“[The God of the Old Testament] is a vindictive bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser, a misogynistic, homophobic racist, an infanticidal, genocidal, capriciously malevolent bully.” Richard Dawkins, The God Delusion
Richard Dawkins - professor, scientist, author, atheist, and avid Christian mocker. Unlike the average atheist who condemns Christianity privately, Dawkins’ goal is to rid the world of religion using any form of communication available. Dawkins has been teaching young adults since 1967 as well as writing books with the purpose of persuading youth to leave their faith. In 2008 Dawkins retired and announced plans to “write a book aimed at youngsters in whom he will warn them against believing in 'anti-scientific' fairy-tales.”
Dawkins is just one of thousands of the intellectual elite who believe anyone who has faith in something which can’t be “proven,” is nothing more than “delusional.” As a matter of fact, Dawkins may be best known for his 2006 book, The God Delusion, which sold over 2 million copies and is still being devoured by young people everywhere.
Christians must ask themselves why people like Dawkins are making tremendous advancements in converting the minds of youth. Is it because we, as parents, teachers, church leaders have not equipped them to be able to answer tough theological questions? Not every Christian need be a scholar, and no Christian can understand everything about the “hows and whys” of God, but every Christian ought to be able to follow the Apostle Peter’s instruction:
“always [in every situation] being ready [prepared] to make a defense [argument, explanation] to everyone who asks you to give an account [reason, report] for the hope [sure and confidant expectation] that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15 nasb).
The point is not to equip our children with the useless ability to win an argument. By proving that a biblical worldview is the only logical worldview, their faith will be strengthened. Youth will discover why Christianity is not a belief in “fairy-tales”, but a cogent, legitimate certainty with rational and relevant truth and they will be confidant in sharing that truth with others. We must instruct, encourage, and prepare youth for the moment they come face to face with people like Dawkins, who asks questions like this:
“Do you really mean to tell me the only reason you try to be good is to gain God's approval and reward, or to avoid his disapproval and punishment? That's not morality, that's just sucking up.” Richard Dawkins, The God Delusion
Our youth are being bombarded with rabid skepticism and immoral illustrations on every side-television, movies, books, internet, and universities. If we become diligent in our efforts to instruct our children how to effectively communicate their beliefs, they won’t have to stutter and stammer when faced with questions like the one above. They will be able to say, “I am not obedient to my Father because of what He might do to me, I am obedient because of what He has already done for me.” Present the evidence at my church. Read the facts for free and pass them on.
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