If you want to be able to debate Christians I would first read and listen to as many debates as you can, to learn the debate tactics and understand the basic arguments. Learn the logically fallacies and if you don't want to read the Bible, you could read books on the Bible that aren't so dry and will point out the contradictions and problems in it for you. Jesus Interrupted is one such book that is an easy read and points out major issues with the gospels.
Reading the Bible is only necessary if you wish to argue Christianity within it's own mythology. You can take another avenue and explain why the Bible is not sufficient evidence for God and that's basically an exercise in circular reasoning. "The Bible is true because it says it's true" type BS.
Lastly, if you like to argue, that's great. I just recommend you do it with people who want to argue and enjoy it too, whether online or in person. Your opening sentence makes me think you're challenging friends, and if you want to keep them as friends, you might want to stop. (If I'm wrong about this ignore me.) Point is, I love my friends for who they are and have no need to challenge their beliefs unless they also would like to talk about it. Not many people do, and my friendship is not contingent on people agreeing with me (or I'd have no friends). So, I'm just saying consider who you're arguing with.
Reading the Bible is only necessary if you wish to argue Christianity within it's own mythology. You can take another avenue and explain why the Bible is not sufficient evidence for God and that's basically an exercise in circular reasoning. "The Bible is true because it says it's true" type BS.
Lastly, if you like to argue, that's great. I just recommend you do it with people who want to argue and enjoy it too, whether online or in person. Your opening sentence makes me think you're challenging friends, and if you want to keep them as friends, you might want to stop. (If I'm wrong about this ignore me.) Point is, I love my friends for who they are and have no need to challenge their beliefs unless they also would like to talk about it. Not many people do, and my friendship is not contingent on people agreeing with me (or I'd have no friends). So, I'm just saying consider who you're arguing with.
"The way to see by faith is to shut the eye of reason." Benjamin Franklin
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::Blogs:: Boston Atheism Examiner - Boston Atheists Blog | :
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