Who Are Atheists And What You Need To Know
This is something I have wondered about for some time, and especially so when I go on to some social sites and read the discussions. It seems that there is always a battle brewing between Christians and Atheists for power and conversation take-over.
I’m sure you are wondering, “Why would I write about something that is not Christian?” Simple. Everyone is the same in Jesus Christ, including all of us sinners, so why not those who don’t believe or might be on the fence? Should we ignore all of them also?
So, I started to do some research, and found out a lot of things that will help other have a meaningful discussion or a loving battle about each others thoughts and why they think the way they do without the name calling battles I frequently encounter.
So, why is this even important to know and understand? I knew you would be thinking that.
As a Christian, I am supposed to be able to talk with anyone and have a conversation free of accusations and name calling. Otherwise I am just like those who create the “Social Contagion” that is quickly spreading throughout all social media groups.
It’s time to open the door to anyone who has something to say, and do it with compassion and understanding, just a Jesus did.
So, Who Are Atheists?
Atheists are individuals who do not believe in the existence of God or any divine being. This lack of belief is not rooted in a moral void or a denial of the unknown, but often stems from personal experiences, scientific knowledge, and philosophical contemplation.
Atheism is not only a rejection of the central conceptions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, but also a rejection of the religious beliefs of various other religions.
In the U.S., atheists are mostly men and are relatively young. Around six-in-ten U.S. atheists are men, and seven-in-ten are ages 49 or younger.
Why Don’t Atheists Believe in Jesus Christ and the Holy Bible?
The reasons for atheism can be complex and varied. Many atheists think that their atheism is the product of rational thinking. They use arguments such as “I don’t believe in God, I believe in science” to explain that evidence and logic, rather than supernatural belief and dogma.
Atheists often express concerns about the role religion plays in society. The majority of atheists say that the statement “religion causes division and intolerance” describes their views a great deal or a fair amount.
And others say the same about the statement “religion encourages superstition and illogical thinking.” Most also say that religion does more harm than good in society.
However, it’s essential to recognize that atheists can find meaning in their lives in some of the same ways as those religiously affiliated. Most atheists, as a majority of religious people, mention family as a source of meaning. Atheists also describe finances and money, creative pursuits, travel, and leisure activities as meaningful.
Atheism is a complex worldview that encompasses a wide range of beliefs and attitudes. While atheists do not believe in God or accept the teachings of the Holy Bible, this does not mean they lack moral or ethical standards.
Instead, many atheists base their ethical and moral principles on rational thought, empathy, and a concern for human well-being. Understanding atheism and the reasons behind it can foster empathy and dialogue between believers and non-believers, promoting mutual respect and understanding.
Atheist Misconceptions
There are several misconceptions about atheism that initially create problems between themselves and religious members. Here are some of the most common ones:
Atheists Don’t Believe in Anything: Contrary to this misconception, atheists often have strong beliefs in a variety of things – just not in a supernatural deity. They might believe in the importance of human relationships, the beauty of the natural world, and the value of scientific inquiry.
Atheists are Immoral or Unethical: Morality and ethics are not exclusive to religious teachings. Many atheists adhere to strong ethical principles and are guided by a sense of justice, fairness, and empathy.
Atheism is a Religion: Atheism, by definition, is the absence of belief in deities. It’s a lack of religion, not a religion in itself.
Atheists Hate Religion: While it’s true that some atheists are critical of organized religion, it’s not accurate to say all atheists hate religion. Many atheists respect the right of others to practice their faith and recognize the cultural and historical significance of religions.
Atheists are Always Certain There is No God: Some atheists firmly assert there is no deity, while others simply lack a belief in a deity without making assertive claims.
Atheists Have No Purpose in Life: The assumption that purpose must be derived from religious belief is flawed.
Atheists often find purpose in a multitude of ways: through relationships, personal achievements, the pursuit of knowledge, contributing to society, and enjoying the wonders of the natural world.
