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Questions an atheist friend wanted to ask part 4.
- Thread starter delizzle
- Start date
BobRyan
Well-Known Member
Not sure there is a difference in the case of Atheists.
But still "God convicts the WORLD of sin and righteousness and judgment" John 16 -- such that atheist hotlines report that by far the number one complaint they get from atheists is a persistent "fear of hell".
No matter what they say to your face "God convicts them anyway"
First, Jesus Christ is a recognized historical figure, not imaginary.
Second, our worship of Jesus Christ leads to changed lives.
Third, have you ever heard anyone use other gods' names when they curse, lol?
Fourth, the world and man fit, contrary to Science, what Scripture teaches about both (i.e., we see much of the earth as having at one time being under water, and man is continuously devolving).
Lastly, ask them if they have the same conviction that God doesn't exist as they do the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, or the flying spaghetti monster?
God bless.
BobRyan
Well-Known Member
Here they are stuck -- they will not be able to explain that.
Two main avenues to pursue with atheists are -
1. Evidence from prophecy.. Daniel 2,7 predict over 2000 years of human history in advance
2. The fact that no matter what they "say" the Holy Spirit convicts even them of "sin and righteousness and judgment" John 16... which means among other things - that they have a very high percentage of the atheist-hotline being tied up with long-time Atheists calling in with a consuming "fear of hell"
It was actually 2002 years, three months, seven days, four minutes, and 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39....
Two things I would say:
First, I agree one hundred percent, because the Spirit's ministry is towards the Lost:
John 16:7-9
King James Version (KJV)
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;
And secondly, I think we need to account for those whose consciences have been seared. Meaning, there is a point in time when God will cease to seek to being one to conviction, or, there is a line that I think atheists can cross to where they have little hope of ever being saved.
I myself never make a ruling on any atheist I speak with, but I do think God will give them over to a reprobate mind at some point.So that we can speak to atheists who are no longer under conviction.
God bless.
By the way, Bob, be glad to have you weigh in on the Mystery of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
God bless.
delizzle
Active Member
Some would argue yes.
Probably, but as I said (I think it was this thread), those who reject God get to a point where their conscience is seared and God withdraws His convicting ministry from them, leaving them to their chosen fate.
That itself would be a primary point of discussion with the atheist. A look at their views when they were younger, and an analysis of why they have chosen to deny something they likely acknowledged as a child or young person. If you talk to them about it, they may not admit it, but they could categorize everything that went into the denial they now hold to. And if you can help them to see that they have indoctrinated themselves no differently than any other religious person (and Atheism is a religious activity) they may, in their own hearts, give some thought to that.
God bless.