Some interesting points guys, thanks. I've been researching the evolution-creationism controversy for a couple years now and have formed some pretty strong opinions regarding the existence of a God.
welcome.
I think I hear what you are saying but I do not think there is much of a controversy.
I have been Christian my whole life, yet I have never met any creationists in my church. I have probably only met 5 or 6 ever. I think I have one or two friends who are creationists currently, but it never comes up and we have never discussed it.
I joined this board in the hopes of refining my views and listening to what other people have to say on the matters. I have good friends from all kinds of religions and denominations of Christianity and most of them aren't shy from at least discussing the existence of God on a critical level.
depends what side of the fence you are on, and how easy you are offended when your ideas are changed, and how you deal with very semantic and pedantic people.
If I had to guess i would say this place is only 5-10% creationists. they get dogpiled and overwhelmed rather fast but the well informed and trolled-out by the condescending people, few last here for any amount of time.
I was hoping that if I can demonstrate that some of the views they have about the bible aren't supported by the book itself then maybe they can take the first step to thinking more critically.
I think taking the approach of positivism doesn't work very well. Their views are rarely supported by anything more than personal belief to begin with.
Debating scripture is sort of uncharted territory for me and I'm just not prepared to debate biblical rhetoric.
plus its super boring and no one can agree on what is being stated in the passages.
Another question to atheists: When do you think it's appropriate to debate scripture? I know many that have said "Never, it's not your responsibility to be an expert of their holy book," but I've seen others have colorful debates on the topics of slavery, genocide and absolute morality based on their knowledge of scripture.
I am no atheist. its probably appropriate in a forum or thread specifically about a piece of scripture. I try and stay away from that stuff any way.
beware of
Sola scriptura.