Replies

You misunderstood. I was not referring to atheists.

I do not believe in atheists.

Calling one's self "Christian" does not make it so. The term "Christian" is only used three times in the Bible, always as a term used in ridicule.

Many people claim to be Christians who do not have a genuine faith in God. In fact, many false teachers and leaders have come in Jesus' name, just like He said they would.

The Bible uses the term "unbeliever". There are three kinds - (1) those who think they are believers but are not (this includes all practitioners of false religions), (2) those who recognize they are not (often agnostic, or claiming to be atheistic), and (3) those who hate God.

Of the three types of unbelievers, the second group is generally the most honest and honorable in their behavior They also have the most hope of finding salvation.

Those who trust in their own goodness, claiming to be Christians, while living a lie, are in great peril. They sometimes deceive those around them and sometimes even themselves, but God knows our secrets and our hearts. According to Christ's teaching, hypocrites will be cast into the outer darkness.

I can understand how you feel about "Christians". If I had been attacked by someone impersonating an officer, it would probably affect how I looked at real police officers. It would not be an accurate reflection of what they stand for, but it would be understandable if it affected my attitude. Just do not allow the false believers to stumble you.

Whether you believe in God or not, you might agree that it is not healthy to harbor bitterness and resentment. Even true believers fail to live up to the standards Christ taught. Perhaps one or more of us has deeply wounded you and offended you by rudeness, pride, selfishness, or some other similar unchristian behavior.

If that is the case, would you accept my apology on behalf of Christians?

The term "Christian" is only used three times in the Bible, always as a term used in ridicule.

OOOps!

I only found THESE three.............

NIV Acts 11:26
and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

NIV Acts 26:28
Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?"

NIV 1 Peter 4:16
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.