I like the open way you talk, you let people decide wherever to believe or not but you talk about important, very important issues that help us to reflect. Thank you
This is the kind of stuff that my soul hungers for and the stuff that kept me from Jesus for so long. It's so beautiful and amazing that I made it through those questions and gave all glory to God. I'm honestly proud of myself because it was so hard and it took so many years.
I think it's really interesting that many art movements in the late 19th and 20th centuries were based off of the belief that life has no meaning, and celebrating it: Dadaism, Existentialism, Absurdism, etc.
Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. - CS Lewis. A long time ago before I had an ounce of faith, I reached the conclusion that if God doesn't exist, there's no point to my existence either and it really doesn't matter what I do, whether I live or die. Why get up in the morning? I can't do life at all without having faith. When I look back now, it seems even worse and almost laughable, to gamble so greatly and believe in the notion that there is no resolution to this random accidental pointless entropy: "coughed into existence by a blind cosmic process" hahaha! But isn't it incredible that some people go though life never asking themselves any of this? How? It radically changes everything, what you believe!
Barbora, if you have to believe in leprechauns in order to get up in the morning, then you should probably believe in leprechauns. If you think it doesn't matter if you live or die unless you believe in leprechauns, then you should probably believe in leprechauns. Obviously, that doesn't mean that leprechauns actually _exist._ And I have to doubt that you really do need to believe in leprechauns (though you might really, really _want_ to believe in leprechauns, if you were taught to believe in them as a child, before you'd even developed the _capability_ of thinking critically). But by all means, if you really _do_ need to believe in leprechauns in order to get through the day, then believe in leprechauns. PS. I disagree with CS Lewis about that quote, as I do with a lot that he said. False beliefs are often very, very important. Personally, I'd much rather you believed in leprechauns than in 'God,' because I think that a belief in leprechauns does a lot less harm.
Bill, what drives you to do anything in your life if you don't believe in God? Eventually you will be dead, and everyone you know will be dead, and all evidence that humanity ever existed will be gone. I've heard some atheists say that they create their own meaning, but why? To use Matt's example from the video, how is that any different than kids pretending they're superheroes, if none of it ultimately matters and we're all just pretending our actions are meaningful? I guess I don't understand why an atheist would be passionate about...well, anything. For example, even if belief in God does cause harm as you claim, why does it matter on the cosmic scale of a purposeless universe? We'll all be dead soon enough and it won't matter anyway.
+TheNoobSensei Why do you do anything that is at all challenging, or exciting, or adventerous if the only thing that matters is what happens after death? Are you, by chance, giving your life meaning?
I don't think it's true that the only thing that matters is what happens after death. Not to speak for anyone besides myself, but I think most theists would say that both this life *and* the next are important and meaningful. On the other hand...if you believe that this life is all you get and the entire universe is ultimately doomed, then it's not clear to me why anything you do matters. Sure, we can still give inflated importance to whatever we choose to care about...but ultimately it wouldn't matter. I just don't see how that mindset is compatible with leading a happy or productive life.
+TheNoobSensei For many atheists it isn't about deliberately rejecting the existence of a god. Atheists see no good evidence that a god exists. Do you see evidence that Sasquatch exists? How much money would it take for you to believe in Sasquatch? That is a trick, illogical question. Money cannot actually make you believe in Sasquatch. Atheists either never believed in a god, or stopped believing in a god. In the case of those who never believed in a god, theism never had a place in their lives. In the case of those who once believed in a god, for a time some of them may miss the comfort of belieiving in a deity, but eventually that disappears.
I heard a comment to the effect that the species evolving on their own by chance was like a tornado going through a junk yard and getting Buckingham Palace out of it. While I've always been a believer, this idea has stayed with me and when I don't know what my task is at the moment, I can be assured that God is directing things from behind the scenes.
Thank you. Good job. I might make a suggestion. You mentioned 5 questions but I believe you could distill the questions down to just 4. These are the four questions that all world views must be prepared to give an answer too. Where did we come from (the question of origin) Why am I here (the question of purpose) Where am I going (the question of destiny) How am I to act along the way (morality). I think the 5th question you suggested was “Who am I”. This might be somewhat redundant with the “Where did I come from” . Not sure, but maybe something to think about. I’ve always known that there are the 4 minimal questions. Can’t reduce it to 3 and no need to have a 5th. Anyhow, just a comment. I could be wrong. Keep up the good work.
Hi Heather, Certainly God our Creator believe it or not, He never ever STOP LOVING YOU! His Love for us is unimaginable, unstoppable, He does not force you to believe or follow Him.. He gave us a free will, He loves us so much that He respect our decisions, so we are freely responsible for what we choose... And everything has consequences... For better or worse ! I hope one day you will let God come into your heart, when that day comes, I promise your life will change FOREVER!!! Blessings!
Finally, someone understands it. But on a more serious note, if one wishes to accept atheism they have to concede to those points. I for one, as an atheist, have done so. And I really agree with the fact that we should be placing more importance on questions of purpose and existence. As soon as I discovered philosophy I've been in love with thinking and reading about morality and the purpose of existence. I feel that for someone to truly develop as a person they will need to truly consider these topics. Anyway, loving your videos Matt Fradd, keep up the good work. Really wish there were more insightful people like you, to talk to.
I would love for you to continue the topic, it has some interesting points in especially how depressing life is if your atheist no offence, so if maybe you could continue in the reasons our lives do have meaning with morals and of course love for others and the joy found in life with God. My sister is atheist her belief is "i dont need God to be a good person i just am good on my own by being nice and thoughtful to others by myself" is her logic so the continuation of this would help me even when she tries pointing out that shes happier being atheist. Thanks great video
I was once an agnostic/atheist, i was born and baptized a catholic, i never truly was a practicing Catholic as a kid, it was more of a go to church on Sunday's and stuff. With switching to public schools i started to get the weight of other beliefs and ideas and became disillusioned. The world will suck your faith right out of you if you are not a continuing practicing Catholic. I am totally thankful for the freedom and salvation God has given all of us through the maternal intercession of our Blessed Mother Marry, to our Lord's most Sacred Passion of the body and blood he had shed for the sins of this world.
Pray the most Holy Rosary of Our Blessed Mother Mary! There is also an amazing 54 day novena of the rosary, They will work Miracles for the salvation of your sister and others. I love saying the Chaplet of Divine Mercy too! Be sure to have Faith, Hope, and Patience. I believe that you can help bring her close to God through these amazing Prayers.
I would suggest a video in which Matt Fradd answers each of these questions from an Atheist's point of view and then from a Catholic's point of view and then compares the two. I think you need to be extra strong, loving and patient having family or friends who are Atheists while you're a devout Catholic, because it's definitely not easy talking about religion with them. Everyone seems to have their hearts fixed on what they believe in and often don't talk about religion, but rather argue and get defensive about this topic, so it's hard to have a respectful dialogue. I will keep you and your sister in my prayers.
The Sinnoh Firefly my sweet sister in Christ oh my gosh i havent stopped praying for you since i hope your well and thank you for writing me and praying for my sis i love you God bless
Thought provoking video there Matt. I choose to believe God exists. If I'm wrong, no harm done. I have lived my life in Love (self, others, God) I'll have done my best to leave this planet a little better than when I got here. Of course, now I need a beer to take these thoughts to the next level.
