Religion Debate Topics for Students — page 16

2,660 debate topics, students. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

StudentsDebatePage 16 of 54

751.
Those who cite the Bible against gay marriage are hypocritical
For
I believe that the people of America who use the Bible as a reason to argue against gay marriage are hypocrites and liars. I strongly believe they are lying about the bible. First round is acceptance and that is my only rule. Voters have free reign to vote however they feel…
As a quick note, I have seen my opponent debate in the past, and I after observing my opponent's other debates, I consider it an honor to debate him. I would have to applaud my opponent for pointing out that I made a major flaw in my wording. Using the words I did, I have made…
Against
As a quick note, I have seen my opponent debate in the past, and I after observing my opponent's other debates, I consider it an honor to debate him. " Thanks it has been a privilege to debate you as well. Pro says "I would have to applaud my opponent for pointing out that I…
Rebuttal: 1: Definitions Hypocrite: "a person who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that he or she does not actually possess, especially a person whose actions belie stated beliefs." (1) In this case we are talking about "People who use the…
752.
It is likely that God exists
For
I thank my opponent for accepting, I will begin by making arguments for the existence of God, then I will responds to Con's arguments. Argument for the existence of a transcendent being My initial premise is that all physical entities have contingent existence, which is to say…
I saw you were interested in being challenged in a debate concerning atheism/theism, would you be willing to debate this? If so, I will be arguing that God, in a theistic sense, exists in actual reality. Definitions God: an omnipotent, omniscient, transcendent and wholly-good…
Against
Ok, So you've started this debate off by asking the question "Is it LIKELY, that god exists?", which to me, seems to be an easy and simple question to answer, especially for those who are atheists. But by asking that the LIKELY-HOOD of God, suggests that your views may not…
To start off with you suggest that God is a wholly-good being? There are a number of reasons why "God" is evil, These are just a few examples: - Committing genocide [1] - Sending bears to murder children (4 Kings 2:23-24) [1] - Unhappy with man, he floods the earth killing near…
753.
Jesus is not portrayed as God in the Gospel of Mark
For
CONCLUSIONI am sorry if I have not been clear. I'll endeavour to state the case without ambiguity. It's very simple.First, I quote the Catechism as it states my point exactly. I am saying that the title "Son of God" does not have to mean that Jesus is God, as it is used in…
I am proposing that Jesus is not God in the Gospel of Mark. Of course, Jesus is viewed as the Messiah, or Christ, and in that sense sent by God, but he is not viewed as himself Divine, though he can perform magic and miracles just as other prophets of God were able to do…
Against
In my closing arguments, I'll attempt to recap how the debate went and see if any conclusions can be drawn. theskeptic's arguments theskeptic was arguing that in the Gospel of Mark Christ is not considered divine and you attempted to show this through two points. 1. There is no…
What?!?Let me see if I understand, you claim that Mark shows us a Christ that did miracles, was the Messiah/Christ, was sent by God, and had a unique relationship with God, but was not God? Then to support your claim that being called the son of God is no big deal you appeal to…
754.
The apostolic doctrine is the only true Christian doctrine
For
Ephesians 4:4-6 There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. One body Proverbs 6:16-19….He that soweth discord among…
First round is preety much for acceptance/introducing your religion/ clarification however you are welcome to state your case early.Clarification on what i am proposing. I am proposing that the apostolic doctrine is the one true faith. I am mainly looking to debate a catholic…
Against
Finish.
Due to update related errors, I couldn't post my argument last round. My schedule is now heating up, so maybe it was for the best. I concede this debate.
755.
Mormonism should be considered Christian
For
Although they are similar in many ways and both some kind of religion, mormanism is not Christianity. Christians beleive in God and I do not know much about mormanism (I am Christian) I beleive that Mormans do not beleive in God. To be a Christian, you must beleive in God.…
Sorry I got confused. Mormanism is Christians because it is under the protestants who broke away from the Catholic Church in the 1800's. 135 million people beleive in it and they beleive in heaven, although they have many different beleifs, they do beleive in God and beleiving…
Against
I negate. I will allow the Pro the chance to make the first argument's then I will offer my rebuttle and case in Round 2.
I'm sorry, but just because you believe in God and believe in Heaven, it does not make you a Christian. According to your logic, if believeing in God and a Heaven qualifies you to be a Christian then, to you, a Muslim would be Christian and same with Jehovah Witnesses, Hindus…
756.
Atheism should not be classified as a religion
For
Extend my arguments.
Extend my Arguments.
Against
Well, I believe and notice the word Believe that they are saying that atheism is a religion due to the fact that just like Christianity that which cannot be seen or that which can be interpreted as the creator in fact created the universe, that is as in "the big bang" (for…
So, let's get right into it..."Ok and thank you for being so organized! Ok well to continue it seems you have taken the view atheism is a belief there is no god and then said I was confused. As I said someone can say they believe there is not one but that at he heart is not…
757.
