How do you feel about atheists?

[Servant19]

I am confused, why would I need prayer. I will have science instead, you can have prayer

Do you not sometimes repeat affirmations which assist you in overcoming trials ahead in your day?

Isn’t the affirmation “just do it” a prayer?

.

 

[MrEmpiricism]

Medical evidence is anecdotal? Aren’t medicine and science related? X-rays are anecdotal?

Why do you assume it is I who has drawn the conclusion?

What would be examples of multiple variables?

yes that is anecdotal en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anecdotal_evidence

because you told me so, you concluded that prayer fixed your foot.

your immune system for one, how did you rule out the likes of spontaneous regression?

 

[MrEmpiricism]

How can one verify the intangible? You love your parents. How can I verify that? Your love is not verifiable to anyone, yet it is real, and it exists. God exists in another dimension that cannot be verified by any means, but He can be known by those who seek Him. But only those who seek will know, just like only you can know how much you love your parents. No one else can know that or verify it by your standards.

Sure I can verify love, love is a product of the brain. I can measure the brain patterns and chemicals. Knowledge is demonstrable, if you cannot demonstrate it you do not know it, what you are talking about is belief not knowledge.

 

[MrEmpiricism]

Do you not sometimes repeat affirmations which assist you in overcoming trials ahead in your day?

Isn’t the affirmation “just do it” a prayer?

.

Nope, I never do.

 

[Ash_Wednesday]

I used to find some atheists to be pretty obnoxious and arrogant, but over the years I’ve started to meet some respectable ones. Living in England now, that’s pretty commonplace. A lot of my negative experiences with atheists mostly just involved people online, but you get Keyboard Warriors online everywhere from ALL walks of life (except maybe the Amish…tee hee), and they don’t tell everyone’s story.

I think one thing that I noticed about the atheist and secular humanist community online is that they claim to be “against all religion” but I find that mockery of religion is usually just primarily directed at Christians and Christianity.

 

[Servant19]

Nope, I never do.

I don’t believe for a second that when you’re very tired at work and can’t be bothered you don’t tell yourself to “push on and get the work done”

Or when you’re feeling a little down because someone has hurt you, after a while when you think it’s time to move on you tell yourself “chin up, get on with it”…

You can’t be human if you don’t dialogue with yourself in this affirmative manner. If you would like psychology papers providing verifiable evidence that all humans have self-affirmative dialogue then I will happily give you links

.

 

[Faxero]

My post has evidently sparked controversy. I’ll clarify my position.

My scorn for Atheism comes from zeal, not from a Pharisaical mindset.

First, the “cliched arguments about us having to love the enemy”? I didn’t realize that the Golden Rule was a cliche. Second, viewing all atheists as “the enemy” is the point where thinking about and interacting with these folks has taken a wrong turn.

:ehh:

First off, I wasn’t referring to the golden rule.

Secondly: Fighting the Devil requires us to also fight those who serve him, that being militant Atheists, Christians advocating for normality of homosexuality, radical feminists, and abortionists.

Combating fellow human beings will harbor the natural consequences of strife, yes, but this is not unforeseen by Heaven.

(I have come to bring, not peace, but :knight2:.)

---

Atheism at its core involves rebellion against God. The concept of Atheism itself leads to Hell. Those who fiercely remain faithful to such a concept will fall into Hell with it.

Most of the Atheists I know are good people, and I respect them and they respect me and my Catholic faith. A couple have even attended some of our parishes youth group events.

Are Atheists good people? Atheistic persons may have good qualities, yes, but does that make them good in the eyes of God?

A good person strives to fulfill God’s will, and in order to fulfill God’s will, we must interact with God, developing a relationship with him, thus being able to see past the dark clouds of sin, discerning what he desires from us, and fulfilling ourselves in him.

Atheists by nature disregard God. A person who doesn’t interact with God does not have a relationship with him. Thus, he would not be “good”. He denies his creator and rightful master.

Indeed, adawgji. The Atheistic persons whom you interact with seem open-minded, and yes, they have the potential to become good persons, but they are not good yet.

Make no mistake, Atheism turns Mankind against God. Any organization, belief, or action which turns us against God is born either from the Devil, human weakness, or both. It would not be extreme to say that militant Atheism, and its proponents, are on the road to eternal death.

