Religion Debate Topics — page 40

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.

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1951.
God cannot create life, only raise the dead
For
it is as simple as that.. 1+1=2
no machines exist that are not intended.. machine=match IN energy technology=taking the knowledge i put out
Against
Pro fails again to make some sort of coherent case. Extend arguments.
Pro fails to make his argument sound, changing definitions that have been established should be noted by the viewers. Pro fails again to support his claims and appeals to only changing definitions in the final round. Pro also fails to show evidence that his definitions are even…
1952.
It is rational to believe a higher power exists
For
"If time did not exist, then there was no 'before' in which the universe did not exist, and therefore it makes no sense to say that universe 'began' to exist."The theory is that God is timeless and created time, why would God be bound by something he created?"my opponent gives…
1. Everything that begins to exist has a cause2. The universe began to exist (http://ssscott.tripod.com...)3. The universe had a cause4. This cause a personal being, because He chose to create the universe There cannot be an infinite regress, someone must have started all…
Against
It seems that my opponent has little answer to the issues raised in my response. Let's start from the beginning. I'll be perfectly honest and say that I do not understand how my opponent's question - "why would God be bound by something he created" - is remotely relevant to the…
I shall start by showing that my opponent's argument is not convincing. Firstly, observe that statement 4 does not follow from statements 1 - 3. Even if we accept, for the reasons given, that the universe had a cause, my opponent gives us no reason to conclude that this cause…
1953.
Islam is the true religion
For
if you were to get kidnapped who would you hope for you to save you. you would feel lonely so if there is no creater of this earth and it is an coincdent then it is a oincident that you got kinapped leaning to noone to help you. it is a coincident that i am using this word.…
does everything, including earth's existence, happen in coincidence
Against
//if you were to get kidnapped who would you hope for you to save you// My parents....... //you would feel lonely so if there is no creater of this earth// I suggest you don't tell someone how they would feel. I assure you there is no creator of the earth and I am not lonely.…
I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say sure. Are you going to respond to my argument that I now extend?
1954.
Roman Catholicism contradicts the Bible
For
Inability to qualify by simple adherence to the rules: Those who are viewing the debate should take note of Con's inability to adhere to the specific parameters I set for the debate in the rules. A prerequisite for the debate was, "Please read the rules carefully before…
Hello everyone! I hope this to be a fruitful debate for both parties as well as being beneficial for those who will be voting on this debate. While Con felt the need to provide a definition, the debate's goal was clearly expressed in rule #2 to which I encourage Con to read…
Against
I have provided the reasons I am debating what I am debating, and this has become a point of semantics, which as part of the rules would be decided by dictionary.com, which I am adhering to. I have not forfeited. Rather than going into further detail, I'm not going to beat a…
I call foul. This debate is centered around "Roman Catholicism is in Opposition to the Bible" as that is what I agreed to be against NOT "Are the Roman Catholic Church's traditions biblical?" these are two totally different positions, and I did not agree to the second one, I…
1955.
The Bible contains no contradictions
For
My argument stands
1. CON SAYS THAT THE BIBLE SAYS MEN CAN HAVE ONLY ONE WIFE,AND IN OTHER PLACES IT SAYS YOU CAN HAVE MORE THAN ONE,AND THAT PAUL SAID NOT TO MARRY AT ALL. Nowhere in the Bible does it say people should have two or more wives.The Bible tells us the lives of the people in it.They…
Against
Two disclaimers: 1. Pro asked for "contradicting verses." We will have to tackle contradicting principles instead. The reason is that if we lift verses here and there of course we will find contradictions. For example, Matthew 8, when the Lord cast out demons into swine, the…
1956.
Christianity and evolution are mutually exclusive
For
Stellar Formation is an accepted part of Modern Cosmology. If you do a basic google search, you can find thousands of scientific sources about it. Here is just one from NASA (1). What my sources show is that we have a fossil record from dinosaurs to birds. One transitional is…
Bird Evolution Birds came from land animals. More specifically they evolved from dinosaurs. In the fossil records we can see the step by step evolution of the bird wing from dinosaur arms (1). The Flood and Evolution Evolution does discount the flood. There is a genealogy from…
Against
Thank you for providing Sources, however I don't believe one is credible. Here is my problems with it.3.) The article is written by writer Tega Jessa. Jessa is not a scientist, and provides no sources other than "NASA". Jessa does not provide a specific link or source other…
First of all, I would like some credible sources on some claims you made before I even attempt to rebuttal them. "Evolution discounts global flood and yet it is in the bible. ""Also, evolution says birds came after land animals, not the other way around. ""According to our…
1957.
Islam is an inherently violent religion
For
reiterate
you make mere assertions without backing it up with scriptures. i gave plenty of scriptures. if we see repeated requests to "kill infidels" and such, that means it's a violent religion. it's like a wife beater... sometimes they may be nice, but all it takes is for them to be…
Against
Islam is a very broad religion which interpreted in many ways, most Muslims do not believe in thee things. They internet it as a moral war, one of virtues and thinking not an actual violent war. You can not suppose Islam is violent , because of some extremists.
