Strong Enough To Stand

LiveJournal Tags: Rational Response Squad, Apologetics

 

Let me make a disclaimer before going any further. I do not write this with intent to give this group credibility or value.

In a recent post "Compelled",  there was mention of a group called the Rational Response Squad.  They are basically an "organized" group of atheists. Or rather, an organized gathering of philosophy, logic, and debate masters with a primary premise that religion is an "opiate of the people" (Karl Marx) and "god is dead" (Friedrich Nietzsche).

Since learning about this group, I have occasionally monitored their forums and "listened" to some of their interaction with people who write in. They are very well coached and very well informed. In fact, they run circles around most inquirers. The same is true, if you look at any of the so-called "debates" they have had on national television. Why? They come armed with facts, "we" come armed with notions. 

Is what they say true and accurate? I can't say for certain. They very seldom quote sources - and I am certain, like most preachers and Christians in general, they use "proof text" just like anyone else. Nevertheless, here is what they say that is very accurate:

1. They know the content of the Bible better than many Christians
2. They know basic history - biblical, US, and constitutional - better than most Christians
3. They can prove their position with scientific evidence and we cannot (apparently)
4. Most Christian's belief system is not strong enough to stand against their assault (based on facts)

Is what they do new - of course not. The fact that they have the Internet as a forum has helped them a great deal. The fact that they are as brash as they are, with their "blasphemy challenge" is similar to the man who garnered all the publicity by urinating on the American flag.  The only difference is, these people are marketing their "product" on other Web sites.

As of yet, I have not seem them debate anyone with any credentials. At least not yet. Perhaps one day they will. Until then...

Here's a warning. If you encounter these folks. Leave them alone. You will not, cannot, "win".

Just look into their eyes - you will see the emptiness and what it might be like to look into the canyon of the damned.