I have had many discussions about religion the last couple of days and I have noticed so many mistakes that both non-believers and christians, and I suppose in this case Seventh-day Adventist do.
Christians out there, do not make assumptions about your beliefs that other people should just have as general knowledge, what do I mean by this? Well, many times Christians believe that just because they believe the bible is real that they can quote it left and right and in general use it as a way to combat the idea of atheism or agnosticism. Newsflash! you cannot use the bible that often when having a discussion because these people do not believe the bible is true, so why should they take whatever you say as an infallible truth?
Another thing that bothers me about Christians, is when people try to have a discussion about religion with them and sometimes their face assumes this condescending smile that just yells I have a truth that you should to never have so I am better than you. Aren't Christians suppose to want to reach other people? Be humble and yes, discuss religion with others because not only will it strengthen your belief but you might be able to touch someone else heart. Also be careful when you try to have a discussion many times these people you are arguing with have a better understanding of your belief system and of the bible than you do. Many, at least in this case, grew up in the Adventist system.
One last piece of advice, do not be close to other ideas, or at least put you atheist/agnostic hat on when you have a discussion with people with other beliefs so that you can understand their point of view.
Now, to you atheist or agnostics out there, you have many of the faults that Christians also have, you in reality are not too different from the Christians. You also assume many things and you do not put yourself in the shoes of Christians. You assume that Christians are stupid beings who are not smart and cannot think logically or get far in life. I have heard many unbelievers be surprise when they find out that a really smart scientist or researcher is a christian because they assume that science leads to atheistic views or evolutionism. Have you ever thought about how maybe science could also lead to show that there is a God at least to that person?
Another grave error that atheist have, specially ones who used to be Christians, is that they are not able to separate their bitterness with christianity from their belief system, even if they don't realize it, when someone hears them people can totally notice that somewhere in there bitterness is the root of their recent or far gone abandonment of religion.
Also, if you used to be a christian remember what your beliefs use to be, and what you know that is the foundation for many people's beliefs and put yourself in their shoes and understand their views and do not try to discredit their prophets or their bible if the decide to quote it. Understand that this set of beliefs is the essence of there lives, and that they are also intelligent people who probably have as much studies and knowledge of life as you do.
In conclusion, both parties need to learn to be open minded when discussing with people with different beliefs and both parties need to acquire thinking hats from the other party so as to understand the other person's point of view. Never, ever try to discuss religion with someone to make them seem stupid, or make them see that they are wrong, I think you should discuss religion so as to edify your belief system, whatever it may be, and to learn more about other people and yourself. Also, never discuss a topic that you, yourself are not familiar with, even if you agree or disagree with it, get your facts right!
p.s. Religion is definitely an emotional thing mixed with some logic while atheism is a logically and scientifically proven thing (usually) so remember to understand these two things are totally opposite of each other so try to understand them that way too!
