Respecting Christian family and friends

[watchamadoodle]

Well what I was thinking about is this idea that the devil is an angry lion lurking in Hinduism, Unitarianism, etc.

Like me, she had a psychotic break once. I can sympathize with how she feels, because I have had the same feelings myself. I think I am getting over those feelings finally, and it would be nice if I could help her.

Unfortunately, I'm not sure how to accomplish this. Christianity tends to create fear and superstition in people. There are people like Biship Spong who are trying to exorcise the superstition and stupidity from Christianity, but I'm not sure what will be left in the end - atheism?

:/

You can start by telling her she must decide which God she is wanting to worship. The God of the bible or the God of bishop whatever.
Then draw a contrast. Bishop whatever says the devil is like angry lion which someone how translates into Hinduism, and then say lets see what the bible says concerning lions and the devil:

Have her read 1peter 5:
6 So be humble under God’s powerful hand. Then he will lift you up when the right time comes. 7 Give all your worries to him, because he cares for you. 8 Control yourselves and be careful! The devil is your enemy, and he goes around like a roaring lion looking for someone to attack and eat. 9 Refuse to follow the devil. Stand strong in your faith. You know that your brothers and sisters all over the world are having the same sufferings that you have.

10 Yes, you will suffer for a short time. But after that, God will make everything right. He will make you strong. He will support you and keep you from falling. He is the God who gives all grace. He chose you to share in his glory in Christ. That glory will continue forever. 11 All power is his forever. Amen.

Then point out the fact that the bible does not say label other religions as the devil. It says to be humble, submit yourself to God, allow Him to lift you up, give your worries over to Him, he will keep you strong. Control yourself, know the devil is real and dangerous, but ultimatly the devil is His problem and not ours. Ours is to be faithful to what we have been given.

If she wanders off into bishop whatever's version of God gently remind her she is no longer worshiping the God of the bible.

If however she is content worshiping bishop whatevers God then, that is her choice, and the paranoia is apart of that sort of worship.

She likes Bishop Whateverist

Anyway, thanks for the advice. I think you are picturing her as extreme when in reality she is not. So your advice misses the mark a little bit.

Those pesky angry lions:

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I have known some gentle Christians.

Were they flawed and following a bad doctrine? Yes. Were they kind, and endlessly striving to be so, and generous, and loving? More than many atheists I know.

You have to reach a comfort level with your mother.

I think that's a good assessment.