Religion Debate Topics — page 36

3,675 debate topics, all ages. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

All agesDebatePage 36 of 74

1751.
Salvation requires baptism for the remission of sins
For
My opponent has not answered my arguments for the need for baptism. He has only said we must believe and confess. I have showed that even devils do this much. His gospel plan has even the wicked people going to heaven. Before we can respond to God we must realize our lost…
Good day, dear readers I want to start by saying that the only argument my opponent has offered to defend his position is Romans 10:9. And I have said in my response in don't have a problem with Roman 10:9. This is one verse in the Bible. That he tries to make all inclusive…
Against
Greetings again, dear readers. My opponent, Ahijah, has resolved into outright lies against my position, as I will show you in this argument. I have successfully proven my proposition, and he has not successfully rebutted them. He has formed several strawman arguments against…
I have, in fact, proven my proposition and my opponent knows this. Hence, he has passed from rational debate into ridiculous discourse. I have given many rebuttals to my opponent's propositions which proves he takes the Scriptures out of context to prove his own theology, plus…
1752.
Christians should interpret the Bible literally
For
When I say that it might be impossible for the bible to be taken literally I do mean that. People are very narrow minded and it would take time for someone to stop believing in their religion. I know it did for me, and I still feel a little uncomfortable people talk about…
I see what you're getting at. There are many different versions of the bible so there is no way to know which one is right or even if any of them got it right. I'm not even saying that it's possible for the bible to be taken literally. I'm saying that believing is most of the…
Against
While today, Christianity has become a cult, it really doesn't need to be that way. While Christianity is an offshoot of Judaism, all religions began as a way for people to explain the world they lived in, and create a moral framework. This is philosophy. Over time, things were…
When my opponent says that he is "not even saying that it's possible for the bible to be taken literally" has just admitted that the very thing he is arguing for might just be impossible. He then proceeds to say that Christians should deny facts because they "devote their…
1753.
The Christian God does not exist
For
I'm so sorry I really messed up but I cant deabate you and you should read the Bible
Let say you find a pocketwatch in the middle of the woods you pick it up. Now you would think look what someone made not look what nature did. You see someone greater then us must of made the earth and guiding it. It couldn't just of happened. I think I can prove God exists and…
Against
Let me just clarify that you chose the wrong side of the argument for what you are trying to prove: You should have chosen the "Con" side for "The Christian God does not exist". Anyway, I'm a bit disappointed that the only trick you have up your sleeve is the old pocketwatch…
You can not a prove single thing you just said. There is no proof that Jesus Christ even existed, much less that he performed all these spectacular miracles. There is not a single contemporary account of him in existence. Furthermore, I find the idea of human sacrifice somehow…
1754.
It is reasonable not to believe in God
For
We all have rights to are beliefs and I don't judge beliefs it's better not to be like soe, Christians who tell us things for not belong in God .
Reading that made me so happy man I was going to use the same reason that u just said and to see others who understand how I feel as an atheist at my age of 14 I'm. Happy to see I'm not alone
Against
I know, right?! That's why we should legalize Gay Marrige, Euthenasia, and abortion. The only people who don't support its legalization are deeply religious people. So it's simple: don't make it hard for everyone else and just let us legalize it and if it's against your beliefs…
Same here, actually. I'm glad I'm not the only atheist teenager (13, btw) who's willing to express their views on religion.
1755.
God is responsible for creating humanity
For
The fact that evolution took place is undeniable. I am not disputing that evolution took place. So arguments that evolution took place to advance living organisms on Earth to the point of humanity as it exists today is irrelevant. This is not an argument on Genesis or…
Evolution by nature is haphazard. Judging from the lack of sentient life in the history of the Earth, intelligence does not seem to be a popular evolutionary trend. The existence of life itself and the tremendous fortune of Earth's placement that allowed life to exist are all…
Against
Evolution is quite haphazard, as anybody with a hip or a lower back can attest; these parts of one's body are generally better evolved for quadrupedal animals. However, there is also a gradual trend as far as intelligent life goes. It is true that human-style intelligence seems…
I understand that you are not disputing evolution, you are making a variation of the fine-tune argument, as it pertains to biological systems. My argument was less about evolution and more about the generalized trend of evolution to properly and easily create human beings.…
1756.
Christianity is a false belief system
For
Thank you for clearing up some misconceptions, however, there are many Christians that follow the Bible word-for-word (mainly Catholics). Due to the fact that you are not one of those people, I will be using this round to attempt to prove the facts that Jesus was not the son of…
I look forward to it. So, let's take a look at a few biblical contradictions. Remember, Christians believe that the bible is the true word of God. 1. God good to all, or just a few? PSA 145:9 The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. JER 13:14 And…
Against
I'm glad to have been given this debate. First there are a few assumptions and misconceptions my opponent has that need to be cleared up.First of all: "Remember, Christians believe that the bible is the true word of God."There are two assumptions that need to be cleared up.…
I'm simply going to take quotations from my opponent and debunk them one by one."There were numerous scholars recording "history" around the mediteranean at the time Jesus supposedly lived and not one of them even mentions this "great" guy that runs around converting the masses…
1757.
