Some Religious-Extremists Annoy me to DEATH!

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jesseu2

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Some Religious-Extremists Annoy me to DEATH!

Sorry but I had to spill the beans on this issue..

I live in a dorm on a college campus where about 2 weeks ago, this guy set up a movie on a projector in the courtyard and some people were watching some movie an as i was goin to my room..the guy comes over an asks me "Do you wanna watch a movie about god?" an i reply with a nice "uhh sorry i'm busy tonight" because it was a FRIDAY night for christs sake, i'd rather party an get drunk and/or get my groove on with some girls, heh, than sit around an watch a gay-*** boring god/christian flick with h***'s on a friday night. Then i see him last weekend an he knocks on MY DOOR, my personal living space to ask me if i wanna watch another flick, i say maybe, an he leaves a flyer that reads: "A Distant Thunder" With all the christians gone, the nightmare has just begun. (to me, it's the oppolsite, nightmare ends when they're GONE, POOF). I was about to throw profanities 'Excorcist-style' at him for not leaving me alone and i was gonna go uhh 'do you have a ****, man or 'do something normal like get drunk or watch a porno flick dude' but i didn't. jeezus really makes me mad when they try to convert ya. next time i see him i dunno what i'm gonna do. Since being at school, i've had other situations... some people will come up to ya an they wanna pray for ya soo uhh i pretend cuZ i really don't believe in taking a religion to the extremes like this one family i had easter dinner with last year, they'd pray a million times an they watched book of mathews video or some boring crap. they also took me with em to some prayer garden where THEY(not me) drank water from a supposedly 'holy' striken fountain and sang christian tunes abt jesus, god til i got a headache an wanted some real music(u2, of course). an i went to a good-friday service with em too which was dumb too with girls talking about how they worship their church's tshirts with pride they were wearing that day. i regret doing all this cuz i really did not have fun at all with ppl asking me 'whats your favorite bible verse?' or 'did you know jesus was your saviour?'. ugh i'm disgusted. they an my former best-friend(who's christian too) don't like u2 cuz they think they're not christians. i know they're christians but i like going to they're concerts an listening/watching to them perform at they're best rather than live as a religious-nut for the majority of my life.

i still do believe there is a god.

the reason i'm pissed is cuz i have a disability an these ppl think that because i have a disability... i need god which really isn't me. i'm getting a apartment in may finally after 3 yrs of being on-campus soo hopefully no more of these encounters.

[This message has been edited by jesseu2 (edited 04-22-2002).]
 
Reading through your post again, it reminds me all-too-much of z edge forcing that aggressive neighbor of his to watch his Elevation.

~U2Alabama
 
Jesse,

Passionate believers have approached me in similar ways, like you described. I don?t blame you for being upset. I no longer allow them to waste my time. Next time just tell them, ?No thank you, I have no interest.? These people have nothing to do with your salvation.

I don?t think you need to edit your post.
 
though i can see where your coming from, i still think your conscience is bothering you.

afterall, christians arent all bad ya know...

------------------
-deathbear
 
though i wasnt around any of your encounters with those terrible and wicked people, i dont believe its necessarily fair to call them fanatics.

often it will feel that way, and i really cant stand it either.

a great man told me recently "act and if someone asks, tell"

i dont think i need to explain that. its perfectly put.

------------------
-deathbear
 
My brother.
Is this what happens when I leave you alone?
mad.gif

Oh dear.
Why dont you ring me the next time youre getting harrassed by the Bible thumpers?
wink.gif

Man you are funny little brother.
Did you give any of them a smack?
biggrin.gif


Diamond
 
College campuses are always ripe for cults and fanatics. The Woronieckis (a.k.a., Andrea Yates' cult leader) visit my old campus regularly. And boy...literally everyone is going to hell according to that lunatic.

Melon

------------------
"Still, I never understood the elevation of greed as a political credo. Why would anyone want to base a political programme on bottomless dissatisfaction and the impossibility of happiness? Perhaps that was its appeal: the promise of luxury that in fact promoted endless work." - Hanif Kureishi, Intimacy
 
Hi jesseu2,

I know how you feel and guess what, I am a Christian myself. Now, although I'm strong in my beliefs, I am not the radical evangelist type. I don't like doing 'street evangelism' (approaching people on the street) because I feel that it's not natural and furthermore maybe turns away more people than attracts them. I used to be involved with these forms of evangelism, though, and the experience taught me that I'm just not the kind of person to strike up a conversation about God, with an agenda in mind. I like to talk about God like how you'd talk to someone about U2: bursting with enthusiasm and pride.