1958.
God's existence can be demonstrated by a simple argument
For
con simply insists that i can't argue about thermodynamics cause i don't know it as extensively as seasoned theoreticists. this ignores that eeryone is ignorant to some degree as argued before, cant they still argue about it even if they are the most versed in it?. and to argue…
just because i dont understand the extensive mathematical details of thermodynamics by no means i or others are not equipped enough to talk about it. to be sure, there's always someone who understands it more than another. that doesn't mean only the best versed in it is…
Against
My excuse for insisting you can't talk about thermodynamics is that I'm very, very stubborn. Excuses aside, I stand by my point that thermodynamics and biology are mainly seperate divisions of science, and that theists should only use the thermodynamic argument as a last…
Well first of all, this is thermodynamics. These are the laws set forward for the from of energy known as heat, this isn't biology. Energy doesn't really cross over into biology. Plus, if you don't understand the laws of thermodynamics, then don't talk about them. It's that…
1959.
Belief in God and evolution are incompatible
For
Wait, how are you going to say we all die eventually, and we will find out when we get there. Get where? Does that mean you believe in another place when we die? Well, you should because it's called heaven. And you are right once the people who believed get to heaven we will…
The Evolution Theory is called that, well, because it is a theory. It has been proven wrong. Evolution was developed before science had the evidence ability to prove the theory was false. No new scientific discoveries have been found to support the Theory of Evolution. An…
Against
I am saying that, once we die, we will discover whether atheism or Christianity is correct, so worrying about it before we find out is completely pointless. 100 years really isn't that long to wait, in the cosmic scheme of things. Perhaps all religions are true. Perhaps none…
You say that the evolution theory is called a theory because it is nothing more than a theory. It is not just a theory, it is an undeniable reality. It has never, to my knowledge, been proven wrong. Due to the abundance of evidence surrounding it, it has far more credibility…
1960.
God can gain knowledge while being omniscient
For
I will delve more into the relational vs intrinsic properties argument below...Prima FacieCon claims that his argument still remains, because when we hear about an omniscient being gaining knowledge, we automatically think that is impossible at first glance. However, we only…
Prima Facie PlausibilityI only conceded prima facie plausibility of the resolution being false if we assume that the set of "everything that there is to know" necessarily does not change (I talked about prima facie plausibility before I mentioned my argument about the changing…
Against
Thanks to RT for this debate. It's been fun. :) Prima facieMy opponent admits that our prima facie view of the resolution is unfavorable, but he says that it is based on a misunderstanding, or an incorrect assumption. He states, "we only think that assuming that the set of…
Well folks, I have the utmost respect for RT, but I must admit I was very disappointed by his reply up there. He's completely ignored my main and strongest criticism to his argument, that of relational/extrinsic properties vs. intrinsic properties. Hit control+f on your key…
1961.
Believing in Jesus's resurrection is more logical than disbelief
For
I'm saying that it is logical, sorry for that. Now for evidence that He existed. Roman Tacitus, an accurate historian of the ancient world, acknowledged superstitious Christians, who suffered under Pontius Pilate during the reign of Tiberius. Suetonius, the chief secretary of…
Well, first off I would like to point out that we have recently found evidence that the New Testament is (for the most part) historically accurate. The John Rylands manuscript, Chester Beatty Papyri, and Bodmer Papyri II have shown that the New Testament was written within a…
Against
I believe that the writers of the bible weren't writing history, they were writing a holy book. The examples you gave of historians, were they alive during the time of jesus's life or after? And are they 1st hand witnesses of jesus or not? The quote you gave didn't actually…
Can you please clarify the resolution of this debate? It states, "It's more logical to believe in the resurrection of Christ Jesus of Nazareth." What are you comparing it to? It's more logical than what? Or do you mean to say, "It is logical to believe in the resurrection of…
1962.
Jesus cannot be divine because he admitted he cannot foresee the future
For
Biblically speaking, there is a specific inherent ability one must possess in order to be considered a true God. Furthermore this one ability just spoken of actually distinguishes the true God of the Bible from all the other gods in the universe. This one ability which makes a…
I have already given proofs from two theologians, Barnes and Henry, that being able to inherently predict future events is the one ability that defines whether or not one is truly divine. It is BIBLICALLY SPEAKING, the one quality of TRUE deity that all other so called gods are…
Against
Irrelevant argument, for divine means "excellent; delightful."Source: https://www.google.com...
Extend, vote me
1963.
Churches should distinguish between dangerous and safe people
For
On example 1: Armed guards don't have to shoot to kill. I doubt that the guard in the news story intentionally wounded the gunman, but perhaps it is better for this church that she did only wound him. I'm not defending the right of a church to use lethal force, I'm defending…
Example 1: Is a true story. It is plastered all over the news. http://www.cnn.com... I won't deny that employing an armed guard or having metal detectors wouldn't deter some people, but the armed guard was not wholly uncalled for. Example 2 and 3: I'm surprised that you are…
Against
I am familiar with this incident, as I religiously keep up with the news (no pun intended.) I still think it would be hypocritical for churches to have armed guards in a church. Yes, your point is sensible, but it would completely ruin the church environment. Can you imagine…
Well, I would that any place of worship - regardless of religion - has the right to protect its property. You're correct in saying that a church building has a right and certain obligation to protect the property of the church and the safety of the parishioners present. Your…
1964.
