The Bible is a collection of books, organized over time, that Christians believe is the undeniable word of God. It is considered the absolute truth by Christians.
Step 1
Learn about an individual's beliefs before debating the topic of Christianity.
- Ask which Bible translation the Christian follows. For example, King James, NIV, NLB, The Message, etc.
- Gauge their level of faith according to their own admissions of spiritual or religious activity and service.
Step 2
Point out specific incidents in history that challenge Christian beliefs.
- Discuss the fact that certain writings (i.e., books) have been left out of the Bible. Be specific, including books written by women.
- Point out specific imperialistic wars in the name of Christianity, such as the Crusades. The Bosnian War may be a similar example.
- Some have used the Old Testament to justify slavery in America.
Step 3
Bring up the fact that so many people have been hurt or killed throughout history. If God is a loving god, why have so many been hurt or killed in the name of Christianity? How could someone claim to be a Christian, then support the war? God says vengeance is his.
Tips
- If desired, let them know about your own philosophy and civic volunteering. It is possible to be a 'good' person without being a Christian.
- There are many Christian churches that generate a non-profit income. Although it is very rare, that income may be used improperly. This abuses the trust of the entire congregation, let alone that denomination.
- Leaders of a Christian church or denomination have a certain amount of influence and power. Some may abuse that power, either intentionally or by accident.
- Most societies are generally good and most people want to do the right thing. This is a point of argument for Christians that is worth exploring and possibly using in your own debates. Christians also use this point as an argument FOR God or a moral standard.
- Point out some of the influential Christian individuals who've sinned. Child abusers (not just the Catholics) and televangelists are all good examples. People who preached against sins are sometimes caught doing the sins themselves.
- Ask if the Bible has ever proven to be fact, but remember that there is a significant portion of "science" that hasn't been proven as fact either.
- This site is good for information http://biblebabble.curbjaw.com/
- Study hard, some Christians are smarter than they first appear.
- Good luck!!!!
Warnings
- Remember that everyone has a right to believe in what they want, so don't force your beliefs on others.
- Many believe the way they do because of pressure from family and society.
- It is impossible to prove the accuracy of any belief system whether you believe in god or don't. For every arguement you make against religion or atheism, someone can come up with one for it.