Still, I see where these so-called "fanatics" come from. Some of them are real nutcases, but most of them really are sincere and grounded. Just imagine; your friends would get tired of you if you talked about U2 all the time, right? But what if you think they truly are the best band on earth and you're thinking, why can't my friends just see that?

It's the same with some Christians. They just can't help themselves. God is their life. I know some newly converted Christians can't stop talking about Jesus because it was such a revelation to them that the Lord forgave them. It's like they felt the world was hiding this big secret and suddenly they were in on it, too--hence the excitement to tell others about it. That's why they come across as fanatic.

The way I see it, all this dorm-mate of yours did was invite you to a Christian movie twice. Sure, you hate the way he talked or his approach. But it's not like he is stalking you or anything, right? Chill, mate. Salesgirls in the shops are worse; they spray perfume at you without you even asking and jump at you so that you're scared to even make eye contact while walking past (ok I'm talking about myself here, heh). You don't get all angry and worked up over those salesgirls, now do you?
smile.gif



foray

------------------
so bounce, basketball, bounce
 
Gult is also a factor for some of these people. I have been to churches where they beat up people with the idea if they are not out on the streets evangelizing and knocking on doors they are committing sin. They scare them to death...

So when they come up to me I have a little more compassion for them...because I know where they are coming from. Their style may not be their idea...they might rather be doing anything else but they have been bullied into it.

Its also part of having freedom of religion. I don't mind putting up with them...when they come...and I send them on their way with a smile...I sometimes have to keep telling myself through gritted teeth that that is the price we pay here for having the first amendment. Freedom isn't free and that sort of thing...

dream wanderer
 
Hi jesseu2,
Let me start by saying that it's probably not your disability that caused this Christian to talk to you. If he's like most of us Christians, he wants everyone saved. He probably asked everybody that came by that night if they wanted to see the movie. No harm in that. By saying "I'm busy tonight", you left the possibility open for maybe another time. Next time, if you're not interested, just simply say "I'm not interested. Please don't ask again."
I do have to ask why are you really so angry about this? Many Christians do go about it the wrong way, and are too intrusive. Maybe this guy was, I don't know. But please don't judge all Christians and especially Christ himself by that kind of Christian. I can tell you from experience that if we Christians tell you about Jesus and salvation, it's because we care what happens to you. Those things that you thought about saying to that guy, some people actually do say them to Christians who are witnessing. Do you think people would subject themselves to that if they didn't really believe in Christ and care about what happens to you?
Jesus does indeed love you. He wants you to place your faith in him. You can take it or leave it; it is your choice. But I can tell you from experience that my decision to follow him was the best decision I've ever made in my 34 year life.
 
I agree, to a limited extent, with deathbear, foray and dream wanderer about people's different styles of evangelism and what they have always known, but I personally do not see this modern-day hell-fire and brimstone tactic of using movies that fictionalize prophecy to scare people into becoming Christians asa good method. There are so many more POSITIVE things about following Christ than getting scared by some doomsday film adaptation.

And "Deep," I think he edited most of the slang before most people read it; it wasn't necessarily anti-Christian slang...

~U2Alabama

[This message has been edited by U2Bama (edited 04-23-2002).]
 
Jesse begins:

Some Religious-Extremists Annoy me to DEATH!
Sorry but I had to spill the beans on this issue..

Jesse closes with:

I still do believe there is a god.


I don?t find Jesse?s remarks anti-Christian or even anti religious.

a great man told me recently "act and if someone asks, tell" - deathbear

Sounds good to me. Maybe we should call this. Don?t ask, but if asked, tell.


I am suspicious of some people?s motives. It is a bit arrogant to assume one knows what is best for other people. Sometimes, I wonder if it is about self-aggrandizement. They don?t deserve a free pass because you can empathize with them. Would some of us be sympathetic with them if it was a different belief system?

I have faith that Jesse is capable of making his own choices. And investigating or asking questions about things that interest him.
 
Originally posted by deep:

I don?t find Jesse?s remarks anti-Christian or even anti religious.
.

I understand that his point wasn't that he didn't believe in God, or even that he dislikes most Christians, but that he doesn't like being witnessed to. However, the inclusion of the following two statements could lead someone to believe that he has something against Christians.

"With all the christians gone, the nightmare has just begun. (to me, it's the oppolsite, nightmare ends when they're GONE, POOF)."

and

"a gay-*** boring god/christian flick with h***'s on a friday night."
 