I enjoyed this video. What initially pops into my mind is why does there seem to be a purpose to almost anything that is natural on this planet? If you look at nature, there is a balance, all these animals and plants are part of a system, that as long as it is not tampered with will remain in balance. Why is there order in nature? Why do the wolves killing elk help the whole system? Why is there a food chain? Why is nothing wasted in nature? why is everything recycled for the purpose of maintaining and creating more life? Why are people driven to life? Why do we have inclinations that benefit all of us, but not necessarily ourselves? Why are we so malleable and why are we able to shape the world, like no other species? Why are people, Atheists, and Christians concerned with being better people?
From where did I come? (where/when is the beginning of causation, contingency, and motion?) Why am I here? (I have a consciousness that asks, ultimately, an existential question; is there an existential answer?) Who am I? (After answering why am I here; who am I is another ultimate existential question.) How should I live? (This speaks of purpose. Ultimately, if I live as charitably as possible, I not only do not cause harm; I help bring about the good welfare of others. Is there ultimate existential good?) Where am I going? (Well, if I think there is no ultimate cause of creation beginning (if the theory of a 'singularity' is true; then how did the 'singularity' exist? Where did consciousness come, since historically, and widespread anecdotal evidence of persons suddenly (even rarely after a day or days of being stone cold dead in a morgue or someplace); often times miraculously being revived - not only report consciousness after death; but know conversations and objects impossible for them to be aware of in a dead state without consciousness. So, I have a consciousness - a soul & spirit in other words with a body. What is the preponderance of the evidence of rational human beings as to what happens to me and my consciousness when the 'mortal coil,' ceases to function? _____________________________________________ Unless someone is suffering anxiety self induced or by oppression, with a special emphasis on being oppressed when young; it certainly is quite natural to desire to live. Self sacrifice for other's welfare; like a soldier ultimately giving his life; or someone pushing a child or someone out of the way of an on coming vehicle and dying --- by most normal people is esteemed as virtuous. We live in relative freedom; unless you are a child in school of knowledgeable or not so knowledgeable Judaeo Christian parents who because of burdens to provide for family --- the child is in public school; where they used to claim not to teach values; always did; but now are becoming increasingly overt in teaching things opposed to the Judaeo Christian ethic. And this is pervasive in the majority of facets and venues in society. There have been impositions on school vouchers and home schooling and so forth. An extremely dangerous threat to freedom as history shows. And if you are a child in the womb or late term partially out of the womb or completely outside of the womb ---- your right to life, extremely very sadly is often crushed for arbitrary and situational ethic reasons. _____However, in would be very narcissistic not to appreciate and value the sacrifices of soldiers who gave their lives for my relative freedom. Narcissism, certainly is not seen as altruistic by anyone. So If a higher thinker, especially, but we 'low brows' also; wonder about from where did this all come; and just say, 'we don't know, yet; or 'we may never know,' and similar answers; even some kind of 'oscillating' creation with a 'life force,' that recreates intelligent life over and over; ---- ultimately there is no ultimate altruism. Some from of narcissism creeps into how the person lives. There is only one faith Tradition that shows a Creator; taking part of The Lord God Almighty; in the Form of a Man, not in Form only; experiencing every desire we have; but only using those desires for the good of others; tasting Death in His Form of Humanity after suffering excruciating agony; resulting in an empty tomb; having Risen to a Glorified Body for us. God showed us ultimate prudent altruism; God who is in no need of anything from us; did this for our benefit. I will not get into 'the problem of evil' too much. But obviously if there is an All Powerful Benevolent God; then this is a temporary plane of existence; meant to teach us to be Created in the Permanent plane of existence. To be written in the Book of Life. Why does it have to be so complex with horrendous helpless unearned suffer for children and those who could protect children? That is an excellent question. I do know that some near death experience persons come back saying that this world is not nearly as real as the world beyond. Personally, I think we are still living in the Sixth Day of Creation; and we are not completely Created yet; when God did/will/& will always see all that God Created as Very Good. We exist in a very lucid reality with a lucid history. Starting with the premise of an All Powerful Benevolent God who would never allow harm except for a completely good purpose, it must be connected with a great lesson on personal freewill, and humanity's freewill as a whole - that leads to freedom or being imprisoned to desires that oppose freedom. In that regard; like a 'point' in geometry that has no dimensions - width, length, and height; it must vibrate or oscillate requiring the dimension of 'time' or an unknown dimension that also allows for movement to be visible. ____The point of this, pun intended? The Lord God Almighty is aware of evil thoughts, because they are the exact opposite of God's Benevolent thoughts. And The Lord God Almighty knows everything. But, The Lord God Almighty never desires, welcomes, or accepts evil thoughts. Therefore, they exist without dimension. Uh oh, we have a problem. Why would God allow such harm to be brought about by allowing spirits and human beings to give evil thoughts dimension? Did we have to learn an extreme lesson on the dangers of desire, welcoming, or accepting evil thoughts? Well, with the premise of our having an All Powerful Benevolent God, that must be true --- but An All Powerful Benevolent God would prevent harm while still teaching this, yes? OK, that must be true, but how do we reconcile this? Well, we each live a relatively short time in this plane of existence. The Benevolent All Powerful All Knowing God would be Present in Perfect Empathy giving strength to endure our experiences no matter how harsh in this life. And as Christians we know that these in reality are part of Jesus Christ's very own sufferings by His Own very Words, like, Matthew 25:31-46. When the Logos says something, that means it Exists. While I cannot fathom what causes 'motion' in Eternity, like 'time' facilitates this for us; but outside of time as we know it; The Holy Bible says things like 'a thousand years pass as a day in Your Sight, O Lord.' There are times of joy and purpose when we sense a connection to Eternity. And God promises access to Eternity to live through our lives here. So now for a last supposition. Some will call this Eastern thinking. And that would be extremely dangerous, without the reality that The Lord God Almighty lets each person's freewill decide his or her ultimate fate. To be Written in The Book of Life or be Blotted out of The Book of Life, always existing without access to any narcissistic pleasure, forever. So this is *not* the same thing as Eastern thinking in regards to this supposition. ___OK. In mathematics, to handle the square root of negative numbers (serendipitous 'negative' even though it doesn't mean 'evil' in mathematics) --- mathematicians came up with what is called an 'imaginary plane.' Now there exists in quantum mechanics theories to explain how some elemental parts of creation exist both as a particle and wave at the same time. And I think something to do with the Heisenberg Uncertainly Principle where an observer cannot determine exact position and velocity of a particle at the same time. Now Schrodinger's Cat thought experiment was to show how ridiculous this is applied to massive objects that we can see. That inside a box, a cat can exist in two states at the same time. By why can't The Lord God Almighty, Knowing in Perfect Benevolence what we need to learn regarding benevolent thinking, speaking, and behaving create an extremely lucid complete conformed to life ultimately 'imaginary plane' of existence to show the limits of freewill in regards to true benevolent freedom for everyone? So my supposition is that we are still being Created; each given a freewill; and in a non arbitrary way, decide by Grace to be Written in The Book of Life, or be Blotted out of The Book of Life. And while we should decide the Book of Life purely for altruistic reasons; it is good to take The Divine Revelation's Word for it; that those who are Written out of The Book of Life no longer can revel in pleasures of narcissism. They can even look in the mirror and when looking away, immediately forget what they look like. So they can't remember us or hurting us for sadistic pleasure, since The Lord God Almighty would make it painful for them. But since, by definition cut off from the Rivers of The Waters of Life; they only have their own egos and selfishness to live on. Lonely, lethargic in their own choice of despair, forever and ever. ___The Holy Bible is full of examples of exhorting to 'choose life,' by the ways of God so it will go well with a person. So please, please, please! Choose Life.
