the Church's doctrines? |
Good question.
In Christianity, Doctrine provides the context and the interpretive framework within which to understand private spiritual experience.
As a Christian, I accept the concept that miracles can occur both within the context of Christianity as well as outside the context of Christianity (because there is indeed a supernatural realm which can be interacted with either inside or outside of Christianity).
The reason why I have come to believe that Christianity is true is the following...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Ultimately, the truth of Christianity is confirmed to me by the combination of intellectual as well as personal spiritual evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From gomerkyle9 (Q819. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
There are many different religions followed by many people... Would the real god, if there is one, really deny passage to those who don't believe in that religion? What if the religion you know is the only one you've ever known and it's not the "right" one? |
Good question.
You ask -- how do you know your religion is the true religion... The response is really several pages long (see below)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
And... For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And... For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
As a Christian, I view all religions as having elements of truth in them. However, I have come to recognize that Jesus Christ is the clearest (and the most correct) revelation of God. I.e., the teachings of Jesus Christ (and the person of Jesus Christ) provide the best revelation/ understanding of God (of any worldview or religion).
Cordially,
John
| From jayslug (Q818. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
I think most churches would go out of business. |
Some would. And others would not.
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q816. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
are there any christian who don't believe that God is three. and God is actually One. |
I am a Christian, and I believe that there is only ONE God.
This one God, manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestation... for the purpose of the redemption of human beings.
Cordially,
John
| From My 2 Cents (Q813. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
|
As an Evangelical Christian, I do not try to impose my faith on others.
However, I do invite people to freely choose to come into relationship with the God of the universe (based on what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross).
Why do Christians share their Faith? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/sharegospel.html
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From curious_chemical (Q808. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Religions maybe...
But Jesus Christ, no... He will never be universally considered to be a Mere Myth.
And the existence of God will never be universally considered to be a Myth (by all intelligent and rational people).
This is because there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God. E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Blondie (Q804. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Skeptic) |
We see so much disregard for other's now days, especially when it comes to religon. There are even some extreme hardcore Religous people, who may be even borderline fanatical to the point that they actually "HATE" someone or a particular group of People for not practicing or believeing in the same faith as them. |
I think the origin of Hate is human sinfulness rather than religion.
If we were to eliminate all religions, humans would find some other reasons to hate one another.
In this context, it is relevant to note that Atheist Governments have killed more people in the 20th century than all religions or religious wars of the past or present. It is estimated that 70 million - 100 million people were killed by Atheist governments (i.e., governments which held Atheism as their metaphysical ideology) in the 20th century.
I would venture to state that Religions will never be elimiated (as long as there are human beings on earth). Religions exist because there is something within each of us which draws us to the supernatural, and to God.
I have felt this draw... and the draw was powerful enough to influence me away from Atheism and ultimately to the Christian God. E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Jordan (Q800. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
Considering that it's kind of a nasty place. |
Nope... The Christian God is a Perfect Being.
He chose to create a world where creatures could exercise free-will, and where good and evil could be present to provide an environment where character and integrity could be developed.
These (above) result in pain and suffering on earth.
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
Cordially,
John
| From beenthere (Q799. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
Wisdom Shouts in the Streets, once we begin to understand the knowledge of wisdom, what are the ways you use this in your walk with God. |
Wisdom led me to God (from Atheism, and to Christ; e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... )
And wisdom keeps me from paths that would lead me away from God (cf: Psalm 1). And wisdom keeps me growing closer to the Christian God (enabling me to make decisions that are pleasing to God).
Cordially,
John
| From TheresNoGod (Q793. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
... by whatever they hear? Basically, the three B's. |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint in the question above.
My experience is that there are intelligent Christians (who are not brainwashed, brainless and bated) around... :)
For examples, see http://www.reasons.org, http://www.GodAndScience.org and http://www.GodSci.org
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
If after reading my life-story (link above), you feel that I am brainwashed and brainless, please do email me. I would love to dialog with you regarding the existence of God. E.g., For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From TheresNoGod (Q790. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
I was walking down the street and a christian came up to me randomly and asked me if i was a christian and i said no and he said why not and i told him f off. Was that rude? Lets all discuss right now if that was rude on my behalf or on the behalf of the person who was obsessed with what religion i am |
If you thought the Christian (above) was rude, I apologize to you on his behalf. If he thought you were rude to him, I would encourage him to not let his chagrin keep him from sharing Christ with others.
I am a Christian, and I invite you to come into relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus Christ did for you and for me on the cross). For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.htm...
I have nothing to gain by your accepting or rejecting my invitation. I invite you to come to Christ, purely out of obedience to Jesus Christ (and I would also like to see you in heaven one day)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From kickysoccer (Q788. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Not at all :)
The claims of the book are not substantiated by any credible historical evidence....
Cordially,
John
| From DarkMan (Q786. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
Do you think Christians will become Jews, Muslims or Pagans in case somehow, someday, a real evidence that Jesus was a mortal prophit appeared and the lies of the Church got exposed? |
There is no credible historical evidence to substantiate the DVC's claims about Jesus. I conclude that the DVC is false.
In response to your question above, if Jesus turned out to be married, that does not invalidate Christianity in any way (so Christians can continue to be Christians).
Cordially,
John
| From MRose (Q784. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Skeptic) |
it seems like everyone jumps in with "christ said this" and they have such strong stands against homosexuality and promiscuity, birth control, so on and so forth. but they dont even read, or truely understand, the book that they live by. i feel like most ppl only believe it because theyre told. |
In response to your question above, I am an Evangelical Christian, and I have read the Bible.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
During the time when I was considering Christianity (in particular), I read the entire Bible... and have read the Bible several times since commiting my life to Christ.
During the period of my spiritual search, I also read the Quran, the Bhagavad Gita, the book of Mormon (as well as writings from other religions).
Cordially,
John
| From cooley_54 (Q762. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:10 am. Skeptic) |
|
I am not sure why anyone would lie about whether they believe in heaven... What motivation would they have to lie?
I believe in heaven.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From mageapprentice (Q761. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:10 am. Skeptic) |
worshipping as they please? The only reason people are allowed to worship as they please is because the founding fathers realized that if the government got into the business of religion, this country would descend into anarchy and non-stop religious wars. |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint.
Enjoyed reading your post. :)
Cordially,
John
| From mini (Q759. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
I was raised Christian, but lately, I've grown afraid of them. I listen on TV and they seem rabid, spew hatred and look crazed or dazed. Is It me or Them? I would like to continue the religion, but they scare me to death. |
Please be aware that the mainstream media in general appear to be biased against Christianity.
As a result, they seem to tend to broadcast examples of statements by people who may call themselves Christian but who are not necessarily really following the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The more extreme a sect (or cult) which claims themselves to be Christian, the more likely (it seems) the media is to broadcast statements by them.
Also, it is relevant to note that God is interested in a personal relationship with each of us (as his children), based on what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross. It really does not matter whether we have been raised Christian (culturally) or not...
If you have not committed your life to Jesus Christ, please do consider doing so... For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q758. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
Read the 10 commendments: |
I am a Christian. I do not worship statues (and neither does the Christian church that I attend).
There is only One True God, and He is the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Lucid (Q757. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
And i see people who lost someone close to them by they got murdered or whatever, there crying and throwing them self on the floor and screaming going crazy and everything and then i think, if they believe in an after life and that they'll see them again, why are they acting so hostile and out of control as if they'll never see them again? Isn't a few years on earth without them nothing compared to the supposed eternity they think they will see them in the "after life"? So why are they so out of control? |
A truly committed Christian does not feel the extent of hopelessness and grief (at losing a loved one) that those who are not truly committed Christians experience.
I have known many committed Christians who have been comforted by the knowledge that they will see their loved ones again in the presence of the Christian God (assuming that their loved ones had committed their lives to Christ, as per http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html for instance).
Cordially,
John
| From wleef2002 (Q753. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
People of "faith" often say that we humans are despicable, and we're always sinning. But if God hates sin so much, and if we humans just can't keep from doing it, then why is it that God even cares for us at all, much less "loves" us? |
Humans are of infinite worth in the sight of God. They are of enough worth (in the eyes of God) for God to come down in the form of Jesus Christ and to suffer on the cross to enable reconciliation between human beings and God.
God created us with free will. We exercise this free will, sometimes for good and sometimes for evil.
God created our universe and us for a specific purpose, e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
God's purpose is to grow us into the kind of beings who will be a joy to be with (and fellowship with) for eternity.
He cares for us because he sees this potential in us (to be his Children for eternity; i.e., to grow into becoming the kind of creatures who will be a joy to be with and to fellowship with for eternity.
Cordially,
John
| From Chris C (Q750. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
|
Not intentionally so...
Possibly by random chance on one flight or the other.
Cordially,
John
| From EarthAngel (Q749. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
rapidly followed by the intellectuals. Soon, artists come into the firing line.? |
The same thing has happened (historically) when Atheists have taken over a country...
I.e., we have seen this systematically done when Communist Atheists have taken over various nations...
Cordially,
John
| From pacificwaves8 (Q744. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
|
There should be a balance in all things.
It is ok to be curious about things like Armageddon (and to study what the Bible says on this topic), but it is also possible to become obsessed with such future events (to the extent that we do not focus on being good stewards of the talents that God has provided us, as Christians, to serve in his Kingdom on earth).
Cordially,
John
| From frostbitten (Q743. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
Should everyone read the entire bible before deciding if they believe it or not? I have no answer of my own, I just wonder what people think? |
I would say no.
Before I came to the conclusion that the Christian God is for real, I had not read the Bible from cover to cover. I had read portions of the Bible.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
A relevant question is "In what Order should I read the Bible?" For a recommended order, see, http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/readbible.html
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q742. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
following a religion is a big choice in life. probably a bigger choice then choosing who will run your country. religion is choosing how you think how and why we are here. it's choosing how you will run your own life. it's choosing on who or what is the Boss of the universe. |
Should religions have age-restrictions?
My answer is no.
Parents are ultimately responsible for their children (not governments). It should be up to the parents regarding how to bring up their children and whether to bring up their children in a particular faith (whether that be Atheism, or any form of Theism).
My dad was an Atheist. He used this freedom (mentioned above) to influence me to Atheism.
Later on, as an independent adult, however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
Cordially,
John
| From too_many_xians_so_few_lio (Q741. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Skeptic) |
|
My response to this question would depend on how different Satan was (compared to what the Bible presents him as).
Having said that --- I have had enough experience with the Christian God and the Christian Bible to recognize that the odds are extremely low that the Bible is wrong about Satan...
Cordially,
John
| From gaarakazekage (Q740. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
I think so. i want to know if there is anyone else out there that thinks the same. |
I am a Christian, and I would not try to burn people's books.
I have read the writings of many atheists (without buring their books) and have the scriptures of the major world religions at my home (and have read them without buring them).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (cf: http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
And I did not burn any of my past atheist books after commiting my life to Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From wtfh4xlol111 (Q739. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
I know some people like the Bible's version of the creation of man, and others support the idea that we evolved from a common ancestor with apes. But don't you think the scientific community's ideas on where humans came from is more interesting? |
I think both stories are interesting.
Through the years, I have been open to either story being the right one.
However as I looked at the evidence through the years, I have come to the conclusion that both sides are wrong (i.e., the Traditional Creationists -- 6000 year old earth etc are wrong; and the Atheistic Evolutionists -- are also wrong).
The best fit to the evidence I find is something called Old-Earth Creationism.
For more detail regarding Old Earth Creationism, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/crea/oec.html
Ultimately, I am interested in Truth (i.e., which version is True), and the best fit to the evidence points to The Middle Path (old-earth creationism) being true rather than the Right (young-earth creationism) or the Left (atheistic evolutionism).
Cordially,
John
| From hpotter4ever2000 (Q737. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
I'm trying not to offend anybody, but it does seem to me that some Christians take the bible a little to literal; to the point that it seems that they worship the Bible. (Meaning if it's not in the bible, then it's not true) I would just like to hear some opinions about this statement. Please... no offensive remarks and if you mention others beliefs, please do it with respect. Also, no bible quotes, they just usually take up space and I don't want you to use the Bible as your source of proof, I want to hear from you. |
Good question :)
In response...
I am a Christian, and I do not worship the Bible.
I use the Bible as a text to learn more about the Christian God and how to grow closer to Him.
Cordially,
John
| From Lucid (Q736. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
Is there a reason why you are ignoring facts in order for to believe in your myths? |
I confess that I was amused by your implied insult (ReTards; ReligiousTards)... :)
I do not mean that statement to be patronising in any way.
Please note that I am NOT a Creationist (in the traditional sense; 6000 year earth etc).
However, I do NOT believe in Macro*Evolution either.
From a Scientific and Intellectual viewpoint, there is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From TLCNJ19 (Q726. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
"If you love someone, you don't want them to suffer.You want to take their sufferings on yourself. If even I feel this way, why doesn't God?" - T.S. Elliot |
When Jesus suffered on the cross, He took upon himself the suffering we deserve (for our rebellion against God, for the evil we do, for the people we hurt by your actions or by our inaction).
Anyone who repents and commits their life to God (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross) will be spared any suffering in Eternity.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From ddmovies (Q725. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
|
There were only four that were written by and/or authenticated by the immediate disciples of Jesus Christ.
The Gospel of Matthew -- was written by Matthew, an immediate disciple of Jesus Christ.
The Gospel of Mark -- was a compilation of the teachings of Simon Peter (an immediate disciple of Jesus Christ), written down by Mark (a disciple of Peter). These writings were authenticated by the disciple Peter as being authentic.
The Gospel of Luke -- was based on eye-witness testimonies compiled by Luke, a physician and co-traveller with the apostle Paul. The writings of the Apostle Paul are authenticated by the Disciple Peter, and the writings of Luke are authenticated by the Apostle Paul.
The Gospel of John -- was written by John, an immediate disciple of Jesus Christ.
For overviews of the various books of the Bible, including the gospels mentioned above, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q721. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Skeptic) |
The bishops (wealthy land-owners) at the Council of Nicea sorted through hundreds of gospels and magically decided which ones were truly the word of God to be put in the Bible and which ones weren't. Do you really trust these people to be gatekeepers for the Word of God knowing that Satan could also deceive men at that time? |
On the contrary my friend...
