(August 4, 2012 at 11:05 am)Faith No More Wrote: I do realize that the stituation is more complex than you are able to convey. I do, however, think you need to reflect on your own wording here, because ultimately all you can be is an influence. You wouldn't be forcing him to do anything; You would simply be sharing what you have discovered.
Ah, touche.
Quote:It sounds as if your reluctance to speak to your friend has a lot to do with your own stuggles after deconversion, but one thing to remember is that you have only recently deconverted. Relgion isn't something you can go your whole life relying on and suddenly just be fine when you stop believing in it. It takes time to rediscover the beauty of this life on your own.
I think Kichi made a good point, however, that your friend may very well be looking to change your beliefs. I'm sure you could determine whether it his or your belifs he is concerned with just by asking a few questions and listening to his responses.
As far as the ethical considerations of influencing someone's beliefs, I think as long as you don't peddle your beliefs to someone else as truth, it is fine to tell them what you believe even if you fear it will influence them. If your friend is sincere in his endeavor and truly values your take on Christianity, simply let him know that what you are telling him is the conclusion you have reached, and tell him that he must himself weigh the information to come to his own conclusion. If you're worried about presenting facts about the gospels and the contruction of the bible, I don't think you should be. Ultimately, only he can decide whether he finds your information credible or not, and if he really wants to cling to his beliefs, he will.
I think you've outlined how I should go about it perfectly. Now I guess I need to muster up the mental strength to pull through this conversation we will be having.
"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it" ~ Aristotle
