Author : Guy P. Harrison
Category : Religion
Publisher : Prometheus Books
ISBN : 9781616147280
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 328

Written in a respectful and conversational style, this unique book is designed to promote constructive dialogue and foster mutual understanding between Christians and non-Christians. The author, a skeptic and journalist, asks basic questions about Christian belief. What is the born-again experience? Why would God want to sacrifice his only son for the world? Do miracles really happen? How reliable is the Bible? What is the rapture? Why isn't everyone a Christian? Each question is followed by commentary and analysis that is skeptical and tough but never argumentative or condescending. Christians will find the book useful as a basis for developing their apologetics, while skeptics will welcome Harrison's probing rational analysis of religious claims.

Author : Guy P. Harrison
Category : Religion
Publisher : Prometheus Books
ISBN : 9781615920044
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 2

Many books that challenge religious belief from a skeptical point of view take a combative tone that is almost guaranteed to alienate believers or they present complex philosophical or scientific arguments that fail to reach the average reader. This is undoubtably an ineffective way of encouraging people to develop critical thinking about religion. This unique approach to skepticism presents fifty commonly heard reasons people often give for believing in a God and then raises legitimate questions regarding these reasons, showing in each case that there is much room for doubt. Whether you're a believer, a complete skeptic, or somewhere in between, you'll find this review of traditional and more recent arguments for the existence of God refreshing, approachable, and enlightening. From religion as the foundation of morality to the authority of sacred books, the compelling religious testimony of influential people, near-death experiences, arguments from Intelligent Design, and much more, Harrison respectfully describes each rationale for belief and then politely shows the deficiencies that any good skeptic would point out. As a journalist who has traveled widely and interviewed many highly accomplished people, quite a number of whom are believers, the author appreciates the variety of belief and the ways in which people seek to make religion compatible with scientific thought. Nonetheless, he shows that, despite the prevalence of belief in God or religious belief in intelligent people, in the end there are no unassailable reasons for believing in a God. For skeptics looking for appealing ways to approach their believing friends or believers who are not afraid to consider a skeptical challenge, this book makes for very stimulating reading.

Author : Matthew Robert Payne
Category : Religion
Publisher : RWG Publishing
ISBN : 9798215283530
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 118

- The Christian life that I have lived has never been free of personal questions that I have had. As a teacher of the Word, I seem to have a never-ending list of questions about my faith. One day, some weeks ago, I sat down and wrote out on my computer a list of questions that the answers I have shared here may get me into hot water! I hope that this moderate sized book sees you nodding your head in agreement more than you're turning your head in rejection of what has been said. Whatever the case, and whatever these hot potato questions spark in you, it is my prayer that this simple effort answers many of your long-held questions. You could say that my answers about gay people and people living in sin are a little liberal in their leaning and more to the taste of hyper grace preachers, two positions that I don't hold most of the time. I look forward to your reviews on Amazon to let me know what you think.

Author : Guy P. Harrison
Category : Social Science
Publisher : Prometheus Books
ISBN : 9781616144968
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 369

“What would it take to create a world in which fantasy is not confused for fact and public policy is based on objective reality?" asks Neil deGrasse Tyson, science popularizer and author of Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. "I don't know for sure. But a good place to start would be for everyone on earth to read this book." Maybe you know someone who swears by the reliability of psychics or who is in regular contact with angels. Or perhaps you're trying to find a nice way of dissuading someone from wasting money on a homeopathy cure. Or you met someone at a party who insisted the Holocaust never happened or that no one ever walked on the moon. How do you find a gently persuasive way of steering people away from unfounded beliefs, bogus cures, conspiracy theories, and the like? This down-to-earth, entertaining exploration of commonly held extraordinary claims will help you set the record straight. The author, a veteran journalist, has not only surveyed a vast body of literature, but has also interviewed leading scientists, explored "the most haunted house in America," frolicked in the inviting waters of the Bermuda Triangle, and even talked to a "contrite Roswell alien." He is not out simply to debunk unfounded beliefs. Wherever possible, he presents alternative scientific explanations, which in most cases are even more fascinating than the wildest speculation. For example, stories about UFOs and alien abductions lack good evidence, but science gives us plenty of reasons to keep exploring outer space for evidence that life exists elsewhere in the vast universe. The proof for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster may be nonexistent, but scientists are regularly discovering new species, some of which are truly stranger than fiction. Stressing the excitement of scientific discovery and the legitimate mysteries and wonder inherent in reality, this book invites readers to share the joys of rational thinking and the skeptical approach to evaluating our extraordinary world.

Author : Michelle DeRusha
Category : Religion
Publisher : Baker Books
ISBN : 9781441220622
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 384

Throughout history, countless women have boldly stepped out in faith and courage, leaving their indelible mark on those around them and on the kingdom of God. In lively prose Michelle DeRusha tells their stories, bringing into focus fifty incredible heroines of the faith. From Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila, and Anne Hutchison to Susanna Wesley, Harriet Tubman, and Corrie ten Boom, women both famous and admirable live again under DeRusha's expert pen. These engaging narratives are a potent reminder to readers that we are not alone, the battles we face today are not new, and God is always with us in the midst of the struggle.