The Council of Nicea did not determine what books went into the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From smittyj20 (Q718. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
Ever heard of the seperation of church and state? Why must Christians feel the need to inflict the view of creationism on the public school system? A system which embraces numerous races and beliefs? |
I am a Christian, and recognize very well that the world does not revolve around Christianity.
Having said that, the world continues to revolve due to the kindness and grace of the Christian God.
There is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Re Creationism, I am not a traditional Creationist (in the sense of 6000 year old earth etc). I am an Old-earth Creationist (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/crea/oec.html )
I do not believe that either Creationism (in the 6000 year sense) OR Macro*Evolutionism (which is an Atheist faith) should be taught dogmatically in the schools (using my taxes).
Re Macro*Evolutionism, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html (for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution).
Re the DVC -- I am not fearful of it. That book does not threaten my faith.
Christianity at large is NOT threatened by enlightenment.
On the contrary, it is by the light of Christ that we are able to see (to paraphrase C.S. Lewis rather loosely).
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q717. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
How did we get from the thousands of written Gospels to the few we have now? Details please. |
Answering your question, focusing specifically on the New Testament.... (since that is the primary text on which Christianity is founded).
The four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) were recognized by the early Christian Church (substantially before Constantine) as being authentic because those 4 gospels were written by immediate disciples of Jesus (Matthew, John) and/or were authenticated by the immediate disciples and apostles of Jesus (in the case of Mark and Luke).
Later writings by groups or individuals in other countries and times were not recognized as canonical because they were not written by immediate disciples of Jesus Christ and/or were not authenticated by immediate disciples/apostles of Jesus Christ.
The rest of the New Testament are writings by disciples/apostles that are consistent with the teachings of the four gospels.
Cordially,
John
| From rbmath2000 (Q716. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
The Theory Of Evolution: The Great Myth |
Excellent question.
Ultimately people believe in Evolution because they want to believe that God does not exist and/or he did not participate in creating life on earth.
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From icarus62 (Q715. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
If you believe in the existence of a god who created this universe then everything in it is his work, including the evidence for evolution, whereas the bible is undeniably the work of man. Why would a believer want to reject the evidence of their god's handiwork and believe other men instead? Isn't that heresy, or something? |
Before I answer -- please be aware that I am NOT a Creationist (in the traditional sense, 6000 year earth etc). Having said that...
There is evidence for Micro*Evolution (adaptation; change within species; limited speciation).
However there is no real evidence/ proof for Macro*Evolution (unguided formation of completely new body plans/ phyla; unguided formation of completely new complex organs).
I used to be an atheist and used to believe in Macro*Evolution. (Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
And over time, I grew increasingly disillusioned with Macro*Evolution as well. E.g. for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
I recognize now that Macro*Evolution is basically an Atheist Faith (and is held to by Atheist or Deist Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From bashbrother6996 (Q713. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Thank you for this reminder.
I am a Christian, and I hope to be able to answer questions about Christianity without getting "bent out of shape".
Cordially,
John
| From sparky3489 (Q712. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
So what if Jesus had a wife and children. Would that be so bad? |
The point is not whether it would be bad for Jesus to have a wife and children.
The point is whether there is historical evidence to support the notion that Jesus was married and had children.
And the point is that there is no credible historical evidence that Jesus was married and had a child (or children).
Also, you assert that the Bible is full of holes and mistranslations etc... but I havent seen any credible evidence to prove that to be the case.
Rather, Can we believe the Bible? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From Rev. Kip (Q707. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
Sometimes atheists will construct an argument against Christianity that does not reflect a true Christian position. For example, one atheist stated that the Trinity was illogical because three gods could not be one God. I had to correct him and show him that the Trinity is the doctrine that there is only one God in three persons, not three gods. |
I have often wondered this myself.
Over a period of time this behavior (by atheists) turned me off to Atheism... (I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... )
I have also grown to realize that there are NO strong arguments FOR Atheism... and there strong arguments FOR the existence of God (e.g., for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... )
It is possible that atheists have to resort to straw man arguments because they do not have (a) a strong case for Atheism, and (b) they do not have rational proofs against the case for the existence of God.
All that atheist straw-man arguments have accomplished through the years, is to move me further away from Atheism, and more towards Theism (and Christianity).
Cordially,
John
| From siamsalem007 (Q705. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
*Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.* |
The name of God is YHWH (Yahweh). That is the name of the Father, the name of the Son, and the name of the Holy Spirit.
There is ONE God, who manifests himself in three personas/ persons/ manifestations (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From jim_darwin (Q704. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
You are found guilty of murder and sentanced to the electric chair. You must choose how to be executed. An appeal is being made and has 99% chance of being successful, but i the meantime you have to hypothetically choose . . . |
F. To die of old age, at God's timing.
Cordially,
John
| From Rev. Kip (Q703. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
Sometimes atheist assert that there is no proof that God exists. The only problem is that an atheist cannot logically make that claim. |
Well said.
---
1. I have come to realize that Strong Atheism is foundationally irrational... A Strong Atheist asserts that "there is no God". How does he know this? To know that there is no God, the Strong Atheist would have to be Omniscient, and therefore be God himself. And by being Omniscient God, his existence would contradict his own statement that there is no God.
---
2. The truth of the matter is that there is no absolute proof for ANYTHING apart from the fact that some ONE mind exists (let us assume you are that mind; you could be imagining everything else, including the universe and the text I am typing up; however, as Decartes showed, you have absolute proof that you, as a mind, exist; "you think, therefore you are"; to reject that proof would be irrational; NOTHING else can be proved with that degree of absolute certainity, including the existence of the physical universe, and including the existence of other minds besides your own)...
Sometimes, when Atheists say there is no proof that God exists, they are selectively using that kind of absolute standard (which is an irrational standard to use; irrational, because we do not use that kind of absolute standard in our day to day lives, or even in science). When an atheist uses such a selective standard (requirement for absolute proof) only for the existence of God, but not for other atheist beliefs (such as Macro*evolution), the atheist is using an intellectual double-standard (i.e., a form of intellectual hypocrisy). As I grew to recognize such intellectual hypocrisy on the part of atheism, I began to grow disillusioned (and turned off) to atheism, and gradually moved more towards Theism and ultimately to Christian Theism.
---
3. I have come to realize that Strong Committed Atheism is Unfalsifiable even in principle (because no matter what evidence is available the strong committed atheist can explain the evidence away using some wild flight of imagination or the other)... The Parable of the blind man illustrates this...
The Parable of the Blind Man (excerpted from http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... : The blind man would not accept the testimony of other individuals who could see. They must all be lying, he reasoned, or delusional, or incredibly stupid, or this is all a grand conspiracy to try to cheat me of my money. So, the blind man would not accept the testimony of other individuals who could see. Instead, he gathered to himself other blind men, and together they created little cliques who mocked "those poor fools" who could see, and the blind men called themselves by impressive names such as "skeptics" and "infidels" and "brights" and they impressed the heck out of each other with their arguments which showed (they thought) how stupid those "poor fools" (who could see) were.
Recognizing the unfalsifiability of Committed Atheism, was one factor that contributed to my moving away from Atheism and to Theism (and ultimately to Christian Theism).
---
4. It is true that there is no Absolute Proof for anything (apart from the fact that ONE mind exists). And in the same sense, there is no Absolute Proof for the existence of God.
However, there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God. E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
--
5. I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From sam_walkiden (Q702. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Skeptic) |
As we are taught to forgive but there is a place called hell,why? |
On the contrary my friend...
Our being taught to forgive is not contradictory with the existence of Hell.
E.g., let us say that we are to forgive those who repent and sincerely ask for our forgiveness. (Jesus told one of his followers to forgive his brother 70 times 7 times, if his brother sins against him and then turns around and asks him for forgiveness -- implicit within this is the assumption that the the brother was sorry for what he had done, i.e., he repented, and then asked for forgiveness).
So, if ANY person sincerely repents (repents of their rebellion against God, of their evil deeds, of their hurting others for their actions and their inaction), and turns to God on the basis of what Jesus Christ has done for them on the cross, -- then based on Jesus' death on the cross, God can and will forgive them. (For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html )
However if a person NEVER repents of their actions (of their having killed others, or raped others, or beaten up others, or stolen, or destroyed familes or their children) then it is indeed JUST and RIGHT that that person should experience negative consequences for their actions.
Those negative consequences (in the afterlife), we call Hell.
God will NOT punish any person more than they deserve to be punished (based on the extent to which they rebelled against God, and the extent to which they were selfish self-centered individuals who hurt others by their actions and by their inaction).
Cordially,
John
| From EarthAngel (Q700. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Anyone punches you or touches you inappropriately it is an assault and people can be prosecuted for it, should there be similar consequences for those who commit a serious spiritual or religious assault. |
I'm for freedom of speech...
...though that means that at times I am insulted by Atheists of various kinds :)
Cordially,
John
| From danger00007 (Q697. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Many Muslims are beginning to read the Injil about the Prophet Isa.
And many Muslims are turning to the Prophet Isa in accordance with his teachings in the Injil.
Cordially,
John
| From toine7294 (Q696. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Reference please (which book, chapter and verse number in the Bible).
Sounds like this statement is from the alleged gospel of Thomas (which was written hundreds of years after the New Testament was written).
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q695. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
.. merely a gross prohibition for us: you shall not think! |
On the contrary my friend...
There is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God. E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From hispeach128 (Q693. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Ok Im really interested in what you have to think because I was Catholic and two years ago started studing with them and found that everything that say is true. They stick very closely to what the bible says. Just like Jehovah would want us to. |
I have had many friendly conversations with Jehovah's Witnesses. I like them as people, but recognize that spiritually they have been mislead by their leaders.
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q692. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
church's lust for power and control? Here are some of them: |
On the contrary my friend...
The writings you mention date from significantly after the time of Christ (and after the writings of the NT gospels).
The NT gospels were authenticated by immediate disciples of Jesus Christ.
Later writings from 150-1000 years after Jesus were NOT authenticated by the disciples of Jesus Christ (the ones who had actually spent time with Jesus, and so were eyewitnesses of the things he said and did).
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q689. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
He calmed storms, defeated huge armies, and helped bring earthquakes |
The Acts of Andrew was not written by an immediate disciple of Jesus Christ, or authenticated by an immediate disciple of Jesus Christ.
And the Acts of Andrew was written much later than the NT gospels.
That is why it was not included in the New Testament canon.
Cordially,
John
| From arctic_vixen1980 (Q688. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Why did God make us imperfect, and then tell us we all fall short of the glory of God like coz of sin and stuff. Like he made us like that. It doesn't make sense. If we fall short why didn't he make us perfect? I mean I know Adam took an apple. But he made Adam. being omnipotent don't u think he would have noticed that Adam and Eve weren't quite right? |
God created us with free-will.
When we exercise our free-will and choose to sin (head towards evil), we move towards imperfection.
When we exercise our free-will and choose to NOT sin (head towards good), we move towards perfection.
God provides an environment where we can freely choose to love him (and grow towards perfection) or reject him (and grow towards imperfection).
A freely chosen love (for God) is of great worth and interest to God (just as freely chosen love is of interest to us).
Cordially,
John
| From sssss (Q686. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I dont hate Jesus.
I owe him my life, my peace and my happiness.
Cordially,
John
| From curious_chemical (Q685. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
I'm atheist, I think gays are okay, and God is immoral. Oh, and Bush is the worst ever, since slavery. |
I'm sorry, but I'm not mad at you.
Cordially,
John
| From Muhammad K (Q682. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
|
On the contrary my friend...
There is one God who manifests himself in three personas/ persons/ manifestations. There is nothing irrational or unreasonable about this.
This doctrine is called the doctrine of the Trinity.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From adolf_h_theman (Q681. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Skeptic) |
God must like people with $$$ since the poorest suffer the most, I thought it was the other way around, punish the greedy and help the poor? I am coming into conclusion that god doesn’t exist |
Thank you for your comment.
On the contrary (to your comment) however, the New Testament quotes Jesus as speaking rather harshly against rich people who exploit the poor. God recognizes that not all rich folks are like that however. And he loves the rich who are generous in terms of helping the poor, the sick, the hungry, the dying etc.
You mention that you are moving to the conclusion that god doesnt exist.
If you are open to the existence of God, there is evidence for his Existence that you may wish to examine...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Leigh (Q680. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
To all of you who believe there is no God/Gods/ and afterlife, can you explain your theory as to where we came, where everything came from, and why we are even here? |
I used to be a Non believer. From that perspective...
1. we came from chemicals that evolved into us.
2. everything came from the big bang.
3. there is no good reason why we are here; we are a cosmic accident.
--
Over time however I grew disillusioned with the answers provided above.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Uno bonger (Q679. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Christian God is Primarily Transcendent rather than Immanent.
Based on that, I would answer your question with No.
Cordially,
John
| From bc_munkee (Q677. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
The scientific method is as responsible for new medicine as it is for theory of evolution. |
I would depend on both (science and Faith in the Christian God).
By the way, the scientific method is responsible for new medicine and Micro*Evolution, but not Macro*Evolution.
Macro*Evolution is a faith-based extrapolation from Micro*Evolution, which is not really supported by the evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From huntjames32 (Q675. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
it is widely accepted that humans only use 10% of their brain. what do you believe is the potential use of the other 90%? |
If I recall correctly, the 10% brain use is a myth / urban legend.
I have heard that we use much more than 10% of our brains (more like 90%).
Would be interested in references either way though...
Cordially,
John
| From Anti_Fascism (Q674. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
My Christian friend said this. I wouldn't just make it up. |
I am a Christian, and I do not see science and technology as the work of the Devil.
Western Science was invented/ created by Christians.
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/scientists.html
And there Scientific and Intellectual evidence for the existence of God; see, http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And there are thousands of scientists today who are Christians.
Cordially,
John
| From jim_darwin (Q672. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
An Atheist can have spirituality if they move away from atheism...
Example: I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Yes, Many Christians do think... Example:
For Christians thinking through the scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And for Christians thinking through evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Humanist (Q670. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
If I may answer on behalf of just Christianity...
I do not believe Christianity (of the kind that is consistent with the teachings of Jesus Christ) is a man-made cancer.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html)
Cordially,
John
| From Pakalolo (Q665. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Most of the Catholic Church was not aware of what was going on in Germany (with respect to the Jews).
