But that isn't what was really odd for me.
I had a few great conversations with agnostics, and atheists that were polite, interesting, and respectful. Sure I had the odd militant atheist tear a strip off me, but hey, that's part of the process too. But that wasn't odd either.
What I found amazing is that the majority of the feedback that I received from the Christian community was intense. Most great, but a few were really…odd.
Here is just a sample…
"Compromising Man"
"Your Ashamed of the Gospel"
"You're Going to Hell Just Like the Atheists"
I knew stepping out and writing the letter was like swatting a hornet's nest, and I am perfectly fine with a few stings. It is just an odd thing when you are told to "go to hell" by a fellow follower of Christ.
Wow! It is easier just leaving comments on other people’s blogs, but the experience is revealing nonetheless. There is always a person who will fixate and let fly.
Some people respond to a blog, or a comment on a blog, much the same way a mental patient responds to hearing voices. They start talking back, almost not aware that the rest of the world can also hear them. They take things personally, and they fire back.
I think these same people might be very polite in person. But, name calling seems to be a reflex. Assumptions are made about your character because there is a disagreement. Some people find it more difficult to tell you that they believe you are mistaken than they do to call you a hypocrite.
Yes it is odd. I think I am odd, too. Oh well . . .
I’m curious as to why you seem surprised!
Hey J,
I think you’re going to Starbucks with all the atheists…. ***smirk***…
Keep reaching out my friend. An open hand and heart always speaks more loudly of the mind of Christ than a turned back.
Thanks everyone.
Marty…not surprised, just odd hearing it
It is just an odd thing when you are told to “go to hell” by a fellow follower of Christ.(Jason)
Not surprising considering this is the backdrop of the message of Love christians promote.
Know your convictions, know who you ultimately serve, and do your homework. If you do all these then you will not be speaking your mind, but with the “mind of Christ”.
I was going to write a long comment here, but choose to simply blog about this: http://is.gd/kem1
Hi TitforTat:
I won’t argue about the message of love most Christians promote. I have no reason to doubt that you have heard what you have heard, and I think you are sincere. If that is what you believe then we have failed, and, speaking for myself, I am sorry.
What I believe, and what I know Jason believes, is found in John 3:16
John 3:16 (New American Standard Bible)
16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Thanks for participating in the discussion, and I hope that you become willing to revise your impression of the Christian backdrop over time. All the best.
This blog represents Jason, and a community of readers. Speaking for myself, for what it’s worth, you are always welcome, and, please do NOT go to hell.
Thanks Jim