Author : David G. McAfee
Category : Religion
Publisher : St. Martin's Essentials
ISBN : 9781250782090
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 128

The essential guide to coming out as a non-believer David G. McAfee was raised in a conservative American Christian household. So when he stopped believing in God—any god—his family was shocked. He quickly realized that atheists are misunderstood, frequently thought of as Satan worshippers and anarchists. Thus started McAfee's journey to his true self, and crusade to tell others—especially those who are devoutly religious—what atheism really is, what he believes in, and why atheists should not be feared. In Hi, I'm an Atheist!, McAfee looks at what an atheist believes and how to “come out” as an atheist to your friends, family, and co-workers, offering sound advice on overcoming the difficult moments in any “coming out” conversation. Including a resource guide both for people just coming to atheism and people who have been atheists for years as well as an interview with Rebecca Vitsmun, the woman made famous for coming out as an atheist live on CNN, Hi I’m an Atheist! is a smart, sensitive, and realistic guide to living one’s life positively and honestly without the need for a belief in God.

Author : David G. McAfee
Category : Religion
Publisher : Ockham Publishing Group
ISBN : 9781839190131
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 167

This essential guide to coming-out as a non-believer has been written to make it easier for atheists, agnostics, freethinkers, and non-believers of all ages and backgrounds to be open about their non-religiosity while minimizing the negative interactions in familial, social, and professional circles. As a survival guide for non-believers who wish to come out, this book provides advice and resources for those interested in publicly rejecting religious dogma as well as real stories from non-believers who have experienced coming-out to less-than-supportive family or friends. Whether you’re new to disbelief and looking for the cleanest possible break from your former faith or you’re a lifelong atheist who wants to establish a sense of community with like-minded people, this guide provides useful resources including:tips for handling potential conflicts with believers, the author’s answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on behalf of believers, and numerous references to support groups, services, and advocacy organizations dedicated to non-theists. From dealing with grief from a secular perspective to handling potential clashes in religious worldviews between significant others, this book offers multiple perspectives from non-religious individuals who have generously shared their experiences to help those atheists who may find themselves in similar situations.

Author : Marion H. Williams
Category : Religion
Publisher : Recamier Publishing LLC
ISBN : 0979784506
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 348

By focusing on 50 simple questions that all Christians should be able to answer but often cannot, this question-and-answer text presents important biblical characters and church traditions. (Christian)

Author : Doug LaPointe
Category :
Publisher : Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
ISBN : 1480278734
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 464

Whether You're a Believer or a Skeptic, You've Got Questions...Why would a good God allow evil?Isn't truth subjective? Can you prove God's existence?How can I grow in the Lord and overcome temptation? Isn't the Bible just full of contradictions? What about those who've never heard the gospel? How can I know God's will? Isn't Christianity a crutch? What does the Bible say about modern issues? The last thing you want is some pat, pithy answer that leaves your questions unanswered - or one that requires a seminary degree to understand. This book has none of that - it gives thoughtful, clear, and easy-to-understand answers that leave you with:* A renewed sense of power, strength, and commitment that comes with knowing what and why you believe. * Confidence that Christianity is intellectually sound enough to stand up to even the toughest scrutiny.* Answers to what the Bible teaches on even the toughest issues. * A renewed sense of trust in the accuracy and relevance of the Word of God. * Your intellectual obstacles to following God removed. * The ability to defend and articulate your faith on every issue. "The Scripture tells us to, 'grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.' In these times of uncertainty and moral relativism there is great comfort that God's Word provides clear answers for the vexing questions of the day. The topics addressed in this book provide a sound and systematic doctrinal position in easily understood terms that will help all believers grow in grace and knowledge." Kurt Kelly, Florida State Representative Foreword by George McGovern, Team Chaplain: New York Giants and Yankees.

Author : Susan Freese
Category :
Publisher :
ISBN : 1735878006
Type book : PDF & Epub
Page book : 340

| YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE IN 50 DAYS. | This ALL-IN-ONE Bible Study tool contains a lifetime of discipleship essentials for new Christians worldwide (no western examples). | It's hard to have a close relationship with God and fulfill your purpose without a clear understanding of His story and your part in it. These 50 daily readings reveal a lifetime of faith essentials to bring depth to your friendship with Jesus and equip you with practical skills to be His follower. Learn what mature believers have known for years in only 50 days through this simple but life-changing journey. Each week you'll learn more of the narrative woven through the Bible. You'll discover secrets of the Christian life, like how to abide in Christ, work through doubts, resist temptation, and worship God during seasons of suffering. You'll also learn practical ways to study the Bible, share your faith, make disciples, and pray. If you have not started a relationship with Jesus, you'll have an opportunity to take that step. Each day closes with a Great Commandment approach using Scripture, questions, prayer, and a place to process your next steps. THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF YOU: (1) Are a new believer in Jesus seeking next steps to grow your faith, (2) Are a Christian looking to be discipled or to disciple others, (3) Are exploring Christianity and want to know how to become a follower of Jesus. Experience authentic faith and immeasurable joy as you apply sacred truths to change your life and impact eternity. YOUR LIFE HAS A NEW STORY TO TELL. Meeting Jesus is just the beginning. Following Him--that's how your true story unfolds. (Daily personal reflection and group discussion questions are provided. Written for a global audience with no Western examples. 100% of the author's net proceeds from Your True Story will support ministries helping marginalized women and children around the world.) More info at yourtruestorybook.com