There were some local Catholic Clergy who tried to hide the Jews from the Nazis (and such Clergy were sent to concentration camps and were killed when this was discovered).
Note: I am not a Catholic. I am a non-denominational Evangelical Christian (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html)
Cordially,
John
| From parable (Q664. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
By the name of the Father |
Christianity teaches that there is ONE God who manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestation...
This is called the doctrine of the Trinity.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From sen831 (Q663. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Skeptic) |
God's appearance? The feeling of his presence? Logical evidence? The flames of Hell licking your body? Just wondering. |
Excellent question. :)
To come to truly believe in God, the evidence I needed was both intellectual and experiential.
I was told that if I sought God with sincerity, humility and perseverance, the Christian God promises that he would reveal himself to me (i.e., he would convince me of the reality of his existence, and of his love for me)... and over a period of time, that is exactly what happened in my life.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Caligula (Q656. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Enjoyed reading your post above :)
If you are interested in scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From olimjonn (Q654. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
if he created us from where he appeared himself? |
Yes there is a God.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Earth is bootcamp (intended by God to develop character in humans -- http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html )
This is why some good people suffer in life. People also suffer due to human sin (both theirs, as well as the effects of the sins of other humans).
God always existed. He created us.
Deep within myself, I am convinced of the reality of the Christian God.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From ribbedbigspenda (Q650. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
It says God created the earth and the heavens..then he made it rain..then the created man..then he created the plants and the animals to company man..but was unhappy with the animals..so he put adam to sleep and took a rib and created woman..In Job 40:15 it says something about a bohemoth..and Job 41:34 it says something about a fire breathing scaley beast. But I thought the dinosaurs came long before mammals. |
I am an evangelical Christian and an Old Earth Creationist.
Answering from that perspective, yes, Dinosaurs did come before mankind.
The presence of dinosaurs before human beings is consistent with Old Earth Creationism, and is consistent with the Bible.
For more detail regarding Old Earth Creationism, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/crea/oec.html
Cordially,
John
| From Zeeshan (Q648. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
When a Christian or a Jew kills someone religion is not mentioned, but when Muslim is charged with a crime, it is Islam that goes to trial! |
The difference may be that the Christian or the Jew is not killing someone based on a commandment in their Scripture.
Cordially,
John
| From valcus43 (Q647. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Cut all the confusing crap. Stop talking in confusing verses that have to be interpreted, mis-interpreted, re-interpreted and factionalized and divided into murderous sects. Quit screwing around with us, it's not funny anymore; we're tired of having to choose up sides and kill each other in your name. Just cut the crap or we're going to become secular humanists. Would the real god please stand up and give the word to us straight without interpretation through some greedy, holier than thou, arrogant, intolerant, condescending leader who wants my money. Just coopt the airwaves, get on TV, go on a talk show and spell it out in plain language. |
Well said. I was touched by your post.
There was a time in my life when I sincerely asked the "true God of the Universe" to reveal himself to me.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Marc the Redcuber (Q645. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
Hypothetically, if my ancestors had strong beliefs in a spiritist-animist religion, and had no knowledge of Jesus or of the Abrahamic God would they be currently writhing in agony in the flames of Hell? If so, would that make God evil? Should they deserve that as a "punishment???" |
They will be judged (by the Christian God) on the basis of how they responded to the light they were provided.
Those who hear the gospel and reject it will be judged based on the light they have received (including their having heard the gospel).
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From madisonsuicide (Q643. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
not all, but alot! of christians go around saying and acting like they are under attack, that christianity is about to be ended...but why? do you/they really feel like that? or is just conveniant and a good way to rally people behind a cause? |
I am a Christian, and I hope I dont act like a victim. If I ever do, please let me know.
Having said that, I see lots of attacks against Christians (and Christianity) on the internet and in books and the main-stream media.
Christians are also under attack in many other countries around the world (persecution, torture, killings etc). This is happening a lot in Atheistic Communist countries, and in Muslim countries.
For an introduction to this topic, I would recommend "Tortured for Christ" by Richard Wurmbrand.
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q642. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Skeptic) |
if i lived all my life inside a shoe-box, and i didn't know how to get out, i would never know how that shoebox was made, because i didn't see the outside. |
Yes, I am sure (beyond a reasonable doubt) that I am correct in having committed my life to Christ.
Why?
That is primarily due to a combination of scientific and intellectual evidence (for the existence of God) followed by experiential evidence (answered prayer, near-mystical experiences, seeing the change in my life and that of others who committed their lives to Christ etc).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From skeptic (Q638. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Skeptic) |
Please answer the question that I'm asking and don't just provide a website. This is the 7th question in my series... please feel free to answer any of the others, and provide contact info: |
I am not a Creationist (in the traditional sense). I am an old earth creationist/ Theistic Micro*Evolutionist (but not a Theistic Macro*Evolutionist). Having said that...
The language and idioms used in the Genesis accounts do **not** necessitate a global flood. The language is consistent with a regional or local flood.
Also, the Hebrew words used (for the animals which were taken into the ark) do not necessitate **all** animals being taken onto the ark.
Cordially,
John
| From kero_bearus (Q633. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Skeptic) |
I looked up an animal totem website. and it said the dolphin represented Jesus. I was very P.O.ed because animal guides are a Pagan and not christian belief. christians believe animals have no souls. yet steal someone elses ideas and say its thiers. |
I dont find this offensive, but do find it a bit unusual...
I have never come across the Dolphin as being a representation of Jesus... hmmm...
I agree that animal guides are a Pagan and not Christian belief.
The Christian Bible teaches that Animals have Spirits but not Souls...
Cordially,
John
| From phab_4 (Q628. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Skeptic) |
|
If you do not believe in the Resurrection, then it would not be meaningful for you to call yourself a Christian.
The gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ is based on the Resurrection.
Is it rational to believe in the Resurrection. The answer is yes.
Is there evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The answer is yes.
For evidence regarding the historicity of Jesus and his Resurrection, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From hushedsilhouette (Q627. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Skeptic) |
I was thinking about it, and I'm pretty much convinced that Santa Claus and God are the same thing. |
On the contrary my friend...
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Note: Santa was modeled, either consciously or unconsciously, on God, and that is why he shares so many characteristics with God.
Cordially,
John
| From hola (Q619. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Skeptic) |
brown box rotting or the rest of my life, big deal. |
Good question... :)
This is a variant on Pascal's Wager. The rational choice (I think) is to commit our lives to Christ.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From gothicgirl021 (Q615. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Skeptic) |
i am a new satanist and i was wondering if anyone knew the story, are the four crown princes of hell going to arise on the 6/6/06? |
Nope. This year is not the year of Satan.
If you choose to follow Satan, I respect your choice (though I wish you would be more careful with your soul, and your choice of leader).
If you ever wish to... For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From neveroutnumbered (Q609. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Skeptic) |
I recently asked some people how old was the virgin mary when she got pregnant and it was pretty much unanimous that she was 12-15 years old. So the question is how is the Christian god not a pedophile. |
The Bible does not indicate anywhere that Mary was 12-15 years old when she became pregnant with Jesus.
I for one do not think she was that young. And so as you can see, it is not unanimous that she was 12-15 years old.
Furthermore, God did not have sex with Mary.
Cordially,
John
| From Not So Silent Listener (Q597. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
JWs use that name frequently, when others have taken that name almost completely out of their bibles. |
In the Christian Bible, the name of God is YHWH (typically pronounced Yahweh).
There is no J sound in Hebrew. So God's name is not Jehovah.
Out of reverence for God's name, some translators (of the Bible from the ancient Hebrew and Greek manuscripts) use the term LORD (e.g., in the King James Bible) instead of YHWH.
This was done out of reverence for God and out of reverence for his name (not out of malicious intent as some Jehovah's Witnesses have claimed).
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From RigorMortis (Q595. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
I've just finished reading the book, but I guess the part of Bloodline of Christ which the Church is claiming that it doesn't like could be seen as fictious easily, but I guess what they're afraid of actually is that the book is educating the uneducated Christians who didn't know that Jesus was seen as a mortal prophit by his apostels and that the idea of Jesus is God or His son was invented by a vote by the Council of Nicaea in 325AD by the pagan emperor Constantine who made many of the Christians tradition from paganistic customs, like changing the services from Saturday to "Sun"day, and that among the many apostels' gospels only those that fit the idea were chosen and modified to fool the masses and all others were seen as heretics and that "sainting" people is idolatery apparently. So after all these facts came to light, would people become Jews - and deny Jesus as a prophit, or become Muslims - where Mohammed was screaming "Jesus is a prophit", or be pagans and worship nature? |
I am afraid that the claim that "Jesus was seen as a mortal prophit by his apostles and that the idea of Jesus is God or His son was invented by a vote by the Council of Nicaea in 325AD" is mistaken.
What do the the disciples/apostles say about Jesus?
Jesus is God in human form. Jesus is not a created being; Jesus always existed as God -- but, he voluntarily took an ‘inferior’ form, the form of a man, to effect our salvation.
Jesus is referred to as God (by the disciples/apostles).
See: http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jc/deity2.html
The apostle Paul says that the fullness of God (deity/ divinity) dwelt in Jesus (see link above).
Titles and functions of Yahweh-God are attributed to Jesus (see link above).
Both Jesus and Yahweh-God are ‘Lord of Lords and God of Gods’ (see link above).
Passages referring to Yahweh-God (in the Old Testament) are quoted and applied to Jesus (by the disciples/apostles in the New Testament). (see link above).
Jesus accepted worship (only Yahweh-God is to be worshipped: Exodus 34:14/ Matt 4:10) (see link above).
Jesus has the attributes of Yahweh God (see link above).
Jesus performed certain works that point to His being God (see link above).
For more detail, see articles in the section titled "Is Jesus God?" in http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From sanstheism (Q590. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
I eat them every morning and I haven't found anything yet? |
I would think not :)
If you are interested in answers to the universe's existence, check out pages such as the following...
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Batman (Q586. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
NAILING A PERSON TO A WOODEN CROSS AND KILLING THEM, DOESN'T MEAN THAT PERSON CHOSE TO BE NAILED AND KILL FOR THE SAKE OF MANKIND. IF I WERE GOD FOR THE CHIRSTIAN PEOPLE, YOU CAN BET MY *** IS NOT COMING BACK THE SECOND TIME TO GET MY *** NAILED AGAIN BY MY SO CALL FOLLOWERS. |
On the contrary my friend.
There is evidence for the existence of God, and for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ.
See www.GodSci.org for examples of evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From Bayram E (Q578. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Prayer is spending time with God (just as a child who loves her dad, spends time with her dad because she loves him).
Christian prayer is an act of Communion and Fellowship with the Christian God.
It provides a basis for relationship with the Christian God.
And, it provides a basis for continuing reinforcement of our experience with the Christian God.
For discussion of "what is Christian prayer", see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/prayer.html
Cordially,
John
| From gezus_freek1 (Q577. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
since most religions don't let you question whether their god is right or wrong how do you know your worshipping the right god? |
I was an Atheist. I started questioning my Atheism.
Over a period of time, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Greymelken (Q570. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
After all, Satan (in name at least)is a product of the Christian bible, so are Satanists, in their own way... Christian? Is Satanism simply in defiance of Christianity? |
Satanism is defined by rebellion against God. In some forms of Satanism, the followers work to individually break as many of the 10 commandments as they can get away with breaking.
Yes, there are real Satanists (Satan worshippers) out there.
Christianity is defined by living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From swellsourskittles (Q562. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Skeptic) |
Forcing Passion of the Christ on the movie society, speaking against the Da Vinci code, terrorism, religious division... Is it all a little too much? I'm a Christian, not a religious basher. I'm just curious what people might think about religion being pushed into almost every outlet of the world and society |
I support the right of Christians and Catholics to speak up for their faith -- just as I support the right of Atheists to speak up for their Atheist faith, and I support the right of Evolutionists to speak up for their Evolution Faith -- though I find that the evidence indicates that both Atheists and Evolutionists are mistaken in their respective Faiths. (E.g., For scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.ht... )
And I support the right of Christians/Catholics to speak up against the Da Vinci code (after all, Dan Brown is making the claim that all Christians are dupes of the Catholic church, and it only reasonable to permit the Catholic church to defend itself)...
Also, I do not think the Passion of the Christ was forced on anyone; no movie goer was forced to go and watch the Passion...
And I do not see either Christians or Catholics supporting terrorism.
Religious division -- yes, that I do see, and wish there was less of.
Cordially,
John
| From sanstheism (Q555. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Skeptic) |
All-right, non-creationists... It's time to have some fun. Paul g asked this question a while ago and I had to provide my own verses. It's the story of Adam and Eve put to the tune of the Flintstones theme song. Can you come up with your own verses? |
That was creative...
Was the song the result of random-chance?
Or was it the result of natural law ?
:)
Cordially,
John
| From FreeBird (Q554. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Thank you for your kind offer.
I will have to pass on your offer for now.
Cordially,
John
| From starchild (Q547. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Skeptic) |
Since all major religions preach peace and love why are they also the source of the most violence? I was raised in one major religion that taught love and acceptance all the way up until I fell in love with someone outside my religion. |
Actually it is not correct to say that all major religions preach peace and love. (Note: I realize that it is politically correct to say that all religions preach peace and love, but the scriptures of some of the major religions do not really or consistently teach peace and love.)
Biblical Christianity (based on the teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament) does teach peace and love.
There are two apects to any religion. (1) The spiritual Aspect, and (2) the Cultural Aspect.
In some religions (other than Bible-based Christianity) the Spiritual Aspect as well as the Cultural Aspect promote violence for the propagation of those religions.
In Christianity, the Spiritual Aspect (based on the teachings and the behavior of Jesus Christ) teaches love and peace.
The Cultural Aspect of Christianity also teaches love and peace (to the extent that it is modeled on the teachings and behavior of Jesus Christ).
However, with time, the children of committed Christians can become cultural Christians (who are "christian" in name, but not in deed -- i.e., they may call themselves christians, but they have not truly committed their lives to Jesus Christ). Such cultural christians (sometimes called nominal christians) can take upon themselves aspects of the local cultures that they live in (cultures which are not based on the Teachings or Behavior of Jesus Christ). When this happens, such cultural christians can unforunately be the source of evil in society. Cultural/ nominal christians can also give in to their own selfish sinful inclinations, and so be the source of evil in society.
