Visiting

[Kingpin]

Hello,

I am a reformed (protestant) Christian, and I'm interested in discussion about theology, science, and history (history being a more recent and a weaker area of study for me).  I reviewed a few other forums, where I didn't feel, that this would happen, and decided that there might be a place for me here.  Bad arguments drive me crazy; even if I agree with the conclusion, and my goal is to hopefully refine arguments on both sides in the search for truth.  I want to clear up misconceptions and strawmen from others and in my own assertions. 

If I'm honest, I'm not very impressed; with the leaders of the new atheist movement.  Many argument may have appeal on the surface, but there is little substance when investigating deeper.  Further my experience with a number of militant atheist hasn't been very positive either, or encouraging towards thoughtful discussion.  I'm hoping to change that here. 

A little background on myself.  When I was a child, I went to church with my grandparents (my parents where never very religious).  As I became older I was given the choice to attend, and decided not to.  Then in my later teens, I was convinced by my cousin to attend the youth group at the same church.  It was fun, it a good group of people, and I liked the girls who attended .  At this point, I had belief in God, and the history, but would not consider myself a Christian.  Through college, I had moments of conviction, but was for the most part not active in any way with Christianity.  This also continued, as I moved away, and back again over a course of about 6-7 years.  During a time, when I was about 23-24 years old, I can't explain why, but I started watching some late night televangelist.  One (who is largely heretical and primarily teaches the prosperity gospel) had a message one night that spoke to me.  From there I committed myself to God as Lord, and immediately started gaining interest in scripture and Christian speakers.  It's difficult to explain to others, but I can clearly pinpoint the change within myself.  Especially early on, and through much of my journey, this has been apart from the Church, and without any peer pressure.

I am an Electrical Engineer, who programs, builds, and troubleshoots machine controls.  I am very analytical (and realize this sometimes annoys people), and I'm familiar with logic.  I apologize for the long intro, but wanted people to know where I'm coming from and any expectations.

Welcome RoadRunner, 

There a lots of great people around to discuss a variety of topics and I've found that for the more seasoned folks there isn't an argument/fallacy they haven't heard.  Be original and speak for yourself and treat everyone as an equal and you will do just fine.