---

God may grant us graces pertaining to our individuality. Some of us have the gift of meekness. Others, like myself, have the gift of zeal.

Human individuals with specific personalities, temperaments, and callings in life may foster a sense of justice more than a sense of mercy, and via vista. Either way, they are fulfilling their role in the development of the earthly extension of Heaven.

Some Christians are made to be warriors and shepherds. Others, doctors and writers. Aren’t we all of the same kingdom, working for the same goals? As Christians who advocate for mercy are to be praised, Christians who advocate justice are also to be praised, for both mercy and justice are heavenly attributes, infused in Mankind by God, thus, both are acceptable to foster.

If you don’t want to fight the ungodly portions of humanity, fine. Not all of us are called to be full-time warriors. Just be sure not to stand against those who wish to serve the Church from the front lines. Some souls are at their best when facing the demonic alliances head on. :knight1:

---

If you are thinking of Psalm 14:1, that passage pretty clearly isn’t talking about what we would call atheists today–people who disbelieve in God as a matter of honest intellectual conviction. It’s a poem about the evils of the world–a world in which everybody probably believed in the existence of God and/or the gods. It’s making a strong, shocking statement: these people behave so wickedly that it seems as if they mustn’t really believe in God.

Post #16 was not an intentional reference to any scriptural passage or verse.

Not clear what you mean. Are you suggesting beating atheists up? Killing them? Passing laws to throw them in jail?

I hope you don’t mean any of these things, but then maybe you should explain what you do mean.

Edwin

:nope:

When I say “actively fighting enemies of God”, I’m referring to spiritual warfare. (Put on the armor of God.) forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=971512

I’m too lazy to reply to everyone else.

 

[MrEmpiricism]

I don’t believe for a second that when you’re very tired at work and can’t be bothered you don’t tell yourself to “push on and get the work done”

Or when you’re feeling a little down because someone has hurt you, after a while when you think it’s time to move on you tell yourself “chin up, get on with it”…

You can’t be human if you don’t dialogue with yourself in this affirmative manner. If you would like psychology papers providing verifiable evidence that all humans have self-affirmative dialogue then I will happily give you links

.

No I do not do that, but even if someone did someone do that it is certainly not even close to praying!

 

[MrEmpiricism]

My post has evidently sparked controversy. I’ll clarify my position.

My scorn for Atheism comes from zeal, not from a Pharisaical mindset.

:ehh:

First off, I wasn’t referring to the golden rule.

Secondly: Fighting the Devil requires us to also fight those who serve him, that being militant Atheists, Christians advocating for normality of homosexuality, radical feminists, and abortionists.

Combating fellow human beings will harbor the natural consequences of strife, yes, but this is not unforeseen by Heaven.

(I have come to bring, not peace, but :knight2:.)

---

Atheism at its core involves rebellion against God. The concept of Atheism itself leads to Hell. Those who fiercely remain faithful to such a concept will fall into Hell with it.

Are Atheists good people? Atheistic persons may have good qualities, yes, but does that make them good in the eyes of God?

A good person strives to fulfill God’s will, and in order to fulfill God’s will, we must interact with God, developing a relationship with him, thus being able to see past the dark clouds of sin, discerning what he desires from us, and fulfilling ourselves in him.

Atheists by nature disregard God. A person who doesn’t interact with God does not have a relationship with him. Thus, he would not be “good”. He denies his creator and rightful master.

Indeed, adawgji. The Atheistic persons whom you interact with seem open-minded, and yes, they have the potential to become good persons, but they are not good yet.

Make no mistake, Atheism turns Mankind against God. Any organization, belief, or action which turns us against God is born either from the Devil, human weakness, or both. It would not be extreme to say that militant Atheism, and its proponents, are on the road to eternal death.

---

God may grant us graces pertaining to our individuality. Some of us have the gift of meekness. Others, like myself, have the gift of zeal.

Human individuals with specific personalities, temperaments, and callings in life may foster a sense of justice more than a sense of mercy, and via vista. Either way, they are fulfilling their role in the development of the earthly extension of Heaven.

