“gift of eternal of life is irresistible”
That is exactly what I mean when I said carrot. Of course the stick is the threat of eternity in Hell is the stick.
Perhaps I shouldn’t have used the word forced since you entered into the belief willingly.
Most atheists don’t care but a percentage of them are militant as are some Christians that want to force their beliefs on everyone. I have experienced it myself as a Deist from an old high school classmate that wouldn’t take no for an answer and I had to break off communication with him.
As far as a reason to believe I only want to believe in something that I see as truth. Anything else is only wishful thinking. But I am sure you see your belief as truth.
Keep in mine that I am not trying to convert anybody to Deism but only trying to show that those that have other beliefs can lead moral lives.
At least in this country the 1st Amendment guarantees the right to believe what you want or in the case of atheists to not believe.
Well forced is the word you used and that is what I commented on. As far as the person who would not take no for an answer I failed to see much of a problem. We all have had similar experiences with those that have a different opinion and just deal it.
“At least in this country the 1st Amendment guarantees the right to believe what you want or in the case of atheists to not believe. “ And no one is forcing you to believe.
I had a discussion years ago with an atheist who also was a friend that said to me he was better than any Christian he knew and that I could not disagree with. Then he rattled off a scenario that would cover the 10 Commandments. I laughed inside but said nothing to him.