God's love for humanity is questionable
For
I will start in round 2. This is an acceptance round. Premise; The biblical God does not love you unconditionally, therefore 'His' love for humanity is questionable. I challenge lifemeansgodisgood to this debate. I am not here to convert you, only to discuss. I am not an…
I want to apologize to my opponent for my spite and condescension in the previous rounds. I had no right to do so. Con is a civil and a respectable opponent. I thank him for accepting my challenge and wish him the best in his time at DDO. May the final round be peaceful, calm…
Against
Ok, I have to kind of agree with you but then I have to disagree. You are free to question God's love for you.......his unconditional love for you. He loves you and wants you to come to Him just as you are. If you accept His love for you, it's going to change you. If you refuse…
You can question God's love for humanity of for yourself personally, but in doing so you are making a mistake. God loves you unconditionally and He proved it by dying for you to save you from the fire of Hell which you deserve. Please read the following offer from God carefully…
758.
Atheists should not observe religious holidays
For
please ignore this debate.
I like kfc.
Against
Please Ignore this Debate. It will be re-posted as, "Resolved: Atheists Shouldn't Observe Religious Holidays 2"
Christmas is just around the corner and every year this question pops up..."why do you, an atheist, celebrate Christmas? Aren't you being a hypocrite?" So I am taking the Con and pose this debate to anyone who is willing to tell me why I should NOT observe Christmas, Easter,…
759.
Christianity is a net positive for modern society
For
My apologies for the forfeit, I have been quite busy with not only school but with personal issues as well. I hope that you can forgive me for that. Anyways, I would also like to clarify one more thing. BOP is on me. And I fully accept this challenge. I personally don't believe…
In this debate I will be taking the side which I personally do not believe in. Devil's Advocate if some might say. I will be arguing that Christianity can be good for our society. Rules: The only rule I have for this debate is that my opponent should be respectful to not only…
Against
My opponent has forfeiting their opening round. Hopefully we see activity upon the next round.
I accept the challenge and look forward to a lively and enlightening discussion. As part of my acceptance, I would like to ask that the question be narrowed to specify that "Christianity/Catholicism is ON THE WHOLE a net positive force in today's society." This will allow us a…
760.
The paradox of the stone disproves the Christian God
For
== Definitions == My definition of omnipotent is correct whether it applies to God or not. The word literally means all-powerful. So now the question becomes whether or not God is omnipotent in the sense that he is ALL-powerful. According to Con, we should not accept that God…
== Introduction == Hello everyone and welcome to yet another debate set to revolve around definitions and semantics :D I'd like to be clear on my intentions regarding this debate, so as to avoid confrontation with vehement theists and people who may think that this argument is…
Against
I did not define "omnipotent" because "omnipotent" did not appear in the resolution, and therefore did not need to be defined. I agree that the definition of "omnipotent" is up for debate, as intended; otherwise, "omnipotent" would have been defined straight away, and there…
Full resolution: Because of the scenario introduced by the paradox of the stone, the God discussed in the Christian Bible (Yahweh) absolutely cannot exist in reality. The paradox of the stone is outlined here: http://en.wikipedia.org... In the first round, my opponent will just…
761.
The Bible or the Quran is the word of God
For
The Bible or the Quran which one is the infallible work of God.
I will start with the earliest. The Torah and Dead Sea are at least 3133 years old. This can be relied upon with historical evidence from (science). Also I will name a few of the Injiil or New Testament copies; The John Rylands Fragment Circa 96 AD. Chester Beatty Papyrus 200…
Against
I will argue that neither is the word of god and as you are the instigator and have the burden of proof I will wait for you to begin.
The age of the Torah or the Dead Sea is not relevant to it's validity(also what science is it supported by? ). He then offers numerous texts but does not write about how this specifically proves that the Bible is the word of god. He then goes on to make a few hollow baseless…
762.
The existence of atheists contradicts the concept of God
For
"My opponent appears to have taken on the position of a literalist, fundamental Christian, in order to support his position, and while interesting, it does not accurately reflect the views of a majority of Christians. To start I will point out his assumptions about God, that I…
How interesting, an Atheist takes up this debate. I'm sure this will be an exciting one :) "F: God chooses to allow mankind to govern his own mind without forced influence. (Free Will) G: Benevolence is only obtained through pure freedom, as provided by God. H: Freedom of…
Against
Let us examine the original position as layed out by my opponent. It is important to remain focused on the original intent of his position as the debate progresses, because I believe we are entering ground which my opponent negated in his original statement. Remember: "Make it…
My opponent appears to have taken on the position of a literalist, fundamental Christian, in order to support his position, and while interesting, it does not accurately reflect the views of a majority of Christians. To start I will point out his assumptions about God, that I…
763.
Baptism is when a believer becomes a Christian
For
You said: 1st I want to make one comment I don't want to get into the Greek because I am not as good at it. My response: Andy Jesus said in John 17 twice Father I do not pray for these alone, but for all those who would believe in me through their word, that they may be one as…
Round 3 Sword master Response: Andy again thanks for your participation in this debate from the bottom of my heart I feel honored to have this debate. Now I would like to take what you said peace by peace and give it the honor due it. You said 1."Would you agree that a saving…
Against
"My response: Andy Jesus said in John 17 twice Father I do not pray for these alone, but for all those who would believe in me through their word, that they may be one as I am in you and you are in me, that they may be one in us that the world may believe that you sent me.…
1st I want to make one comment I don't want to get into the greek because I am not as good at it. ? 1 In Acts 2:37 Were these people saved at this point? No. ? 2 Did they have saving faith in verse 37? Kind of. ? 3 And in verse 47 were these people saved at this point? Yes. ? 4…
764.