On behalf of committed Christians (true followers of Jesus Christ), I ask your forgiveness for any hurt or pain that has been caused to you by any cultural/ nominal Christian.
Cordially,
John
| From sean_mchugh6 (Q543. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Skeptic) |
do you think we should incorporate certian elements of each religion which we like to make a more "modern" religion? |
Jesus was unique in being God in human form.
His miracles, death on the cross and resurrection were all also unique.
Salvation is available to us as a free gift based on what Jesus did on the cross.
None of these items above are met by any of the other leaders you mentioned.
Cordially,
John
| From Skeptic Instinct (Q541. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I wonder why the condescending tone towards Christians?
There are many very intelligent Christians around (e.g., see http://www.reasons.org, or http://www.godandscience.org, or http://www.GodSci.org )
Cordially,
John
| From ParkMan (Q539. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I dont hate Atheists.
My dad was an atheist. And I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From contra (Q537. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
1. He is a christian ? |
Jesus claimed to be God in human form.
Cordially,
John
| From Ocean (Q535. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
... and do you think J Lo will get back together with Puffy? |
The Best understanding we have for the origin of the Universe is the Big Bang (as created by God).
For a discussion of the Big Bang and its Theistic implications, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/bigbang.html
Cordially,
John
| From sanstheism (Q534. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I do :)
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From sunshineview (Q532. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Based on evaluation of ancient manuscripts, we can tell with reasonable confidence that we have greater than 99% of the text of the original Bible in our possession today.
The people whose lives were recorded in the Bible have died and have been buried, and their bodies have decomposed back into the soil in which they were buried (except for Jesus Christ, who rose from the dead.)
For further discussion about the Bible, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From Assad (Q531. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
I would rather follow Moses than Jesus because first he brought the law and secondly he stood up to god when he did something that wasn't right and third he is the most realistic person in the bible and even Jesus tried to imitate him! Jesus saw himself as a lamb the reason why he did this because it was the lamb's blood that saved the jews back in the old testament so even Jesus realized the importance of Moses |
Moses was a created being who sinned.
Jesus is the God of the Universe in human form.
I pick Jesus as being more imporant than Moses.
And if you asked Moses, he would point you to the future Messiah (future from Moses' time) as being more important than himself.
For more detail of what the Bible teaches (including information about Moses and Jesus), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From ProudStud (Q530. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
Let's say that there is a heaven and a hell and a god and all that other madness. Why would you want to go to heaven? There's the dictator up there threatening to send you to hell. You have to worship him every day. You can't commit any sins. Why wouldn't you just go to hell? I mean you can basically do whatever you want. Is there something I'm missing? What's the benifit of going to heaven? |
Excellent question (thought-provoking)... :)
Background... I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
In response to your question "why would you want to go to heaven"... I provide some reasons below...
Reason 1:
I now have had personal experience with the Christian God, to the point where I have grown to Trust, love and Appreciate Him. Based on this experience, for me to spend time with the Christian God is a Joy.
In heaven, I will experience this Joy to a greater and deeper extent.
This is my first reason to want to go to heaven. (I realize that you may not be interested in this Joy, and I respect your choice).
Reason 2:
Furthermore, the Christian God has created incredible beauty in our universe (that was one of the things that touched me and contributed to bringing me out of Atheism and to Christ -- as in the link above). This same God promises that heaven is even more beautiful than the most incredible beauty we see on earth.
So my second reason for interest in heaven is the presence of incredible beauty.
Reason 3:
The God of our universe has been incredibly creative with the materials in our limited physical universe. Heaven is less limited than our physical universe. And so that makes it possible for God to create even more amazing wonders in heaven (than on earth for instance).
I would like to see and experience those wonders of God's unlimited creativity.
That is my third reason to want to go to heaven.
Reason 4:
There will be no pain or suffering or tears in heaven. Rather there will be peace, love, joy. I woud like to experience these in fullness.
That is my fourth reason.
Reason 5:
Sounds like Christians will be given new bodies (in heaven) with possibly new fascinating powers and capabilities.
This will open up new vistas of possible things to do, expeeriences to experience etc.
Reason 6:
One thing I enjoy very much on earth is being creative, and to create beautiful things.
In heaven, given vastly superior creative powers (compared to what we now possess), there will be fun of creating new things, and enjoying the beauty of the things created by others as well.
Reason 7:
I enjoy beautiful music (both playing as well as hearing, experiencing).
In heaven, with increased creativity and vastly superior means of makign music, I would love the pleasure of creating and experiencing such music.
Reason 8:
The joy of spending time with friends and family, in a beautiful environment, surrounded by beauty, and without pain or suffering.
Reason 9:
The joy of learning and new knowledge.
Reason 10:
etc.
--
How about hell?
You dont get to do what you want in hell. There you are judged and punished in manners appropriate to the extent to which you rebelled against everything that is Good -- and the extent to which your actions (or inaction) caused hurt or pain or suffering for others. And in some versions of hell (within Christian theology) once you have been punished to an appropriate extent, you will be destroyed.
Not a pleasant place.
--
In summary above, I have provided a brief list of some of the reasons why I would prefer to go to heaven rather than to go to hell.
Cordially,
John
| From Assad (Q529. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
I was reading about another angel called Samael! In christanity Satan and Samael are the same angel but in Judaism they are two different angels came someone explain this paradox? |
Satan's true identity...
Lucifer (the most beautiful angel in heaven) who then rebelled against God and was therefore cast out of heaven.
For more info on what the Bible teaches on this and other topics, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q528. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Excellent point.
This is why it is wise to use the historic-grammatic-cultural-co... approach to understanding what the Bible has to teach us.
Using such an approach, and also developing our understanding of the Bible based on the entirety of what the Bible teaches (rather than based on one or two verses taken out of contet) we can increase our confidence that we are correctly understanding what Jesus had to say.
For more info on what the Bible teaches about Jesus (and other topics), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From jim_darwin (Q525. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Skeptic) |
|
To be saved -- it is not enough to know that Jesus is God's appointed.
The book of James (in the NT) says that the demons believe in God (i.e., they know he exists) yet the demons are not saved.
So knowing something about God (or about Jesus) is not sufficient for salvation.
What is needed, is to commit our life to Christ based on what Jesus did on the cross for us.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From skeptic (Q520. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
What did all of the carnivores eat after leaving the Ark? (This is not a question about what they ate on the Ark.) In other words, explain how the food chain worked before the present ratios of a few predators to many prey. |
The Hebrew text of the Old Testament does not necessitate that **all** animals on earth were wiped out by a global flood.
The terms used in the text are consistent with a local/ regional flood and that the animals that were saved on the ark were ones that were relevant to the local ecology (that Noah and his family lived in).
Cordially,
John
| From Melchior (Q517. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
True, for I am one of they whom the knowledge flow was entrusted. It is for all to use but few seldom do, and even fewer remeber how |
Thank you for sharing this.
I am not sure what you mean by the statement that Magic and Reality are on the same plane...
Cordially,
John
| From skookum_klak_klak (Q516. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
why did it take so long to figure out this religion is crap? |
On the contrary my friend.... Christianity is growing not shrinking. Evangelical churches are growing by leaps and bounds.
Many people from other faiths (and world-views) are commiting their lives to Christ. E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Also, Christianity is not cr**... There is evidence for the truth of Christianity.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From icer82 (Q513. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
Somebody says that Israel is actually the first born sons. BUT, heres the TRUTH. Read:- |
Thank you for your question. Good question :)
It is true that we can all be/become children of God.
The New Testament however teaches that Jesus is God in human form (the Logos/ Word of God/ and the Unique Son of God -- i.e., Son in a Unique sense).
Cordially,
John
| From huntjames40 (Q512. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
that jesus was a bastard, because god wouldn't marry mary? |
Joseph would have been Jesus' step-dad (or adoptive father).
The term illegitimate child assumes illegitimate sexual relations between an unmarried man and woman resulting in offspring. In the case of Jesus, there was no illegitmate sexual relations between Mary and any man.
Therefore, I would infer that Jesus was not a bastard (to use the term you mention above -- much as I dont like using the term).
Cordially,
John
| From renzocj (Q511. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I do not believe that it is possible to make contact with any humans who are dead.
There are spirit beings (demons) who can impersonate dead humans. If you do successfully contact any spirit beings, they are likely to be such demonic beings.
Cordially,
John
| From Karl (Q509. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
Can someone tell me, from a historical perspective, how did the Book of Genesis come about? |
I would say that parts of Genesis were written by Moses.
And parts of Genesis were compiled by Moses based on earlier writings.
And at the very end of Genesis (IIRC) the account of the death of Moses was written in by possibly Joshua (the next leader of the Israelites after Moses).
Cordially,
John
| From Mee (Q506. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Just one season...
Unseasonably warm :)
Cordially,
John
| From Limo Driver (Q505. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Skeptic) |
Cults? Dogma? Doctrine? Salvation? Devotion? Enlightenment? Ecstatic Bliss? Love? Domination? |
Belief in and Reverence for a Transcendent Power or Principle resulting in values and practices that impact or influence one's life.
Cordially,
John
| From joseguate22 (Q500. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Skeptic) |
they all seem to believe they own the absolute truth. |
You ask for evidence for the truth of the Bible (and Christianity).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Can we believe the Bible? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From John B (Q495. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Skeptic) |
Was Mary really a virgin and did Jesus really walk on water? |
Yes, I believe that Mary was really a virgin and Jesus really did walk on water.
Given the existence of God, miracles are rationally possible.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From daliaadel (Q493. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Skeptic) |
What prevents you from sinning if your salvation is pre-owned and granted? |
Christians are saved by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
A consequence of our salvation is that we live in obedience to God. The Christians' response to God is love. If we truly love God, we do our best to obey him (and avoid sin).
Cordially,
John
| From skid_marks_before_the_pup (Q491. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Skeptic) |
that god is real, and the story of jesus. the bible is just a book, with a really good atory, that many think is true. |
No you do not **need** to believe.
However, many individuals who have looked into Christianity have come to be convinced that Christianity (of the Bible) is true.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Non-Compassionate Liberal (Q483. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I dont think so.
However, if you seek the Christian God with sincerity, humility and perseverance, he promises that he will reveal himself to you.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From gravesendian (Q478. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Skeptic) |
It sounds really similar to what God said and since Popeye is the only person to say that, then He must be God. |
Interesting hypothesis...
Not one that I find compelling however (not that you expected to convince anyone, I imagine)... :)
Cordially,
John
| From jim_darwin (Q475. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Your choosing to come into relationship with God (based on what Jesus Christ did for you, and for me, on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From chadman (Q474. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Skeptic) |
For all those who consider themselves Religious? |
Thank you for your comment and question.
I do not consider myself to be Religious. However, I do live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
If I may beg to differ with a couple of points you make...
1. There are not 6 billion Chinese people on this earth.
2. The ~ 1 billion Chinese do not all think that Christians are lost -- the majority of the Chinese do not have strong commitments to any particular religion (that was the result of Atheistic Communistic Governments working to destroy religions in China).
And in response to your question (how can so many others be so wrong) -- it would be irrational for anyone to insist that all worldviews are correct (in all aspects of what they teach, given that they contradict one another in many aspects). So if any one world-view is the most correct, then the others would not be as correct (that is a rational inference).
As a Christian, I view all religions as having elements of truth in them. However, I have come to recognize that Jesus Christ is the clearest (and the most correct) revelation of God. I.e., the teachings of Jesus Christ (and the person of Jesus Christ) provide the best revelation/ understanding of God (of any worldview or religion).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From ugly_face_trader (Q460. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Skeptic) |
Some say Jesus was never thought to be divine until some 30-40 years after his death. It's good to have faith, but 2000 years is a very long time. How can anyone be sure of what happened? The Bible wasn't written by Jesus. Maybe people got his words mixed up. |
Good question :)
The people you mention above are mistaken.
Jesus was very certain about his being Divine, and we have this reported by several independent witnesses.
Note that the Bible is not one book; it is a compilation of the writings of about 40 different authors.
The New Testament is a compilation of the writings of 9 different authors -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Barnabas, James, Peter, Jude.
And these authors either explicitly report Jesus presenting himself as Divine, or base the framework of their writings on Jesus' claim to have been Divine.
The idea that people got Jesus' words mixed up is a possible hypothesis.
However the fact that we have 9 different writers who mention different aspects of Jesus' life, and they independently present this picture of a man who claimed to be Divine -- makes it unlikely that they **all** got his words mixed up...
Can we (reasonably) believe the Bible? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From m085z33dsfauqr (Q459. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Bible teaches the Doctrine of the Trinity.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From joeyscorpse (Q451. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Nope.
I was an Atheist, but over a period of time I became convinced of the reality of the Christian God (and ultimately committed my life to Christ).
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From jakethegunguy (Q448. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Skeptic) |
|
There is absolute truth.
It would be irrational for a person to state "there is no absolute truth" (because the person would be claiming to be stating an absolute truth that there is no absolute truth).
:)
Some truths are Absolute (like the existence of God, the existence of the Universe etc).
There could be other truths (e.g., subjective preferences) that could change with time and may therefore not be absolute (in the sense of unvarying and eternal, or universally binding).
E.g., a person says "I like pink" and two years later she changes her mind and says "I like purple". Each statement was/ is true at the time the person made the statement. However with time that truth (as a statement of subjective preference) has changed.
Cordially,
John
| From Rev Trask (Q447. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I am not planning on rejecting Christianity :)
Cordially,
John
| From jel5762 (Q440. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Skeptic) |
MOST CHRISTIAN BELIFS SAY THAT YOU CAN'T BE SINNFUL IN ORDER TO GO TO HEAVEN. WELL ISN'T BEING W/O SIN BEING PERFECT. AND AS HUMANS ISN'T IT IMPOSSIBLE TO BE PERFECT? IS THIS CONTRIDICTING OR IS IT JUST ME? |
Christianity is based on Jesus Christ death on the cross followed by his Resurrection... that these make it possible for us to be reconciled with God (if we commit our lives to God based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
After commiting our lives to Christ, we can still screw up at times and fall into sin. When that happens, I John 1:9 says that we are to repent, confess our sins to God and turn back to him (and he will forgive us; assuming we are sincere in our repentance of course).