A god would not communicate through written text
For
Awe gosh golly gee gosh darned it all, unlike the miserable cow dung larvae that you are, I can prove EVERYTHING I state whereas you can prove nothing. That's why you tried to invert the conversation to tip it towards you and you being the He-Man that you think you are, are but…
No. Sorry deareth lung rot. You stick to the debate parameters, in which you cannot and you know it, otherwise bow out and leave like the miserable sour milk scab that you are as you tried and interrupt this debate. Its my debate, its not yours. Oh and btw, to add further…
Against
Oh, so you are another cowardly, irrational atheist that cannot prove their claims. Typical. Moving on.
Instead, prove this claim "No god would use text as a form of communication, the worst possible form of communication to any god. "
1965.
Religion is false but serves a useful social purpose
For
This is not an argument on the validity of any religion. I am starting this on the premise that none of them are true so I am hoping to argue against an Atheist who just thinks we are better off without it as a whole. I feel that it is a good thing for people going through hard…
As I said, the religion was a rallying cry. It was something that unified people who were angry for other reasons. If Islam didn't exist then people would still be very angry about what the United States did. You just listed a lot of reasons for them to be angry, so you are…
Against
Before I'd begin, I'd like to point out to anyone reading this that Pro is referring to a positive purpose and that through these positive purposes, religion brings more good than bad, as he mentioned in the comments. So, overall, I will prove that religion brings more bad than…
C1:One of Bin Laden's reasons for attacking was because of Western support of Israel, because it was a Jewish nation, clearly fueled for religious reasons. Not to mention, American troops stationed in Saudi Arabia were approved by the Saudi Arabian government, to protect the…
1966.
God is more than a religion
For
OK so now we see one side is in fact a religious God. Still a majority does not have exclusive say on what can be found as a word and what must be only used as a number. Middle ages ( 5th " 15th Centuries) the Renaissance or Medieval period. Documents from the Middle Ages…
OK, we know religion has a meaning for the word GOD. I am not arguing that. Many years of Religion are in fact at your disposal. The first written recorded of counting is believed to be 25 thousand years ago. The Greeks and the Romans developed part of the numerical system you…
Against
Those words have a meaning to themselves. To is like you are talking or referring to something. Too means the same as also. Two witch represents only one number. God is religion and will always be religion.
Religion defined: the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods. Most of the world sees a God or Gods in and as religion. They worshiped them and still do. God is not seen as numerical equations and just letters or numbers. It is…
1967.
The Bible contains significant historical inaccuracies
For
The world speaking in one language. My opponent seems to think that you can simply believe any interpretation of the text that you want and that makes it infallible. Scholars can read and twist it however they to try to side step the blatant inaccuracies, but the text is…
In Genesis chapter 11, http://www.biblegateway.com..., the bible goes into the tower of Babel. At this time, the bible says, "Now the whole earth had one language and the same words." In this chapter, it makes clear reference that this is not metaphorical same language, but…
Against
The simple fact is this: My opponent has interpreted this passage in a very specific way, and a way that a large portion of Christian scholars disagree with. He then goes on to shift the meaning to "a whol damn lot of people all spoke the same language" which is very different…
I hope this shapes up to be an enjoyable and informative debate. Contention 1: A single languageMy opponent's contention is that the chronology of Genesis 11 places the Tower of Babel, and therefore a single language, to approximately 2,400 BC. This would be a clear historical…
1968.
The Christian Bible does not promote evil
For
First, I'd like to point out that these commands were limited to a time and place. In order for Israel to be a nation, they needed laws to live by. It is agreed upon almost unanimously among Christians and Jews that some of those rules applied only to the nation, while others…
By the Christian Bible, I mean the standard 66 books. Round 1 is acceptance. All other rounds will be arguments and rebuttal. BoP is shared.
Against
the commands were not limited to time and place because their is a part of the bible that contradicts that notion.17"Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. 18"For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass…
first off god commands genocide multiple times in the bible. "Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and goat". samuel 15:3 "And we took all his cities at that…
1969.
Mary and Joseph had children together
For
While I have used straightforward arguments, Con has attempted to twist the bible to their own benefit. Some of the things you say are just wrong-"I believe that Joseph never touched Mary as it would be sinful for him" You are saying that it would be sinful for a man to have…
Again, I ask for biblical proof for your claims. I am not making excuses or assumptions like you. I belive what the bible says. Why do you belive that? What proof do you have to say that Jesus had no brothers?"I suppose you also want to question the catholic dogma of Mary's…
Against
There is a saying: For those who believe, no explanation is necessary. But for those who do not believe, no explanation will suffice. Nevertheless I will try to make a clearer statement. I have given my reasons based on scripture, why I believe that Joseph never touched Mary as…
I believe I have answered your objections re brothers with my previous arguments with scriptural verses and logical reasoning. Granting that there is mention of persons saying that Jesus had siblings, my question was: Who were saying this? Were they authoritative people? The…
1970.