For all those atheists commenting here- I feel you! So here is something interesting for yall since you've all equally asked for evidence, I'd say Christianity has more than enough of it..but for starters let me share this one fact - all the apostles of Christ were most brutally and cruelly (and I cant say this enough) persecuted and assasinated all cus of their preaching of the good news..they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity but they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses. And like I read somewhere (John Piper, I guess) it's not that the apostles were just willing to die for a lie but for the TRUTH, yes they were willing to even die for it!! This one fact is itself very convicting for most atheists and agnostics (from my previous experience) since it does stir up something within..atleast it ignites the desire to research or read up further on such matters.. And also like a Saint (forgot the name) once mentioned that "yes, it's difficult to believe in a Father up in heaven but it's not that difficult to believe in Jesus Christ " - truely Our Only Lord, God and Saviour! God bless!
"Joy is never rooted in a 'not'." Me, unless some other philosopher has said the same. And feel free to object to it since the saying is still in the works. For example, let's say that you're having a good time with friends or family: your joy doesn't come from NOT being lonely or the activity you're partaking in NOT going terribly, your joy comes from having company and enjoying your time. There's a difference between the two. I think the same can be said about these life questions. Being dead is, well, NOT being alive, and death is something people commonly don't look forward to. We, as Christians, can find joy in death. Rather than NOT being alive, our spiritual life continues forever in Heaven. We find a continuation, rather than an end.
We atheists can make our own purposes. We don't need a dictator or a slave-master to assign a 'purpose' to us. Of course, that's not why I'm an atheist. I'm an atheist because no theist has ever given me even *one piece of good evidence* that a god exists - _any_ god.
+Diana Interesting. So, what methodology did you use to separate reality from delusion and wishful-thinking? After all, we _know_ that they exist. How did you determine that it was actually a god, let alone a _particular_ god, rather than just something you really, really _wanted_ to believe? Also, are you saying that you _don't_ come from a Christian background? None of your relatives are Christian, then? You weren't taught Christianity as a child? It's a remarkable fact (well, remarkable if a god actually exists, at least) that the _overwhelming_ majority of faith-based people worldwide just believe in whatever religion and whatever god or gods they were taught to believe as children. As I say, that's just a fact. There _are_ converts - in _every_ direction - but they're relatively rare.
@@Bill_Garthright you live hence God exists. You make yourself god but how can you be god if you didn't create this world? Too much pride dude but do you.
To me, these questions only make sense within Christianity or others forms of monotheism (such as Judaism or Islam). I couldn't think of answers to any of these questions without being a Catholic. I've often wondered how do my Atheist friends answer these very important questions. I guess if you were an Agnostic you could answer some if not all of these questions, but not as an Atheist, in my humble opinion. These are questions I struggle to answer daily to be honest and it's only my faith in God that keeps me together, even if I don't know the answers to: 1) Where do I come from? 2)Why am I here? 3)Who am I? 4)How should I live? and 5) Where am I going? I believe we could have a video for each topic #askmattfradd which would give answers to each of these questions from a Catholic point of view which would be really helpful.
+The Sinnoh I suppose that you were _raised_ Catholic? Indoctrinating little children is what keeps religions going. You do recognize that you'd almost certainly be a Muslim today if you were _raised_ Muslim, right? Worldwide, religious people _overwhelmingly_ believe in whatever religion and whatever god or gods they were taught to believe as children. That's just a fact. There are converts - in every direction - but they're relatively rare. Anyway, I'm an atheist, and I don't find those questions to be important at all. You "struggle to answer [them] daily"? That's just astonishing. It sounds like Catholicism has really done a number on you! I'm sorry. And the fact that you think you need to believe in -leprechauns- a god in order to keep it together,... well, again, I'm sorry about that. Personally, I can't imagine how _anyone_ could still be a Catholic after the child rape scandals. If that doesn't bother you, what would?
Bill Garthright Yes, I was raised Catholic and wouldn't have chosen it any other way because it's made me the person that I am today. You call it indoctrinating, I call it passing on religious values and morals from one generation to another. When you grow up as an adult, you're anyway free to choose which religion you wish to believe in, if any at all. There are literally hundreds of thousands of cases where children have changed their religious beliefs upon becoming adults. This is so true of my country for example which is supposedly Catholic and well the vast majority, there is an exponentially increasing number of converts to other religions including Atheism. I am realistic and know had I been born in an Islamic country I'd probably be Muslim, which is fine by me. Either way, I would come to know of God because His moral laws (not killing, not stealing, not committing adultery) are written in all human hearts. Yes, I don't have all the answers as surprising as that might sound. I'm a young adult male still trying to figure out the answers to these questions. I'm sure even you have had to answer them at one stage of your life. Why is it so astonishing that I have difficulty in answering these questions? I'm an imperfect, flawed human who doesn't know all the answers or else I might as well be a divine being. That's part of why I'm here to figure out the answers to these questions, I don't see how being Catholic should have any influence on that, as it affects all humans. Yes, I can admit that I don't have the capacity enough to keep it all together without a God in my life. It's how I feel and something I've personally tried myself - tried living without a God and then contrasted it to living life with a God. And in my humble experience, life without a God was confusing, aimless and a mess *for me* . I'm not saying that this is the case for anybody else. So yes, I need God in my life to keep it all together. There's more to being Catholic than the children sex scandals. Yes, they were abominable and atrocious acts against the most innocent members of society but they were perpetrated by a "handful" (in comparison) of Catholic priests and bishops. You can't go around blaming the other 99% for what the 1% bad did. Otherwise according to that logic, all Germans deserve to die or be tortured for what they or their parents did to the Jews in the Holocaust. You can't go blaming the whole for what a portion did. The Catholic church is made up of a billion people, and I'm certain without a doubt the staggering majority found these crimes to be an abomination. So, I apologize if I did it earlier in my post but please don't generalize.
#askmattfrad you always talk about how God is commanding you to be the person that you desire to be, so once we understand some of those desires how do you go forward? Can you give some tips on beings patient and open to God’s will?
I'd like to hear a Catholic perspective on the nature of human consciousness and its relationship to an omniscient Creator. (I am a Theist with a lot of questions on this subject) If God by His omniscience knows all and sees all, shouldn't that also mean that God experiences all things as well? (For example in the book of Isaiah it is written concerning Christ: in all our afflictions, He was afflicted) The only way this makes sense to me is if God is consciousness, which would explain how God has two natures. Can God be conscious of being Himself and being us at the same exact time? I don't see why not. It would explain so much. The trinity, apotheosis, etc. Also explains why God's name is I AM (Exodus 3:14) which functions as both a noun and a verb.
