Reply #14: I've found that understanding the positive messages

[Protagoras]

in the Bible has been a great boon to me as one of the "heathens" because I'll begin engaging in a discussion with a fundie and I can speak their language. In fact I don't disagree with them in a negative fashion...I don't throw stuff in their face.

But I do ask them about the opposite messages. For every bit of anger and vengeance, I ask about turning the other cheek. I ask about Jesus bringing a new law...and how the New Testament changed the requirements of faith for them.

What I find is the're 10x more likely to listen and even reflect (till they go back to church and get reindoctrinated) on what they were saying vs what they THINK they are saying.

Suprisingly I find they can be reminded of the charity and grace that is POSSIBLE in Christianity...and in a way they will listen to.

Keep a list of positive JESUS quotes...and bring them out in a nice manner...reflect on how you find the MOST inspiration in THIS saying instead of the pov they are espousing...see how they accept or reject that.

Sadly it doesn't often last. But perhaps it's a start.