This is a very, very good topic!
There was a time that atheist were allowed on this site and this forum was one of the places where they were allowed to post. During that time I learned a great deal about what debate techniques were effective and convincing and what techniques were not.
The very nature of discussing "belief" systems is that both parties must agree on what they mutually believe. One of the best starting points with atheists was morality. Even if they condoned homosexuality, all parties could usually agree on issues that were archetypically amoral; i.e. murder, pedophilia, beastiality, theivery, etc. From this platform a constructive dialogue could be established.
The weakness of the atheist's position is soon established in that they are unable to truly cite the source of their own moral code. Thereby, the believer is enabled a platform in that he knows the source of morality, that being God.
The Apostle Paul recognized the neccessity of common ground in fruitful dialogue. When Paul addressed believers, such as in Romans, he spoke of the Risen Christ. When he addressed Jews, he spoke of the Old Testament Scriptures. When he addressed the pagans and unbelievers on Mars Hill in Acts 17:22-34, he used a common altar to the Unknown God. At each step, once a fact was established, a new platform could be established from which he could take the fledgling convert further.
Spouting Scripture at an ateist is a futile way to witness to them, IMO, with a few possible exceptions, such as the story of the woman at the well. An important point to remember is that Paul did not reach all of his audience either. The Christians in Laodecia, mentioned first in Colossians 2, are later scorned in Revelation 3. The converted Jews in Thessalonica witnessed to in Acts show themselves to be rebellious in Acts 17. At Athens, the majority were not swayed. Christ Himself showed great concern for the single individual in Luke 15:4. The Army of God is built one soul at a time and though we may lead many to Christ, only the Spirit will truly convince and save them. Therefore, it is important that the witness does not become discouraged. We may never see the results of our words and actions, but that does not negate the fact that they may very well be effective.
One final thought: it is difficult to go up against a group of atheists. The group mentality holds much power over the individual and the potential convert will be reluctant to concede any points for fear of rejection from his group.
As I said, good topic and very worthy of discussion.
[ April 21, 2003, 08:58 AM: Message edited by: Clint Kritzer ]