However if we make a continuing Lifestyle of sin (and rebellion against God) then we are not saved, and we will not make it to heaven.
The bottom line, is that you do not have to be perfect to go to heaven (if you depend on Jesus' and his payment for our sins on the cross). However, on the other hand, you cant live in a continuing lifestyle of sin (and rebellion against God) and hope to make it to heaven.
Cordially,
John
| From Gary R (Q435. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Skeptic) |
And if you say the Big Bang theory, then where did that first clump of mass come from? |
From an Atheist viewpoint, the Big Bang came as a surprise (definitely not a prediction of Atheism), and as such can reasonably be viewed as disconfirming evidence **against** Atheism.
For a discussion of the Big Bang and its Theistic implications, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/bigbang.html
And, for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From dragonash_1 (Q415. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
|
We need God because we were designed (by God) for relationship with Him.
Why believe?
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From this_one_dude (Q407. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
would you still become a Christian considering you would be taught a completely different form of religion and you would have no contact with the other parts of the world to know about Christianity? How would you know to ask Jesus to be your Savior? And if you didn't do that before you died, would God burn you down like He does for other non-believers? |
I would seek God with everything I've got.
There is evidence that points to the existence of God that is available to all humans. In response to this evidence, if we seek God with sincerity, humility and perseverance, the Christian God says that he will reveal himself to us.
That has been my experience (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... and the experience of many others who have come to Christ from a variety of religions and worldviews (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From jim_darwin (Q404. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
What do you think of the brand and image of Christianity in America. |
I think Christianity is doing quite fine thank you :)
Church attendance is exploding (at least in the Non-denominational Evangelical Churches)... and I am seeing people from a variety of world-views and religions come to Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From 0sprey (Q403. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
or does dying prove he isn't God? |
In Christian Terms, Death is just separation (of soul/spirit from body). Death is not annihilation.
So when Jesus died on the cross, his soul/spirit left his body (just as when I did, my soul will leave my body to go to be with God).
So there is no contradiction between Christ dying and his being God.
Cordially,
John
| From Nahimana (Q402. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
Eventually drive yourself to insanity. |
God does not need a creator and here is why.
Rationally, anything that begins (or comes into existence) needs a cause (or a creator).
Science has "proved" (to the extent that science can prove anything) that the entire physical universe came into being a finite period of time ago.
IOW, the universe is not eternal. It did not always exist. Therefore it needs a cause (or creator).
That cause or creator is God.
It is not IRrational to state that God always existed (and so does not himself need a creator). That is because there never was a time when God did not exist. However there was a "metaphysical" time when our physical universe did not exist (and that is why the universe needs a creator, but God does not).
Cordially,
John
| From valkyrie_hero (Q401. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Skeptic) |
To the Christians...? |
I am not a Classical Evolutionist and neither am I a Theistic Evolutionist (in the general sense).
I am an old-earth creationist. Which means that in common with many Christians, I am a Theistic Micro*Evolutionist (but not a Theistic Macro*Evolutionist).
The reason why I do not believe in Atheistic Macro*Evolution is because I do not find the Scientific Evidence to support Atheistic Macro*Evolution.
That has nothing to do with the Bible.
If Macro*Evolution were to be absolutely proved, I would still be a committed Christian, and I would just become a Theistic Evolutionist (i.e., a Theistic Macro*Evolutionist).
However I do not plan to hold my breath (waiting for Macro*Evolution to be proved).
I have spent hundreds of hours reading and studying Evolution and have found that the Scientific Evidence supports Micro*Evolution (with limited speciation), but not Macro*Evolution (random-chance + Natural Selection or other naturalistic process --> forming completely new body plans and completely new complex organs).
That is why I am not an Evolutionist (in the common usage of the term).
If you are interested in scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From me29876 (Q400. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The word Trinity is a short-hand notation for a doctrine (teaching) that is based on the Bible.
God is well aware that he presents himself as the Trinity.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From Yoda (Q399. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Nope...
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From normobrian (Q398. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Charles Darwin never said that man evolved from monkeys. What evolution says is that man AND monkeys share a common ancestor. |
You are technically correct (that Darwinians believe that humans and monkeys share a common ancestor).
However, if you were to view the alleged ancestor (i.e, what the alleged ancestor is believed to have looked like), the alleged ancestor looks very much like an ape (and apes are often colloquially referred to as monkeys, though that is technically incorrect).
So there is a sense in which it is indeed true that Darwinians (Darwinists) believe that humans descended from apes (or creatures that for all practical purposes would be referred to as apes, if they were alive today).
However, there is growing skepticism about the Darwinian scenario (mentioned above)... E.g., for scientific and intellectual critiques of evolution, see
http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From d3p3ch3mod3 (Q395. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Everyone has to admit that some religions are creations of man or else all religions are true including Greek mythology. Other than the fact that it's the only religion you've studied and it's the social norm where you live and to your parents, what is it that makes you know that the one you worship is real and that everyone else goes to Hell? |
I used to be an Atheist. However, over a period of time I became convinced of the existence of God, and then of the Christian God. Ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From freetronics (Q394. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
If god is perfect, why would he allow people to kill each other? Being an assessory, is just as bad as doing it himself. |
The word perfect merits further definition. Yes, the Christian God is perfect, but in a sense that may not necessarily match an Atheist's definition of perfect (BTW, I'm not saying u r an atheist).
Humans killing each other is a consequence of free-will. God can be perfect and still choose to create creatures with free-will (there is no contradiction between God's perfection and his choosing to create creatures with free-will).
God being beyond time and space does not necessitate absolute foreknowledge or absolute predestination (though such foreknowledge is a possibility).
We are created in God's image in the sense of having personhood, having intelligence, having mind, having free-will. How we exercise our free-will is our choice. If we choose to hate and be jealous, that is an exercise of our free-will and does not necessarily mean that God has hatred and jealousy.
Our flawedness arises out of our free-will choices (to sin, to rebel against God, to pursue actions that hurt ourselves and hurt others etc).
Our having free-will is consistent with God's purposes for our universe and for us.
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose...
Cordially,
John
| From ghostgirl (Q391. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
how does such a person deal with scientific issues that go against or undermind the bible?????? |
This is a question I had to struggle with before I could commit myself to Christ (both intellectually and experientially).
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
The Short answer to your question is Yes, it is possible to be a Christian and a Scientist at the same time.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For discussions of Science and God (and/or Science and Christianity), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/science.html
For discussion of Scientists and God (and/or scientists & Christianity), see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/scientist.html
Cordially,
John
| From Ally (Q390. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Do you think that there will ever be formal apologies by religions that persecuted those not of their beliefs through killing them? I'm not focusing on any religion here. Just wondered if anyone thinks there'd ever be formal recognition and apologies for deaths due to religious persecution from ANY religion that has done such things. |
I am not Catholic...
but I was touched to see exactly the kind of apology you mention above from the Catholic Church (via one of the Cardinals of the Catholic church) a couple of years or so ago.
Cordially,
John
| From BrianL (Q389. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
I do! I was standing out in a corn field drinking some moonshine, and all of a sudden I was laying a table. After the examination was completed, Zorphidus and the gang took me out on the town. We went to Zorphidus' home galaxy, hooked up with some Zepheres (that's space slang for "prostitutes"), and went to a karaoke bar. |
Fascinating story :)
Cordially,
John
| From Rev. Kip (Q387. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Can you show me a list of Greek scholars who approve of the New World Translation’s New Testament translation? |
Excellent points.
Cordially,
John
| From Meee (Q382. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Skeptic) |
religion (all types) are pure beliefs, so why do ppl defend them so much, you can believe in the earth and music and things like that but religion (in terms of a god and jesus and allah n stuff) doesnt exist, science is a fact, god is imaginated in religious ppl, im all up for the goodness it gives SOME people but not for the amount of wars that are caused over religion? |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint.
If you are interested in scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
and for the truth of Jesus Christ, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From lqworld (Q376. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Skeptic) |
I'm not kidding. I was wondering this as I watched the trailer at the theatre. Jesus was such an outcast, he had so much love, and he spent so much time in intamate "brotherly love" with his companions. He seem's like a strong potential role model for gay men. Is this someting that could threaten the church? Are they being proactive with propaganda? I'm not trying to be deviant. Just an intellectual musing along the lines of conspieracy and church bashing the movie seems to bringing out in popular culture. |
Probably not...
Cordially,
John
| From thelongfella357 (Q375. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I'm curious about your motive in asking such a question.
Cordially,
John
| From Matt (Q374. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Skeptic) |
I am an atheist/spiritual dude.However,I donate to charity,help the poor,donate blood and live a peaceful life.does it mean that my existence can be deemed to be 'evil and unholy'?Will I be going to Hell for this?No smart alecs with some retarded answers please.If you cant come up with a good answer, dont bother irritating me.. |
From a Biblical (Christian) viewpoint, there are levels of punishment in hell.
A person will experience in hell what they deserve to experience based on the life they lived on earth (the sins they committed; the people they hurt; the harm they did to others by their action or their inaction; the degree to which they were their own selfish self-centered pig, or not).
If you know what the gospel of Jesus Christ is (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.htm... and http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose... and knowingly reject it, then you are choosing to throw away your "get out of jail" card.
That is your free choice (that God will honor).
If you are interested in evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
and for evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
I invite you to commit your life to God (based on what Jesus Christ did for you and for me on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From skeptic (Q373. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Skeptic) |
Is there any observation which supports any feature of your theory? (An adequate answer to this question will not be something which is a problem for evolution, but is rather evidence for your theory. Remember that it is logically possible for both evolution and your theory to be false. Something which appears to support Lamarkian evolution rather than Darwinian, or punctuated equilibrium rather than gradualism is not enough. Also, the observation must be something which can be checked by an independent observer. |
I am not a creationist in the traditional sense (i.e., I do not believe in a 6000 year earth etc).
Having said that, I used to be an Atheist but over a period of time, have come to recognize the existence of the Christian God.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Rev. Kip (Q360. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
According to Jesus in John 17:3, how many true Gods are there? Would you say that whatever is not true is false? Doesn’t the New World Translation call Jesus “a god” in John 1:1? Since there is only one true God and all others must be false, is Jesus a true God or a false god? |
Good question...
From a JW viewpoint, they would have to say that Jehovah is the one true God, and Jesus is a god (not a God). The problem with that viewpoint is that the Bible does not support it.
If you are interested in more info re the Jehovah's Witnesses, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Nahimana (Q357. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I have had too much confirmation* of the existence of the Christian God for it to be possible that God does not exist...
(*) intellectual evidence as well as experiential evidence.
E.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... etc...
Cordially,
John
| From imacman941 (Q351. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
i dont have anger problems and i have never done this. im just saying i get so tired of people bad mouthing christianty(mostly atheist) because they dont believe in God. And just think about all the people bad mouthing God and all the controversy over God, it just proves that he is real and thats why its such a big issue in our society today. |
It is true that sometimes the mockers can get on the nerves of any Christian.
I dont recall however ever having had the urge to punch a mocker.
My job is to share Christ and to leave the results to God --and as long as I remind myself of that, I am fine... :)
Cordially,
John
| From Zaheer (Q348. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
Jesus in Islam |
Jesus is God in human form. Jesus was and is God. He took the form of a human being to make reconciliation between us (humans) and God possible.
For more info regarding Jesus (and his Deity), see:
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From brighteyeskix (Q347. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
my mother in law really wants us to have our baby christened. i really dont want her to be, and i feel that she had her chance as a mother to do what she wanted with her kids and i should be able to do what i choose with mine. i also worry that if i give in i will have a hard time in the future saying no to things grandma and grandpa want for my kids. my baby is not being raised methodist so she doesnt need to be christened! but at the same time i feel obligated-they paid for our wedding, we are living at their house free of rent right now saving for our own home, they have done so much for us. i want everybody to be happy, but i really dont feel comfortable with that decision! i know i will resent it, and i will not be happy during. i will be able to forgive, but i wont be able to forget. its MY baby! why should they have ANY say in what church she is blessed in!and my husband is telling me i need to consider his families beleifs-but why should they have any choice in the matter? |
You will not be harming your child in any way (that I can tell) by Christening her in the Methodist church.
If your family wants her christened, why not make them happy by obliging (unless you have a strong theological reason to not Christian your child).
Cordially,
John
| From imacman941 (Q343. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
Okay, Atheist Lets Be Real lol. Im a Christian and i often try to witness to people trying to save them. most of them are atheist and they dont want to be saved just because. But what do you have to lose?! In your perspective what if the Christians were right? why would you want to go to hell? wouldnt you want to go to heaven if it was true? So my question is, What do you have to lose? why do you completly hate religion and God in general? |
Excellent question...
Exactly the point of Pascal's Wager. A rational choice (based on Pascal's Wager) is to become a Christian rather than stay an atheist.
Cordially,
John
| From Simo (Q341. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Skeptic) |
Christians only do good because they expect to be rewarded in heaven. Atheists do good without expecting anything. In my opinion, it is the act of doing something good which is the reward, not what you expect to get back. Opinions? |
I wouldnt be surprised of some Atheists were more holy than some cultural Christians.
However I would be surprised if Atheists as a whole were more holy than committed Christians.
The world-views of Atheism do not provide strong reasons to be good. The world-view of Christianity does provide such strong reasons (largely in obedience to Jesus Christ).
Your blanket statement "Christians only do good because they expect to be rewarded in heaven" appears to be a straw-man/stereotype (as you can tell I'm sure)...
Committed Christians do good, because they love God and because they want to live in obedience to Him. Reward in heaven is not their sole motivation (though that is not a bad motivation in and of itself)...
Cordially,
John
| From mrkitties420 (Q329. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Hell is a consequence of free-will choices to sin (to be self-centered, selfish, and to hurt others by our actions or by our inaction).
Different people use different definitions for evil. Given that sin is evil, then yes hell is a consequence for evil.
Cordially,
John
| From Help (Q323. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Skeptic) |
Did Adam had a rib taken from him to make eve? If so who did the operation? |
Who did the operation -- God.
