Approaches to discussions

[ErricFiggy]

Hello everyone

I’ve noticed that now when i get into discussions with Protestants, i don’t use too much Scripture. I ask questions to try and get them thinking or try and point out the holes in their logic…as opposed to when I first started studying apologetics, when in my disscussions I would use Scripture more often. Thinking about it now, I guess i’m a little more hesitant to use Scripture in my conversations because whenever i did in the past, the other person would quickly shake it off and accuse me of misinterpreting or taking it out of context, and that discussion would quickly turn into a game of Scripture volleyball. So my question is, how often should I use Scripture? And what should i do if the conversation turns into us just trading verses?

Also, how do you approach discussions with others? I’m still learning how to talk to others

Thank you all

 

[Randal796]

Can you give an example of how and when you might start a discussion? What prompts you to start talking?

 

[jochoa]

Hello everyone

I’ve noticed that now when i get into discussions with Protestants, i don’t use too much Scripture. I ask questions to try and get them thinking or try and point out the holes in their logic…as opposed to when I first started studying apologetics, when in my disscussions I would use Scripture more often. Thinking about it now, I guess i’m a little more hesitant to use Scripture in my conversations because whenever i did in the past, the other person would quickly shake it off and accuse me of misinterpreting or taking it out of context, and that discussion would quickly turn into a game of Scripture volleyball. So my question is, how often should I use Scripture? And what should i do if the conversation turns into us just trading verses?

Also, how do you approach discussions with others? I’m still learning how to talk to others

Thank you all

Excellent questions, my friend! Please consider the following concepts:
Our Lord tells us to: “Ask and we shall receive.” I have found that He tells us to ask because asking indicates that we are open to hearing another’s perspective. If we are not open to hearing another’s perspective, then when someone shares his/her perspective with us, it will fall on dead ears. Since we are called to act in oneness with His Will, we should only answer when someone asks*.
So…
Try to listen closely as to whether or not someone is asking a question.
-If they are asking questions, try to answer them.
-If they are only making statements, simply try to understand how their perspective is in the least somewhat valid. Let them know whether or not you understand their perspective and be done with the attempt to educate.
*The great challenge is learning to recognize that some people ask questions through statements and actions, while others make statements by asking questions, and trying to respond appropriately and effectively.

 

[ErricFiggy]

Can you give an example of how and when you might start a discussion? What prompts you to start talking?

Well I really only engage in discussions when I’m asked a question by someone regarding Catholic beliefs. I haven’t had many occasions in which someone makes a comment about the Catholic Church and I jump into the conversation.

 

[ErricFiggy]

Excellent questions, my friend! Please consider the following concepts:
Our Lord tells us to: “Ask and we shall receive.” I have found that He tells us to ask because asking indicates that we are open to hearing another’s perspective. If we are not open to hearing another’s perspective, then when someone shares his/her perspective with us, it will fall on dead ears. Since we are called to act in oneness with His Will, we should only answer when someone asks*.
So…
Try to listen closely as to whether or not someone is asking a question.
-If they are asking questions, try to answer them.
-If they are only making statements, simply try to understand how their perspective is in the least somewhat valid. Let them know whether or not you understand their perspective and be done with the attempt to educate.
*The great challenge is learning to recognize that some people ask questions through statements and actions, while others make statements by asking questions, and trying to respond appropriately and effectively.

Thanks a lot! I’ll be SURE to keep this in mind

 

[jochoa]

Thanks a lot! I’ll be SURE to keep this in mind

Thank you for sharing that this made sense!

 

[Iotaunum]

Hi,

I have talked to many a protestant and atheists in my time, as well as those from other religions. Being a “traditional” Catholic, I have also talked with many priests, bishops and Catholic laity. I think firstly that you must understand that some people just will not change even if all evidence points in black and white to Catholicism. Secondly, most Protestants are subject to long sermons on the evils of Rome and the Pope being the antichrist. Therefore you must show them true Catholic teaching in your explanation.

For example, you could start with the commandments and link this to the accusation of Catholics worshiping Mary. I cleared this up for one protestant and he was amazed that I did not come back with a “well there is nothing wrong with worshiping Mary” response. He almost shared the Catholic view when I presented it to him with clarity.

Also, as an apologist you must learn the Biblical basis for Catholicism and try to memorise key passages. When you talk to many people you will have these refutations and clarifications engrained in your mind. Honestly, one day I corresponded with three Protestants of various sects by writing on the Papacy and with one person in a conversation. I was sick of repeating myself, but it was a good thing because after so long when this issue comes up I can respond without any bother.

If you don’t want to start from Scripture, then start before Scripture. For example, you could ask the protestant the question no protestant can answer: “Where did you get the Canon of Scripture from and how do you know it is infallible, contains the correct books, does not contain non inspired passages and does not leave out inspired passages?” - the Catholic can answer since this was the reason our Lord founded the Church. The Church decided. The protestant will likely brush it off, or give a foolish answer - but it will make them think. Conversion is a process, so if you can get them to think and question you have done as much as anyone can do for another.