Atheism

On the May 21 radio show, we tackled the topic of atheism, and more specifically, the writings of Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins. As I said on the show, I think these guys are right with most of their criticisms of religion. However, where I part ways with them comes when they characterize "moderates" simply as watered-down versions of "extremists." As I see it, liberal/modern/mainline Christian thought comes from a completely different place in understanding Jesus' teachings and scriptural interpretation than Pat Robertson or (the late) Jerry Falwell. When engaging with Christian scholars such as Marcus Borg or John Dominic Crossan or John Shelby Spong, I don't see how someone can claim that these thinkers are nothing more than less offensive versions of the fundamentalists. There is a clear-cut difference between these modes of thought, from beginning to end.

That being said, Harris and Dawkins provide important food for thought in arguing that religion is harmful. As much as we might want to jump up and down and yell that Robertson or Falwell doesn't speak for us, they are the names that are known in the media, and (like it or not) their voices are heard as the "Christian representatives." So, yes, I have much sympathy with atheism's rejection of religion--if Pat Robertson were an accurate representation of Christianity, I would be an atheist too.

-Pastor Chris