In a world that was to large measure shaped by religious beliefs, the world is embracing another type of religion, none belief.
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The reason why I'm saying none belief and not atheism, is because among the non believers there is not a uniform belief, and this group consists of many differing opinions just as the Christians do. It seems to follow the same pattern amongst all people, because of such varying thoughts, social and cultural influences.
From atheism, agnostic, Christian but not following, 'what I see I believe' to others that people don't even want to share, it is becoming apparent that people are pulling away from practicing religion in their lives.
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I've been told of a few reasons for these increases in none belief, and they range from frustration with confusion in beliefs, not living what they preach, judgement, using it for gain and power etc etc.following the same patterns that happen throughout history.
The areas most affected in the world are as below:
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Preaching Atheism or none belief
Something I've noticed is that for the last few years, none believers have even moved from not believing to preaching none belief. Even going as far as to proselyte none belief to the 'less informed'.
This has always been a little confusing to me, as shouldn't it matter what a person believes if there is no God and when they die, they just disappear or stop existing? Especially if religion is generally making them happy.
I can understand the desire for someone in a religion to 'win' over converts, in order to assist them in getting to their heaven, but what is the drive to change another to a none believe system other than to have someone on your side.
Personally I worry about a system that has a sense that what is right is subjective, as this leads to the whole 'I will sue you because the coffee mug is hot' mentality. But that is personal.
The truth is, whether its a religious belief, scholastic believe, or a none belief humankind has shown us that there are elements within humankind that will try to leverage any group dynamic and use it for political, financial or any benefit that they may gain from that group.
We see it extremely prevalent today with Identity politics, where everyone is placed in a group or identity, and that is where they stay. It's and US vs THEM scheme.
It seems to that the 'western' world is leading the charge in the none belief systems too. Take a look at the below graphic to see what I mean:
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As someone that grew up in a very religious South Africa, and seeing the difference the West has brought, I'm not sure I'm too happy with the changes personally.....it has gotten a lot nastier and judgmental than ever before. Is that just my experience? Or have some of you felt the same?
Is this something new?
As history has a way of repeating itself, this too is something which has happened many times before.
- Living righteously / good
- Prosperity, peace and growth
- Trust in self, power and pride
- Society breaks down with divisions and fighting
- Destruction of society and freedoms
- Humility, change and faith
- Repeat
When times get rough, people turn to a God. When times are good, people rely on themselves, money and science. And so it goes on and on through history.
As a Christian myself, it is tough to see the world heading where it is, and the examples set by adults today in judging, fighting and trying to force/convince people that they are wrong, thus defeating (and essentially nullifying their own beliefs) the objective in the long run.
People are going to make choices they feel are best for them. They have a right to make those choices for themselves anyway.
There is an article of my faith that states my belief:
We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
BUT coupled with that people need to remember the below too:
We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law so that you can't decide that you can use that religious or non religious belief to control or force others into your ways.
So as much as I would love more people to truly follow Christ and His teachings, I will fight for their ability and freedom to choose, and frankly we should all be willing to fight for their freedom to choose! Even if it is not the same choice as you would make.
That the believing world is shrinking should not be a reason to fight "THEM", but rather an introspection into what you believe, and do you actually practice those beliefs.
Am I a Christian because my parents are? Do I even live as one? If I'm unsure, then take the time to discover yourself....ask God Himself if He's real, and be willing to change accordingly.
Another sad fact is that atheists actually have studied more on religions than the practitioners of the religion. Believers are quite lazy in their living of religion and it shows.
Well I feel like I'm babbling now, but the reason for this post was to show some interesting changes happening in the belief structures worldwide. Also to not allow ourselves to be pulled into the US vs THEM mentality. This is dangerous to the extreme and will only end in pain and heartache.
Support each other, and the freedom to choose the paths we walk on, but be ready to and able to teach by word and example on the things that are of import to you, should request that.
Peace and blessing to you all.
Very well written. It does kinda feel like a religion, the movement of non believers.
Thanks for stopping by and reading. Yes, it is just that....and they are not knocking on doors like a missionary, but coming as 'missionaries' through the TV, radio, school books etc
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Awesome! Just keep going i suppose