The Bible is incompatible with the Big Bang and evolution
For
Full Resolution: The Bible teaches a seven, 24-hour day creation week, and the accounts of Genesis as history. Therefore the Bible contradicts the Big Bang, Abiogenesis, and Evolution.I would like to debate a Christian who believes that the Bible does not contradict such…
Let me first point out that you had the events of creation week messed up. I would also like to point out that your source of how creation week went was not from the Bible itself, but from a forum. (http://debatingchristianity.com...) Day 1 - Genesis 1:__ 1 In the beginning God…
Against
Originally, I thought the Bible didn't contradict the Big Bang. However, very soon after starting the debate, I realized I was wrong. I wish I could continue this debate but I would be making claims that I don't believe myself. So, unfortunately, I forfeit and give you this…
Genesis(G) Timeline vs Big Bang Timeline(BBT): FIrst: G: The heavens, Earth, and waters are created. BBT: The heavens - presumably the time of the actual big bang, the earth - 4.54 billion years ago, waters - pre-existed earth created by helium fusion in stars. Second: G:…
1758.
Science proves God does not exist
For
Ave and Vale.
Ave.It seems that Con is going to forfeit the debate due to time constraints. I completely understand the real world concerns that he has to address. DDO is just a website, and it's more important to focus on your actual life. I wish Con luck on whatever it is he has to do.Vale.
Against
Here's something you all can enjoy instead of a debate.
I can't begin to express my apologies for what I'm about to say. I am overwhelmed right now. I really should not have accepted this debate. If you'd like to reschedule this with me or challenge someone else, that's fine. However, I have a tendency to not plan ahead and it's…
1759.
Atheism is the only rational worldview
For
entirely natural theories can adequately explain belief in God and the development of religions, so an existent God is superfluous to the understanding of the phenomenon:
If there is a benevolent deity, then there should not be the kinds of evil observable in the world and He would likely show more interest in His creation than He appears to have done so far:
Against
The complexity of the universe and of life cannot be explained by atheism:
In the absence of positive evidence for the existence of God the rational position is agnosticism, not atheism:
1760.
Prayer to God does not produce measurable results
For
You have provided various stories in which people have prayed to God in times of need and gotten what they asked for. In your examples, it seems God's response to the prayers was always "yes." But it's also interesting that if prayer does work, and God listens, many times his…
God - the supernatural being conceived as the perfect and omnipotent and omniscient originator and ruler of the universe; the object of worship in monotheistic religions. [1] Prayer - the act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition…
Against
Now it seems my opponent's argument can be divided into three sections 1. The story of the man and the flood Establishing that sometimes you have to work for what you want in order for the Lord to help you with a prayer 2. The Milk Jug In this contention Pro maintains that…
Now I accept my opponent's definitions, for this debate. So it seems to me that all I must do in order to win this debate is provide example's of win a prayer to God has yielded a result. I will present several When I first started this debate I thought that I might cite a ton…
1761.
The Bible contains no genuine contradictions of consequence
For
I will make this brief and conclude this debate. I would like to thank my opponent for the time he has put into this debate, and look forward to future debates with him. I would also like to remind him that he is not allowed to post rebuttals or new contentions in round four,…
I would also like to ask my opponent to wait until the last day of his posting period to post his argument. I will be traveling this weekend due to the 4th of July holiday and will not have access to a computer on Saturday, Sunday, and most of Monday. If he waits until Saturday…
Against
Review of contradictions1. Does G-d require a sacrifice? -DROPPED2. (To replace 1) Can animal sacrifices take away sins? (My opponent allows me to elaborate on this one in this round; thanks! )-In play3. Is death final? -dropped4. Can someone die for the sins of another? -In…
Thank you, ReformedArsenal, for such a quick response. You have always challenged my mind and gave me many things to think about. I sincerily hope we can be friends and debate throught the life of our accountson DDO. Anyway, on to the debate. RRC1) My opponent contends that…
1762.
Abrahamic religions provide the best foundation for morality
For
Jukebox conceded this debate (per the comments section). I'm just submitting this response to end it.
You asked where is slavery condoned. I assumed since you are so familiar with the Bible that you already knew all the references. Here is one, Per your request, Which I also previously posted in the comments to this debate: Exodus 21:20-21 Leviticus 25:44-45 1 Peter 2:18 You…
Against
Do to trouble posting arguments (even in comments) I have conceded the debate for now.
j
1763.