Christianity is akin to fascism
For
It is unfortunate that my opponent seems to have put so little effort into this debate. Have it noted that not a single part of my argument was refuted. As such, Con has only provided one argument of how Christianity is different from Fascism. Considering the bulk of what I…
Bummer, well, all points extended...
Against
Sorry , im soooo busy my apologies for the FF.By con.3 Fascism: "a way of organizing a society in which a government ruled by a dictator controls the lives of the people and in which people are not allowed to disagree with the government"(3) Christianity is akin to…
I accept , present your case.
1971.
God is female and Lucifer is male
For
If all women's identities on earth were combine into one consciousness, we would have God. If all men's identities on earth were combined into one consciousness, we would have Lucifer (Satan). This is three rounds (10,000 Characters), so just start your arguments on acceptance.
1) Thank you. 2) Yes, i haven't started any argument yet ... i think. I will clarify now in this round ^-^ 3) Yes, I was being metaphorical 4) is it a gender stereotype? 5) Men are physically stronger. 1) How many humans have men killed? I would say the killing ratio is all i…
Against
You're welcome. Once again, just because men are on a general basis "physically stronger" than women it doesn't necessarily mean that they're more evil--which is essentially what the core of Pros argument is. Pro asserts that men have killed more humans, though this does not…
Likewise. To begin my rebuttals, I'll remind Pro that he *still* he has the basic BoP to fulfil regarding his resolution--and that the exact debate premise should have been clarified in round one. Pro attempts to argue that he simply meant that man and woman were representative…
1972.
God can never be disproved scientifically
For
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. just to be safe, let me emphasize that the topic of this debate is about the probability for God being soundly and scientifically disproved, but not the probability for God being soundly and scientifically proved. I am not trying to say…
This God can be any God, for this topic is not limiting its subject to any entity or religion. for the sake of convenience though, let's say the God is the impersonal God that Einstein discussed about throughout his life. first, we have to come to a consensus on if God is to be…
Against
I'm sure this will be a healthy debate. I will agree with Pro, Einstein did in fact not equate himself as being part of the atheist community, in fact he was open to the idea of a "higher mind". He admired the cosmos, looked at it with awe which brought him to come up to such…
I accept Pro's challenge. I would kindly ask Pro to which God is he referring to as he isn't clear who this god, that can't be disproved, is. Second, I would like to add that I will prove using logic and reason that god(s) are improbable to even exist and if they do I would…
1973.
Fulfilled prophecy is evidence that the Bible is from God
For
Prophecy: Isaiah 13:19, 20; 45:1 And Babylon, the most glorious of kingdoms, The beauty and the pride of the Chal·de'ans, Will be like Sod'om and Go·mor'rah when God overthrew them. She will never be inhabited, Nor will she be a place to reside in throughout all generations. No…
"There is no evidence that 45:1 and 13:19-20 are both referencing the same event."The last verse of the previous chapter, 44:28, says, "The One saying of Cyrus, 'He is my shepherd, And he will completely carry out all my will'; The One saying of Jerusalem, 'She will be…
Against
For clarification purposes, I would suggest some additional points to keep in mind: 5. Prophecies should be predictions of future events (references about the past or the present do not count as prophesy). 6. Prophecies should clearly reference the event they are claimed to…
Thank you likewise for the debate! My opponent suggests that Isaiah 13:19,20 and Isaiah 45:1 constitute a fulfilled prophecy. 1.This prophecy is not coherent. In other words, it is constructed by taking excerpts from two different sections of text. There is no evidence that…
1974.
God probably does not exist
For
Rebutting My OpponentModal Argument Against A Maximally Great Being "According to your standpoint, any god that exist in any world must exist in all worlds." Yes, however there is a huge difference between epistemic possibility, and subjective possibility. With epistemic…
Modal Argument Against Against A Maximally Great Being "A modal is an expression (like 'necessarily' or 'possibly') that is used to qualify the truth of a judgement. Modal logic is, strictly speaking, the study of the deductive behavior of the expressions 'it is necessary that'…
Against
Again an introduction of a new premise I would not have chosen to debate but for the sake of argument, I will. To the athiest premise1 I would say. Physical constants can indeed support life but they are not the "necessary," I say that because life is not always present in…
You presumed we would look at this from a "modal viewpoint" but we won't. Its not in anyway because you had a chance of winning this debate with so many useless and irrelevant arguments. I say this simply because 1. "Any theist", as you state, would not be able to partake in…
1975.
The Bible does not support a pre-tribulation rapture
For
Aww TS. You can do better. Even if I convinced you to change your mind, you can still find arguments to support your side. Thanks for the debate anyway. Study up and let me know in the future.