God chooses life for all living beings
For
Con's last post was correct...but for only the first two sentences.Con has attempted to substitute fantasy for a theory. A theory is not pure imagination, it relies on modest amounts of reason and some evidence. Speculation is the best description offered for what Con has…
1. "For one, few scientific theories that explain that the paranormal isn't impossible."paranormal?...and no one is claiming, here, that the paranormal is possible or impossible.If you are trying to introduce a new topic, please start another debate. I have spoken only about…
Against
Oh god this is a difficult debate. My points are much too flimsy and you countered them all.It looks like you win....except...I will give one. Last. Point. One word: Glimbozonous.Glimbozonous is the name of my religion: I believe....approximately 15 billion years ago...there…
For one, few scientific theories that explain that the paranormal isn't impossible.You say God is omniscient and knows everything, including everything that has happened and will happen, as well as every thought your mind creates before you think it. If that's the case, there…
765.
The Bible teaches that Scripture alone is the final authority
For
Round III for Sola Scriptura IS taught in the Scriptures. To (again) define this oft debated term, Sola Scriptura means the simple fact that the Bible (the Scriptura) is the sole authority for Christian teaching. The following is an outline for Round 3: I. The Book of Hebrews…
Sola Scriptura IS taught in the Scriptures. Again, to define this term, Sola Scriptura is the idea that the Bible (Scriptura) is the sole (Sola) authority for Christian teaching. The following is an outline for this round: I. Paul proves Sola Scriptura II. Jewish Converts prove…
Against
The Bible does not teach that Scripture is the sole rule of faith for the Christian and is thus self-referentially absurd.
As far as the claim that Paul proves sola scriptura, the fact that Paul appeals to Scripture does not mean that he believed it was the only authority to which one could appeal. In fact, Paul appealed to lesser authorities, such as pagan poets and philosophers (see Acts 17), so…
766.
Jesus Christ is the savior and Son of God
For
"Firstly, Pro only references Christian verses; which again, as the Messiah (Mashiach) is a Jewish concept outlined in the first five books (Torah) and the Tanakh...cannot be used as a realiable source. Of course the Christian bible is going to proclaim that Jesus is the…
Why Jesus is the Son of God Substantial Evidence has been given, proving that Jesus Christ is the "Messiah" spoken of in the Jewish scriptures. It is worthy to also note that Jesus himself claimed to the the Messiah spoken of- * see John 4:25-26 * see Mathew 16:15-17 Before I…
Against
Rebuttals: 'Why Jesus is the Son of GodSubstantial Evidence has been given, proving that Jesus Christ is the "Messiah" spoken of in the Jewish scriptures.It is worthy to also note that Jesus himself claimed to the the Messiah spoken of-* see John 4:25-26* see Mathew…
Debate Accepted. Now, I will begin my opening argument by addressing the resolution. Resolution: Jesus Christ is the Savior of Man and Son of God(As the instigator, Pro had the BoP in affirming this to be true; or at least that there is sufficient biblical evidence. The reason…
767.
Morality comes from the Bible
For
I thank my oppoent for this debate! I think I should provide some further ground work before we procede. I think we should start by properly defining what it is we are dicussing. Definitions: 1. Idea- any content of the mind: an individual's conception of something. 2. Morals-…
Points pulled down. Points for FF. I await a response.
Against
I'd just like to start out by thanking my opponent for agreeing to this debate.Now I'd like to begin by saying that it seems like a relatively obvious fact that morals do not come from the Christian Bible, but are in fact a human creation. Let's start by looking at ancient…
I'll be starting this debate with my argument being that morals do not come from the Christian Bible, and in fact are a basic human concept that we all use; basically, humans create their own morals, and some of these morals become accepted as a society, forming laws.Also, just…
768.
The Catholic Church has never contradicted itself
For
"NOTE - If the RCC contradicts the Bible then that is enough for contradiction of the RCC because they base their doctrine from the Word of God." you could make the argument. but the problem is it's clear from my opening statement I am loking for papal and counciliar…
for the first argument. yes Jesus is the main rock, no one would disagree. but even Jesus named Simon... Cephas, Peter, Rock. current popes agree with Peter in all this stuff. this is mostly semantics, poorly applied anticatholic arguments probably from a anticatholic website…
Against
My opponent made the claim that the RCC had no contradictions in its entire history. It was upon myself to show these contradictions and my opponent must depose of them. I think my opponent has failed to do that. NOTE: All I need is one contradiction to win this debate. Let's…
We never determined what the word 'contradiction' actually means so I will offer it here: Contradiction: 1 : act or an instance of contradicting 2 a: a proposition, statement, or phrase that asserts or implies both the truth and falsity of something b: a statement or phrase…
769.
Christianity is the true religion
For
Yes, Evolution may be a possibility. But how can it simply even start? Unless you can say how things can create themselves, my answer is "God did it." This applies to everything in which you simply can not prove 100% scientifically. Sorry, but unless you can prove something…
Here, Let me start with this: 1.) Google who founded the Big Bang Theory and ask yourself this question: How was it formed? There is only 3 ways the Universe could have started: 1.) A superior being put the Big Bang Theory into place, 2.) the Big Bang created itself with no…
Against
ok so first off the big bang is the best explanation we have no one said it is perfect second thing we never claimed we made DNA DNA made DNA you know what is a huge amount more complex than DNA? a multi cellular organism. and guess what evolution made those so whats to say it…
first off note I do not make a claim my claim is that you can not say god is true my stance is not god is false. this is the first thing you must realize about every agnostic atheist( which is most atheists). so how the universe was made? well we actually know that its called…
770.
