BellaOnline Forums Religion and Spirituality Baptist Why So Defensive When It Comes to Christians

I really try to make it a point to present information from a Christian perspective WITHOUT telling people that their perspective is right or wrong. Yet, my attempts to engage in intelligent conversation with people whose perspective is different from mine come back as an attack (or in defense to an attack) even when I agree with them.

Now, I'll admit that some of us have not been good Ambassadors of Christ. We are sometimes judgemental, "holier than thou", beating people over the head with the Bible, and sometimes just downright annoying. I will admit that at times I did not want to hear insincere generalizations about Christian living from people who lives did not look like anything Christian. It's no wonder people are hostile towards us. Not to mention, Christ did not do it this way.

It is NOT my job, calling, or responsibility to convince/convert/persuade people that Jesus is the way. It IS my job, calling, and responsibility to tell people that Jesus is the way. Christians do not and cannot convert anyone. That is what the Holy Spirit does.

Inviting people to church, giving away free items, or sharing ideas from a Christian perspective is not an attempt to convert. It is an attempt to introduce people to a different way of life that leads to life. I now understand (although I do not agree with) why Christians are not as bold as we should be when it comes to our faith.

Respect of different ideas is essential, but tolerance at the denial of truth (whether it is truth that deals with the subject of the other person's view about what they believe) is detrimental. There are many religious practices (patriatism, waxing a car every week, vanity, egotism, etc.) that are not religions and the Bible speaks against "worship" of any idol.

I pray for a day when the real free exchange of ideas can be done in a mature, non-attacking, "on topic" manner by both Christians and non-Christians alike.

Hi Dountonia,
I have found that being the editor of a Christian site and speaking about what we believe often draws fire.
When I tell someone about Christ, I see it as similar to telling someone about a great resturant I've found. (except infinatelly more important) I want everyone to know how great it is and how happy I am. Maybe it's the forums instead of face to face, but people often misunderstand.

Anyway, I'm glad you are here.

Did you know that you are the reason I joined/applied/love Bellaonline? I was doing some research on Abigail and the Yahoo search engine led me to your e-book. I really enjoy your writing and I notice that you are a Hoosier, too.

Thank you for your comments and support.

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20). Thank you, Jesus.

May God continue to bless your work.