If atheism is true, animals still have souls
For
According to most religious texts, animals were created to sustain gods creation, which is us human beings. Now if atheism is correct, there is no god and the universe was created naturally. Wouldn't animals have souls? My platform states the following: 1. According to atheism,…
Actually, you are completely wrong. Deductive reasoning is the process of reasoning from multiple premises. Eventually, with process of elimination and elimination of discrepancy's, a logical conclusion is reached.My conclusion(s), Animals have souls and minds like us, and life…
Against
How can you measure souls? How do you know souls exist? A soul has never been proven to exist. Why must an animal have a soul in order to communicate and procreate of the others of the same species? They may just have a different way of communicating. Please support the idea…
The definition of faith is accepting something without evidence, and I'm sure there are several things that would not be helpful to have faith in like the world blowing up, extra-terrestrials offensively invading the world, and a Hitler 2.0 rising to power and trying to…
1764.
If a god exists, it is a poor communicator
For
Thank you Con for your response. Lets review, In my opening argument I defined the characteristics of a good communicator. I described what we should expect to see from an audience which has been delivered a message from someone who is a good communicator, cohesive…
In order to support the proposition that, "If a god exist, he is a terrible communicator," I will be looking at the world at large and determining whether the world has received clear and reliable communication from something we might call a god. To begin I will first list what…
Against
Pro failed to address Con's very important point on the prerequisite for communication requires the source and the recipient sharing the same language. That is why we have schools, learning to communicate. On the topic of schools, Pro gave a great "Illustration" of a classroom…
" However, you are missing the most important "trait," that is, both the source and the recipient must share the same language. What is God's language? What stage of life's evolution will come to understand God's language? We have man's written scriptures covering many…
1765.
Biblical proof texts do not establish the Trinity
For
Congrats to my friend, he clearly won as the topic was defined. However, I think we can both agree that the Trinitarian concepts as found in the later creeds are not clearly found in the Biblical canon, especially in the writings as they were penned by the original authors
John 10:30 "I and my Father are one." This verse does not say that they are "same being." This text does not say how they are one at all. Fortunately for us, John later records Jesus' teaching on how He and his Father are one. "And now I am no more in the world, but these are…
Against
The proof texts for the trinity within the Bible are specifically confirming the the trinity. The passages you mentioned are fantastic examples of this specifically noting that "Jesus is God" or that "Jesus is the Father" or that "Jesus is responsible for the actions attributed…
This round was forfeited because the debater did not post their argument within the allotted time. Or did he?
1766.
Agnosticism is the most reasonable religious stance
For
It seems to me that we are no longer debating the existence of a theistic God, so from this point forward let's focus on the deistic God. Now our definitions as to what a deistic God is will be crucial for the rest of this debate. The traditional definition of the theistic God…
I am glad that you brought atheism into this debate, since I believe it is actually atheism that makes the more subtle, yet flawed assumptions that I would not have gotten to point out otherwise. I should quickly point out that I avoided using websters definitions because they…
Against
Thank you for the gracious greeting! I look forward to a lively debate… Now on to the good stuff. Opening: While I agree with pro on the assertion that Webster's leaves out the philosophical definitions on either word, I consider this a good thing. Philosophy is great and can…
First of all, allow me to graciously accept and state that I relish the challenge by ufcryan and I look forward to the challenge.Opening Arguments:I would like to start out by asserting my position in favor of atheism and asserting that I will be arguing in favor of this…
1767.
Theism is fundamentally a danger to human society
For
Thank for for your quick response! I apologize for not putting my rebuttal at the fore, but I can assure you it is in there. You will notice it right under C2: "In Con's opening argument, he suggests..." I also apologize for not paraphrasing you directly, as that does always…
C1: There is no reasonable justification for a person to believe in God. Many religious people feel adamantly that this is not true, and use unusually crafted arguments to demonstrate this. None of those arguments stand up to logical scrutiny. In the interest of thoroughness I…
Against
Again, thank you for issuing this challenge.I did actually present an argument. My argument was that by believing in God, it causes many people to live better lives than if they didn't believe in atheists which, then, would also cause them to be better citizens. Therefore…
Notice that Pro gave me the first opportunity to offer an argument, which I took, and then he completely ignored my arguments to make his own. So I push all of my opening arguments into the next round, that Theism does a lot of good in peoples' lives and leads them (if they…
1768.
