I find it amusing how so many TV talk show hosts and reporters mock religion--and anyone who believes in God. (ie. Ben Jerguson, Stewart...and a myriad of others recently)First, it comes accross extremely intolerant.
And people complain that Believers are intolerant!
I personally have Never heard a Believer mock atheism or people who choose to use their agency in a different way on public television or via paper. Yes, they may not condone the behavior.
But that's obviously due to the commandment: "love the sinner, but hate the sin."
Thank heavens there are people out there who still stand up for traditional moral values in society!
Rather than the typical "follow the crowd...or be mocked" pattern:
"First we abhor
Then we tolerate
Then we pity
Then we embrace"
Second, it comes accross very ignorant.
Second, it comes accross very ignorant.
To say that religion is an enemy of society...brainwashes people...and leaves them worse off...is incredibly narrow-minded.
I want to ask them--"Have you ever lived in a completely atheist society--where religion is or was not permitted?"
I bet they haven't.
Well, I have.
Russia and China.
The effects are so sad...
It has been described as if "there is this depressing blanket covering the atmosphere and the citizens have become almost frozen"
But just think about it. A society that has some citizens who believe in God...(I would paint the other picture but I fear that then I would be called "judgmental" and "intolerant" of anti-religionists)
(1) First, you have people who fear to lie, cheat, steal, commit adultery, etc...even if no one can see them or no once will catch them.
Why?
Because they believe there is a God up there watching them...and they will be held accountable for their actions someday.
(2) Second, you have soldiers who do not fear death--for they believe there is life after death...and giving your life for a greater cause is worth any price.
(3) Third, you have people who have a sense of meaning in life--when life is hard, they try to see it as a great learning experience and test.
Rather than just "Life sucks and then you die" attitude.
(4) Fourth, you get fabulous organizations that create bonds, sisterhood, brotherhood, and help meet needs in that organization or community.
(5) Fifth, children are taught to avoid destructive behavior from a very young age. Such as drugs, pornagraphy, etc.
They are also taught to be forgiving and loving and Christlike or living according to Buddha's or Mohammed's teachings. All of which are enlightening and wonderful concepts and messages.
But they are also taught that they have their own agency and can choose their actions (not their consequences)
If this is brainwashing--then please brainwash me and my children!
Yes--even if I were an atheist I would want my society to believe in God.
