JUST OPEN YOUR HEART, DAMMIT!

[Athene]

Non-theists are often accused of not reading the Bible (or any holy book) with an open heart. Do theists understand what they're asking of atheists when they suggest this? I'm sincerely interested in understanding what reading religious texts "with an open heart" actually means to theists. Non-theists as well. Thanks.

I try not to say to atheist to read with an open heart, instead I say with an open mind or to not limit themselves to just one passage and then pass judgement on a subject or entire Bible. I often say to atheist to study the Bible or actually a subject within the Bible before they condemn what the Bible says on a particular subject, then what do I hear, tell me the verses, that's me doing their study and yet if I were to do that they would still deny what the scriptures say about a subject without ever studying and probably without reading what I had to say, very illogical for those who claim to have a logical mind. Logic is a big part of understanding the scriptures. Some subjects in the Bible will not become clear without reading on the subject in both the NT and OT, yes just like studying a subject in school the answers come from actual study, to cherry pick a science book or the Bible means one cares little for what either has to say and will always bring condemnation from the cherry picker. A non-believer or Christian who ties to understand the deeper meanings that only God can reveal will never get it unless the Holy Spirit reveals it, the Christian should understand this and the non-believer seems to believe there is no deeper meaning, I've seen different.
I will always say to a Christian to read the Bible with the help of the Holy Spirit and keep your heart open to what He has to say, why, because they should be looking to the spiritual for a deeper and/or greater meaning than can come from a surface reading and understanding of scripture, they are to be looking to grow in a relationship with God, unlike non-believers who should be searching for God.

GC

Many atheists, being former believers are quite familiar with the book. I actually participated in Bible study on a regular basis as a Christian. I found that cherry-picking was actually the only way I could justify believing the Bible was actually the Word of God. Logic was not at all a big part of understanding the scriptures, as you have suggested. It was quite the opposite for me; I couldn't employ logic to believe things that defied physics and every law of nature. I had to compartmentalize my beliefs in order to maintain them.
Btw, why should non-believers be searching for God? Should non-believers in Puff the Magic Dragon, be searching for him? What would be the point in that?

[Longhorn]

Emotions may be faster, but the mind has a better track record in the long term.

... meanwhile the building collapses!

Not really. If you use your reason instead of your feelings, you'll notice the rather distinct absence of collapsing buildings.

If you mean it literally though....Then if you go with your emotion, you'll panic, start screaming, and jump out the window. If you use logic however, you'll use the fucking stairs.

[robvalue]

I prefer to approach the bible in a slightly different way, and I find I get much more use from it.

I accept the bible with open butt cheeks.

[Randy Carson]

Non-theists are often accused of not reading the Bible (or any holy book) with an open heart. Do theists understand what they're asking of atheists when they suggest this? I'm sincerely interested in understanding what reading religious texts "with an open heart" actually means to theists. Non-theists as well. Thanks.

Open heart is a poor choice of words, IMO. It would sufficient if everyone had an open mind which means that they are at least conscious of their biases and presuppositions as they read.

For example, I'm currently reading a book by atheist Bart Ehrman. I agree with some of what he says but not all. Nonetheless, I'm interested in learning his perspective, and I'm trying to fairly give him credit when he has a valid point, etc.

Have you read a good book on Christianity recently?

[Randy Carson]

I prefer to approach the bible in a slightly different way, and I find I get much more use from it.

I accept the bible with open butt cheeks.

Just out of curiosity, rob...

When was the last time you actually read one of the gospels cover to cover?

If it's been awhile, I'd recommend you read Luke & Acts together for a big picture view. Should only take 3-4 evenings if you go slow...

[vorlon13]

Non-theists are often accused of not reading the Bible (or any holy book) with an open heart. Do theists understand what they're asking of atheists when they suggest this? I'm sincerely interested in understanding what reading religious texts "with an open heart" actually means to theists. Non-theists as well. Thanks.

I try not to say to atheist to read with an open heart, instead I say with an open mind or to not limit themselves to just one passage and then pass judgement on a subject or entire Bible. I often say to atheist to study the Bible or actually a subject within the Bible before they condemn what the Bible says on a particular subject, then what do I hear, tell me the verses, that's me doing their study and yet if I were to do that they would still deny what the scriptures say about a subject without ever studying and probably without reading what I had to say, very illogical for those who claim to have a logical mind. Logic is a big part of understanding the scriptures. Some subjects in the Bible will not become clear without reading on the subject in both the NT and OT, yes just like studying a subject in school the answers come from actual study, to cherry pick a science book or the Bible means one cares little for what either has to say and will always bring condemnation from the cherry picker. A non-believer or Christian who ties to understand the deeper meanings that only God can reveal will never get it unless the Holy Spirit reveals it, the Christian should understand this and the non-believer seems to believe there is no deeper meaning, I've seen different.
I will always say to a Christian to read the Bible with the help of the Holy Spirit and keep your heart open to what He has to say, why, because they should be looking to the spiritual for a deeper and/or greater meaning than can come from a surface reading and understanding of scripture, they are to be looking to grow in a relationship with God, unlike non-believers who should be searching for God.

GC

I prefer to approach the bible in a slightly different way, and I find I get much more use from it.

I accept the bible with open butt cheeks.

[vorlon13]

)disregard above, I'm having brain drain this AM and can't post right.

[Faith No More]

Open heart is a poor choice of words, IMO. It would sufficient if everyone had an open mind which means that they are at least conscious of their biases and presuppositions as they read.

That's funny, because I actually agree. The only way to read the bible is with an awareness of your biases and presuppositions.

Have you tried it yet?

[Faith No More]

)disregard above, I'm having brain drain this AM and can't post right.

We all have those days. Don't sweat it.

Some days all you can do is try not to go full retard.

[Longhorn]

I accept the bible with open butt cheeks.

I think you have it backwards though, Rob. The bible is a result of open butt cheeks