The Bible contains contradictions
For
Unfortunately my opponent was unable to address all my examples due to the limited character space. He will need to do this in-order to have any chance of winning the debate. I will accept any arguments he places in the comment section as an extension of the debate. === Replies…
I welcome my opponent to his first debate. But I certainly will not go easy on him. "The arguments my opponent used are just links referring to Wikipedia" >>Those weren't arguments, I was just providing context for what the debate is about. Arguments usually aren't posted in…
Against
Just to inform everyone I just enrolled to my college...;) Okay, since we have very limited space I'll try my best to keep my answers short... ----------------------------------------- Replies to Rebuttals 1) I must contend that saying the bible should not be taken literally or…
Note: I ran out of space...that's why! As for Space Issues I would just be posting the verse numbers and their Bible Versions. -Arguments- 1) Genesis 2:17 vs Genesis 5:5 (KJV) Thou Shalt Die vs Adam lived nine hundred thirty years Opponent's Comment: Either God lied or this is…
771.
Jesus is the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament
For
Micah 5 In response to me saying that Jesus was king of the Jews, Con said,"He was mocked with that title. That does not mean he is king. Furthermore, no-where was he even crowned king!" My opponent fails to see that Jesus isn't a literal king as is accustomed nowadays. Jesus…
Just wanted to say that I Con gave some good arguments, but I still am able to prove that Jesus is the Messiah. In Response to Micah 5 I agree. Lots of people were born in Bethlehem. But the accurcy that Jesus was born in Bethlehem is amazing! There are many places Jesus…
Against
Thank you for a good debate. In this debate, I have argued that Jesus is NOT the Messiah because:1) His genealogy is incorrect;2) He died an accursed death; and3) Jesus did not fulfill the messianic prophecies.Since this is the final round, I will not be bringing up any new…
Thank you for showing superb conduct and good arguments throughout this debate. Micha 5My opponent drops the contention to show Jesus was messiah based upon this verse. In efforts to prove Jesus is Messiah, I feel this was a week "proof text" "This pssage is out of context"I…
772.
A divinely inspired Bible must be clear, authoritative, and inerrant
For
Welcome to the opening argument round. I wish to once again thank my opponent for this challenge. ARGUMENT 1: ARGUMENT FROM BIBLE DEFECTS (P1) If the God of evangelical Christianity were to exist, then the Bible would be God's only written revelation. (P2) Thus, if that deity…
Thank you, Daley, for agreeing to this debate. I am excited to be debating with you again. This debate is not if the Bible contains errors (as my opponent already concedes it does); we are discussing if Bible inerrancy is important to the truth of god's word. I will be arguing…
Against
I find Pro's premise 2 problematic because the Bible is not unclear because of how its written, but rather, because of the background beliefs of its readers. For God to make it more clear, would require men to have the same religious viewpoints and methods of approaching…
I will be arguing that the Bible does not need to be without mistakes to be the word of God. Good luck to my opponent.
773.
God created the earth in six literal 24-hour days
For
Evidence that God meant 24 hour time periods. 1. The Hebrew word for day, yom, as in English, is used both for a literal, twenty-four-hour day and also for an indefinite period of time, such as in the expression "For the day of the Lord is at hand" (Joel 1:15). However, the…
I believe God meant he created the earth in 24 hour days. Before Con accepts, con believes that God meant he created the earth not in 24 hour periods but a longer period of time. How this debate will go down. Round 1: Con's acceptance Round 2: Pro's Arguments and Con's rebuttal…
Against
1. There are no exceptions to this rule. Wrong. There are exceptions. 'The first exception to the "rule" is found in Genesis 29:20, where echad yom refers to a period of seven years that Jacob served Laban to obtain Rachel. In the book of 1 Samuel, David says that he "will…
!
774.
Women should not hold ministerial roles over men in church
For
Let's keep this debate apart from debating Catholicism, thank you very much. "This debate is flawed because I don't anyone who cares about the Bible and religion is going to give you an objectively based take on its interpretation." You know what? Too bad my opponent feels that…
"High and mighty" was not meant to be disrespectful. It's just a fact. The word is still something you can't throw out just because you want to. There was no need to say the word, you could have phrased it differently. I don't get this "extent of my bias" thing. I just want to…
Against
Let it be known that Pro did not attempt to refute my original contentions that: A) Mary brought God into the world B) Mary Magdalene is essentially a forgotten Apostle. "1 Timothy 2:12-13 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.…
I dunno I'm actually having fun debating this stuff. Oh, I'm sorry if my religion actually wants you to be a good person AND act like a good person. Catholicism isn't entirely works based anyway, I was taught convicts could repent on death row if they truly did seek…
775.
If God exists, God would be morally culpable for suffering
For
I have to tell you that I instigated this debate in response to the criteria needed to post a comment on another debate. I apologize for my initial lack of thoughtlessness and disregard for everyone related to this forum. You were good enough to respond to a topic so vague the…
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. "For God did not send the son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. (John 3:16- 17) God made the…
Against
As a response to your question God still demands sacrifices just not the same as before. The reason sacrifices were bigger and the reason why animals had to be sacrificed is because Jesus hadn't died on the cross for our sins and presented a method to help us get rid ofthe sins…
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. "For God did not send the son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. (John 3:16- 17) God made the…
776.