Some Christians are made to be warriors and shepherds. Others, doctors and writers. Aren’t we all of the same kingdom, working for the same goals? As Christians who advocate for mercy are to be praised, Christians who advocate justice are also to be praised, for both mercy and justice are heavenly attributes, infused in Mankind by God, thus, both are acceptable to foster.

If you don’t want to fight the ungodly portions of humanity, fine. Not all of us are called to be full-time warriors. Just be sure not to stand against those who wish to serve the Church from the front lines. Some souls are at their best when facing the demonic alliances head on. :knight1:

---

Post #16 was not an intentional reference to any scriptural passage or verse.

:nope:

When I say “actively fighting enemies of God”, I’m referring to spiritual warfare. (Put on the armor of God.) forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=971512

I’m too lazy to reply to everyone else.

What a hate filled post

 

[Faxero]

What a hate filled post

I don’t consider myself to be hateful, but straightforward.

By criticizing Atheistic principles, I am by extension criticizing the atheistic persons who align themselves with such principles. This is not a deliberate action, but a natural consequence of opposing specific schools of thought. :coolinoff:

 

[drac16]

I don’t consider myself to be hateful, but straightforward.

By criticizing Atheistic principles, I am by extension criticizing the atheistic persons who align themselves with such principles. This is not a deliberate action, but a natural consequence of opposing specific schools of thought. :coolinoff:

Fax, I find your spine of steel very refreshing. :tiphat:

 

[Servant19]

No I do not do that,

I find that amazing. You have no internal dialogue at all?

but even if someone did someone do that it is certainly not even close to praying!

Self affirmation and prayer are very much similar concepts.

Praying in many ways is communication with the “God” within us. According to all religious tradition and Scripture, God is to be found in the human heart, and it’s that internal dialogue that powers our actions and decisions and gives sustenance, courage and resilience.

.

 

[Faithdancer]

The “angry atheists” are particularly interesting. They seem to be operating post-some very negative experience with a Christian church or else, perhaps more typically, they feign indignation at the God of the Old Testament. Joshua is their least favorite book. Of course, what they fail to understand is that God is God, He does what He wants and in the case of the conquest of Canaan, He wanted to keep His people free from intermarriage with pagans. Much the same issue confronts us today and I firmly believe that a Christian should never consider marriage to a non-Christian. I don’t go out of my way to cultivate friendships with “atheists,” either-- why would I? By definition they are opposed to my core belief, to something that should be more important to me than friends, family, or career. The topic of my religion rarely comes up in my workplace interactions and outside of the workplace, given the freedom, I prefer to hang around believers if possible.

(I put the word “atheist” in quotes because I don’t believe there can be any logical “atheists,” since the absolute denial of the existence of God cannot be based on any empirical evidence but is itself founded on a belief, and the “atheist” refuses to believe in anything that cannot be “proven empirically” ).

 

[Faithdancer]

I am an atheist, and I believe we should all respect each other. My lack of faith is of course based on logic, reason and critical thinking. I simply cannot believe in that which is not supported by evidence.

What evidence supports your certainty that there is no God?

 

[Jelrak_TB]

In my world, it is a one way street. Thanksgiving dinner went like this:

Athiest: " anybody who believes in God is stupid and should be told so"

Me: “but I am entitled to believe anything I want, even if you think it makes me stupid”

And similar Facebook comments.

I strive to be charitable but firm.

I am sorry that you have been treated this way. Unfortunately atheists are not immune to the temptation of presuming a position to be correct simply because it is theirs…a situation at times compounded by a desire to liberate the Christian from what may be perceived as unnecessary hardship…

What I would recommend is to use such confrontations as a form of prayer. By not allowing yourself to be baited by such inconsiderate comments you may choose instead to show true strength by an example of humility and charity. For what power might words hold when compared against a belief made manifest through such peaceful action…?

 

[Jelrak_TB]

I don’t consider myself to be hateful, but straightforward.

