While not claiming to speak for all non-believers (although I used to be one. See here), I believe that many such people are actually searching for deep truths. They are continuously and severely disappointed by “religious” people who repetitively quote banal phrases while claiming to have profound beliefs. In other words, there is so little substance, and no depth of understanding in so many religious folks that it creates a mockery of their faith. Secondly, the believer often appears arrogant and self-righteous, which is offensive.
The non-believing truth seekers leave such an encounter feeling rightfully frustrated, so they mock what they heard.
On the other hand, I’ve found that when a believer is equipped with patience, knowledge and love, and is willing to graciously reason through their spiritual beliefs with a non-believer, new bridges of understanding are opened.
In 1 Pet 3:15, the Apostle Peter encouraged us to address the non-believer mentioned in your question in a humble manner:
…in your hearts, honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.
Share
Explore Other Topics
Friends of mine have proposed and defended the theory that capitalism is the economic system which best manifests God’s Kingdom on Earth. Although it’s certainly an excellent wealth-producing mechanism when the playing field remains level, I believe that capitalism is NOT the best we can do. It is certainly an
If sensible, skilled marketing teams had been retained to design a world-class religion in 1st century Palestine, certain recommendations would certainly have guided the development of the Christian faith. This is a sample of the brand development report we would expect to see. It’s all quite reasonable, but maybe it’s
I did, although I would prefer to exchange the phrase “religious person” for “spiritual believer.” Religion is man’s attempt to prove himself to God. It separates and objectifies others. It controls adherents by requiring ritualized performance. Religion is a ‘Tower of Babel’ attempt to justify ourselves to God. But what
In ancient mythology, Ulysses needed to navigate the passageway between Italy and Sicily, the strait guarded by two deadly, intimidating threats — Scylla and Charybdis. On the one side lay rocky shoals — certain to rip the hull out of one’s ship. These rocks were guarded by a terrible, six-headed
There is a massive and unfortunate premise in your question which implies that God is in “control” and is therefore responsible for suffering. If you follow Judeo-Christian theology, you’ll notice that after Creation, in Genesis 1:26, man was given delegated, governmental authority over this planet. Eventually, by defying one simple
I can quietly assure you that I have already found peace with God. It’s encouraging to know that others can do the same. The result of the search is a confidence that transcends human analysis or understanding. Why? It begins with faith, a quality that defies reason and logic. Just