The Bible is the word of God
For
Con: "Your Genesis quote: ...God said that Isaac's children would be his and Ishmael's children would not. Has NOTHING to do with this debate. You must be posting in the wrong debate. This debate is about God's word, is it infallible?" Nope. This is a 2 fronted argument. In the…
In the book of Genesis, Ishmael was rejected by God. God said that Isaac's children would be his and Ishmael's children would not. https://www.biblegateway.com... (Genesis 16:11-12) 11"The angel of the Lord also said to her: "You are now pregnant """"and you will give birth to…
Against
Your Genesis quote: ...God said that Isaac's children would be his and Ishmael's children would not. Has NOTHING to do with this debate. You must be posting in the wrong debate. This debate is about God's word, is it infallible?
The question on the table is - "is the Bible without error/infallible? The problem with quoting 2 Timothy 3:16 as evidence, is a problem within itself. For, you see, there are manuscript discrepancies with that verse. To base all concept of all scripture being God-breathed on…
1769.
Islam should be considered a religion
For
Evolved in what way? I do not agree with everything that you have said, but I will assume that the points you made about Islam are true for the sake of the debate. Here is why the affirmative has won: Followers of Islam cut people's heads off. Followers of Islam did this…
Please answer the question.
Against
Listen as a member of the debate.org team said, " It is a religion but it's a false one. It has been hijacked by a minority of extremists but the majority does nothing about it. What happened when the Danish cartoonist drew Mohammed with a bomb on his head? What reaction did we…
this delegate would say yes, as the Orthodox Jews have evolved compared to the Muslims through time...
1770.
Rejecting belief in God is reasonable
For
I think God is the beginning and he is the end of the universe and all that exists within it. I don't believe in the big bang aka evolution, except for micro evolution which happens for many reasons; 1. When there is evidence it's "always" disproved. 2. It to me baffles logic…
At onepoint during David's Koresh's life he said it is time to kill God's faithfuls so I very much doubt he was a believe just because he grew up in the church doesn't mean he's accepted the faith. What's wrong with communism. God has always been around there has. In the…
Against
In my opinion, evolution is logical and proved. No one has truly falsified evolution in a scientific sense. I had read books from Dr. Kent but they don't seem as conclusive as Darwin's ones. " except for micro evolution"This really surprise me everytime I hear It. Micro…
"You can't go before the beginning."Why? I mean, every beginning is caused by something, and everything has a beginning. So there must be something before our universe. That's why I believe in the cyclical nature of existence. Every universe has a beginning and an end, and when…
1771.
Membership in one specific church is necessary for salvation
For
My opponent states I plagiarized some of the information I used, although I do humbly admit and apologize I did forget to add the site, which was a church of Christ site. http://truthfortheworld.org....... My opponent used one of the two sites which I used in the above argument…
My opponent states other churches worship the same as the churches of Christ does, I ask him to name just "one" other church that does. There is not one church on this planet today that worships like the churches mentioned in the bible, as they're all the same church, they were…
Against
Debate Etiquette Plagiarism I thank WFTL for the concession regarding his plagiarism. Invalid Sources 1. I stopped looking at the comments section when I expressed irritation with the peanut gallery. If anyone cares, you will find my two comments to the effect and none after.…
In Summary: Lord's Supper, Prayer, Preaching and Teaching God's Word, and Plagiarism!!!Lines of scripture are not the only thing WFTL likes to cut and paste. WFTL's entire summery, save the last line is cut and paste from http://truthfortheworld.org.... I accepted the challenge…
1772.
Mormonism should be considered a denomination of Christianity
For
At this point of the discussion, I find myself entering troubling waters which I have to be very meticulous in entering. By following my pattern of argument, you have accepted to take a philosophical route instead of a theological (biblical interpretation) one. I do believe…
Thanks for the reply! I do apologize, but I didn't have enough "character" to support my criterion ("A Christian is a believer and follower of Jesus of Nazareth") on my initial reply so here I go: As I stated earlier, the proper criterion of this debate should be the definition…
Against
It's been my experience (and I've had a good bit) that most of the "contradictions" in the Bible are not contradictions at all so much as things that are only irreconcilable on the surface. Unfortunately this is the last round and we won't be able to go into specifics regarding…
Hmm, I'm not quite clear - do you believe that the original manuscripts are authoritative and inerrant and that only the translations are flawed? That's a fair assessment, but I think the multitude of translations is good towards the end of capturing the original meaning rather…
1773.
Religion has a detrimental effect on the modern world
For
My opponent and I have agreed to postpone this debate for another day. Please do not vote.
Ladies and gentlemen, today I seek to show that religion has a detrimental effect to the modern world, that it has an overall negative impact, and the world would be better off with it disappearing today. I will argue that "detrimental" refers jut to a negative overall effect.…
Against
Thanks for reading.
My opponent and I have agreed to postpone this debate to be on another day. Please do not vote.
1774.