Christ has two natures, one of them being God. And if the church of Christ is the body of Christ, then that means everyone in the Catholic Church IS Christ and thus also has two natures?
Hi, Antonio! When we speak of God, we mean one being - God - with three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Trinity). God doesn't have two natures, Jesus does. Jesus is fully human (has body and soul) and fully God (He is the second person of the Holy Trinity - God the Son), but those natures are distinct and it does not follow God has a human nature; God has only divine nature. The Church is not Christ's body in a literal sense, but in a mystical one. Although I'd say even if it was literal, it still wouldn't make anyone suddenly have two natures, because body is an attribute of human nature. I hope this helps :)
Vicky Rogers _'Steven Hawkins probably feels differently about being an atheist now'_ Its comments like this that remind me how sick, nasty and perverted religion is.
even in the church it's survival of the fittest - God has left me wanting. I am a wretch and can barely live with myself/ Everything is meaningless and absurd. Halleluiah!
As an atheist, and as a human being, the entire concept of “I” can only apply to the present tense. Every metabolic interaction of my body and every experience in my perception constantly changes who “I” am. By the time I finish answering who I am, I’ll really no longer be identical to the person I was when I started answering. The application of this understanding is that I am fluid, constantly changing, never fully settled until I cease to be. Even my understanding of this concept is open to change. Dogmatic? Please.
Hey there. I just wanted to point out that Matt and most other Christians and anyone else who believes metaphysics would disagree with you. What you say would be true by materialist standards i.e. the idea that we are only physical beings and our body is all that there is to us. However, if one accepts the metaphysical idea of the soul then 'you' persist despite changes in your physical body. That is not to say that our physical body isn't an integral part of who we are as human beings. Our souls are not the entirety of who we are. Catholic philosophical thought says we are soul-body (form-matter) composites. The idea is that in as much as we change there is continuity between who we are from one second to the next. It's not that the old you evaporates and is replaced by a brand new you that just pops into existence millisecond by millisecond. The soul is what facilitates that continuity even as you change. The result is that you are different but you are still you. I think this sort of hinges on the fact that the verb 'to be' is used to indicate both accidents and substances. For example, 'the dog is old' indicates something accidental about the dog i.e. its age. But, 'it is a dog' indicates something about the substance of the thing of which you are speaking i.e. what it is. The old dog is old and a dog but one of these things is a more substantial part of what it is than the other.. This is probably not the most eloquent explanation but I hope it helps you have an idea of how other people think about these things.
Kyle James I can speak on the metaphysical without the need to reduce it to material terms, even though I accept it is reducible to material terms. There are many orders of magnitude that operate on separate principles and given our complete inability to apply materialistic physics to predict subjective states, it is utterly irrelevant to pretend that specific conclusions can be drawn about such concepts. There’s literally nothing in the traditional context of spirituality that is any more amazing or mysterious than in a spirituality from a materialist perspective. In fact, it’s probably more amazing and mysterious that subatomic particles could combine and interact in such a way as to provide a foundation for who we are, why we want, what we share. From where I’m standing,, those who insist the metaphysical cannot be rooted in the material tend to have a metric fuckton of dogma that comes along with their assertions. 😀
Well, my understanding is that metaphysics was developed because there were things (such as my continued existence as me despite changes in my physical body) that seemed to defy explanation without conceding some existence 'beyond the physical'. Does that mean that given what we now know about the material world we can't go back and try to reduce the metaphysical to the physical? I don't think I know enough to have an informed opinion on that, but the one priest with whom I've had a conversation about this seemed to think that doing just that would leave unsolved the mysteries that metaphysics was invented to solve in the first place and you kind of end up back at square one. (Again, I don't know enough to actually evaluate that statement.) I think I would have to disagree with you on what is awe-inspiring. I'm currently a chemical engineering student at MIT and contemplating God's love for us in dying on the cross inspires me a lot more than any of the stuff I've studied in school. (That is not to say that stuff doesn't inspire awe in its own way; it's just that in my opinion it's chalk to cheese.) My opposition isn't so much dogmatic as much as it is a matter of my intuition. So if all human experience including the spiritual can be reduced to just a series of chemical reactions and neural impulses in the brain, one of the questions that naturally follows is the following. What if one procured a brain and was able to excite it in just the right way could one really say that brain is remembering, sensing, experiencing or feeling something in the way a human does? Or better yet, if one setup a neural network which mimics all the electrical signals in the brain is that network alive having a human spirit? There are a lot of similar philosophical questions people are asking about AI. My intuition say no. None of these things is the same as a human with a soul and spirit. These things are not reducible to material terms. Of course, you don't have to accept that. But those are my thoughts.
Kyle James My point is that neither classical metaphysical concepts nor physics provides any answer that a discerning individual can consider both factual and utilitarian concerning the big questions. We could be playbacks of a recorded consciousness. We could be the dream of a god. We may have completely wrong ideas about what “I” really is. I’m pretty sure the mysteries and problems remain no matter what. One question that I will offer up is this: if it turns out that metaphysics are entirely deterministic and can one day be predicted through knowledge of initial conditions... wow, I can only imagine what kinds of impact it would have on our outlooks to have such knowledge, to know that someone else has those predictions or to have them ourselves. I guess some monotheists who believe in an omniscient god contemplate a similar thing.
robtbo I’m not sure that being a discerning individual means that you have to be an extreme skeptic. A healthy dose of skepticism is good; we should definitely be asking questions about the world and about the ideas we receive about the world. However, I do believe that we can accept as fact things that cannot be proven with complete rigor and by rational means. I don’t think it’s foolish to do so either. At least in my experience I can accept things as true even when they don’t make complete sense to me. The standard of truth isn’t our ability to prove it rigorously, but it is simply that it is true. Now, I guess the question is: how can you accept something as true without rigorous proof of its truth? This probably has to do with my faith in the end. I find myself convinced of the truth of Catholicism and of the existence of God who exists ‘beyond the physical’. I really can’t explain the mechanics of this to you. This faith in itself is a gift from God and I thank Him for it. So I agree with you that mystery still remains. But as Christians we come to terms with that as opposed to struggling against it. I understand you don’t accept these things as true but I honestly hope you can one day for in them and in Him are peace, joy, hope and love. It was nice chatting with you. God bless you and I’ll be praying for you.
i appreciate this video, but i think you should replace "atheism" with "nihilism" or at least "mechanical world view" i used to be an atheist, but i never believed i was a mere chance. because my world view was a hindu "dramatic" world view. i didn't believe in the supernatural, but i thought i exist because i am existence itself. i come from nothingness, i'm here to dance with life, and i'm going to turn into an ever increasing complex and beautiful music of life and light! i'm pagan now, but i still love all my christian European brothers :)
Yes or yes? I did not directly share my original emotional viewpoint because it is heartbreaking to watch someone dim their fire for a select few. Especially since I was second guessing myself. Imagine if Matt Walsh of Dailywire toned down himself just because I sometimes do not like to follow his abrasive tone but agree with much of his information. He certainly would not reach the people he is called to reach.