PROLOGUE Pro is to show that the Bible favors a pre-tribulation rapture, but Pro's concluding statement was that the pre-tribulation rapture is supported. Pro must be able to say that a pre-tribulation rapture is the most likely interpretation of the scriptures (favored over…
Against
Indeed :)
My opponent has brought many considerations that must be taken into account before i can make an informative decision on the subject, for that i concede. Perhaps we can debate another time lol.
1976.
The Bible is not evidence for God's existence
For
"I chose to debate the way I did to point out that any fictional story can be used as evidence of the characters within it. It is not necessary for any book to be historically accurate for it to be evidence of what is written within its own pages. Therefore it's historical…
"I say again in spite of your denial that you did not specify which God you were talking about or whether you were talking about a mythical God or a real God." Here in America we a lot of times we use God (capital "G") as a synonym for the god of the bible. I sorry if you…
Against
Then try again but I doubt you will get any takers because none of them can prove the bible is a historically accurate document. It is filled with too much symbolism, allegories, idioms, poetry etc to be historically accurate. In conclusion I repeat my statement that it is not…
"Here in America we a lot of times we use God (capital "G") as a synonym for the god of the bible. I sorry if you thought my grammar was unsatisfactory." There are a few spelling and grammar errors in your work but it's not the grammar which is the problem. It is the…
1977.
The Christian God's attributes are logically paradoxical
For
Your claims are not relevant to this debate. You are making a case that God is the source of morality, and that God does indeed exist. Assuming he is omnipotent, God could eliminate evil if he chose to do so. Since evil exists, and he has chosen to allow it, this would mean he…
It's fine, this is also my first debate! "God Himself can not associate with evil" I'd like to point out that any claim of 'cannot' proves the absence of omnipotence. Something that is all-powerful can do anything and everything. "God is a God of love, and He will not force us…
Against
you are correct in saying I got off-topic, which I do apologize for. "His Omnipotence means power to do all that is intrinsically possible, not to do the intrinsically impossible. You may attribute miracles to him, but not nonsense. This is no limit to his power. If you choose…
very good points!! however, where do you get your idea that "evil is bad"? If no god existed, morality and the sense of morality would not exist either. Moral values and duties impulse themselves on us. Who do you hold yourself accountable to? Christians hold themselves and…
1978.
God created the Earth for humans
For
I am arguing that God created this earth for humans. My opponents argument against this notion and his logic is that there is no God hence God couldn't have created an earth for humans - because he doesn't exist!However how could one prove that God doesn't exist?Evolution!He…
- I did not mean to forfeit, I just had a busy week That is understandable plus you still have enough rounds to win. - Evolution and Genesis Evolution can't disprove the Creation because Genesis can be interpreted in ridiculous amount of ways (Personally I follow about 3…
Against
I am simply asking for someone to provide an argument for the religious belief of creationism and against the theory of evolution. I have heard the phrase "evolution is a myth" but have yet to hear any arguments at all to support this. Please try to provide relevant examples.…
Sorry about that. I did not mean to forfeit, I just had a busy week as I work full time and I had finals as well. ( I suppose I was expecting it could have worked out if my opponent had posted their argument sooner. My mistake.) I might touch on a bit of all of the above…
1979.
The Bible cannot be considered God's word
For
Ok, thank you.
I will quote you before I comment to make this less confusing. "not much to say. you can't be the arbiter of truth, in that it's wrong because you say it is." I never said I was the arbiter of truth but it is not difficult to recognize what is NOT true which is what this debate…
Against
i think you should be giving my arguments more credence. but i admit they are stretching it. i concede the debate.
not much to say. you can't be the arbiter of truth, in that it's wrong because you say it is. i dont like it either, but it doesnt mean the bible is necessarily contradictory or wrong. the deuteronmy passage i concede is a very powerful point. id guess that references…
1980.
The historical Jesus predicted an imminent first-century apocalypse
For
I regret that this is the last round of a wonderful debate. Quotes of Con are italicized below.My opponent states that "doomsday cult doctrines are almost always attributable to the cult founder." While this may be true, it does not assist us much in the matter of determining…
IntroductionI have been challenged heavily and about as much as I expected in this debate, and I remain grateful to J.Maximus for humoring me with this.His statements are quoted in italics.More on multiple attestationMy opponent asserts that we have "multiple attestation" in…
Against
It has been an enjoyable learning experience for me and hopefully for others as well. Thanks, Abe! SUMMARIES Evidence for Jesus' Apocalypticism There is no evidence of Jesus holding apocalyptic views. The apocalyptic attitudes recorded in the gospels are all clearly attitudes…
INTRODUCTION Allow me to cut right in to dealing with two related points from above. Here they are again as a reminder: My opponent states that "doomsday cult doctrines are almost always attributable to the cult founder." While this may be true, it does not assist us much in…
1981.