Atheists believe in God without knowing it
For
Modern atheist make the mistake of asserting that the lack of definite evidence for God's existence prove that God does not exist, as if God must be contrained by man's limited knowledge. - Bobby Jindal believing in the idea that God does not exist is an acceptance that He/she…
I can't believe it. I do not believe it.-tatarize a) Believing in something is not disbelieving in its opposite. If I do not believe in string theory that doesn't imply I disbelieve in it. b) Belief is not a choice. c)The Doctrine of Free Will is that humans have a magical…
Against
I am an atheist. I didn't choose to believe. Personally I would prefer to believe that I'll be living in eternal bliss forever and ever. I can't though, it's absurd. My mind rejects the belief as sure as it rejects the belief that the sky is pink. >>"Did anyone force you to…
I am an atheist because I don't believe in any gods. You need not disbelieve to be an atheist. I've seen too many arguments with horrible flaws, too many cults with absurd beliefs, and too many religious beliefs so silly that I simply couldn't wrap my head around them. I am an…
1775.
The Christian God concept has serious logical problems
For
I'm going to make an assumption about your point of morality without an afterlife. You're going to say that there's no point, right? Well, wolves and other social species have their own form of morality and I doubt you'd say that they are going to heaven. Morality is a way to…
Before I get into this, let me just say what I am trying to argue. I am not trying to say that my morality is the best morality, or even necessarily that morality exists, but I will bring up moral issues. This is because I am arguing that the average person, who does have their…
Against
Why does morality matter if there's nothing after death? Morality becomes absurd. Why care about getting along with each other if it will all disappear and be a waste of time? The beneficial aspects are lost because death will destroy that for us. Lastly, why should we care…
With morals, people can and should scrutinize moral systems. One point I want to make though, is that the type of atheism that doesn't believe in an afterlife pretty much destroys morality, and so this type of atheism is bad to be in from a moral standpoint (I can explain if…
1776.
The Bible contains significant falsehoods
For
Of the authors...of the many books, we are either in complete ignorance, or at any rate in doubt...Furthermore, we do not know either the occasions or the epochs when these books of unknown authorship were written and we cannot say into what hands they fell, nor how numerous…
The bible is merely a collection of stories that contradict themselves. Stories in the bible vary from one author to another and none of these accounts were witnessed by the ones writing the stories. It's all rumor passed on and dramatically changed from one person to another.
Against
I am still waiting for the answers to the previously mentioned questions. I will not continue to make my point until you have responded to me. I'm not one for one sided discussion.
Again its your burden to definatively prove the bible is false. Your questions are valid, however your explainations are suspect. You claiming the bible is full of false stories is like me saying I know the origins of the universe. I could be right and I could be wrong. No one…
1777.
Islam sanctions violence against blasphemers
For
My argument was in the first post
I accept your challenge Mr. "Yassine."As demonstrated by the Iranian "death fatwa" on Mr. Salman Rushdie for nothing but his words against Islam (see http://www.dailymail.co.uk...,) Louis Farrakhan & the Nation of Islam's AGREEMENT with the MURDER of Malcolm X for nothing but…
Against
Preface: - Pro has the burden of proof to show "that Islam sanction muder over words against Islam". Rebuttals: As demonstrated by the Iranian "death fatwa" on Mr. Salman Rushdie for nothing but his words against Islam. - This says nothing about what Islam sanctions or doesn't.…
- Another forfeit from Pro! I'll conclude next round.
1778.
Christianity's influence on Western society is more harmful than helpful
For
I apologize Maxistkind I have been so busy this week, with little time and some internet issues I did not get to the last round in time. O Ok well first of all your argument is strictly opinionated here is the actual poll I found earlier. That very large majorities of the…
I hope that you will take nothing I say personally and know that I pray earnestly for people who live under your beliefs daily. First of all I want to point out so far by what I have read your argument is strictly one hundred percent an opinionated argument. You have provided…
Against
Now, this is a story all about how my life got flipped-turned upside down and I liked to take a minute just sit right there I'll tell you how I became the prince of a town called 100 characters of fun
Well, let us look over what I have laid before me. >>Before I begin I want you to know I am a devout Catholic, I am very religious so I will take this debate very seriously. I hope that you will take nothing I say personally and know that I pray earnestly for people who live…
1779.
Everyone should be Christian
For
see u r not argueing bc im right it is the true way and if we dont help athiests they will be sent to hell and i convert them then they will be in hevean and thank me for eternity
thts dumb christianity is the most popular so its the best man you need to understand that and other faiths r rong so everyone shud be christian dummypants
Against
according to me everyone should not be a christian. There are people with different faiths and have their own opinion about the religions. You cant just say that only this Christianity is good. All the religions are good in different aspects.
1780.