Okay, so this might be messy but we r not here by 'chance'. Natural selection is not random. But yes, evolution explains how humans have evolved to what we r now. I'm sure most of u who accept science agrees with this. As for the meaning of life- there is no objective purpose. But that doesn't mean u can't give urself a subjective one- nor does that mean it should have any less meaning. We r here- we have one life- u might as well enjoy it. U can claim an objective purpose however there is no evidence to back it so whatever u believe to be the objective purpose is really just ur subjective thinking. I would love for there to be a heaven. But it's wishful thinking. As far as we know- u do only get one life. So enjoy this one rather than preparing for the next non existent one. Don't waste ur time with this religious crap- unless u actually enjoy it then be my guest. But don't do it out of fear.
I enjoy you Matt Fradd, but I always think that arguing for God, because without God life is depressing is not terribly convincing. I'm a converted atheist. These sorts of arguments never meant much to me. After all, just because you want a thing to be true doesn't create the fact. It's a good launching point for a more in depth argument, but by itself it proves nothing.
Diane Druck , one thing that is true about you and me is by the time I read your comment I don't know if you're still alive, and the same is true for me if you're reading my comment. I hope that is enough for you to consider the possibility of God's existence, because you and I will both eventually die and we cannot argue convincingly against that.
I said I was a converted atheist. That means I used to not believe in God, but have since been convinced to the contrary. I was merely pointing out that wanting something to be true does not make it true. I.e. - God and heaven are lovely ideas, but that doesn't mean they exist. Matt Fradd is a student of philosophy. I'm sure he can find an argument without the obvious emotional fallacy. I've heard extremely convincing arguments for the existence of God by Bishop Robert Barron and Trent Horn if you're stuck.
God is Purpose of life. For to be tested to see what kind of person we are and on what level we are. Are those who take from them self and give to others even when they don't have, same as those who say I wish everyone good but never actually do nothing live selfish life's just for their own enjoyment, easaly judge other and turn their head when they see racism, suppression and evil or are even the ones who cause it. When you are asked Purpose of life and you don't know the straight forward grounded answer you should seriously get worried. Turn to God while you can life ends in a blink of an eye is really enjment the purpose? God who send down old testament, Bible and Quran tells us it's all one religion read just read and see don't let people who don't know the answer to purpose of life tell you what purpose of life is!!!
Five questions we all ask? I don't think I asked these questions (although I probably _should_ have asked the fourth one, when I was considering my major in college!). Where did I come from? My parents, of course. Why am I here? My parents had sex. Duh! Who am I? You're probably not asking for my name, I'm guessing, but... what _are_ you asking? At any rate, I'm a moving target. I'm not the same person I was yesterday. How should I live? Um,... caring about the truth and about other people? Again, I'm not quite sure what that question is even asking. Where am I going? Nowhere. Right now, I'm just sitting here. :) If you're asking where I'm going after I die, I'll probably go the same place the flame goes when you pinch out a candle. But I don't have a "dogmatic" belief about that. I just see no reason to think that I won't be dead after I die. _"If atheism is true, we have dogmatic answers to these questions."_ Do we? First of all, atheism is just the lack of belief in a god or god, so I don't know how you can even use the phrase "if atheism is true." Atheism isn't a truth claim. Second, atheism has no dogma, so how can it have "dogmatic answers"? The fact is, atheists have no beliefs in common, necessarily, so... no, atheists have no "dogmatic answers" to these or any other questions. _"You might disagree with me there."_ Yes. Here's the problem. You're answering those questions _for atheists._ But you're not an atheist yourself, so what do _you_ know about it? Even I wouldn't answer those questions for other atheists, _and I'm an atheist!_ Sorry, but I think the entire foundation of your video is foolish. Silly, even. If you want to know what an atheist thinks - _an_ atheist, since none of us can speak for the others - ask one. Meanwhile, I'll keep asking Christians (and other theists) for *one piece of good evidence* that your god actually exists. Or *one piece of good evidence* that _any_ of the magic stories in the Bible actually happened. As long as I continue to get not even _one_ piece of good evidence that Christian claims are true, I'm not going to believe them. PS. Obviously, I don't take those "Five Super Important Questions" very seriously. I really wouldn't describe them as "super important" myself! Admittedly, I might not know what you're even asking about most of them.
Bill Garthright, have noticed that you keep repeating how theists have just become theists due to their religious upbringing or because of - sans critical thinking etc. But I'd like to inform you however that that is not the case majority of the times..pls do research further into this topic cus you need to be entirely sure of something before you announce it out loud or you'll simply appear ignorant to those who are well read on such matters..a suggestion for starters would be to read up on saints' life stories or just other ordinary theists' stories..most of us weren't born just believing in Theism..personally I know of so many theists (through reading and from personal life) who've gone through the whole interesting journey from atheism to agnosticism to theism and sometimes even back and forth again and again until eventually standing strong on this rock (theism) again with solid arguments for it (again only after looking at the truth from all possible angles, I must add). And since you've also asked for evidence, I'd say Christianity has more than enough of it..but let me start with the basics..here's something interesting for you- all the apostles of Christ were most brutally and cruelly (and I cant say this enough) persecuted and assasinated all cus of their preaching of the good news..they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity but they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses. And like I read somewhere (John Piper, I guess) it's not that the apostles were just willing to die for a lie but for the TRUTH, yes they were willing to even die for it!! And like a Saint (forgot the name) once mentioned that " it's difficult to believe in a Father up in heaven but it's not that difficult to believe in Jesus Christ " - truely Our Only Lord, God and Saviour! God bless!
Winnie _most of us weren't born just believing in Theism_ Every Christian I've ever known - _every_ Christian, without exception - was raised in a majority Christian society and in an at least nominally Christian household. Now, yes, some weren't from particularly devout families, but they all celebrated Christmas, they all believed in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, and when asked about 'God,' they all just _assumed_ it was the Christian god, because that's what they'd been taught as children. And if you look at religious beliefs across the world, you don't find Christians and Muslims and Hindus scattered evenly around the world, not at all. There's a reason why Afghanistan is 98% Muslim, while the Bahamas are 96% Christian and India is 80% Hindu. Believing in magic might be more or less uniform, but _which_ magic belief system normally depends on what you were raised as a child to believe. _I know of so many theists (through reading and from personal life) who've gone through the whole interesting journey from atheism to agnosticism to theism_ First of all, my point still holds, since those people almost always return to the religion they were taught to believe as children. It's far less common that they switch to a completely different one. Second, I'd be skeptical of claims like that, unless you know for sure that it's true. It's very popular among Christians these days to be a "former atheist." Lots of Christians make that claim, and some of them might even be telling the truth. But certainly not all of them. When it comes to books, it's even worse. Books of Christian apologetics - like Lee Strobel's _The Case for Christ,_ for example, or Josh McDowell's _Evidence that Demands a Verdict_ - are written by Christians specifically for a Christian audience. Since Christians like to believe that the authors were atheists, that's what they say in these books. The whole point, after all, if to sell books to Christians, and Christians _like_ thinking that their arguments are good enough to convince people who don't already believe their claims. None of this would matter, anyway, if you actually had evidence backing up your beliefs. But it's pretty obvious what's going on when you don't. (And if you don't want to believe that about your _own_ religion, try sampling Muslim videos on RUclips! They make the same kinds of arguments you guys do, only they make them for the religion _they_ were taught to believe as children.) What about you? Are you the exception here, then? It's possible, though not especially likely. What religion were _you_ taught to believe as a child? Did you have no Christian friends and family members at all? _they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity_ Evidence? So far, that's just a very, very vague claim. Name one. Name *one.* Who was it? What did he witness for himself? How do you know that? When was he killed? How do you know that? How was he killed? How do you know that? Could he have escaped death if he'd been willing to renounce Christianity? How do you know that? Vague claims aren't going to do it. Where is your _evidence?_ Keep in mind that countless people have gone to their deaths rather than renounce _other_ religions, too. Heck, Muslims are notorious for their suicide bombers. Does that mean _their_ religion must be true, since they _are_ willing to die for their religion? The fact is, even if that were true, all it would mean is that some people are willing to die for what they believe. So what? We've seen this happen with pretty much _every_ religion. Does that mean they're _all_ true? But you haven't demonstrated that it _is_ true. All you've done is make a claim - and a very vague claim at that. _they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses_ You can _claim_ that the donkey in the manger was the first eyewitness, but unless you've got evidence that your claim is true, why would I believe it? I'm sure that this is what you've been taught all your life, but I'm more concerned about whether or not it's _true._ That's why I'm asking for evidence.