Atheism is more probable than theism
For
Problem of Evil1. If God exists, then God is omnipotent, omniscient, and morally perfect. (As defined by Christian theologians and philosophers.)2. If God is omnipotent, then God has the power to eliminate all evil.3. If God is omniscient, then God knows when evil exists.4. If…
Resolved: Atheism is more probable than Theism. For purposes of this debate, the term "God" will be defined as to include the general attributes of the Judeo-Christian God (i.e.: omnipotence, omniscience, omnibenevolence etc.) That is to say, we are not referring to anyspecific…
Against
Thank you, MilitaryAtheist, for instigating this debate. It would be my pleasure to debateyou on this classic topic. Give me your best shot.
INTRODUCTION There was no need for this debate to be five rounds. The actual debate ended after round three; Pro derailed the debate with his posting for round four. But as I have one more posting left, I might as well respond to his last remarks. ARGUMENTS "I DID. Remember…
777.
Jesus is the Father incarnate
For
Is this mathematical equation right or wrong? 1x + 1x + 1x = 3x One Almighty (God the Father) + One Almighty (God the Son) + One Almighty (God the Holy Ghost) = 3 Almighties ( Trinitarians opposes) One God (God the Father) + One God (God the Son) + One God (God the Holy Ghost)…
Jesus is the Father incarnate.
Against
Pro has forfeited the final round. I therefore extend all arguments as they currently remain standing unchallenged. Pro has done nothing to prove that Jesus is the Father incarnate. As Pro, he needed to uphold his BOP and provide proof for his claim. I look forward to any and…
Since Pro is making the affirmative claim that "Jesus is the Father incarnate", then it follows that the BOP lies solely on him. I. Pro needs to Prove God existsFirst and foremost, Pro is making the claim that Jesus is the Father incarnate. Who is this "Father"? Is is the…
778.
Young Earth creationism is a viable explanation for the universe's origin
For
I accept,
Dating methodsMany scientific textbooks and all claim that the earth is between 4.55 and 4.6 billion years old. However, there is a huge gap of 50 million, how is that accurate?Fossil record and continentional drift.I would like to point out that you are using fossil records…
Against
== Debate Rules ==BoP resides on Pro.Pro should present their argument starting immediately in the first round, and post "no round as agreed" in the fifth, thus alloting each participant the same number of rounds for arguments.Any and all Biblical passages should refer to the…
I extend all arguments.
779.
God cannot be both omnipotent and omniscient
For
Linearity of time is irrelevant. Regardless of how God exists, Omniscience requires knowledge of all future actions. If this exists, All future action must be fixed. So, The future cannot be changed. But, If the future cannot be changed, God is not omnipotent. If God is…
If god were omniscient, He would be able to use the state of the universe at any given time to predict the state at any future time. However, If he were omnipotent, He could change that future in which case his prediction was wrong and he would not be omniscient. If he was…
Against
On the contrary, Non-linearity of time is of utmost relevance to your question. Even in your example, When God predicts a state first, And then changes it later (The temporal aspects here only frm questioner's POV) Due to nonlinearity of God's time His action to change the…
Taking the generic definition of God as an omnipresent, Omnipotent and omniscient being, My opponent fails to take into account that time may not be linear for an omnipotent being. Past, Present and future do not bind the God. From God's perspective, Future, Past and present…
780.
The Bible contains significant historical and scientific errors
For
Rules: Prove that the bible is a worthy book to read and is not so full of it. This was sent to Norm R and was published by the Atheist Republic Still searching for a reason to return to my youth-religion, Roman Catholicism, I undertook to study the Bible, Trying to assess what…
Um no silhouetted moo juice gobbling on the moon cow, You fail to understand that this debate in guided by my hand, Not yours. Got it grumpy in a Leviticus 20:13 neo-noir shell? Indeed the barfly up your rubbery shell is slipping into a tired glass of your runny panther baited…
Against
**Um no silhouetted moo juice gobbling on the moon cow, You fail to understand that this debate in guided by my hand, Not yours. Got it grumpy in a Leviticus 20:13 neo-noir shell? Indeed the barfly up your rubbery shell is slipping into a tired glass of your runny panther…
First, Don't confuse the discussion by shot-gun blasting a bunch of statements. That's a typical tactic folks use -- start throwing out other statements, Diverting attention from the discussion at hand. I'm not talking about where Jesus is real or not. I'm just asking a…
781.
There is no proof that God exists
For
I do not understand what you are trying to convey. You have not addressed any of my points that I have made and have only given me one sentence explanations that I am expected to take for face value. This is not how a debate works, you are trying to convince me that my position…
I will address your points in the order you have presented them: Point 1: There may not be scientific evidence that God exists, but there doesn't have to be. We have found proof of life on either Mars and/or Jupiter, and scientists CURRENTLY can't explain why or how. -As a…
Against
I apologize to my opponent for my lack of attempting to debate. But my computer isn't really good for this kind of stuff. It's old and slow so I have to keep it small and sweet or my computer will take forever to submit my counter. And about your counter to what I said. If…
Like I said before, the bible is not the only eye witness. Plus scientists will be able to explain almost nothing I have mentioned. Only life on other planets would be explainable, because that's easy, everything else is almost impossible. Jesus on the other hand is the…
782.