In the Eucharist, bread and wine become Christ's literal body and blood
For
Thank you for challenging me to this debate.Definitions Transubstantiation is the teaching that the bread and wine literally becomes the flesh and blood of Christ. [1] Verses in question 1 Cor 11:23-29 "For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord…
I thank my partner for his debate challenge. I agree to the debate parameters. We are not debating if the Bible is true; rather, we are debating if the Bible teaches that the Eucharist is as Catholics understand it to be.I'll use this round as acceptance only. Good luck, and I…
Against
Good luck to him, as well. The traditional Catholic view of Transubstantiation is that the bread and wine offered during Communion, despite the fact that they still taste like unleavened bread and wine, changes essence and becomes the body and blood of Jesus Christ, who died on…
I would like to issue this challenge to Mr.Infidel. His last debate on this topic wasn't debated well by his opponent, so I'd like a chance to do a better job.Transubstantiation -- the Catholic doctrine in which during Communion the bread and wine because Christ's literal body…
1781.
There is one correct interpretation of the Bible
For
There is a common objection to the Bible, and that is that the Bible is all up for interpretation- basically one saying this is saying that everybody's interpretation is different and thus you can make the Bible say what you want it to. This is false and must be addressed in…
You made some excellent points about the Qur'an, however we are talking about the Bible so let's get back on topic. The interpretation of a religion is not the same as the interpretation of a text. If you want an interpretation of a religion, you very well could get any answer,…
Against
Just like with all religions, there is no correct interpretation for Christianity. Look at Qur'an for example. The moderate Muslims who give to the poor, free slaves, help orphans, be kind to women, tolerate other people, care for other people, help them etc., aren't wrong as…
The Bible could be interpreted as anything. From a literary piece filled with exaggerations and old Arab folklore to an actual history book. So, the authors may have had a certain point they wanted to make, but that's irrelevant. It's like with other works of arts and…
1782.
The Exodus of Jews from Egypt described in the Bible more likely than not occurred as described
For
sorry
I know a bigger word than you do...
Against
Round 5 extension Thanks for reading!
Round 4 extension
1783.
Genesis is entirely accurate about what exists
For
I subscribe to a literal interpretation of Genesis and even though I'm not well-learned on this subject, I'm confident I can refute all of your challenges! It will be a learning experience for me. Let's go!
Well, I guess this is where we agree to disagree. I stand by my contention that the Moon is a source of light, according to the definition of "source" from Google. This was fun =)
Against
Here's a link to the NIV of Genesis 1-4. ( . http://www.biblegateway.com... )While I imagine it is satisfactory, if Pro finds this version to be unacceptable and would like to provide a link to a version that he does find acceptable, I'll change my arguments to fit that…
Fair enough, we'll leave it up to the voters then.
1784.
Islam is the true religion
For
In the name of Allah. Thank you for accepting my Challenge. The reason I want to hold this debate is because I want to streghten my Faith in Islam. I just converted to Islam so I want to sort of Challenge anyone to streghten my Faith in Allah and His messengers. I belief in in…
I stand here to challenge anyone who thinks Islam is not the Truth.
Against
Well, my opponent has forfeited again, and I am rather lazy. So back to you, my devout muslim opponent.
Islam postulates the existence of a personal God, and the existence of such a being is unsupported by any reasonable evidence. The idea that the omnipotent creator of the Universe would have a vested interest in the activities of man is aburd; equally absurd is the notion that…
1785.
Britain should adopt Sharia law
For
SHARIA ESPECIALLY ISLAMIC CRIMINAL LAW SHOULD BE ADPOTED
The muslim jurist should wake up
Against
One law for everyone
GOES AGAINST BRITISH VALUES AND FREEDOM OF RELIGION
1786.
Science is a way of studying God's creation
For
Science is the study of God. For this argument God "is". Science: The observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of phenomena. Or you could even say; The study of what is.
It would seem to me that you are arguing against God being than science being the study of God. I am sorry if the premise of my argument is hard to deal with or even my distinction created for the use of Logic and debate. Maybe you are arguing against religion, I am not sure.…
Against
Seeing as I'm new here, I cannot be sure about how flexible I am allowed to be with the established rules of the argument. Just my caveat. For the purposes of my argument, I will rephrase "The Study of what Is" as "The Study of Everything," purely for purposes of understanding.…
It has become clear to me that my opponent lacks an understanding of both my arguments and the implications of his own. If one considers the resolution with his definitions, we get something like: "The study of what is studies to exist." OR "The study of what is studies to be."…
1787.
