Debating with an atheist; need advice.

[JD Leet]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

 

[GeorgeJ]

My advice is that you go your way, and let him go his.

 

[quatona]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

So what exactly is it that you believe?

 

[JD Leet]

So what exactly is it that you believe?

That whatever happened in the bible, happened, and for reason.

 

[quatona]

That whatever happened in the bible, happened, and for reason.

How did you arrive at that conclusion?

 

[Willing-heart]

You can win the debate and lose the person, as much as I love to defend the Word of God, I find that trying to defend God is like trying to defend a lion, all you can do is be a witness for Christ and share the Word of God with that person. Only God can turn their heart of stone to a heart of flesh. Remember to pray for them too.

The Earth and the human body have a design, and every little atomic particle works together to sustain what we see with our eyes here and in the Universe. The human body is an integrated system that brings together a trillion cells in an endless dance with the actions and environment of our lives. We all use these systems everyday; every move you make, even just walking down the street requires a complexity that even the most advanced robot on earth cannot match. Such order does not come out of chaos, nor by chance, nor by accident, no matter how many billions of years it may try. I am not skilled to understand, but I am convinced that there is no such thing as coincidence. “What we know is a drop, what we do not know is a vast ocean. The admirable arrangement and harmony of the universe could only have come from the plan of an omniscient and omnipotent being.” - Isaac Newton

 

[JD Leet]

How did you arrive at that conclusion?

Is the Bible true? | Christian Apologetics & Research Ministry

 

[RC1970]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

Welcome to CF.

I believe this is God's way of telling you that it is time to get serious about who you are going to be.

The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.”
They are corrupt, doing abominable iniquity;
there is none who does good.
God looks down from heaven
on the children of man
to see if there are any who understand,
who seek after God.
They have all fallen away;
together they have become corrupt;
there is none who does good,
not even one. ~ Psalm 53:1-3

 

[JD Leet]

You can win the debate and lose the person, as much as I love to defend the Word of God, I find that trying to defend God is like trying to defend a lion, all you can do is be a witness for Christ and share the Word of God with that person. Only God can turn their heart of stone to a heart of flesh. Remember to pray for them too.

The Earth and the human body have a design, and every little atomic particle works together to sustain what we see with our eyes here and in the Universe. The human body is an integrated system that brings together a trillion cells in an endless dance with the actions and environment of our lives. We all use these systems everyday; every move you make, even just walking down the street requires a complexity that even the most advanced robot on earth cannot match. Such order does not come out of chaos, nor by chance, nor by accident, no matter how many billions of years it may try. I am not skilled to understand, but I am convinced that there is no such thing as coincidence. “What we know is a drop, what we do not know is a vast ocean. The admirable arrangement and harmony of the universe could only have come from the plan of an omniscient and omnipotent being.” - Isaac Newton

Well if I don't do a good job defending, the least I could do is to pray for them. Thanks for the words/encouragement. I really needed it.

 

[Blood Bought 1953]

How did you arrive at that conclusion?

Pay a visit to ask god.com...it should answer many of his questions...you can thank me later lol

 

[quatona]

Is the Bible true? | Christian Apologetics & Research Ministry

Well, if that´s what made you arrive at your conclusion it would be best to simply quote this source.
If, however, it doesn´t answer the questions that are coming up in your conversations, this source obviously isn´t a sufficient rational support of your beliefs.

 

[2PhiloVoid]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

That's funny. You write like someone who would have some answers for your friend. But, if you really feel you're running short of answers, then tell me, at the present moment, from where are you getting your answers, JD? And from where is your friend getting his?

 

[Chipsj15]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

First, I want to say I am very sorry that you have had this happen to you. But I can assure you that God is still sovereign (in authority and in control) in this situation and you will see the blessings from this in the future. All that to say, I know that it in no way makes this easy for you.

I think you are making the right move by seeking the council of your community and church, they will be able to help you tremendously - especially if there is someone who is an ex-athiest! But also make absolute sure that you are studying the Scriptures yourself, like you said (2 Timothy 3:16-17). But there is one other resource that I would like to mention, and that is the internet. There are a ton of good resources on the internet and my favorite is got questions.org. They have thousands of questions answered that are right up your alley, and if you can't find one then you can ask your own. But here is a link to the "God being a murderer, thus you're a murderer" statement: Does God killing people make Him a murderer?

