Etiquette Tips when debating a combative opponent on God

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I’m a relatively young Catholic, but there is a combative atheist that insists on stirring the pot by starting debates. I wish to know how to act charitably when debating him, so as not to be a rude or bad witness of faith. This isn’t a thread for debating or stating opinions, but just tips on how to be respectful, which is quite hard.
 
Show him God’s love. It’s that simple, really. People remember how we treat them much more than what we say. Be patient, pray for him, but don’t be drawn into pointless exchanges with him. He’s not disposed to listen, so it would be pointless, anyway. You can say you don’t wish to discuss it, but how about going for a pizza. 😉 Just be a friend to him and let him see that you are practicing your faith in love. That will speak volumes in and of itself. 🙂
 
upgrade,
There may be numerous other tips that could help with your situation but in my view that would just complicate things for you. I believe della has hit the nail on the head. Blessings.
 
May not be the advice you want to hear (or the right advice) but I gave up debating with combative types on this subject a long time ago. I found it to be really unproductive and not really a debate at all - just an argument. My advice would be to forgo the discussion and pray for them.
 
I suggest you watch some of the youtube videos of Cristina Rad, an attractive and extremely funny Romanian atheist. She is apparently well known in atheist circles, and takes part in all sorts of international conferences.

Look at Cristina’s arguments. How many of her arguments apply to Catholics? Almost none. I can watch Cristina’s videos and agree with almost everything she says. Do you deny evolution? Do you think science and religion are opposed to each other? Do you take the Bible literally? If you answer yes, Cristina’s attacking you. If you answer no, you agree with Cristina. And you’re Catholic.

However, there are a few basic assumptions that separate Catholics from atheists. But we cannot “prove” our assumptions. But we can show atheists that our assumptions are based on logic and reason, and that our assumptions are just as reasonable as their own assumptions. And that seems like a worthwhile project.
 
DeniseNY said:
May not be the advice you want to hear (or the right advice) but I gave up debating with combative types on this subject a long time ago. I found it to be really unproductive and not really a debate at all - just an argument. My advice would be to forgo the discussion and pray for them.
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I’m with you. Most of them have made up their mind and there is no changing it. What they want to do is shake our faith. No chance of that, either, so it’s a stalemate before the debate even gets started.
 
Upgrade25 said:
I’m a relatively young Catholic, but there is a combative atheist that insists on stirring the pot by starting debates. I wish to know how to act charitably when debating him, so as not to be a rude or bad witness of faith. This isn’t a thread for debating or stating opinions, but just tips on how to be respectful, which is quite hard.
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I would say to call a truce not to discuss religion (or the lack of) in the interest of preserving your relationship and peace on earth. It’s doubtful that you will change him or that he would change you. So why not agree to disagree and focus on what you have in common rather than your differences.
 
Upgrade25 said:
I’m a relatively young Catholic, but there is a combative atheist that insists on stirring the pot by starting debates. I wish to know how to act charitably when debating him, so as not to be a rude or bad witness of faith. This isn’t a thread for debating or stating opinions, but just tips on how to be respectful, which is quite hard.
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I understand your concern…there are many here that are uncivil with their fellow Catholics, who turn debate into arguments, so don’t assume Catholics have a lock on good manners…just treat others with respect, even if they do not share your opinions.
 
Upgrade25 said:
I’m a relatively young Catholic, but there is a combative atheist that insists on stirring the pot by starting debates. I wish to know how to act charitably when debating him, so as not to be a rude or bad witness of faith. This isn’t a thread for debating or stating opinions, but just tips on how to be respectful, which is quite hard.
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What is the context of his insistent stirring? Does this happen at work?
 
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