First off I realize that there is a search function on this forum and some of my questions may be answered by using it - yes, there are plenty of threads that have addressed the problems I will mention. It would mean a lot to me if I wasn't reminded of any of this. I've been an online forum user for years so I understand the etiquette expected but if I offend anyone I apologize in advance and will welcome any criticism.
I want to preface this entire thread and my responses specifically with the warning that although I am currently a Christian, I am an EXTREME skeptic and thus have found this forum. I am NOT a troll and do not intend to lead anyone into questioning their faith (though the level of intelligence I exhibit likely won't force anyone to reach this conclusion, lol) . I am here to learn and discuss, not argue / attempt to convince believers they are wrong. I would feel horrendous if this were to happen.
My first thought I would love to hear responses about:
The only believers I'm aware of were either raised in a Christian home (and thus indoctrinated into the belief system from a young age without critical thinking abilities, etc, like myself), or have experienced a traumatic event or suffered a chronic problem (alcoholism, life/death accident, etc). This creates a problem for me because I'm seeking truth.
"Truth" is another issue that can create an entire discussion in and of itself.
I want to preface this entire thread and my responses specifically with the warning that although I am currently a Christian, I am an EXTREME skeptic and thus have found this forum. I am NOT a troll and do not intend to lead anyone into questioning their faith (though the level of intelligence I exhibit likely won't force anyone to reach this conclusion, lol) . I am here to learn and discuss, not argue / attempt to convince believers they are wrong. I would feel horrendous if this were to happen.
My first thought I would love to hear responses about:
The only believers I'm aware of were either raised in a Christian home (and thus indoctrinated into the belief system from a young age without critical thinking abilities, etc, like myself), or have experienced a traumatic event or suffered a chronic problem (alcoholism, life/death accident, etc). This creates a problem for me because I'm seeking truth.
"Truth" is another issue that can create an entire discussion in and of itself.