Islam is not a religion of peace and lacks a just legal system
For
Thanks for the ideas. I will refute first, give arguments after.(1.1-1.2)IslamAhmadiyya says that Muhammad himself was so heavily persecuted that it shows how peaceful his group is and how savage the rest of the world is.Jesus was also persecuted, so heavily in fact that he was…
As seen in the definition above, peace is not only a state of now-war between communities, but is also a state of harmony between communities.I will be using the word harmony a lot in my commentary of the Quran verses, because according to the above definition, harmony is…
Against
Let's jump right in.(1)Intro(1.1-1.2)I would like to first clarify Pro's statement that he made regarding the condition of Muhammad (saw) and his followers being persecuted. First, I never said that the rest of the world were savages, but it is a historical fact that…
I will first refute his arguments and then bring in my own arguments and prove that Islam is a religion of peace, harmony and justice. (1)Introduction(1.1)Islam is a religion that is based purely off the teachings of the Holy Qur'an and the Authentic sayings (Ahadith) and…
1788.
Religious beliefs based only on the Christian Bible must condemn homosexual relationships
For
Look a tranlation of the bible is just as subjective as the beleif of what the individual words mean, do you not realize that the translations that you read are simply the individual interpretations of different orginizations? and you say you have proof of what you are trying…
That is alot of information you have, and i am impressed at the length you have gone to to express your opinion, but you have made the assumption that a descicion of wether or not something is sinful, should be decided on wether or not (your) belief on which interpretation of…
Against
Pro: "you have made the assumption that a decision of weather or not something is sinful, should be decided on weather or not (your) belief on which interpretation of scripture is correct" The bulk of my argument had nothing to do with the interpretation of scripture but with…
When determining which religious beliefs are specifically supported by the Christian Bible and which are not, it is paramount to review specific scriptures relating to the topic. The Christian Bible only mentions homosexual behavior 3 times in the New Testament, they are as…
1789.
Science and religion are incompatible
For
DEFINITIONS: SCIENCE is "a set of methods designed to describe and interpret observed or inferred phenomena, past or present, and aimed at building a testable body of knowledge open to rejection or confirmation. In other words, science is a specific way of analyzing information…
In Round #2, I made the case that science and religion are incompatible as methods of apprehending truth. I was hoping for a debate about the methodology of science vs. religion in discovering truth.My opponent wanted to have a debate about Biblical prophecy. So, he threw out…
Against
Pro: "I'll do my best to dispel all these "fulfilled prophecies" in one fell swoop." Pro challenged none of the prophecies. Pro could have tried to show they were "wrong", vague, or "up for interpretation." At the very least Pro could have challenged one and tried to hurt my…
"Don't worry about people stealing your ideas. If your ideas are any good, you'll have to ram them down people's throats." -Howard Aiken mobile.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/h/howardaike101540.html --- Squonk- "I'm dealing with a "Gish gallop" here." So Squonk chose zero of my…
1790.
A cappella music is the proper form of worship
For
Feel free to do that. But do you intend to conceed this debate?
I would like to start with rebutting my opponents claim that the bible condones musical worship. The Bible is split into the old and new testaments as you well know. The new testament is where we find the rules that regulate our ethics and morals. The old testament is a history…
Against
No! I do not conceed! All eyes on my argument! The Bible does not tell you to not play musical instruments. If it does then I would like to see those scriptures. Other than that you have no evidence that the Bible is against musical instruments, neither does it say that you can…
I must agree you have some expeience in debating and you do prove out some points but I will not rebut until next round. I must speak to somebody at my church who is more wiser when dealing with these topics and possibly talk to my church about why we do have musical…
1791.
Muslims should be allowed to build a religious center near Ground Zero
For
My opponent's whole case can be summed up by this sentence. Ban activities that cause people to have fun, or religious communities that feel the need to worship God. Response: Con has created the most absurd reasons for why there should be a need of banning activities. With his…
I have to say that this has been the most unusual stance I have seen that can be argued to be legitimate. I will just state the obvious reasons and consequences of what Con wants. Con states that he is arguing against the ability to build a religious building anywhere, because…
Against
My whole case can be summed up as I did before: "Muslims should not be allowed to build a Mosque near the World Trade Center, because Muslims should not be allowed to build Mosques, because No religion should be allowed to build religious structures, because Religion should not…
"You cite no evidence stating that people are going to better themselves when that time in society." There can be no evidence for hypothetical questions." If you are Christian, Jewish, or Muslim, you will still find a way to devote time to your God."The point is to eliminate…
1792.