Homosexuality is a sin
For
I am glad to see Telanian have this discussion with me. I trust that we all will seek to come to know the truth. Obviously, Telanian is an atheist. If I were to put my argument in a form, then it would go something like this: If God exists, and the Bible is God's word, and the…
Many people in our world do not understand the concept of "love." One would have to do an enriching studying in the Bible on the word "love" because the nature of God is that He is love (1 Jn. 4:8): "He who does not love does not know God, for God is love." Love is doing what…
Against
As you will see from the comments, my opponent no longer seems to be on this site. I offered him the opportunity to make his final statement via the comments page anyway, but he has not done so. That said, I have no interest in winning debates by default. I would therefore…
Nevertheless, despite his efforts, I do not think that he comes remotely close, either to demonstrating that god exists, or that the Bible is his message to mankind, and I shall be explaining why in just a moment. Let me start however by saying that while my opponent is…
1982.
God exists and Jesus Christ is the Messiah
For
God is real and is not a fictional creature. Jesus Christ wasn't just an ordinary man. He was actually God himself and is the Messiah.
Against
You cannot say "God is real" and that "Jesus was no ordinary man" if you don't supply facts and evidence for said existence. I can say "Unicorns are not fictional characters." (they're in the bible by the way.") That doesn't make it true. Since you are the one stating that…
Proof needed.
1983.
Belief in heaven, hell, and God is irrational
For
I apologize for the delayed response, but I had to go to school. I would like to point out that the example of Christianity was only an example, and I had not intended for it to become the center of the debate (not that it is now, just that Con tried to remind us). In the…
Excellent! I look forward to an interesting debate! I consider religion as irrational because it can not back itself with repeatable, collectable and falsifiable information. The most cited evidence for religion comes from their own religious text, which neither the subcribers…
Against
Rebuttal 1"I fail to see how your mentioning of deism relates to the topic of the irrationality of religion"It is a pivotal part in determining whether the belief of a God is rational. The irrational part about Christianity, Islam, and other such religions is that God is…
The resolution of this debate is simple enough. Resolution - Religion is irrational. This includes most branches of religion specifically Christianity. God - a spirit or being that has great power, strength, knowledge, etc., and that can affect nature and the lives of people :…
1984.
Jesus fulfilled no prophecies that only he could have fulfilled
For
Go to the list of 365 prophecies and chose one for me to rebuke it, it's not that hard!
Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come waiting for at least one prophecy that Jesus did fulfil. But he did not fulfil any so they kept on scoffing...
Against
Opening Statement: Jesus was the promised Messiah, and there is ample evidence to show that the prophecies made really do apply to him.
1985.
God does not exist
For
Well.
I will take that statement however simply as acceptance. .. Also, I would like to point out that the word u, is often spelled "you" when speaking in proper English. But nevertheless, let the debate commence! Opening:Looking at all 7 criteria of life that God must fit in order…
Against
the all say thatgod is not alive but whennit comes to the really thing is why if godis not alive why is when you in danger u call out his name or whyis when people is sick u pray to him and why is when u being control by the demon u used god name to get over him
1986.
Jesus effectively committed suicide by declining to use divine power to escape death
For
Round.
Round
Against
although he did not struggle or fight death, he let himself fall into it because he new his HEAVENLY father would bring him to heaven and told him not to fear death
1987.
Atheism is a religion based on faith
For
Thanks again, Roy, for taking this debate. Disbelief is not a belief This is a lame argument one can find in any Atheist forum. "I don't believe in God", "I believe God does not exist" "I believe modern science disproves the existence of god". Petty and not worth much attention…
Thank you Roy for taking this debate. An examination of my opponents rebuttal will prove my point. My opponent suggest that someone who makes "[n]o claims or denials" regarding the existence of a diety, falls under the definition of Atheism. This is not true. To disbelieve in…
Against
1. Disbelief is Not a Belief Pro agrees, "A hobby requires an action, so no, not collecting stamps is not a hobby." A religion requires action, "ardor and faith," but disbelief does not require action. We all disbelieve gods that we do not know others have postulated, and we…
1. Disbelief is Not a Belief Pro did not offer any logical rebuttal to my claim that disbelief is not a belief. He merely asserted that it is. Does he really believe that not collecting stamps is a hobby? Not doing X does not imply that one is doing not-X as an activity of the…
1988.
It is probable that God exists
For
**If you have displayed that god in an absolute for one way of the other, you have not met your burden. Now, as for my burden, I have to refute any arguments to show how God is probable. Has this happened? No. My opponent's argument deals in absolutes. I don't even have to…
**First off, my opponent's burden of proof is to show that "God is probably real". If he cannot do that; he has failed. He accepted this (rule four) by joining the debate.** And I have displayed, through reasoning, God is either possible or impossible and that no one has…
Against
As per the rules laid out in the debate; neither myself or my opponent can add any new refutes or contentions. I will, therefore, re-cap. This is the question: "Is God probable?" It is expressed as a resolution: "God is probable." My opponent's burden is to prove this. He…
It seems confusion has ensued; I will attempt to clear this up. "And I have displayed, through reasoning, God is either possible or impossible and that no one has demonstrated that God is impossible, thus, realizing that God is probably absolute. You have yet to demonstrate…
1989.
