So, I was coming up to check my email about an hour ago, and I saw some people I knew sitting in front of the library. I stopped to see what was up, and they were praying. They were going to read the book of John--near the "Ask an Atheist" people. After a short time of reading, two of the atheists came closer--one holding a hardcover Bible, the other holding his Macbook. It felt like there was going to be trouble, and I got concerned that I would try to argue with them, thinking back to this post. A little later, the one holding the Bible came over and basically started attacking the guy who was reading by using references in the OT to show that "God makes no sense".
As this was happening, there was a struggle within me. My flesh wanted to go on the offensive and use the same tactics to break down science. The Spirit, however was saying "Just be still. Nothing can be gained by attacking them in the way that they attack. Remember: Power under, not power over." My flesh would then respond "But they started it! And besides, science claims that something that can't possibly have happened had to happen, and they believe it! Why shouldn't I respond in kind?"
This went on for over half an hour, but I stayed where I was, only telling the people around me that I had the temptation to rise up and fight back. They knew that it would be to no avail to fight back, and reaffirmed my decision to be still, though they also had the temptation to counterattack.
The type of argument style the atheist is using is sometimes referred to as "the steamroller". They are all about asking the tough questions, but they aren't looking for answers. If you try to answer one accusation, they interrupt and say, "well what about this... or what about this...".
ReplyDeleteThey think the strength of their argument is that there are so many unanswerable questions that their position must be true.
In reality, if they would slow down and let you address each challenge as it comes up, they will see that each challenge is flawed.
I think you did the right thing Martin. If they aren't interested in having a dialogue, just let them speak. But don't be afraid to ask them, "Sorry, will you please give me adequate time to address this challenge before moving on to the next one? If not, I feel like you aren't really interested in answers. In which case you can talk, and I will gladly listen."
If you want to learn more about how to face the "steamroller", read this: http://www.str.org/site/DocServer/alanshlemonnews0603.pdf?docID=881
"And besides, science claims that something that can't possibly have happened had to happen, and they believe it!" Could you please tell what this 'something' is, and provide some evidence for your claim of what you think 'science' says. Remember, different scientist can be working on conflicting hypothesis at the same time, and scientists are capable of changing their minds when presented with new evidence.
ReplyDelete