Religion causes more harm than good in society
For
Although terrorism is recent. It would still better without it in society. Without people dedicating and wasting there lives, dedicating them selves to a non-existing entity. Humanity cannot progress if we keep these religious constraints. For example, in Islamic culture, women…
In 1095, Pope Urban II said that God had come to him, and said that the Bible had a mistake and that it was okay to kill, just not to kill other Christians. Whereas the Bible said that killing anyone was wrong. "Whatsoever ye do unto the least of these, my brethren, ye do it…
Against
While your argument holds mostly grammatical errors and opinions, it also seems to hold a certain prejudice against religion, specifically Islamic religion. But onto my argument. You claim that "multiple 'religious' leaders around the world" use religion as a justification for…
I accept your argument thusly: Religion has been around for somewhere in the ballpark of 40,000 years, whereas terrorism is really understood by scholars to have started around the 1st century with Jewish extremists attempting to rebel against Roman rule and control. Granted…
783.
Atheism is more probable than theism
For
Would you like to restart?
I'm too busy to reply in this round. I'm sorry but I'm going to have to forfeit this debate.
Against
I will consider a restart but at the moment I am very busy, but I will definitely let you know soon. Thank you. Concerning the debate, I just wanted to cite two sources that share my thoughts on some of the subject matter. the modal cosmological argument Adler, Mortimer J. How…
That's okay. Thank you for debating anyway.
784.
It is reasonable to conclude a supernatural cause of existence
For
it looks like there was nothing then there as something. it makes more sense to say there was something first. but the regression of the big bang and thermodynamics state that there was a definite beginning, not the other theories that say there wasn't a definite beginning.…
God's existence - it is reasonable to conclude a supernatural cause of existence bottom line: if it looks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it's a duck. if you see a magician who waves his wand and makes cats turn into dogs, you could argue a natural explanation is possible,…
Against
While many have been claiming the "something from nothing" argument for years, very few actually know why they can argue that point. Many assume the "Big Bang"(terrible name) Theory says we just popped into existence, however the Big Bang theory only explains how the current…
Thank You for the challenge Dairygirl, I would like to start this debate with a trip into the past, to see how we have come to where we are today. The first written language appeared in Mesopotamia around 3000 BCE, and so began the first time in history humans were able to…
785.
God and the Bible are real
For
The reason why I said your first premise is flaws is because of your view of the premise. I was making the point that instead of using the premise against God, I was using it as evidence, Because if finite beings can describe the God of an infinite universe, Then God is not…
So I will start. Your first premise is flawed. You say that because the God of the Universe Has so many names it would be difficult to explain God. That is 100 percent correct. God is Not bound by time, He is sovereign, Omnipotent, And boundless perfect figure. Because God has…
Against
I was making the point that instead of using the premise against God, I was using it as evidence, Because if finite beings can describe the God of an infinite universe, Then God is not infinite, And therefore is illogical that the God I believe was God. But God is infinite, A…
Your first premise is flawed. You say that because the God of the Universe Has so many names it would be difficult to explain God. That is 100 percent correct. God is Not bound by time, He is sovereign, Omnipotent, And boundless perfect figure. Because God has many names is…
786.
There is no benevolent God
For
"But we have already received guidance from him through the preaching"s of prophets such as Jesus and the Bible." If your God is of the Bible, then it would be so much easier for me to explain how He is malevolent. He personally killed and ordered the deaths of millions of…
Also, sources aren't crucial in this debate. Clearly this is more about logic and common sense. I don't need a source to assert that natural disasters are an evil. Con failed to refute my resolution. He merely claims that it is refuted. Free Will "The fact that God knows what…
Against
If your God is of the Bible, then it would be so much easier for me to explain how He is malevolent. He personally killed and ordered the deaths of millions of people. First of all, the source provided has removed snippets from the bible and put them together in a way that…
Apologizes for annoying you, that's just what I observed when I first joined DDO, now on to the rebuttals. God created the universe. He would know, at the very moment of creation, what we would do. He could even change the outcome by manipulating the starting point. God did…
787.
God is not to blame for any suffering
For
No-one is forced to use free will, even though it was given us as a gift, we can, and often do capitulate and put our own choices aside in favour of those of others. So free will is an option not something you are forced to use. Why should we not choose to do so for our creator…
Oh course a lot of the point of this debate revolves around the concept of Justice is. To me Justice is that which is fair to all, guilty and innocent, and something which needs not only to be done, but be seen to have been done. That being the case there are inevitably going…
Against
No-one is forced to use free will The point that I made was not that we are forced to USE free will. This statement does not even make any logical sense. How can you choose to use something if that something happens to be your ability to choose? I explained that we were created…
God has never shirked responsibility for what developed, for the simple reason that the main cause of it was the gift of free will given to his creation, both spirit and human.A gift is not something which is forced upon you without any choice of your own. If you do not have…
788.