80s, I wouldn't necessarily worry too much about it. I think your arguments are semantical, and jesseu2, I think, was simply venting towards that certain kind of "Christian," not all Christians. In anger, I see myself capable of making statements of the same sort, but not ultimately meaning the most extreme interpretation of it.

Melon

------------------
"Still, I never understood the elevation of greed as a political credo. Why would anyone want to base a political programme on bottomless dissatisfaction and the impossibility of happiness? Perhaps that was its appeal: the promise of luxury that in fact promoted endless work." - Hanif Kureishi, Intimacy
 
Originally posted by melon:
80s, I wouldn't necessarily worry too much about it. I think your arguments are semantical, and jesseu2, I think, was simply venting towards that certain kind of "Christian," not all Christians. Melon
I understand ya, melon. I agree with you that jesseu2 probably didn't mean those things the way they sound. I'm just suggesting that maybe he should be more careful the way he words things next time, because a statement like "the nightmare ends when Christians are gone" doesn't seem very nice.
 
Jesse, you live in Arizona, right? I'm surprised that Campus Crusade type movement is so prevalent over there. I live in the bible belt and rarely see people getting together to watch "christian flicks".

Anyway, you believe in a god and you seem like a decent person. Kinda like me. Unfortunately, the extreme christians want everyone to be extreme. It's sad and it will never happen.

Dan

P.S. You speak of porno. What is your favorite film?
smile.gif
LOL
 
Originally posted by deep:
I don?t find Jesse?s remarks anti-Christian or even anti religious.

Nor do I...

PREVIOUSLY posted by U2Bama:
And "Deep," I think he edited most of the slang before most people read it; it WASN'T necessarily anti-Christian slang...
(emphasis added).

My original comments were relative to the slang that would be considered "homophobic" by some of today's standards. It had nothing to do with religious sensitivity.

~U2Alabama
 
U2bama,

I agree, not the best choice of words. I see he did do some editing.

However, regarding what others have focused on:
"the nightmare ends when Christians are gone" doesn't seem very nice.

In the context of the entire post I read that to mean: the self-righteous people who keep invading his space.

Now about that flick. I went to the movie data base and looked up ?A Distant Thunder?. It?s a 1978 movie.

Summary: Armageddon and bell bottoms.

Sequel to "A Thief in the Night", this one answers the question: Does Patty sell her soul to Satan? This is the best of the four movies; it's creepy, full of unintended humor, spookiness, and has a funky twist at the end. Accept Jesus into your heart now, before the rapture, or you'll have to hang out with crying high school girls for seven years.

See what we have missed, sounds very entertaining.
Dare I say, a cult classic.
 
Originally posted by deep:


Sounds good to me. Maybe we should call this. Don?t ask, but if asked, tell.


What's wrong with asking someone about his or her views on spiritual matters, as long as it's done politely?

I'm quite comfortable discussing my faith (in person, not just on bulletin boards), as long as the other person isn't grilling me in a hostile manner (or stalking me after I turn away). As long as you treat the other person the way you'd like to be treated, I don't see what's wrong with bringing up faith and religion in a conversation.

[This message has been edited by speedracer (edited 04-23-2002).]
 
There has been some good discussion in this thread.

Little brother, where'd you go.

Do you have anything else to add or has it all been said?


DB9


[This message has been edited by Diamond The U2 Patriot (edited 04-24-2002).]
 
Religion and faith is a beautiful concept..... It should never be used in a forceful manner or an explicit manner..... But, PLEASE DON'T USE GOD'S OR PROPHETS NAME IN VAIN....... IF YOU RESPECT THE RELIGION OR FAITH, THEN DO THAT.
 
i've been busy with exams and been sick, sorry i haven't responded to y'all yet...

Originally posted by Zoomerang96:
though i can see where your coming from, i still think your conscience is bothering you.

afterall, christians arent all bad ya know...


yep, my conscience always tells me things. i know christians aren't bad, they are annoying however.


Originally posted by deep:


Jesse,
Passionate believers have approached me in similar ways, like you described. I don?t blame you for being upset. I no longer allow them to waste my time. Next time just tell them, ?No thank you, I have no interest.? These people have nothing to do with your salvation.


I didn'think of telling them "no thank you..." because i feel like i need to be nice cuz i don't want them to think i have a Sinful mind, which i do. hmm, i guess i'll tell em differently now cuz who do they think they are trying to pull that trip on me.