Additionally resources that I personally like are: desiringgod.org, CARM.org, anything from Ravi Zacharias, Matt Chandler

This very well could be a phase he or she is going through that will in turn make you BOTH stronger Christians in the long run, but I do not know. But most importantly, if you feel lead (which it sounds like you are) continue to share the Gospel of good news to him, for it is the Scriptures that have the power alone to save and correct people (2 Tim 3:16-17, Romans chapter 10). Additionally, always make sure that you show the love of Christ when discussing, debating, etc. And... pray pray pray pray, prayer is also essential!!

I hope this helps a little, I will have you and your friend in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you both!

In Christ.

 

[quatona]

Pay a visit to ask god.com...it should answer many of his questions...you can thank me later lol

Why would I have a desire to answer "his" (whoever that may be) questions?
Make no mistake: I am not a Christian - but I sure am interested in Christians to defend their beliefs in the best possible way.

 

[Blood Bought 1953]

Pay a visit to ask god.com...it should answer many of his questions...you can thank me later lol

I used to be an atheist..for no good reason God gave me “ears to hear and eyes to see” pray that your friend receives the same

 

[Willing-heart]

Well if I don't do a good job defending, the least I could do is to pray for them. Thanks for the words/encouragement. I really needed it.

You're welcome. I will recommend using personal stories or examples of how God has done something for you or got you through trials and tribulation etc... Also make sure to pray before speaking to such people, ask the Holy Spirit to be your voice. God bless.

 

[Blood Bought 1953]

I used to be an atheist..for no good reason God gave me “ears to hear and eyes to see” pray that your friend receives the same

Avoid the site....I really couldn’t care less..was just trying to help....”no good deed goes unpunished” that may be in the Bible."...where?....somewhere in in the back.

 

[Doug Melven]

My favorite questions to ask an atheist is
"Why do you have to have groups and associations to promote atheism?
Why do you have to shove atheism down everybody's throat if there really is no God, why can't you just live your lives?
Answer: Because they can't, when they look around, they see God everywhere. Ps 19:1
So they have to shout louder and louder that God doesn't exist.

 

[Kenny'sID]

Why would I have a desire to answer "his" (whoever that may be) questions?
Make no mistake: I am not a Christian - but I sure am interested in Christians to defend their beliefs in the best possible way

Are you an Atheist? I ask because it looks at though you have no intention other than to question the OP's beliefs, when I think that is the opposite of what he asked for, hence off topic.

Are you trying to help or hinder here?

 

[Robban]

Recently me and a friend of mine, who came out as an atheist recently have been debating nonstop for the past month or so. I learned that he used to be a Christian himself, until he started reading the bible more mindfully. He was made aware of all the "bad things" that happened, such as God killing people, stoning children, etc. He came across this link: Cruelty and Violence and then decided that Christianity was no longer right for him. He also studied scientific concepts such as big bang, evolution, etc. and just trying to disprove the bible in any way he can. Overall I would consider him a "Strong atheist".

On the other hand, myself, I feel like I'd consider myself a "Weak christian". There are so many questions he asks me that I don't feel qualified enough to answer, and the ones that I do feel like I answer accurately and within reason, he just comes back with a counter-arguement. It just happens every time and I feel like there's nothing that comes to my mind, and there's no reason to continue discussing this. But I care about him so much, and I feel like he at least deserves the respect from me by answering any of his questions/concerns. He respects my beliefs, and I respect his. So overall the discussions are respectful and there's nothing to complain about there, but I tend to give relatively short responses because I just haven't studied the bible enough, nor have I paid much attention in church until recently. But deep inside my heart I know what I believe is truth, but it's difficult for me to express it.

One of the things we discussed was morality. I stated that I think God is the standard for morality, but then he states that if I think God is moral, then ultimately, somehow accept and believe in murder and all the "bad things", and that morality is subjective. Like, how do I even respond to that? It doesn't make sense to me and at that point there's nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I know that if I learn more from church/bible studies/asking you guys, then I can come to a sensible conclusion or response and then we could have more intellectual discussion with each other. I'm tired of one-sided discussions where I have nothing to contribute. I know I'm better than that.

Does not sound like friendship,

more like bullying.