Bill Garthright, don't always deny or invalidate others' personal experiences..the religious are religious because of their personal experiences with the supernatural and have experienced miracles that just cannot be explained using intellect or reason, esp the incomprehensible ones..this is where faith comes in..and there are many many of such cases that I know of (but you wouldn't believe it anyway cus you dont know them personally anyway) and this has helped me see the other side..the supernatural! Sometimes all it takes to have an inner shift into faith is either when we ourselves undergo such inexplicable, out of this world kind of experiences or when we have a beloved one or S.O who undergoes such.. Now for evidence based reading materials for the intellectual atheists, I know of these - try to look into the Shroud of turin research project, G.K. Chesterton's The Everlasting Man, "Paul Faber, Surgeon" by George MacDonald, The screwtape letters, The Pilgrim's regress and I dont have enough faith to be an atheist.
+Winnie _the religious are religious because of their personal experiences with the supernatural_ Nonsense! Most are religious because that's what they were taught to believe as children. Of course, religions have carrots and sticks. If you believe, you get to live in magic Disneyland after you die, right? And if you don't, you're tortured for eternity in a lake of fire? The problem with "personal experiences" is that they're indistinguishable from delusion and wishful-thinking - even in theory (which is why religious people nearly always have "personal experiences" which line up with whatever fairy tales they were taught to believe as children). Evidence is how we distinguish reality from delusion and wishful-thinking. And since I _care_ about the truth of my beliefs, that's why I'm evidence-based. If you don't care about the truth of _your_ beliefs, if you just want to believe what you want to believe, then faith-based thinking will suit you fine. But it does _not_ suit me! _Now for evidence based reading materials_ I don't want "evidence based reading materials," because... well, quite frankly, it's because I don't believe you. If you expect me to take you seriously, I'm going to need a sample, at least. Do you have *one piece of good evidence* that your god actually exists? Or maybe *one piece of good evidence* that _any_ of the magic stories in the Bible actually happened? If not, why should I even take your claims seriously? Why should I waste even more of my time reading your favorite books? I've talked to theists before (most, but not all, Christian). They _all_ want to send me somewhere else to have _someone_ else preach at me. Funny, isn't it? I ask them all the same thing I've asked you, for just *one* sample of that supposed evidence that you _claim_ to have (but seem to be unable or unwilling to actually say what it _is_ ). If you won't give me *one piece of good evidence* - I _don't_ want a Gish Gallop of vague claims - that your religious beliefs are true, why should I take your claims seriously?
Bill Garthright, the only way a faithful can explain 'evidence' to you is through their own life miracles. But since you won't buy into any of that, that's the reason why the faithful like us keep throwing at you references to other informations provided by scientists or theologians or archaeologists or historians etc (there are even many such non-Christian sources too and I quote that specially). Physical evidence is probably mostly seen in the case of the Shroud of Turin. It's a mystery that still hasn't been completely unraveled or might I dare say even a miracle to all those super brains that collectively set out to decoding it's mysterious elements but couldn't. There's a limitation to how much of such discussions one could have on RUclips about all of this..It's really only upto you to satisfy your hunger for the real truth of the matter, whether that is that all of this is a fake or not..but ultimately you know what would make all the difference? If even atheists had that complete surety regarding the real truth of all these matters.
What is the reason God exists? Why does God exist rather than not? If no one made him, are you not forced to dogmatically accept that he is the product of random chance? After all, you believe he exists for no reason with no cause. You believe the “why” question is silly and doesn’t apply. God just is. Because he happens to be. For no reason. With no cause of any kind; no maker, designer, parent, anything. Not even any process. And you believe that the chances of his existence were in fact completely equal to the chances of his non-existence, because you don’t believe that there existed any additional factors in reality to push the odds for existence in favor. You also don’t believe that God can have any purpose. No objective. Who could possibly have given him one? (Well, he could give himself one, as atheists give their life their purpose too, but we were dogmatically going to accept that they can’t have a purpose). If we need an external creator to bestow an objective and a purpose onto us, who did that to God, and if no one did, as you believe, then is his existence meaningless and purposeless and without objective? Btw, some atheists (like youtuber philhellenes) would answer the first questions “I came from the stars” and “I am the purest light made solid”. And they'd be right. Scientifically speaking.
I like the open way you talk, you let people decide wherever to believe or not but you talk about important, very important issues that help us to reflect. Thank you
This is the kind of stuff that my soul hungers for and the stuff that kept me from Jesus for so long. It's so beautiful and amazing that I made it through those questions and gave all glory to God. I'm honestly proud of myself because it was so hard and it took so many years.
I think it's really interesting that many art movements in the late 19th and 20th centuries were based off of the belief that life has no meaning, and celebrating it: Dadaism, Existentialism, Absurdism, etc.
And they live and choose to be their own gods and many fail at it. The audacity.
I am very happy to see this video. Do a RUclips search for “meaning of life” and see who has been answering this question.
Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. - CS Lewis.
A long time ago before I had an ounce of faith, I reached the conclusion that if God doesn't exist, there's no point to my existence either and it really doesn't matter what I do, whether I live or die. Why get up in the morning? I can't do life at all without having faith. When I look back now, it seems even worse and almost laughable, to gamble so greatly and believe in the notion that there is no resolution to this random accidental pointless entropy: "coughed into existence by a blind cosmic process" hahaha!
But isn't it incredible that some people go though life never asking themselves any of this? How?
It radically changes everything, what you believe!
Barbora, if you have to believe in leprechauns in order to get up in the morning, then you should probably believe in leprechauns. If you think it doesn't matter if you live or die unless you believe in leprechauns, then you should probably believe in leprechauns.