Adam and Eve didnt have to have sex with their children to make more people. The children (first generation) could marry each other (and be protected from genetic screwups because their genome was not as defective as ours).
Cordially,
John
| From Paratepaquelleve (Q318. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
My sister attends a christian but the rest of the family Doesnt. She preaches everyone very loudly, prays very loudly and chants loudy. You can hear her, around 6:30 am, chanting church songs, she also makes the house shake listening to her music. She often disturbs other family members. |
Depends on the culture and our motives.
If our motive is to communicate with God, then silient prayer is all it takes. However sometimes silent prayer can permit our mind to wander away from God. In that case, a spoken (non-silent) prayer would be relevant.
I am not sure what your sister's motive is. She may be doing this to try to share her faith. If so, her motive is good, but her methods may be a bit questionable.
Cordially,
John
| From mrkitties420 (Q317. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
I have tried multiple times to sell my soul to Satan. What am I doing wrong? Am I just not worthy. |
Maybe Satan has had some better offers?
Just kidding. :)
Please dont sell your soul to Satan. Give your soul freely to God instead (through what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From supremelorderik (Q315. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
Hypothetically, lets say that there is a small island off the coast of Africa. And lets say that on that island there is a tribe of people, probably around 120 of them. They have been isolated from the rest of the world due to some weird coincidence. They have no idea who jesus christ was, what the christian church is, anything like that. Do those people go to hell? |
Each person will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given.
If they heard the gospel and rejected it, they will be judged accordingly.
If they never heard the gospel, they will be judged accordingly (with a differnt standard than those who did hear the gospel).
Cordially,
John
| From bird (Q313. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Each person will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given.
If they heard the gospel and rejected it, they will be judged accordingly.
If they never heard the gospel, they will be judged accordingly (with a differnt standard than those who did hear the gospel).
Cordially,
John
| From Erik (Q312. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Because of his purposes for humans, angels, and earth (see below)...
God's purpose is to create a race of beings who can live with Him for eternity (beings with character, integrity, other orientedness). Free-will is needed to make sure that we are not robots (God loves us, and wants us to freely choose to love him and to love one another). The presence of free-will results in imperfection/ choices for evil etc.
This applies to all creatures with free-will (including both humans and angels).
An Aside:
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Our Universe is His "art project"; that is why it is so incredibly beautiful. And our Universe is His "scientific and engineering" creation; that is why it is so full of science and engineering, and we are learning this as we crawl in his footsteps via mathematics, physics, cosmology and molecular biology.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow towards the beauty-of-character that will be a joy for eternity. The Bible refers to this as us "being conformed to the image of Christ".
Cordially,
John
| From sapphirenut (Q311. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
I do not believe, personally, that there is an actual physical plain which is heaven or hell. I feel that the hereafter is more a dimension than an actual, tangible place. The human soul has no form, smell, taste, touch or anything that we can sense, yet we all have one (at least most of us). How is it that a force of energy (our soul) can be translated into a tangible plain? I think that the hereafter is more a thought than a location. Just as easy to put your hand around as a daydream or a nightmare, just as disturbing or exciting. If you know at the time of your death that you have made your peace with your Creator then your mind is literally at ease and your soul will depart from the shell it has occupied and you will cross over into the dimension you create for yourself. Jesus said that heaven is within each of us. Conversely, if you know that you've been a heel your entire life - your most horrible nightmare will curse you for eternity. Any thoughts? |
I agree with you in part -- that heaven and hell are in other dimension(s) than our current physical universe.
However I do not think we create these dimensions (God does).
Cordially,
John
| From Ally (Q304. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
Do we go from animal to human and back again? Human to human? No offensive answers, please. If you can't say anything nice... |
I do not believe in any form of reincarnation.
Cordially,
John
| From inhim (Q303. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Skeptic) |
Ok im not asking this to be rude or to convert you i just want to ask this.When jesus comes back and you are standing in your judgement. and you realize that everything about jesus and god are true what will you do then. remember this is just a question please answer with the question of truth in mind. |
Good question.
Most atheists do not believe that there will be a judgment (but I think they will be somewhat surprised when they find out that there is indeed a judgment).
Cordially,
John
| From iadorelara (Q300. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
who did u say wrote the bible? |
The Bible is not mythology. :)
The Bible was written by about 40 different writers over a period of about 1600 years, as they captured their experiences with the JudeoChristian God. Christians believe that this process was directed by God.
For more info re the Bible, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From jacksfullhouse (Q297. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Thank you for the thought :)
I am a protestant (non-denominational Evangelical Christian)...
Cordially,
John
| From happysmiles (Q296. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I believe in Witchcraft in the following sense -- there are many individuals who believe in Witchcraft (and so the craft can affect their behavior). Furthermore, given that the Bible is true in teaching that there are spirit beings, such beings can interact with people who practice Witchcraft.
Personally I do not practice witchcraft (I am a nondenominational Evangelical Christian).
Cordially,
John
| From Yoda (Q295. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Due to your desire for autonomy?
Cordially,
John
| From lightandshadow73 (Q286. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
I accept attacks from critics and adoring comments from fans, but I sappose what I am looking for truely is details....into the life and mind of, interesting little known facts, ....etc etc....and yes I read the wikipedia entries. |
From Mayah --
Demon possession isn't just a relic of more primitive times. It still exists today.
People unfamiliar with the Scriptures often have the misconception that the New Testament considers all physical and mental illness to be caused by demon possession. Actually, the Gospels distinguish between demon possession and ordinary physical and mental illness( Matthew 4:24 ; Mark 6:13; 7:32; 16:17-18 ).1
The Bible says that spirit beings exist with powers in many ways superior to humans. Some of these beings -- the angels -- are servants of God ( Daniel 7:10 ; Matthew 26:53 ; Luke 2:13 ). Others are angels who rebelled against their Maker. These are the fallen angels or demons ( 2 Peter 2:4 ; Jude 1:6 ). Scripture indicates that fallen angels are capable -- under certain conditions -- of controlling the mind and behavior of individual people ( Mark 5:7; 9:25 ; Luke 4:41 ; Revelation 16:13-14 ).
The Bible also teaches that there is a fine line separating the evil for which humans alone are responsible, and the strictly demonic evil that results from an external spiritual force taking control of a human will and mind. A striking example of the human tendency toward evil is the apostle Paul's description of his own struggle in Romans 7:15-24. He wrote:
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. . . . I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do -- this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. . . . When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?2
As the apostle Paul described it, our own sinful nature seems to be independent of our will -- to have a "mind of its own." It is no exaggeration to speak of such a powerful inclination toward evil as "demonic" in a sense. After all, the impulse behind our inner inclination to do evil is connected in Scripture with Satan and the satanic ( John 8:44 ; Ephesians 2:2 ; 1 John 3:10 ).
While all of us harbor this inner inclination toward evil, occasionally a person transcends this and enters into true demonic possession. In such cases these individuals come under the control of an external demonic power -- an alien spiritual being. Probably the most dramatic account of demonic possession in Scripture is in the Gospel of Mark:
They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an evil spirit came from the tombs to meet Him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No-one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of Him. He shouted at the top of his voice, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear to God that You won't torture me!" For Jesus had said to him, "Come out of this man,you evil spirit!" Then Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" "My name is Legion," he replied, "for we are many." And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area (Mark 5:1-10).
In this case, Jesus commanded the demons to enter a large herd of swine, which stampeded down a steep slope into the sea and drowned.
Most accounts of demonic possession in the New Testament occur prior to the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ ( Matthew 8:16,28; 9:32; 12:22; 15:22 ; Mark 5:15 ; Luke 4:33; 8:27 ).3 Interestingly, the Epistles make no mention of demon possession and give no instructions for exorcism.
Although it doesn't seem to be as common today, we are convinced that demonic possession still occurs. There are many credible missionary accounts of confrontations with demon possession in pagan cultures. These involve such manifestations as unnatural strength and knowledge of foreign languages not known by the possessed, along with other preternatural knowledge. With the rise of Paganism and occult idolatry in our culture, demon possession is likely to become more common.
The ways that evil manifests itself have always been mysterious. In his book, I Have Lived In The Monster (St. Martin's Press), expert FBI crime profiler Robert K. Ressler makes this striking observation about the demonic:
Supernatural causes, people felt in the era before Freud, were the only logical explanations for excessively savage murders,blood-draining, and other such monstrous acts. People felt there were demonic elements to such acts -- and I cannot say that they were entirely wrong, because even today, when we try to explain to ourselves the acts of a Jeffrey Dahmer, those acts seem satanic, at least in part, because they are in large measure beyond rational understanding. We can attribute them to human behavior, pushed to extremes, but even saying this,and demonstrating how such behaviors can be traced back to childhood and genetic stresses does not completely suffice as explanation. After all, in the Dahmer family, Jeffrey had a younger half-brother who grew up in the same household but did not commit heinous acts.
M. Scott Peck is an example of a person with a thoroughly skeptical, secular outlook who became a believer in demonic possession:
As a hardheaded scientist -- which I assume myself to be -- I can explain 95 percent of what went on in these cases by traditional psychiatric dynamics . . . . But I am left with a critical 5 percent that I cannot explain in such ways. I am left with the supernatural . . . . (People Of The Lie, pp.195-196).
These observers intimate what most of us sense: Although a scientific understanding of human motivation and genetic predisposition provides a degree of insight into human destructiveness, human evil has aspects that are (and probably always will be) as paradoxical and impenetrable to human logic as are other essential elements of human experience -- such as the relationship between free will and environmental/genetic predetermination.4
1. We should not equate mental illness with demon possession, as some did in the past and still do today. Malachi Martin warns:
Many people suffering from illnesses and diseases well known to us today such as paranoia, Huntington's chorea, dyslexia,Parkinson's disease, or even mere skin diseases (psoriasis and herpes I, for instance) were treated as people "possessed" or at least as "touched" by the devil (Hostage To The Devil, p.11).
2. A sampling of other passages that refer to the natural, inborn propensity of mankind to sin are Genesis 8:21 , Job 14:4 , Psalm 51:5 , Isaiah 64:6 , Mark 7:21-23 , Ephesians 2:1.
------------------------------...
3. The large number of miracles during Christ's ministry was a special "sign" of His divine authority. It may be that Christ's authority over evil was expressed through a greater amount of demonic activity and more overt confrontations with demonic power. In the book of Acts,there are only a few accounts of possession, and they generally take place in the early stages of Christian penetration into pagan areas. Peter cast out demons while in Jerusalem ( Acts 5:16 ). Philip did so in Samaria ( Acts 8:7 ). Paul delivered a young woman from a fortunetelling demon at Philippi ( 16:16-18 ) and cast out indwelling demons at Ephesus ( Acts 19:11-12 ). None of these cases involved a demon-possessed believer.
------------------------------...
4. "When speaking of emotional conflicts one is attempting to designate certain processes of an ill-defined nature which operate deep within the uncharted recesses of the subconscious mind, and which are thus not readily amenable to detailed clinical delineation. It is known, however, that the vital forces of the human personality function within this area of the mind, and that there is always a significant emotional or psychic element in most diseases, and not least in idiopathic mental afflictions. If such states are to be seen in terms of the evil, destructive powers found in the subconscious mind gaining the ascendancy over the positive forces for good in the human personality, it is possible to think of all mental disorders as being to some limited extent at least the result of temporary possession of the human mind by demonic influences, a situation which could conceivably become permanent. Because modern psychosomatic medical research has shown that attestable clinical disease can result from such metaphysical entities as suggestion, emotional conflicts, fear, and the like, it is no longer possible to dismiss as implausible the noxious effects which the various forms of evil, working through the personality of fallen man, can have upon individual and mental well-being" (Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia Of The Bible).
Cordially,
John
| From knowsitall (Q285. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
And what if I said I really ENJOYED it and made tons of money? |
If you were currently a prostitute I would encourage you to leave that profession (for your own safety, and for the good of society).
Given that you no longer are a prostitute, that does not make you bad person currently (if you repent of your past)... apart from the fact that ALL humans are sinners in the sight of God (we all sin; we all screw up). And we ALL need to be reconciled with God through what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross.
Cordially,
John
| From Crazy D (Q282. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
On the contrary my friend.
The different versions of the Bible do not contradict each other. As the English language has changed through the years, new translations are made into English from the original languages (Hebrew and Greek).
None of the various translations contradict each other regarding any doctrine that is essential to Christianity.
Cordially,
John
| From international_man_from_ea (Q275. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Skeptic) |
Shes never actually spoke back to me, but I can see her ways in the neat little coincidences of my life. I tell everyone that I have a relationship with her...am I a stark raving wacko lunatic? |
I am not personally offended by your relationship with Jodi Foster...
And from your question -- I dont think you are a lunatic...
:)
Cordially,
John
| From tigermad (Q272. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Skeptic) |
I wanna turn back my time to childhood and become a teenager, |
Commit your life to Jesus Christ and be Born-Again... If you are not born-again already, and if you commit your life to Christ today, then you could be a spiritual teen-ager in say 13 years... :)
Cordially,
John
| From sayyed_al_afghani (Q268. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Skeptic) |
For Mohammed(saw) is not just a prophet. He is the embodiment of our Allah . He is alive in Yemen today preaching the true, new Islam to the Ummah. |
I believe in the Prophet Isa (pbuh) as revealed in the Injil.
Cordially,
John
| From Mr X (Q266. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Skeptic) |
Did holocaust ever happened or it just a fantasy |
Unfortunately the Holocaust really did happen.
Cordially,
John
| From GruHairy (Q264. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Skeptic) |
We are bombarded with demands from the Faithful to "sacrifice" our lives to their God (through His collectors of such sacrifice, on Earth - of course) .. and told that EVERYTHING we have is His (their God's). When will this evil sacrifice of the best of humanity end, I wonder? This is EVIL, this human sacrifice stuff of theirs... even the little helpless kids have to have the end of their poor little weenies hacked off to sacrifice to Him, on His demand ... what's with THIS child abuse? |
That is an interesting interpretation of the Christian's call to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to God.
You may be aware that your interpretation above is incorrect.
Christians dont (necessarily) hack off weenies... Circumcision is a Jewish and Muslim religious practice.
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q256. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
all bad is from Satan, is what i always hear..that includes diseases. |
I dont think the flu-virus is Satan's idea.