A monotheistic God does not exist
For
Time & Definition Argument I and 2) So you have agreed that God exists outside of time and that God didn't have time to create the universe. Therefore, you have agreed that God didn't create the Universe. Therefore, by definition, God doesn't exist. Time doesn't exist. Time is…
(Subsequent)Presentation(s):Time & Definition ArgumentI) God exists outside of timeII) He had no "time" to create the universeIII) By definition, he doesn't existIt's like asking for directions to the edge of our planet - - There is no edge; It's a sphere. Trying to do so would…
Against
I graciously accept my opponent's challenge. I could not have asked for a better and "hotter" topic for my debut. I hope to have a great debate. My esteemed opponent, the Pro, seems to be quite well-adhering to definitions. Well, I would like to define my ground rules for this…
Well, that is it. Conclusion: 1. Pro's "definitions" were flawed to begin with, and yet he continued to fixate on them for additional rounds. 2. Pro has shown repeated ignorance of the principles of gravitation and relativity, as well as my arguments regarding the same. Hence,…
789.
The Bible was written by God
For
I respectfully forfeit. I had a tournement this weekend, and I didn't have any time to create any contentions.
I will be arguing for the Christian Bible, opponent against it. Bible: The Holy text of ChristianityI look forward to a good debate! DB8 parameters:3 days to post8,000 characters.
Against
My opponent conceded the debate. Please vote negative. Thanks.
My opponent has conceded the debate. Please vote accordingly.
790.
It is more probable that Jesus was God than not
For
You said, "My problem with this is that there is absolutely no logical connection between ones supernatural powers and his claims about his own divine status being true." I think that since we have already seen the gospels are reliable and that there is a high probability that…
When you outlined my logic at the beginning of your round, you were almost correct but not entirely. I will try and clarify and I apologize for not doing it previously because I used up all 8,000 characters. I'm simply saying that the evidence of the gospels and Paul's accounts…
Against
I do not agree with Pro's interpretation of Matthew. There are 3 parts to that section: 1) Disciples ask when apocalypse will happen. 2) Jesus says there will be wickedness, tribulation, a heavenly sign (interpreted as a second coming), then the world ends. 3) Jesus says "I say…
I still believe that I outlined your logic correctly. You say "the gospels and Paul's accounts being accurate plus the fact of resurrection would bring us to the conclusion that it is more probable that Jesus was God". However, the resurrection and other miracles, as factual,…
791.
God is cruel, immoral and unjust
For
Debate is annulled.
It was fascinating reading your interesting and certainly original take on your idea of "God". Obviously I don't share these views but it certainly was different from what I'm used to hearing. However the title of the debate is "God is cruel, immoral and unjust." This means…
Against
Well, anyway, I was intending to argue that we shouldn't focus on God's moral behavior when our own is far more threatening to ourselves and to life on Earth!God is quite difficult with man because he has to be. If man were allowed to do anything he wanted without consequences,…
LOL. Okay. I guess we'll stop.
792.
The Bible's accounts describe real historical events
For
1. Noah did not have every animal on his ship 2. These accounts are from the time of the Resurrection, so yes, they are proven. 3. Like I said, not everything is true in the Bible. In closing, I say this. Though not everything is true in the bible, I think we can trust it.
Well, not everything is true, but most of it seems scientifically possible. Noah's ark seems like something that would happen back in the day. There are real roman accounts of the ressurection of Jesus Christ, and not just from the Bible.
Against
1. It does say pretty clearly that Noah took two of EVERY animal on the ark in the bible. 2.What do you mean by proven? Where is your evidence? I said on my last post that there was no possible way that you can be sure that the accounts were true, so simply saying that because…
No offence, but you really shouldn't use the words "scientifically possible". There is absolutely no way that a scientist would take you seriously if you walked in and said "Two of every animal was carried on a big boat to escape a flood that was brought upon us by a man in the…
793.
The argument from evil shows God probably does not exist
For
I thank Con for his kind words and, based on his win percentage, must return the compliment.Con's response to the argument from evil is twofold: first that free will is a good for the sake of which God is morally justified in permitting at least one of E1 or E2, and second that…
Although there are many arguments which call themselves "the argument from evil," and debate rages as to which is most compelling, in this debate I will present and defend the following argument which comes from William Rowe[1]. Let us first define a couple of situations:(E1)…
Against
First of all, a huge thanks to Pro for initiating this debate on such a controversial subject. The Evidential Argument from Evil is perhaps one of the most formiddable arguments agains the existence of God and that, coupled with a clearly skilled debator, should make for an…
The PoE is, in my opinion, perhaps the strongest argument against the existence of God and therefore I strongly look forward to the following exchange. While Pro's terms are a bit unusual, I accept them as it will allow me to have two rounds to rebut Pro's arguments. Seeing as…
794.
It is probable that the Christian God does not exist
For
I apologize for my lengthy response. I had about 6,000 characters typed out when my browser crashed and I lost everything I had written. I took a day off to let the frustration go away. Anywho, this is the final round! I'm just going to briefly talk about where we are now in…
Thanks for the response! I'm glad that you got your internet back in time. For the readers, I usually don't quote the opponent's argument, then respond -- since I think that practice is usually just to have a longer looking argument. However, my opponent's response is a little…
Against
Ok, I apologize for my text being so blocked up on my last one but I used all my characters and could not add paragraphs. First I am going to answer the one you really wanted me to. The creation of the world bit. Evidence that the Creator was involved in making the world we…
My goodness, mind explosion going on here. Don"t involve numbers!! There is only one cookie on the plate here because as I have stated different nations have different names for an omnipotent being which I and a billion or so people know as God. So stop using my cookie scenario…
795.