Obviously, that doesn't mean that leprechauns actually _exist._ And I have to doubt that you really do need to believe in leprechauns (though you might really, really _want_ to believe in leprechauns, if you were taught to believe in them as a child, before you'd even developed the _capability_ of thinking critically).
But by all means, if you really _do_ need to believe in leprechauns in order to get through the day, then believe in leprechauns.
PS. I disagree with CS Lewis about that quote, as I do with a lot that he said. False beliefs are often very, very important. Personally, I'd much rather you believed in leprechauns than in 'God,' because I think that a belief in leprechauns does a lot less harm.
Bill, what drives you to do anything in your life if you don't believe in God? Eventually you will be dead, and everyone you know will be dead, and all evidence that humanity ever existed will be gone. I've heard some atheists say that they create their own meaning, but why? To use Matt's example from the video, how is that any different than kids pretending they're superheroes, if none of it ultimately matters and we're all just pretending our actions are meaningful?
I guess I don't understand why an atheist would be passionate about...well, anything. For example, even if belief in God does cause harm as you claim, why does it matter on the cosmic scale of a purposeless universe? We'll all be dead soon enough and it won't matter anyway.
+TheNoobSensei Why do you do anything that is at all challenging, or exciting, or adventerous if the only thing that matters is what happens after death? Are you, by chance, giving your life meaning?
I don't think it's true that the only thing that matters is what happens after death. Not to speak for anyone besides myself, but I think most theists would say that both this life *and* the next are important and meaningful. On the other hand...if you believe that this life is all you get and the entire universe is ultimately doomed, then it's not clear to me why anything you do matters. Sure, we can still give inflated importance to whatever we choose to care about...but ultimately it wouldn't matter. I just don't see how that mindset is compatible with leading a happy or productive life.
+TheNoobSensei For many atheists it isn't about deliberately rejecting the existence of a god. Atheists see no good evidence that a god exists. Do you see evidence that Sasquatch exists? How much money would it take for you to believe in Sasquatch? That is a trick, illogical question. Money cannot actually make you believe in Sasquatch. Atheists either never believed in a god, or stopped believing in a god. In the case of those who never believed in a god, theism never had a place in their lives. In the case of those who once believed in a god, for a time some of them may miss the comfort of belieiving in a deity, but eventually that disappears.
I heard a comment to the effect that the species evolving on their own by chance was like a tornado going through a junk yard and getting Buckingham Palace out of it. While I've always been a believer, this idea has stayed with me and when I don't know what my task is at the moment, I can be assured that God is directing things from behind the scenes.
Isn’t that more miraculous than a snap of the fingers?
Starting with the bing bang doesn’t belittle God. It magnifies Him even further.
I love your videos! They almost make me look forward to Mondays.
I’d really appreciate more talks on communication like the talk you gave on how to win an argument without loosing a soul. Thanks brother!
Thank you so much for the inspiration. Maybe someday I can ask my dear friend those same questions. God bless you.
Thank you. Good job. I might make a suggestion. You mentioned 5 questions but I believe you could distill the questions down to just 4. These are the four questions that all world views must be prepared to give an answer too.
Where did we come from (the question of origin)
Why am I here (the question of purpose)
Where am I going (the question of destiny)
How am I to act along the way (morality).
I think the 5th question you suggested was “Who am I”. This might be somewhat redundant with the “Where did I come from” . Not sure, but maybe something to think about. I’ve always known that there are the 4 minimal questions. Can’t reduce it to 3 and no need to have a 5th. Anyhow, just a comment. I could be wrong. Keep up the good work.
Looking forward to my next 'glue' conversation.🙂
Hi Heather, Certainly God our Creator believe it or not, He never ever STOP LOVING YOU! His Love for us is unimaginable, unstoppable, He does not force you to believe or follow Him.. He gave us a free will, He loves us so much that He respect our decisions, so we are freely responsible for what we choose... And everything has consequences... For better or worse ! I hope one day you will let God come into your heart, when that day comes, I promise your life will change FOREVER!!! Blessings!
Finally, someone understands it.
But on a more serious note, if one wishes to accept atheism they have to concede to those points. I for one, as an atheist, have done so. And I really agree with the fact that we should be placing more importance on questions of purpose and existence. As soon as I discovered philosophy I've been in love with thinking and reading about morality and the purpose of existence. I feel that for someone to truly develop as a person they will need to truly consider these topics.
Anyway, loving your videos Matt Fradd, keep up the good work. Really wish there were more insightful people like you, to talk to.
Good, thoughtful video, Matt. Thanks.
I would love for you to continue the topic, it has some interesting points in especially how depressing life is if your atheist no offence, so if maybe you could continue in the reasons our lives do have meaning with morals and of course love for others and the joy found in life with God. My sister is atheist her belief is "i dont need God to be a good person i just am good on my own by being nice and thoughtful to others by myself" is her logic so the continuation of this would help me even when she tries pointing out that shes happier being atheist. Thanks great video
I was once an agnostic/atheist, i was born and baptized a catholic, i never truly was a practicing Catholic as a kid, it was more of a go to church on Sunday's and stuff. With switching to public schools i started to get the weight of other beliefs and ideas and became disillusioned. The world will suck your faith right out of you if you are not a continuing practicing Catholic. I am totally thankful for the freedom and salvation God has given all of us through the maternal intercession of our Blessed Mother Marry, to our Lord's most Sacred Passion of the body and blood he had shed for the sins of this world.
Pray the most Holy Rosary of Our Blessed Mother Mary! There is also an amazing 54 day novena of the rosary, They will work Miracles for the salvation of your sister and others. I love saying the Chaplet of Divine Mercy too! Be sure to have Faith, Hope, and Patience. I believe that you can help bring her close to God through these amazing Prayers.
I would suggest a video in which Matt Fradd answers each of these questions from an Atheist's point of view and then from a Catholic's point of view and then compares the two. I think you need to be extra strong, loving and patient having family or friends who are Atheists while you're a devout Catholic, because it's definitely not easy talking about religion with them. Everyone seems to have their hearts fixed on what they believe in and often don't talk about religion, but rather argue and get defensive about this topic, so it's hard to have a respectful dialogue. I will keep you and your sister in my prayers.
Tristan Kiernan thank u and so kind of you to take your time to write these suggestions i wont stop and your in my prayers too thank you very much
The Sinnoh Firefly my sweet sister in Christ oh my gosh i havent stopped praying for you since i hope your well and thank you for writing me and praying for my sis i love you God bless
Thanks Matt Fradd!
Thought provoking video there Matt. I choose to believe God exists. If I'm wrong, no harm done. I have lived my life in Love (self, others, God) I'll have done my best to leave this planet a little better than when I got here. Of course, now I need a beer to take these thoughts to the next level.
God is real and I can provide testimony. I'm a Roman proud Catholic too.
J W As a curious catholic who love to hear testimonies: I’m eager to hear. :D
I enjoyed this video. What initially pops into my mind is why does there seem to be a purpose to almost anything that is natural on this planet? If you look at nature, there is a balance, all these animals and plants are part of a system, that as long as it is not tampered with will remain in balance. Why is there order in nature? Why do the wolves killing elk help the whole system? Why is there a food chain? Why is nothing wasted in nature? why is everything recycled for the purpose of maintaining and creating more life? Why are people driven to life? Why do we have inclinations that benefit all of us, but not necessarily ourselves? Why are we so malleable and why are we able to shape the world, like no other species? Why are people, Atheists, and Christians concerned with being better people?