God created everything, and he permits diseases to exist (consistent with his purposes for earth and human beings).
For discussion of God's purposes, see:
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From cool_chick (Q253. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
because they have many bibles that are contradictory each and every church follow something different!!! one church said that people made it no god but they just believe in it!!! |
Christianity does make sense.
The Different versions of the Bible are translations into English to match the local culture and time (e.g., King James English, versus today's English). These different translations do not contradict each other.
If you are interested in more discussion of Rational Christianity, see http://www.GodSci.org
Cordially,
John
| From Martin B (Q252. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
If you believe that God started things, then it seems to not mention life being created anywhere else other than Earth. So you would have to assume we are alone in the universe. |
Calculations of the probability of life originating by random chance show that random-chance origin is impossible (if we are to be rational about this question).
The evidence points to the existence of an intelligent designer who designed and created first-life.
If you are interested in more indepth discussion of these topics, see http://www.godsci.org,
and http://www.godsci.org/gsi/apol/evo/00.html
I personally do not believe there is intelligent life anywhere else in the universe. However the existence of such intelligent life is not contrary to the existence of God.
Cordially,
John
| From incher (Q251. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
The Scriptures of Judaism (Torah, Tanach) point to a Messiah who was to come. The best candidate for the Messiah is Jesus Christ. Therefore the Jewish Scriptures point to Jesus Christ and his Messiahship.
Following the teachings of Jesus Christ (as pointed to by the Jewish Scriptures) would appear to be the right path.
Cordially,
John
| From Angela V (Q247. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Neither.
I do not believe that Mary Magdalene was Christ's wife. And neither do I believe that she was a prostitute.
Cordially,
John
| From darkphyre0 (Q246. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
If god was real, then why does he allow so many people to be Atheist, agnostic, or alligned to some other god. After all, one of the ten commandments say you shall worship no false idols... that to me says that he does not abide other gods... so he cancels free will... Why then, if there really is a god, are so many people allowed to believe so many different things?? |
Yes God is real.
There is evidence for the existence of God, e.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
And there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ, e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm...
God permits people to believe in different things because he permits free will. God permits free will because freewill is needed for his purposes for the universe. E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose...
Evil is a consequence of Free-will. Free-will is needed for purposes of (a) our free choice to love God, rather than a robotic illusion of obedience, and (b) for soul-growth, and (c) Godhood delegation.
Cordially,
John
| From mormon_chic (Q243. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
Honestly...what did we ever do to them, besides give them the truth? |
I am an evangelical Christian, and I do not hate Mormons.
Just a month or so ago I was visited by LDS missionaries/elders, and we had a very friendly conversation.
During our conversation the missionaries came to agree that the Mormon God is different from the God of the Bible. They also agreed that the Mormon Jesus is different from the Jesus of the Bible.
And we parted on friendly terms (and they are welcome to visit me again).
Cordially,
John
| From lupis_noctum (Q242. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Skeptic) |
Given that the christian bible is the only source of information there is about that religion, a true christian either accepts it or rejects it in toto. |
I view myself as a Christian Moderate, and I recognize parts of the Bible as being literal and parts as being idiomatic and parts as being allegorical.
I use exactly the same methodology that I use in reading any book. As you know, even in day to day speech, we use language and sentences that are sometimes literal, sometimes idiomatic and sometimes allegorical.
So I am not being inconsistent with day to day use of language when I understand the Bible similarly. (I use the historic-geographic-cultural method of understanding the Bible).
Cordially,
John
| From j.wozencroft (Q236. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
|
To say or speak something to influence you (or your behavior) is not to impose their beliefs on you.
All human beings (by virtue of living in community with each other) try to influence each other. This is natural (and is a natural consequence of trying to live in community).
If we did try to influence each other (towards what is good) human society would fall apart in anarchy and nihilism.
Cordially,
John
| From afreeby151 (Q233. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
This question is mainly for the religious. If there was a way to scientificaly prove there was no after-life when we die, that we just fade from exisitance, how would you feel about that. This is just a hypothetical question. |
I used to be an Atheist (and experienced the Angst of Atheist Existentialism) and came out of that into the Light of Christian Theism (no offense meant).
If there was no after-life (and I became convinced of that), I would live somewhat differently from the way I currently live. I would very likely live more as an atheist and a hedonist...
Ultimately my life would be meaningless and pointless (as an atheist existentialist).
Cordially,
John
| From DougDoug (Q231. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
What do you believe happens when we die? |
A modified version of "b"
Cordially,
John
| From cytyzynquartz (Q228. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
|
Evil is a side-effect of free-will.
The Christian God chose to create creatures with free-will.
These creatures sin, and cause evil when they sin.
Cordially,
John
| From superjoecrazy (Q226. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
Why arent we all genetically disfigured, since incest creates genetically altered children. I know they would not have committed incest, but their children would have. Also, how would there be black and white, asian and hispanic, native american and any skin color, besides living in different hemispheres all their lives? |
Genetic disfigurement arises due to genetic errors that are actualized in offspring from incest. Such errors in genes collect over time.
Given Adam and Eve as the first people they wouldnt have had as many genetic defects (in their gene pool) as we do. And so their immediate descendants would not be impacted as much by incest as we would be.
Also, the genetic variability needed for all of the different races were present within the gene pool of Adam and Eve. Such variations can arise within a few generations (by Micro-Evolution, not Macro*evolution).
And from the location of Adam & Eve, within a few tens of generations people could migrate away to other regions around the world...
Cordially,
John
| From lupis_noctum (Q225. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
|
A Christian is a person who follows the Jesus Christ of the Bible.
I personally do not view any of the groups you mention to be insane. I do view them as being mistaken (to the extent that they reject the Jesus Christ of the Bible).
Most of the Churches of Christ do believe in the Jesus Christ of the Bible. I am not familiar with the group Kidnapped that you refer to.
Cordially,
John
| From alienbasesintheearth (Q221. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Skeptic) |
Why Jesus never said someting about Jehova or Yave in the new testament. Always he was contradicting the things that the God in the old testamen did like the people that was killed because the things was so different like Jesus Christ says. May be Jesus wanted not to say that God in the old Testament was a Alien or not the real God? |
Jesus spoke a lot about Yahweh in the New Testament. Just do a search on the word "God" in the English Bible, for instance on www.crosswalk.com -- and every time God appears in the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke,John) when Jesus is speaking, he is referring to Yahweh.
And in response to your question, the God of the OT was not an alien (if you mean an alien from space)...
Cordially,
John
| From CrazyBato (Q218. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Skeptic) |
There are more than a hundred billion galaxies in the observable universe. Typical galaxies contain 10 million to one trillion stars. Astronomers have proven that there are planets orbiting some of these stars. There are 155 known planets in the Milky Way orbiting sun-like stars. |
On the contrary my friend...
Your theory does not make me question my faith in God :)
Much as we might wish for the existence of Extra-terrestrial life, I am not convinced that any ET life exists.
And when we calculate the probability of life originating by random-chance, the odds are so low that there ought to be no life anywhere in our physical universe. The existence of life on our planet (let alone anywhere in the physical universe) is a miracle (which is consistent with the existence of the Christian God who created life on Earth).
Cordially,
John
| From mommy_2_little_man (Q212. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Skeptic) |
|
In Muslim nations, Muslims are viewed positively and nonMuslims (including Christians) are viewed negatively.
Having said that...
There is a growing recognition world-wide of the ties between world-wide terrorism and Islam. There is also a growing recognition of the suffering and persecution of non-Muslims in Muslim countries.
Both of these factors contribute to a growing a negative view of Islam in the minds of many people world-wide.
The best thing that Muslims can do (if they want to change this image of Islam) is to follow the teachings of the prophet Issa (Jesus Christ) as presented in the Injil (New Testament)... The Prophet Issa teaches Love, Joy and Peace.
The word Muslim means "submitted" (submitted to God).
A true Christian is submitted to God through the teachings of the prophet Issa.
Cordially,
John
| From kelseyc86 (Q202. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Skeptic) |
ok now i have your attention! Why does every church have gone too dedicate so much f***ing time to putting down other religions its like Jr.high or somthing its laughable to think so many of you buy into this B.S. |
The church I attend (a non-denominational Evangelical Church) focuses on teaching people about Jesus Christ and about how to come into relationship with God through what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. The church also teaches Christians how to live lives that are pleasing to God. I have never heard the pastor preach from the pulpit against any other religion.
Having said that...
It would be a mistake for us to believe that ALL world-views are equally correct. Similarly it would be a mistake for us to believe that ALL religions are equally correct.
Some one world-view (and/or religion) has to be the most correct, out of all the world-views and religions out there.
And I do not oppose the idea of any given world-view or religion teaching that it is the most correct view (I would ask for reasons for why that religion or world-view was the most correct).
Cordially,
John
| From bettierage (Q201. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Skeptic) |
|
I was an Atheist before I became a Christian... :)
And I have spent a lot of time looking into the major world religions.
I was an Atheist in part because I had been presented caricatures of religion (and I had believed those caricatures).
As far as whether Atheists know nothing about religion -- my experience is that some do and some dont (depends on the background of the person).
Cordially,
John
| From HAsSelHoF (Q199. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Skeptic) |
|
I am sorry you believe that God has betrayed you.
Is it possible that you might be mistaken?
Cordially,
John
| From gino_ggg (Q195. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Skeptic) |
If there is a god, why couldn't he reveal himself so that there would be no question about his existence? |
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow towards the beauty-of-character that will be a joy for eternity. The Bible refers to this as us "being conformed to the image of Christ".
God's purpose is for us to develop character and integrity (through our experiences on earth and our responses to those experiences). In order to provide opportunities for us to develop integrity, God "steps back a bit" and lets us do our own thing (it is only by providing such space for us, that we will truly be able to develop integrity and character). A part of this "stepping back" involves God not making his presence too obvious.
Note: God has provided us evidence for his Existence. See here (http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for instance. And God does reveal himself to those who seek him with sincerity, humility and perseverance.
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q193. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Skeptic) |
any tips on how i still can go to heaven? |
Good question :)
I would have your Christian personality share the gospel with your Atheist personality (and explain to the Atheist personality why your Christian personality is Christian)...
And I would point your Atheist personality to evidence for the existence of God (e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... )
And I would pray for the salvation of your Atheist Personality. :)
Cordially,
John
| From jepeters (Q179. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Skeptic) |
it is a fact that "christians" are nothing more than hate mongering pychopathic wierdos. the world would be a better place without them indeed. |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint... :)
Cordially,
John
| From spamandham (Q176. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Skeptic) |
Matthew 19:12 (KJV) |
Thank you for your kind advice. :)
Please note that the statement in Matthew 19:12 is not a blanket to **all** Christian men.
Cordially,
John
| From Tasha (Q167. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Skeptic) |
We as christians (including me) need to learn to avoid questions that people like that ask. I must admit sometimes it is so hard to watch others downgrade our Lord & Savior in such a manner. But the Bible does tell us to avoid it. |
I agree with you :)
Cordially,
John
| From NicholasD (Q166. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Skeptic) |
|
Human sinfulness & rebellion against God...
Cordially,
John
| From I_Hate_Y (Q153. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Skeptic) |
Jesus Christ, it's the 21st century... |
I do not know which beliefs you are referring to as idiot superstitions.
However if you are referring to the existence of God -- there is reasonable and rational evidence for his existence; see here (http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for instance.
And there is reasonable and rational evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ; see here (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm)... for instance.
Cordially,
John
| From Taimur (Q149. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Skeptic) |
1. GOD is one and only . |
I agree with the following:
1. GOD is one and only.
2. He is eternal and absolute
3. He took the form of a man in the person of Jesus Christ.
4. There is nothing like unto Him.
I see nothing illogical or irrational in these 4 items listed above.
Cordially,
John
| From neveroutnumbered (Q148. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Skeptic) |
If God was all powerful why would he have to turn into three forms and commit suicide in order to forgives Sins. Shouldn't he just be able to forgive? Why does he need blood? Why is there this 1+1+1=3 stuff that defies logic? If God created us with minds and intelligence why would we to have to believe this illogical concept of a trinity to be "Saved"? Shouldn't he have been able to do all this in one form, if he was all powerful? |
The Christian God is all-powerful (in a logically-consistent sense).
The fact that he manifests himself in three personas is evidence of his power (not evidence against it).
The Trinity is not illogical. It does not say 1+1+1 = 3. That is a misunderstanding of the Trinity.
The Trinity says that there is ONE God, who manifests himself in three persona/persons/forms. There is nothing illogical about this.
He could do all of the things you mention in one form, but it is a manifestation of his power that he chooses to do these in three forms.
Cordially,
John
| From donna (Q145. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Skeptic) |
are there any green witches here?if so email me.x |
I am not a green witch, but wished to say Hi :)
Cordially,
John
| From fret_guy89 (Q141. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Skeptic) |
Alright, I am all for people having a religion, but seriously (and this goes especially for Christians, only because I've never said "Allah damn it!") why do you get so defensive when people take your god's name in vain? Obviously, if you believe that I am going to hell for it if I don't repent and my true punishment will be eternal damnation, do you really feel like some defender of your faith by yelling at me for it? |
I am not offended if you were to take God's name in vain (I do think however that you would be unwise to do so -- considering Pascal's wager).
Having said that, I do not find it unreasonable to expect you to be courteous to Christians (and refrain from taking the name of the Christian God in vain).
Cordially,
John
| From Siiixbox (Q138. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Lucifer gods the 1st angel |
I would choose to believe God rather than Satan regarding Hell and Heaven...
:)
Cordially,
John
| From Tom (Q133. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Those of you who think there is evidence I'd like to know what it is. |
You mentioned that you would be interested in evidence for religion...
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html for evidence for the existence of God.
And see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
for evidence for Jesus.
Cordially,
John
| From Astroid (Q125. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Skeptic) |
Most Christians will agree that Islam have a different god than them, yet they all believe in the same god Moses believed in, is this proof that there is no god and that "god" is only as big as the culture that worships him? |
Is it possible that there is only ONE God, and that some religions are mistaken in their view of that One God?
