why all the animosity?

Right on!

I hate it when people set up questions to entrap or belittle others, just as much as I dislike those who are only looking for agreement with their own opinion.

When I ask or answer a question, I don't care if you agree with me or not. I always carry the hope that what I say will make you think. It doesn't matter to me if those thoughts lead to a revelation or if they solidify your stance as an atheist. In either case, I hope that what I write will be seen as thoughtful and respectful.

I find that I learn more from those with whom I disagree. That's one reason I would defend to the death your right to an informed opinion, whether I agreed with you or not.

I'd say that's a good place to park your passion!

Hi Hoegaard, long time no see

Your question is valid. I think that many do not know the value of tact. I good discussion needs tolerance and understanding.

However jesus prophesied that this is what the world would be like in ur day:

“YOU have carefully hidden these things from wise and intellectual ones, and have revealed them to babes.” (Luke 10:21) These words that Jesus addressed to his heavenly Father indicate that to understand the Bible, we must have the right attitude. Jehovah’s wisdom is revealed in that he has provided a book that only humble, teachable people can truly understand.

Humility does not come easily to most of us. We all have an inherited tendency to be proud. In addition, we live in “the last days,” among people who are “lovers of themselves, . . . headstrong, puffed up with pride.” (2 Timothy 3:1-4) These are attitudes that work against our understanding God’s Word. Regrettably, to some degree we are all influenced by our surroundings. How, then, can you acquire the attitude needed to understand the Bible?

(2 Timothy 3:1-5) But know this, that in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, 3 having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, 4 betrayers, headstrong, puffed up [with pride], lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power; and from these turn away.

.. Some are content to follow religious traditions that are based on falsehood. Others show disregard for truth in their speech and way of life. Accordingly, accepting Bible truth comes at a price: It may put you at odds with friends, neighbors, workmates, and even your family.

(John 17:14) I have given your word to them, but the world has hated them, because they are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.

It is this hatred that causes this anemosity

Are you blind to the majority of BAD christian postings on here?

I have worked with lepers, in disaster areas, with aid agencies and in charities to help the poor and disadvantaged. I was a director of several charities, deputy chairman of two and also did a certain amount of voluntary work!!

Now I am retired I do a certain amount of consultancy - for free - with charities and also do a little voluntary work.

But these offensively BAD christian still revel in telling me I am going to hell!!

Yes there are a few GOOD christians that still believe in a loving god and act like it but they are few and far between!!

So please understand it is not about belief, God or Jesus but about the terribly BAD christian attitudes and conduct!!

Don't pay people back with evil for the evil they do to you. Focus your thoughts on those things that are considered noble. As much as it is possible, live in peace with everyone. Don't take revenge, dear friends. Instead, let God's anger take care of it.

After all, Scripture says, "I alone have the right to take revenge. I will pay back, says the Lord." But, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink. If you do this, you will make him feel guilty and ashamed."

Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil with good.

How would the world be different if more people lived by these words?

I sooo agree! But not everyone is like that, it depends on what time of the day/night you are here and who is here at that time.

I think most everyone deserves respect for what they belief... acceptance and respect are 2 separate entities.

Have a good one!!

Cinn =)

Some people seem to get a lot of pleasure out of annoying others. Some I think get frustrated.

Its refreshing to hear a atheist think like that,

good on yer son.

I like to disagree with fundies all of beliefs and make fun of them.

There is one answer...belief brings out the worst in people

After 1,000,000 pascal's wagers and 'idiot doesn't get evolution yet rails against it' question you stop caring. Trust me.