The Bible cannot be trusted as a historical source
For
The Bible cannot be trusted and nor can the Torah, the Quaran, and other holy books for these reasons: 1 Before these holy texts were written, they were preserved orally then the teachings were written down. From the time God first told us these things and the books we have…
As my opponent has pointed out, I have been unclear in my debate. I apologize. For one, let me say that my opinion towards the bible has not changed. The Bible makes delivers it's message through stories in which the meanings are already interpreted for us. The bible was…
Against
I am somewhat annoyed that my opponent has not finished this debate as she has only one argument left to post. I feel that there is nothing for me to say other than the fact that my opponent has completely failed to provide any solid evidence or even a point that the bible…
My opponent has failed to provide any real examples where the bible cannot be trusted and is false. However, she has given quite a couple agreeing with the con side that the bible can be trusted. I as the con side have absolutely nothing to refute simply because my opponent…
1793.
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.
1794.
The Abrahamic religions cannot be rationally defended
For
Hmm, a joker, I see. Anyway here is an example of such: "an agnostic" look it up clown.
Thanks for taking on the con position. First I wish to address a few of your statements: "All religious beliefs can be categorized into two categories: either theistic on atheistic" This is actually incorrect. Disbelief is not a religion. Do you disbelieve in Zeus or Santa…
Against
I will accept your claim if you can give an example that does not do any of the following: 1. believes in a supernatural deity 2. does not believe in a supernatural deity
"Your job as con is to find a rational justification for believing your specific religion, why you choose to believe it specifically." I believe in the Protestant Christian Religion because I prefer life over death. Let me explain. All religious beliefs can be categorized into…
1795.
Religious belief is superstitious and promotes discrimination and cruelty
For
Round one is acceptance, should you choose to accept.
Firstly, perhaps 5 rounds was a bit to much for this debate. Although it seems relevant now we may have been able to clear everything in 4 rounds but anyway we're on the homestretch now. I understand where you are coming from when you explain that anyone can interpret the bible…
Against
Of course. Good luck and happy debating.
Likewise, a very nice debate! You do your brethren proud as you are very well thought out and very well mannered! It's makes me happy that not all religious debates have to be all angry and such. A well thought out critique is just what the doctor ordered. Now then, onto the…
1796.
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…
1797.
Protestants were wrong to remove books from the biblical canon
For
Protestants removed certain books which belong to the canon established by the early Church. However, Catholics have maintained the canon established by the early Church, most notably by the councils of Rome, Hippo and Carthage in the late 4th to early 5th centuries. Even…
That was an excellent rebuttal and I truly applaud you for it. It was well written and the arguments were both logical and cogent. I think you put your finger on the heart of the debate and that is: how can the Catholic Church say Protestants changed the canon when the canon…
Against
I have really enjoyed this debate, and definitely succeeded in learning a thing or two. I do believe that this debate has finally reached it's pinnacle and is now revealed to be a bit of a semantic debate. My opponent has revealed that the definition of the word "canon," as…
However, I am not ready to concede just yet as it is important to draw a distinction in Catholicism between the councils such as Hippo or Carthage and that of Trent. The first ecumenical councils were regional councils that were not considered infallible, or as authoritative as…
1798.
The Bible clearly teaches that homosexuality is a sin
For
I like the idea that you brought up. In the case of killing, for instance, there are some exceptions. One main obstacle lies in the way of this being a valid argument, though, and that is that the sin of homosexuality differs dramatically in nature from the sin of murder. In…
On reading my profile, one would observe that I have debated this topic several times in the past. I enjoy debating this topic mainly because I feel very strongly that homosexuality is a plague to society, that it is one of the cancers that destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, and…
Against
"In the case of killing, for instance, there are some exceptions." 1. My opponent has conceded there are exceptions to what sin is as stated by the Bible. 2. My opponent contends that homosexuality cannot have an exception because God did not order it. This stands to question a…
When someone kills another human being, who determines it to be a sin. For example: If a soldier defends his country and kills other men, is this a sin? If a man kills another man for no reason is this a sin? What about if a father kills a crazy man to defend his children? What…
1799.
It should be illegal to remove Christ from Christmas greetings
For
Hello. I am here today try to get you (the audience) to vote in affirmation with me on the resolved: it should be illegal to take Christ out of Christmas and relplace it with another phrase. The first Christmas was because Jesus Christ was born. I think that it takes out the…
Against
I hope that we can have some interesting discussions and a fun learning experience. ======== Cultural Assimilation - is a political response to the demographic fact of multi-ethnicity which encourages absorption of the minority into the dominant culture. (1) ======== I would…
I really hope that my opponent is alright, as she has not been on for a few days. I am, however, rather disappointed at the fact that my first debate was not as interesting as I had hoped.
1800.
Religion should be taught in public schools
For
*facepalm*
Religion should be taught as part of the R. E. syllabus.
Against
Schools have had religion forced upon them this means certain 'state schools' are becoming closed to the diverse society we now find our dwellings in. Schools are often Christian in Britain, as their is often only one school for a community it shouldn't be allowed to single a…

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 — page 36

How to use these debate topics

Run them live

More question collections