science or religion, page-93

Atheist vs Christian debate

I can't remember an Atheist vs Christian debate ending in anything else other than a mud slinging stalemate.

I wonder how this can be avoided and the debate kept civil and rational. Here are a few thoughts.

Try avoid getting angry through frustration; this is often easier said than done but probably leads to regrettable statements. I have certainly been guilty of this.

Don't quote scripture to either attack Christians or Atheists. Both sides will think the other is cherry picking to make cheap points. Christians will take offence and have their own interpretations in any case. Many Atheists are ex-believers who have a good knowledge of scripture but no longer recognise it's validity so are no longer interested.

Don't belittle Christians because of their belief in a saviour and afterlife. This is real to them and they will think that are you just a bully. Likewise, as a Christian don't threaten Atheists with eternal damnation if they don't follow your beliefs. They will just say that this contradicts the stand that Christians believe in freewill which is not supported by non-compliance having such dire consequences.

You will never win the the debate of the existence of a deity through attacking other people's beliefs.

Avoid going into examples of evil Christians or evil Atheists as this will only land up as an argument as to whether or not the individuals were really Atheists or Christians. There will also be arguments about whether they really represented Atheists or Christians. Result: a stalemate.


IMO, a good approach that avoids stalemates is to begin by explaining the reason that you came to your position (without attacking anybody).

It is important to keep your points rational without attacking personalities.

For example, if you are an Atheist by all means explain why you believe that science is sufficient to explain the existence of life by providing documented examples of evolution in action. Try to explain why you find religious beliefs as unacceptable to you without attacking Christians.

And for example, if you are a Christian explain why this is important to you and provide examples of how you benefited. Give documented examples of how Christianity changed peoples lives. I have heard many Christian testimonies and none have been offensive. I have not agreed with all that was said but respected the individuals for their position. I can't think of reason for not sticking with this approach.

In summary stick to how being an Atheist or Christian relates to you, and don't try and tell anybody how they should feel. If you use scripture, stick to how it affects you. If you use science stick to how it affects you position.

Remember for most of us our position (Atheist or Christian) developed over a period of time, and many change their position during their lives.