By criticizing Atheistic principles, I am by extension criticizing the atheistic persons who align themselves with such principles. This is not a deliberate action, but a natural consequence of opposing specific schools of thought. :coolinoff:

I have at times wondered whether I should appreciate more the Christian who might allow me to live my life in peace or the one who might so ardently burn for the redemption of my soul that he makes of himself a supreme nuisance…

My dear Faxero, in offering your black and white morality you at least make plain where you stand so that none may be in doubt…however might you not consider it possible that in showcasing such a rigidity the thoughtful atheist might be repulsed by your very directness while the militant supplied with new ammunition for the fight? For who might be convinced of the loving heart of Christianity when shown first the sharpened sword…?

 

[Jelrak_TB]

The “angry atheists” are particularly interesting. They seem to be operating post-some very negative experience with a Christian church or else, perhaps more typically, they feign indignation at the God of the Old Testament. Joshua is their least favorite book. Of course, what they fail to understand is that God is God, He does what He wants and in the case of the conquest of Canaan, He wanted to keep His people free from intermarriage with pagans. Much the same issue confronts us today and I firmly believe that a Christian should never consider marriage to a non-Christian. I don’t cultivate friendships with atheists, either-- why should I? By definition they are opposed to my core belief, to something that should be more important to me than friends, family, or career. The topic of my religion rarely comes up in my workplace interactions and outside of the workplace, given the freedom, I prefer to hang around believers if possible.

While I certainly understand your reticence towards atheists, do kindly consider the possibility that your good example might be the only true experience such individuals might have with Christianity…the placing of the lantern upon a higher place, as it were…

 

[Faithdancer]

While I certainly understand your reticence towards atheists, do kindly consider the possibility that your good example might be the only true experience such individuals might have with Christianity…the placing of the lantern upon a higher place, as it were…

I do consider how my behavior reflects on my Christianity, Jelrak, and I hope that I model Christ to all, although being human I frequently fail in that regard. I actually don’t have a lot of free time, between school and work, and given the opportunity then of course I would prefer to be around those who affirm and support my faith. A Christian cannot be “of the world” and “of Christ” too-- the two allegiances are mutually exclusive. This is something I should remind myself every day, and throughout the day, although I often fail at that too.

 

[CuriousMike]

The vast majority of the people in my social circle are pretty atheistic/secular. They’re a lot of fun to chat with for a few minutes in passing; they’re a lot of fun to catch lunch or dinner with; but under the surface, there’s a whole lot of dark in many of them that’s very unsettling. I find I liked them a whole lot more as human beings before friending them on FB… our relationship was very nice when it was superficial and conversations were about neutral topics, but you know how unabashed people can be when they’re unleashing vitriol on the internet. That’s not to say religious people don’t unleash vitriol on the internet, of course. But you know how it is— enjoying someone’s caustic wit can be delightful and amusing for an hour over dinner, but that same caustic attitude employed by someone posting an anti-religious rant, or promoting something harmful/immoral/abhorrent, etc-- is far less amusing. We have diametrically opposed ways of perceiving the world/our time on earth/our duties and obligations as human beings/etc. They belittle things that I perceive as precious, and they embrace things that I find repugnant.

You live your faith, and pray quietly for them, and try to be a light for when things get dark.

:tiphat:

I’m not active on Facebook, aside from an account with a silly name I created to stop others creating accounts in “goodwill” for me. I have used it from time to time to view profiles of “friends.” There is a lot of hatred and disturbing stuff there. Really doesn’t inspire confidence in humanity.

As for Atheists? I CRINGE when I see people claiming to be Christian mocking them, condemning them and being downright rude.

If we really want them to develop faith, demeaning them is not going to do it.
What we can do is try to lead good lives, and admit our faults. We must treat these people with respect, and try to plant a seed where appropriate.

 

[JD1789]

Sure I can verify love, love is a product of the brain. I can measure the brain patterns and chemicals. Knowledge is demonstrable, if you cannot demonstrate it you do not know it, what you are talking about is belief not knowledge.

I think the definition of love may be confused between you too. I think the other poster is talking about the free will choice to will the good of the other and you are speaking of an attraction that leads to dopamine releases and a bonding of family members for the preservation of the race.

The latter idea of a free will choice to will the good of another despite a lack of personal gain for the one loving is impossible for a materialist to belief. That would require an immaterial soul, unless one believe free will is completely mechanical, which would not then be free will.