Originally posted by deep:


College campuses are always ripe for cults and fanatics. The Woronieckis (a.k.a., Andrea Yates' cult leader) visit my old campus regularly. And boy...literally everyone is going to hell according to that lunatic.
Melon


I have seen similar persons telling groups of people outside on my campus they're going to hell. it's a disgrace.

foray: of course i don't get upset when sales girls ask me about calogne or perume,
biggrin.gif


to foray an all:

i'm not anti-christian, I just wish they would do their things and 'street evangelism' differently in a way that wouldn't annoy the non-religious peoples.

---
i'll answer the rest of you later, i gotta run now
 
80sU2...
BTW, I ride a electronic scooter to get around campus because i get tired of walking...

Most of them do come up to me an only me when theres other people around. the reason i'm mad is because they first see me with a condition an they think i need a bible thump when i'm not into their religion to the extremes they go thru. my conscience says "please go AWAY an bible thump someone else but not me cuz of my disability" but it's the opposite an it really bugs me. Even if its not my disability, still bothers me. IMO, believers should come tO them instead if them annoying the non-believers. i'm not judging christ or his believers but i'd love it if they went about their beliefs differently. i know christians care about me but please don't care in a religious way like "god or jesus loves you", really makes me sick when i hear that towards me. i'm ok with something like "i'm proud of your accomplishments". i know jesus loves me in my heart, i don't need people telling me that. however, i feel i don't need his faith because i feel i can make it on my own. The reason i say the past sentence is because for the first time yesterday, i met a girl who understands me for who i am instead of my physical appearance, therefore; i feel loved, finally. Didn't have to mention anything religiousto impress this girl.

Originally posted by 80sU2isBest:
Do you think people would subject themselves to that if they didn't really believe in Christ and care about what happens to you?

Could you rephrase this?

[This message has been edited by jesseu2 (edited 04-26-2002).]
 
Originally posted by Danospano:
Jesse, you live in Arizona, right? I'm surprised that Campus Crusade type movement is so prevalent over there. I live in the bible belt and rarely see people getting together to watch "christian flicks".

Anyway, you believe in a god and you seem like a decent person. Kinda like me. Unfortunately, the extreme christians want everyone to be extreme. It's sad and it will never happen.

Dan

P.S. You speak of porno. What is your favorite film?
smile.gif
LOL

Yea, i'm in Arizona. they have a campus crusade club at my college that some guys i known for a while try to get me to join it but i pass it up. True on the 2nd paragraph.

heh, i remember looking at your "From:" info. my fave is "Where the boys aren't 7".
smile.gif
yours?
 
Originally posted by jesseu2:
i'm ok with something like "i'm proud of your accomplishments". i know jesus loves me in my heart, i don't need people telling me that. however, i feel i don't need his faith because i feel i can make it on my own. The reason i say the past sentence is because for the first time yesterday, i met a girl who understands me for who i am instead of my physical appearance, therefore; i feel loved, finally.
Originally posted by 80sU2isBest:
Do you think people would subject themselves to that if they didn't really believe in Christ and care about what happens to you?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Could you rephrase this?
[This message has been edited by jesseu2 (edited 04-26-2002).]
You're right when you say in effect that the methods of witnessing some people use can really turn people away. All Christians should follow Christ's methods. He loved them first, he had genuine concern for them.
I am glad that you met such a sweet girl. I live with my 23 year old nephew, who has a moderate case of cerebral palsy, and I wish he would find someone like that.
I will gladly rephrase my question. I will turn it into a statement:
My point is that Christians are called names and ridiculed all the time when they openly share their faith; in fact, in some other countries, they are jailed or even put to death. My point is that 2 things generally drive Christian to evangelizing;
1)Love for God
2)Love for other people
 
I'm sorry but I'm going to add guilt or fear to that list...

Ideally the person who shares the gospel is a mature Christian with a bit of common sense...knowing when to speak...when to shut up...and how to read certain people to see if they are interested...

Too many churches take new immature Christians and thrust them right out there into the 'misssion field' with no experience of any kind...and they are usually the over zealous ones who bumble and fall. They are frightened into thinking they are disobeying God if they don't witness in a particular way..

I'm not saying they don't love God or the person they are talking to...I'm just saying they are sent out before they are ready...or for the wrong reasons..

I have been there...and done that and seen it done over and over...these people should be allowed to grow up a little spiritually before they are sent out to do serious evangelizing....

dream wanderer
 
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