Cordially,
John
| From Shab (Q121. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Skeptic) |
It has been prophesised that in the 200 years to come,the whole world will be converted to Islam Ahmadiyyat.In religion there is no compulsion,but seeing the truth of this religion, many people will accept Islam Ahmadiyyat.This has been prophesised by the Promised Messiah{Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadian}(may peace be on Him.The venue of the Promised Messiah(may peace.) who came 100 years ago was prophesised by the Holy Prophet Mohammed(may peace and blessing be on Him).Many more prophets even prophesised the venue of the Promised Messiah(may peace.)I myself firmly believe in His words as He was the Reformer sent by God.Before answering to my question u can check:www.alislam.org. Actually there is the 5th successor of the Promised Messiah{may peace.} and his name is Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad.100 years before ignorant Christians in the United States were anxious that the time for the venue of the Promised Messiah(may peace.) had passed but the Promised Messiah had not come. |
The Promised Messiah has come, and his name is Issa (pbuh).
He has promised that he will come again a second time.
Wishing you Peace through the Prophet Issa (pbuh).
Cordially,
John
| From Imrational (Q120. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Okay, Satan was created by God. If Satan knew that God was omnipotent/omniscient, how could he expect to win a war in Heaven? Why would he want to rebel if he knew he would lose? Then, once he lost... why would he continue to fight against God, knowing that it was useless? |
Satan is being irrational in fighting against God.
Satan knows (or ought to know) that he will ultimately lose, but he continues on his path due to arrogance and pride (and sinfulness).
As we can see around us, many human beings choose to sin against God due to arrogance and pride... Satan is similar.
Cordially,
John
| From Sexy_jim_darwin (Q116. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Atheists please answer? |
I used to be an Atheist -- and I thought that Christianity was a crutch for stupid people, and that it was based on blind and irrational faith.
I have since changed my mind.
Cordially,
John
| From Sexy_jim_darwin (Q115. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Religious people please answer? |
All humans have faith in something (including Atheists).
Atheists believe by faith that atheist processes created the entire universe and maintain it.
Cordially,
John
| From DougDoug (Q112. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
OK, most of you whom I've spoken to say that if Jesus WERE married, this would not lessen him. So, why are so many Christians offended by the theory, and by The Da Vinci Code in which the characters assume this theory is fact? |
I am not offended by the theory that Jesus was married.
I just find the arguments put forward in the DVC to be ineffective, and so see no reason to believe the theory that Jesus was married.
Cordially,
John
| From Astroid (Q97. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
Islam, Judaism and Christianity believe in the God that created Adam and Eve, Moses and Abraham...why are they 3 different God's now and why does one of them have three heads? |
Islam believes in Allah. The Muslim God is NOT the same as the Christian God.
Judaism believes in YHWH. The concept of the Jewish God is not incorrect (to the extent that the Torah & Tanach -- Old Testament are used), but is based on a partial revelation of God (just the old testament).
In Christianity we have a more complete revelation of God... Christianity believes in YHWH who came down in the form of Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah to enable reconciliation between God and humans.
The reference to 3 heads is a likely reference to the Trinity. The Christian notion of the Trinity is that there is only ONE God... However he presents himself to us in three personas (for purposes of effecting the salvation of humans).
Cordially,
John
| From Hassan (Q82. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Skeptic) |
ISALM denies man made system like capitalism from West and communism from Asia. USA wants to force their capitalism on other countries which ISLAM denies. |
I do.
Cordially,
John
| From Memphis_rayns (Q56. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
I mean think about it! Who took that right to just say "Oh we're better cause we have a different god" This is the kind of BS why war's get started! And what cowardly B****** allow themselves to say "Oh this is a war in "his" name!"??? |
God is a generic term for the Creator of the Universe.
Allah is the personal name of the Muslim God (over time the Arabic word changed in usage to also be applied to God in general -- however when the majority of the world, including Muslims, use the word Allah, they mean the Muslim God).
Muslim theologians confirm that the Muslim God is NOT the same as the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Templar2329 (Q55. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
Bring it on. I want to see who can do the best job at convincing me that God is real, without any "faith" stuff. Faith is not an argument, it is just a word meaning "im saying this, cause i dont have any better argument". I will laugh at your efforts. |
Questions like this are sometimes asked by Hard-Skeptics (who are not open to any evidence for the Existence of God at all), and sometimes are asked by others (who are potentially open to evidence for the Existence of God).
If you wish to look into the existence of God...
Then, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
for examples of evidence for the Existence of God.
Cordially,
John
| From Howie_simpson (Q51. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
You don't need to give me the answer, I just want an idea of where to approach it from, the more of these I learn the less I have any clue what is going on. |
Thank you for your question.
The purpose of the Zen Koans is not to come up with a Rational Answer. The purpose of the Koans is to break you of the habit of thinking rationally (and logically) with the intention of getting you to experience a mystical experience of the universe.
So your approach in "trying to solve the problem" is incorrect (at least from a Zen perspective).
I have had mystical experiences myself. Over a period of time I have come to be convinced of the reality of the Christian God and the reality of Jesus Christ (and have experienced mystical experiences within the context of a relationship with God through what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross).
I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings). See http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for examples of such evidence.
And I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ. See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm... for examples of such evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From Merielwolf (Q50. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
I beleive jesus was gay becuase its a sin (in the bible) to lust after the opposite sex. it says no where that its a sin for a man to lust after a man or a woman to lust after a woman. if you know exactly where it is in the the bible that states that jesus was not gay.. please by all mean show me. |
Thank you for your question.
There is no verse in the Bible that says that Jesus was gay. There is no indication in any of his behavior that he was gay. So I think it is reasonable to infer that he was not gay.
Cordially,
John
| From GeekInThePink (Q46. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
I am a firm beleiver in the idea that our souls are born and reborn into different bodies for the specific purpose to learn the lessons that we have failed to learn in previous lives. Then, when all your lessons are learned, NIRVANA . . . |
Thank you for your question.
I believe that we have only one life on earth. And the way we live that life (and the decisions we make in that one life) will impact our eternity.
The concept of reincarnation comes from Hinduism. Within Hinduism, reincarnation is really a curse (not a blessing). Life is misery, suffering and hell. And we are cursed to endlessly repeat the cycle of misery, suffering and hell.
All the rituals and disciplines within Hinduism are focused on breaking free of this cycle of cursed reincarnation -- by reaching Nirvana (which is a state in which we cease to exist as individuals -- this is a form of self-annihilation -- i.e., a form of personality suicide).
If you are interested, see the book Death of a Guru, by Rabi Maharaj (a Hindu Priest who desperately sought God and ultimately ended up committing his Life to Jesus Christ).
Also, see (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... for examples of many individuals who have come out of Hinduism to Christ (in the Section titled "From Hinduism to Christ").
You can hear an interview with this Guru, at this link:
http://www.ibainfo.org/cs/cs_08.rm...
For a discussion of Reincarnation, see:
http://www.ibainfo.org/cs/cs_06.rm...
Cordially,
John
| From SummerSeason (Q45. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
Now that the studies have proven that prayer is hazardous to your health, if you pray, why do you pray? I don't understand why anyone would continue to do so. |
Thank you for your question.
Yes, I pray to the Christian God.
What is Christian prayer?
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/prayer.html for a response.
Cordially,
John
| From Imeahgila (Q44. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Skeptic) |
|
There are intelligent people as well as stupid people in religion and the same is the case within Atheism, as you probably know.
Many intelligent people have come to the conclusion that there is evidence for the existence of God. For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
And many intelligent people have come to the conclusion that there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ. See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm... for examples of such evidence.
I pray that God will bless you and your family with Love, Joy and Peace today.
Cordially,
John
| From Anthony (Q34. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
To stop him from getting himself nailed to a cross and founding the worst religion ever? |
No one would have the power to stop Jesus (even if they went back in time).
Jesus voluntariy died on the cross to make reconciliation bewteen you (and me) and God possible. This was part of God's purpose in creating the universe.
For a brief overview of why God created the universe and the Christian gospel, see: http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From Arwensmallelf (Q33. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
This is just one of the many things in christianity, aand all it's branches, I don't understand. if jesus died so that the sins of man could be forgiven then what difference does it matter if you do something wrong? if you are forgiven when you die. |
Good question... :)
Jesus' forgiveness is provided to you IF you come into relationship with God through the Gospel. See below...
The Essence of Christianity (the gospel):
All of us have fallen short of the beauty-of-character that God wants for his children. (Romans 3:23).
Because of sin we are separated from God. (Romans 6:23)
God loves you so much that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for your sins.
If you commit your life to Christ based on this, you can be in relationship with God today, and in the life to come... (John 3:16)
God invites you to join his family. Will you open the door (of your heart) and invite Jesus in? (Revelation 3:20)
--
If you are interested in evidence for the existence of God, see: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For the purpose of our Universe (from a Christian perspective): http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From Ricardoph (Q30. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
I grew up in an agnostic house and the idea of God is totally foreign to me, But I dont understand how people believe in all those stories from the bible, dont they sound kind of unrealistic and riciculous to people? |
I believe in God... I used to be an atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God.
Why?
Because of the combination of intellectual evidence and experiential evidence in my life.
For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Mighty Ball (Q29. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
Do you believe in a higher power of any sort? Yes or No? |
I believe in the Christian God.
(as in here http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html )
Cordially,
John
| From Anonymous (Q28. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
You people question nothing over what you believe you know... I'm so tierd of hearing what god DID... What is he doing right NOW. NOTHING!!! How long have you people been waiting for Christs return? Brothers and Sisters God has forgotten about ALL of you. |
On the contrary... many Christians have come to faith in Christ through the process of questioning what they (and humans at large) know...
E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for examples of questions that some of us have pondered... (and in my case, come to a Theistic conclusion)...
Regarding the 2nd coming of Christ... He will return when the time is right... and no, he has not forgotten us (I have had many prayers answered by the Christian God, and so have many other Christians)...
Cordially,
John
| From ThatGuy (Q25. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
Suppose someone has lived their entire life and died without having ever met a Christian (it may be possible even today). Do you feel they will be condemned for being born in the wrong place? |
People who never hear of Jesus will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given.
God has given ALL human beings (a) the evidence of the universe -- i.e., appearance of design in the universe, (b) the conscience and the common core of moral law, (c) a God-shaped vacuum in our hearts...
Each of us responds to these items (above) in different ways. Some people come up with rationalizations to avoid the inference to God. Others follow the evidence and seek God.
God then reveals himself to any person who seeks God with sincerity, humility and perseverance. For example, see (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/... for examples of people from a variety of religions who sought God and ultimately came to Christ.
The bottom line is that people who never hear of Jesus will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given. And this is true for people both before and after Christ's birth.
Cordially,
John
| From Mocham (Q24. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
As religion is the initial of every war & terrorist acts. |
Thank you for your question.
There are many religions because God gives us free will to choose a religion. And different human beings choose different religions.
Given freedom of choice, we will never (humanly speaking) have all human beings choose to follow one religion.
I am afraid you are mistaken when you say that religion is the source of every war and terrorist act. There have been many wars and much suffering caused by Atheists in the name of Atheistic Governments (e.g., the Soviet Union, and various Atheistic Communist nations -- it is estimated that about 70-100 million people were killed by Atheist Governments, where Atheism was their official religion/ideology, in the 20th century).
Having said that, Jesus Christ came to earth to teach us to live in peace with one another.
For more information about the core of what Jesus came to give us, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose...
Cordially,
John
| From Accessd_c14 (Q21. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Skeptic) |
What's with all these bible thumpers getting all up in arms when a question about Marijuana and Jesus is asked? BLASPHEMY!!! they yell. Why wouldn't he use marijuana? It's just an herb that btw, GOD created, it's not man made. Marijuana actually helps in relieving pain and suffering, which is why Doctors use it for patients. Why is marijuana blasphemy when it comes to Jesus smoking? Help me understand this. |
I don't consider it blasphemy for you to ask if Jesus would use Marijuana.
In answer to your question, I do not believe that he would use Marijuana, but he would hang out with pot-heads... :)
He came to save pot-heads the same as anyone else who is willing to come to God ...
Jesus' message is that we can come to God through what Jesus has done for us on the cross:
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From Alchemist (Q13. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Skeptic) |
1. Theist |
Christian Theist
No justifications provided, but if you are interested, see www.GodSci.org for discussion of why it is rational to believe in God (and in the Christian God).
Cordially,
John
| From PsiCat (Q12. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Skeptic) |
Isn't it true that it was formulated just to counter the theory of Evolution? Religion should not be melded into science, the secular and spiritual concepts should be kept separate. Agree or disagree? |
Intelligent design was not formulated just to counter Theory of Evolution.
What is Intelligent Design?
Intelligent Design Theory provides a scientific methodology to identify the activity of an Intelligent Designer.
This methodology works extremely well when applied to artifacts in the fields of (a) archeology, (b) forensics, (c) cryptography, (d) anthropology, (e) reverse engineering etc.
Furthermore, the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program is founded on this methodology.
Interestingly when the same methodology is applied to Microbiology, evidence is seen for Intelligent Design.
This inference (to Intelligent Design) is acceptable to the vast majority of human beings.
The inference is however opposed by individuals who have a strong prior commitment to Atheism and/or Metaphysical Naturalism.
For more detail see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/id/id.html...
--
Religion and Science can be mutually complementary (Science is founded on Faith; and so is Atheism/ naturalism; and so is Theism). So Religion and Science should be kept separate or allowed to merge depending on where the evidence points (rather than as a mandatory presuppositional paradigm). Those of us who are interested in TRUTH would look for nothing else.
Cordially,
John
| From Happybg3 (Q6. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Skeptic) |
|
On the contrary, my friend.
There is evidence for the existence of God.
See here for examples: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ:
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Forsaken13 (Q1. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Skeptic) |
When I stop and think about it, didn't man create the first religions? Didn't man establish the first reigning gods? Didn't man dethrone some (Zeus,Jupiter,etc)and put new ones in the throne? (jesus,YahWeh,etc) Isn't it man who fights and conquers others in order to give power to their respective god? Is not man the one who has shaped the Earth and created many things out of it? Is he not the one with the power to giveth and taketh away? Can he not choose to destroy the Earth? I believe gods and religions are mere tools of man: the true creator. He who rose out of nothingness and shaped the face of the Earth and its creatures. |
On the contrary, my friend.
There is evidence for the existence of God.
See here for examples: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
And there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ:
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John