Whomp said:
Why is it that so many here seem to take such delight in ridiculing believers? Christians seem to be especially beloved targets.
I understand that christianity is prevalent here in the US, and they can be annoying when they evangelize. It seems to me the A-Theists (I'm channeling here) tend to be much more stident than the believers.
With all the wonderful religions out there, christianity seems fairly benign.
So, enlighten me!
Whomp!
Hello Whomp,
I suspect that the reasons are many. A few come to mind:
1. Public policy is affected (and effected!) by Christians, the officials they elect, the judges they appoint, and through their ability to organize. Christians have their agenda, as do other groups, and they believe that their agenda is the right agenda for their communities, counties and cities, states and nation. But other folks who do not subscribe to the beliefs held by Christians often feel (rightly so) that their lives are affected by the beliefs of others. Pick your hot button issue: abortion, prayer in schools, school vouchers, science curiculum in schools, homosexuality - Christians, especially conservative ones, generally have strongly-held opinions on these issues and, through their considerable lobbying power, they can influence the direction the nation takes.
2. Particularly "evangelical" Christians (Baptists come to mind), JW's, and Mormons believe there is a Biblical mandate to spread the "good news" to non-believers. Their tactics aren't often received very well by the folks they encounter. The idea of going up to a home and just knocking on the door in an attempt to "witness" is perceived by many folks as just downright rude and annoying. If I were to try to "witness" to others, it would probably be more effective IMHO to develop a genuine relationship with folks rather than just banging on doors and passing out literature. It is this boldness and sureness that they are right, that their belief system is the right one and that all others are wrong that causes many folks to react negatively. And, quite frankly, whenever someone claims X and I hold the opinion that X is wrong, I want to try to figure out why she believes this and to let her know my reasons for holding my opinions.
3. Being that the predominate religions and denominations in the Western world are under the "Christian" umbrella - meaning that they hold at least some of the same beliefs, it follows that discussions about matters of religion, faith, and belief will generally be focussed on Christianity. Think about this - who hasn't seen the "John 3:16" sign at a televised (American) football game at least once in his life? Like it or not, Christianity is influential and receives much press. When was the last time you saw a sign in the endzone that had a reference to Dianetics or the Koran? I haven't, unless the Koran has some hidden, Bible-code like message about ABC or CBS.
This forum is a place where each of us can write what is on our minds, discuss our opinions/beliefs/gripes and encourage a dialogue on these topics. Christianity wouldn't be the predominate topic here if it weren't so widespread and influential.
Just my thoughts.
Take care,
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