God is able to do anything
For
Well I guess this concludes a very sad debate. Maybe the next person I debate on this subject will be able to continue with more arguments. Thanks for getting me thinking about this subject. Enjoy your following debates everyone!!!
Silence is consent? My opponent has again forfeited this round.
Against
Well, first of all, God gave us all freedom of choice, but if we don't do as He says, we will end up in Hell. It doesn't seem like a choice to me. Also, in the Bible it says God made everything from nothing. It contradicts the laws of relativity (thou shall not create matter or…
The Maxwell Paradox says: Can an omnipotent being create an unmovable stone? If it can, it isn't omnipotent, since it can't move the stone. If it can't, it isn't omnipotent. Think about it.
1990.
Widespread Islamic belief is harmful to society
For
I would like to comment on your first paragraph, in that I never claimed fighting was better than peace; I merely stated that lying in order to find peace causes mistrust: how can anyone believe anything a Muslim says if they will purposely lie in order achieve a peace build…
In my opponent's first paragraph, he/she agrees with my statement that the Quran gives a man the right to hit his wife. While he/she claims it is in a specific case, the fact that it is included in the Quran at all proves my statement. Also, the fact that statement is vague and…
Against
Large scale Islamic belief is not harmful to society. Islamic belief has nothing to do with following man made religion. It has to do with accepting reality and keeping yourself in line with reality. It has to do with being kind and respectful to others. Belief in Islam does…
The first Hadith you are referencing, "He who makes peace between the people by inventing good information or saying good things, is not a liar." is not an order to make up things in order to achieve some type of fabricated peace. Notice the emphasis on "good information" and…
1991.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ actually happened
For
The parallels between the many stories from practically every culture are amazing. They generally agree that: 1) there was some provision made for rescue (an ark, barge, or similar vessel) 2) living things were destroyed by water 3) only a few were saved through divine…
Hey buddy, thank you for having this debate with me. As you already know from my opening statement that I do believe the Bible to be the Word of God. You mentioned the city of Tyre, frankly, I don't know much about the book of Ezekiel so for me to try and convince you with my…
Against
The Flood: 1. Having many myth accounts of an event does not necessarily make one of the myths true, certainly not just because it is the bible, I consider all of them to be myths. 2. However we have scientific evidence that shows that a flood did not happen. There are core…
First of all I want to point out that the Pro has not dealt with the failed prophecy of Tyre, until he shows it false, it stands as a failed prophecy at least in this debate. The passage clearly prophesies that the city would not be rebuilt, yet is stands today. Secondly he…
1992.
God is not great and most likely does not exist
For
Greatness and lack of greatness comes from a persons personality and particular mindset, which is related to neuroscience, not religion. And if god is real then why did he make certain people great and certain people not great? Surely that is truly unfair to handpick people to…
Religion is a basis for unfairness, immorality and is led by an unjust, unfair superstitious figure who is supposedly divine and all-knowing but yet cannot boast for a single shred of evidence to back up this claim
Against
"Greatness and lack of greatness comes from a persons personality and particular mindset, which is related to neuroscience, not religion."I agree 100%. However, the problem for you is that in order for you to establish that God is not great, you would have to show that there is…
If God doesn't exist, then there would be nobody to either be great or not great. The resolution is false necessarily.
1993.
If gods existed, they would prefer atheists over theists
For
Noting CON's failure to either post acceptance, and his apparent misunderstanding of the position which he agreed to argue, I respectfully offer him a TIE rather than to have either of us waste any more time here. I'd request that if and when he logs on, that he blank post his…
The resolution is a simple one, namely that if there is some manner of god which has produced the human race for some grand purpose, it is more likely that such a purpose is hostile to the intents and activities and beliefs of theists and approving of the intents or activities…
Against
I Am New To This So.... This Is All Know The definition for atheism that we use, put simply, says that atheism is the lack of a god-belief, the absence of theism, to whatever degree and for whatever reason. The one thing that all atheists have in common, according to this…
1994.
Theism contains at least one true proposition about God
For
(1) Defining Theism I took my position as "general theism", meaning that by definition any person who holds such a position holds to the omniattributes including personal agency. I am not advocating pantheism (could also be called naturalistic theism), Panentheism, or what have…
(1) Defining Theism I will define traditional (or according to the resolution, 'general') theism as the following: "There exists necessarily a person without a body who necessarily is eternal, perfectly free, omnipotent, omniscient, perfectly good, and the creator of all…
Against
I would like to clarify something at the outset to avoid any potential semantical arguments about the proposition: It is: "General Theism Contains a True Proposition for God's Existence". I am taking this to be equivalent to "General Theism is True" (with General Theism/God…
(2) The question here is: Does Pro have warrant for his claim? Pro claims he was "unaware" of this, a claim I find dubious considering the positions he has put forward; I find it hard to believe someone knows those arguments but doesn't know the very basics of asserting a…
1995.