Remember, atheism is a complex worldview that encompasses a wide range of beliefs and attitudes.
Why They Become Atheists
There are several reasons why people become atheists, and these reasons can be very personal and varied. Here are some common ones:
Analytical Thinking: Some people become atheists because they have strong analytical thinking skills, which they use to critically evaluate their religious beliefs.
Exposure to Various Religions: Contact with a variety of religions can lead some people to adopt a critical attitude towards their own religion and even religion generally, eventually leading to atheism.
Negative Experiences with Religion: Bad experiences with a religion can lead a person to become critical of all religions and even belief in the existence of gods.
Influence of Science: Many atheists find their way to disbelief through science. Over the centuries, science has come to offer explanations of aspects of our world which were once the exclusive domain of religion.
Philosophical Arguments: There are also philosophical arguments which many regard as successful in disproving most of the common conceptions of gods.
Cultural Influence: Many people are atheists because of the way they were brought up or educated, or because they have simply adopted the beliefs of the culture in which they grew up.
Remember, the road to atheism tends to be very personal and individual, based upon the specific circumstances of a person’s life, experiences, and attitudes.
Talking to Atheists
Engaging in a conversation about religion with an atheist can be a sensitive topic. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Respect Their Beliefs: Understand that atheists have their own set of beliefs and values. Respect their right to hold these beliefs, even if they differ from your own.
Listen Actively: People want to be heard. Even if you disagree, allowing them to share their ideas shows respect and might persuade them to really listen to you as well.
Avoid Assumptions: Don’t assume that your atheist friends are secretly angry at God or feel like something is missing in their lives.
Know Your Faith: Be prepared to explain your beliefs in a way that resonates with people outside the faith.
Don’t Quote the Bible as an Authority: The Bible is a source of great wisdom, but if you quote it to an atheist as an authority, it will be like your doctor explaining his diagnosis by reading a passage from a Harry Potter book.
Ask Thoughtful Questions: Engage in a genuine dialogue by asking thoughtful questions about their beliefs.
Remember, as Christians, the goal of these conversations is not necessarily to convert the other person, but to understand each other better.
What’s The Difference Between Atheism and Agnosticism?
Atheism and agnosticism are two different viewpoints that deal with the existence of God.
Atheism is about belief, or specifically, what you don’t believe. An atheist doesn’t believe in any gods. Atheism is the doctrine or belief that there is no god. It’s a very simple concept, but it’s also widely misunderstood.
On the other hand, agnosticism is about knowledge, or specifically, about what you don’t know. An agnostic doesn’t know if any gods exist or not. Agnostics assert that it’s impossible to know how the universe was created and whether or not divine beings exist.
The word agnostic was coined by biologist T.H.Huxley and comes from the Greek ágnōstos, which means “unknown or unknowable”.
It’s important to note that these are not mutually exclusive. One can be an agnostic atheist, not believing in gods but also asserting that the existence of gods is unknowable. Similarly, one can be an agnostic theist, believing in the existence of gods but acknowledging that this belief is not based on knowledge.
So, Now What?
As a Christian, now that you know about Atheists, it will make it much better when you encounter someone online or in person who has atheists beliefs so you can engage in fruitful and meaningful conversations. As a matter of fact, you will even find much common ground when speaking about family, friends, money and well being.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming what someone thinks before you speak to them. This thought happens quite frequently and creates instant problems as we can see from the world around us. Would you want someone to judge you before you explain your thoughts?
Christians need to be open and understanding, as Jesus was, to hearing what others have to say without name calling and instant judgment.
Be the best Christian you can be, and if you want to be better, please read James, Proverbs and Psalms in your Holy Bible for more help, guidance, wisdom and knowledge.
If you have any questions, concerns, additions or comments we would love to read them. Please email john@ourdividedworld.com or write them in the comments box below.
Blessings from God our Father.
H John J
john@ourdividedworld.com
Our Divided World Ministry
www.ourdividedworld.com