Existing scientific evidence justifies belief in God
For
1. "Seriously, Pro, if you consider the beginning of the universe to be a quantum origin and you're arguing that it was simultaneously caused, then how do you discern between creator and created product without the passage of time?" Simple, I provided support in round 2 for a…
A. "Creators not only use a time-based process consisting of one event after another, they also necessarily precede their creations" I am afraid CON could not be more wrong here. He is referring to a classical understanding of cause and effect relations within physics called…
Against
Thanks for the debate Pro.Congratulations to anyone who actually read this entire debate.The vote on this debate is clear in my opinion, and here's why:*Creation*There were no definitions for the action that creators necessarily commit other than the one that I provided earlier…
Thanks for your 4th round Pro.Pro attempted to defend creation without time by describing simultaneity.But a simultaneity does not a creation make.No creation, no creator, no god in this debate. *The Passing of Time*As Pro has already described the origin of the universe, with…
796.
Christianity is incompatible with determinism
For
If you're using the "God works in mysterious ways" argument, I could just as easily say that God's foreknowledge not interfering with our free will is just beyond our human capacity to understand. God is just so far beyond our level of thought that we cannot understand how he…
First, on the point of omniscience: I do not believe that knowing past, present, and future means that the fates of all humans are determined. Simply because God is a "perfect predictor" of sorts does not mean he caused these events to happen. There is a difference between…
Against
In my experience few people defend Christianity intelligently, so your defense was much appreciated I'm going to make this argument mercifully short. I provided you with Bible verses saying quite explicitly that determinism is true and you did not disagree with this…
Let's be clear about what freedom is: for an action to be free, you have to be able to either choose that action or an alternative one. God knows what I am going to do and as such, it is impossible that I could partake in any other action. This, by definition removes my free…
797.
God probably does not exist
For
I have repeatedly stated that it is impossible to prove God's existence or non-existence. We can only determine which is more likely. The available evidence gives two options: 1. God exists. 2. God does not exist. As God's existence is an unnecessary assumption to explain the…
Be concise and stick to the point. Got it. Carl Sagan once said, "extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence." If I tell you that Santa Claus exists, I have to prove it. If you explore the entire Arctic and find no trace of a toy factory, you must assume I was wrong.…
Against
Thankyou for presenting your case. You claim that God's existence in unnecessary to explain the evidence so you can use O.R. . . . I am really confused by what you are trying to do here. "In science, Occam's razor is used as a heuristic (general guiding rule or an observation)…
I have been waiting for pro to present his position supporting "Based on the available evidence, God probably doesn't exist."Please present your position.I will respond to your position in round 4.Remember, as PRO you need to present a position, that I (CON) try to refute.So…
798.
Evil is incompatible with an omnipotent and benevolent God
For
Forfeits are no fun at all. It means I have to make up things to fulfill character limits. (\_/) (o.o) (> <) Vote for the sickly bunny!
I can't debate against a forfeit, Umasi93. It goes against the whole 'let's debate challenge thing you did.' :P
Against
If god is real then he created evil not just as a test for mans loyalty to him but also as an opposite to define what one must do in life and what one shouldn't. without evil their cant be good and without yin their cant be yang.
799.
The Bible should be shelved as fiction in libraries
For
how can the bible be under non-fiction in a library. it has talking snakes and a magical man up in the sky, also all species of animals in the world fit on a boat, and someone survives in a whales stomach? explain that please
Against
Unfortunately, Pro forfeited.
INTRODUCTIONI'm going to continue developing my case even though Pro forfeited his second round.My CASENonfiction does not necessarily mean factualAs defined above, if a book is considered factual by its author or readers, then it is listed under nonfiction regardless of its…
800.
A higher power such as God does not exist
For
1st - No, time doesn't matter in this case when we are talking about omniscience. You may be capable of creating a stone so large that you couldn't lift it, but it doesn't matter because you aren't God. The example falls. And even if you were God and you could create that…
Splitting the definition of god's omnipotence to fit your arguments do not work without explaining how omnipotence can be split into doing both everything and nothing at the same time. It is contradictory no matter how you look at it. If you can do nothing, then you truly can…
Against
1st - Time matters in this case for the reason that time is a human created invention to track sets of movements of particles... god lifting a rock, lifting is a verb and is therefore under influence of time, so we must take time in account the second most crucial variable,…
1st. Yes, taking time into account answers the questions flawlessly. I am capapble of creating a pile of rocks that weight 60kg and lift it and also I am not capapble of doing that, just not at all times. God can do everything, he can be anything - many - it is not a paradox if…

How to use these debate topics

Vote, discuss, revote. Poll the room on the motion, give 5 minutes of discussion, then vote again and look at who changed their mind.
Four corners. Label corners strongly agree → strongly disagree; people move, then each corner makes its best case.
Switch sides. Halfway through, everyone argues the side they disagree with. It sharpens listening.

Run them live

Want every person to answer on their own phone, with a timer and a live leaderboard? Use these questions in an EngageSlide Vote · Discuss · Revote — free to start.

Tick questions on any page — your set is kept while you browse (or take the first 10 here) — and they become ready-to-play slides. What is EngageSlide?

Religion Debate Topics for Students — page 16

How to use these debate topics

Run them live

More question collections