Christian opposition to gay marriage is unreasonable
For
As my opponent has given me no rebuttals to rebut, I will close by saying that I believe that I have philosophically and Biblically upheld my resolution. Christian opposition of gay marriage can not logically be defended. Whatever your personal feelings on the matter, please…
I apologize if I was not clear, but I am arguing against Christian opposition that is specifically Christian because it is on religious grounds or out of religious conviction. I was not referring to opposition a Christian may offer that is nonreligious and the type that any…
Against
1. What if they have kids? I am not saying that they can't have kids, but I am saying that it will be a lot harder to have kids and it's a lot more likely a possibility if they get married. Who will breast feed the child. Girls who are raised apart from their fathers are…
I have accepted your challenge, personally I have nothing wrong with gays. But I feel like it still isn't all stupid. So I have accepted your challenge.
1996.
The Apostle Paul is an exemplary Christian
For
Thanks to my opponent for the debate. My opponent refuses to actually argue the resolution of the debate, instead continuing his strawman attack. I will rebut my opponent's points, but I take his refusal for two rounds to argue the debate's actual resolution as a concession of…
Thanks go to my opponent for the argument. My opponent bases their entire argument for Paul not being a shining example of Christianity based off of the fact that the Palestinian government was not allowed to perform capital punishment. This is a huge strawman. For Paul to be…
Against
Rebuttal 1) The High Priest and the Sanhedrin did not have the authority to execute Jesus of Nazareth because that power was reserved for Roman authority. Pro has not shown that this agreement between Rome and Jerusalem changed making it legal for Steven to be executed. 2) Just…
The Herodian Kingdom in Palestine was a Client of Rome or a Province of Rome. Either way the government in Palestine Jerusalem was denied the power to exact capital punishment. Rome reserved the capital punishment thing for itself. Example: The Crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth.…
1997.
Government should be guided by God rather than humans
For
Oh yeah. Trump is no man of God that's for sure.
First off, your position is confusing. Are you Pro for God ruled Government or Con Human Government? I guess I'll digress from the Pro and Con claiming thing. Anyway, we have what we have. It's wishful thinking right now for God to be encharge of the Government and stuff, but…
Against
You made some fair points but I am inclined to believe that we are supposed to be looking to God for leadership not to politicians like Trump or Theresa May.
According to the Bible, humans were never supposed to rule themselves but after the rebellion which was instigated by the angel known as 'Satan' humans are now lumbered with the responsiblity of basically 'playing the role of God'. Many people would argue that self rule is a…
1998.
Christians are forbidden from eating pork
For
Christians are people of The Book. In this case, "The Book" is the Holy Bible. Christians were meant to believe in this book and follow its instructions, as the Muslims do with the Holy Qur'an, and Buddhist do with the Tipitaka. The Holy Bible consist of two parts, the Old…
I am not trying to provoke anyone, but this is a very simple topic. Most Christians tend to love pig ribs, bacon, and pepperoni pizza{the pig kind, and yes, you can get non-pork pepperoni and bacon} and look down upon Muslims because they do not eat pork. King James Bible And…
Against
It is a shame that my opponent has forfeited, although there may be good reason for it. With that said, a commenter has requested a source for my claims. So I will give the full context and a source. "1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 2 "Say TO THE ISRAELITES [emphasis mine]:…
Like I said, the passage is a set of instructions given to the Israelites and do not necessarily apply to other people.
1999.
Jesus was crucified to atone for humanity's sins
For
The resolution was "Was Jesus crucified on the cross for the sins of mankind?" His parables was to teach spiritual truths and to teach us how to live in righteousness before atoning for our sins. I rest my case: Jesus died for the sins of mankind.
"Of course the bible has lot more errors and it affects the doctrine." You presented no evidence to support this. Jesus does claim divinity in the Gospels (John 8:56). In response to the Gospel of Barnabas, i would first point out that experts analyze the date, the material of…
Against
Yes the bible has lots of errors http://www.discoveringislam.org... These are all just scientific errors in the bible, If there are so many scientific errors in the bible then in how many more aspects can the bible be wrong? That would account for more then 1%.…
Saying that the bible just has 1% error and the doctrine is not effected, is an exaggeration. Of course the bible has lot more errors and it affects the doctrine. By the way in the bible Jesus never claims divinity. Cornelius Tacitus was a roman, like other romans he thought…
2000.
Religion cannot explain the origins of the universe
For
I am glad my opponent has responded, and I am eager to complete this debate. All I ask is that con does not forfeit this debate, as I would like to achieve voter status. Now to my rebuttals: My opponent concedes to my argument that religion is created by mankind. With this in…
The first point my opponent gave was that if the big bang originated from a single spinning point, than all the galaxies should be spinning in the same direction. However, this is untrue, because when the big bang went off, the only thing that existed was pure energy which…
Against
You still have not disproven my argument. I am not questioning the existence of scientific laws, I am asking how they came to be. Unless its A. omnipotent and B. sentient, something cannot always exist, have no beginning, and have no end. The big bang happened because of the…
You raise a good point, but you're wrong. I can't disprove your assumption that Gods were created by man, but religion DOES offer a better argument for the origins of the universe than atheism. As I said in my first argument atheism can't explain time, 3D space, The laws of…

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