Thank you! It's a great video. May you talk about some apologetics in the future videos? Thanks a lot Matt Fradd!!
To put it simply, getting to heaven is the meaning of life. See Bible on how to do that.
wow. Thank you
I almost fell out of my chair on the "Mathew Kelly" comment. Full disclosure... I am a Dynamic Catholic Ambassador.
Randall Goedel That joke gave me a chuckle too. You mean Matthew Kelley though.
Yes, Mathew Kelly. I will correct my original post.
From where did I come? (where/when is the beginning of causation, contingency, and motion?)
Why am I here? (I have a consciousness that asks, ultimately, an existential question; is there an existential answer?)
Who am I? (After answering why am I here; who am I is another ultimate existential question.)
How should I live? (This speaks of purpose. Ultimately, if I live as charitably as possible, I not only do not cause harm;
I help bring about the good welfare of others. Is there ultimate existential good?)
Where am I going? (Well, if I think there is no ultimate cause of creation beginning (if the theory of a 'singularity' is true;
then how did the 'singularity' exist? Where did consciousness come, since historically, and widespread anecdotal evidence of persons suddenly (even rarely after a day or days of being stone cold dead in a morgue or someplace);
often times miraculously being revived - not only report consciousness after death; but know conversations and objects impossible for them to be aware of in a dead state without consciousness. So, I have a consciousness - a soul & spirit in other words with a body. What is the preponderance of the evidence of rational human beings as to what happens to me and my consciousness when the 'mortal coil,' ceases to function?
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Unless someone is suffering anxiety self induced or by oppression, with a special emphasis on being oppressed when young; it certainly is quite natural to desire to live. Self sacrifice for other's welfare; like a soldier ultimately giving his life; or someone pushing a child or someone out of the way of an on coming vehicle and dying --- by most normal people is esteemed as virtuous. We live in relative freedom; unless you are a child in school of knowledgeable or not so knowledgeable Judaeo Christian parents who because of burdens to provide for family --- the child is in public school; where they used to claim not to teach values; always did; but now are becoming increasingly overt in teaching things opposed to the Judaeo Christian ethic. And this is pervasive in the majority of facets and venues in society. There have been impositions on school vouchers and home schooling and so forth. An extremely dangerous threat to freedom as history shows. And if you are a child in the womb or late term partially out of the womb or completely outside of the womb ---- your right to life, extremely very sadly is often crushed for arbitrary and situational ethic reasons.
_____However, in would be very narcissistic not to appreciate and value the sacrifices of soldiers who gave their lives for my relative freedom. Narcissism, certainly is not seen as altruistic by anyone.
So If a higher thinker, especially, but we 'low brows' also; wonder about from where did this all come; and just say, 'we don't know, yet; or 'we may never know,' and similar answers; even some kind of 'oscillating' creation with a 'life force,' that recreates intelligent life over and over; ---- ultimately there is no ultimate altruism. Some from of narcissism creeps into how the person lives.
There is only one faith Tradition that shows a Creator; taking part of The Lord God Almighty; in the Form of a Man, not in Form only; experiencing every desire we have; but only using those desires for the good of others;
tasting Death in His Form of Humanity after suffering excruciating agony; resulting in an empty tomb; having Risen to a Glorified Body for us. God showed us ultimate prudent altruism; God who is in no need of anything from us; did this for our benefit.
I will not get into 'the problem of evil' too much. But obviously if there is an All Powerful Benevolent God; then this is a temporary plane of existence; meant to teach us to be Created in the Permanent plane of existence. To be written in the Book of Life. Why does it have to be so complex with horrendous helpless unearned suffer for children and those who could protect children? That is an excellent question. I do know that some near death experience persons come back saying that this world is not nearly as real as the world beyond. Personally, I think we are still living in the Sixth Day of Creation; and we are not completely Created yet; when God did/will/& will always see all that God Created as Very Good. We exist in a very lucid reality with a lucid history. Starting with the premise of an All Powerful Benevolent God who would never allow harm except for a completely good purpose, it must be connected with a great lesson on personal freewill, and humanity's freewill as a whole - that leads to freedom or being imprisoned to desires that oppose freedom. In that regard; like a 'point' in geometry that has no dimensions - width, length, and height; it must vibrate or oscillate requiring the dimension of 'time' or an unknown dimension that also allows for movement to be visible.
____The point of this, pun intended? The Lord God Almighty is aware of evil thoughts, because they are the exact opposite of God's Benevolent thoughts. And The Lord God Almighty knows everything. But, The Lord God Almighty never desires, welcomes, or accepts evil thoughts. Therefore, they exist without dimension. Uh oh, we have a problem. Why would God allow such harm to be brought about by allowing spirits and human beings to give evil thoughts dimension? Did we have to learn an extreme lesson on the dangers of desire, welcoming, or accepting evil thoughts? Well, with the premise of our having an All Powerful Benevolent God, that must be true --- but An All Powerful Benevolent God would prevent harm while still teaching this, yes? OK, that must be true, but how do we reconcile this? Well, we each live a relatively short time in this plane of existence. The Benevolent All Powerful All Knowing God would be Present in Perfect Empathy giving strength to endure our experiences no matter how harsh in this life. And as Christians we know that these in reality are part of Jesus Christ's very own sufferings by His Own very Words, like, Matthew 25:31-46. When the Logos says something, that means it Exists.
While I cannot fathom what causes 'motion' in Eternity, like 'time' facilitates this for us; but outside of time as we know it; The Holy Bible says things like 'a thousand years pass as a day in Your Sight, O Lord.' There are times of joy and purpose when we sense a connection to Eternity. And God promises access to Eternity to live through our lives here.
So now for a last supposition. Some will call this Eastern thinking. And that would be extremely dangerous, without the reality that The Lord God Almighty lets each person's freewill decide his or her ultimate fate. To be Written in The Book of Life or be Blotted out of The Book of Life, always existing without access to any narcissistic pleasure, forever. So this is *not* the same thing as Eastern thinking in regards to this supposition.
___OK. In mathematics, to handle the square root of negative numbers (serendipitous 'negative' even though it doesn't mean 'evil' in mathematics) --- mathematicians came up with what is called an 'imaginary plane.' Now there exists in quantum mechanics theories to explain how some elemental parts of creation exist both as a particle and wave at the same time. And I think something to do with the Heisenberg Uncertainly Principle where an observer cannot determine exact position and velocity of a particle at the same time. Now Schrodinger's Cat thought experiment was to show how ridiculous this is applied to massive objects that we can see. That inside a box, a cat can exist in two states at the same time. By why can't The Lord God Almighty, Knowing in Perfect Benevolence what we need to learn regarding benevolent thinking, speaking, and behaving create an extremely lucid complete conformed to life ultimately 'imaginary plane' of existence to show the limits of freewill in regards to true benevolent freedom for everyone? So my supposition is that we are still being Created; each given a freewill; and in a non arbitrary way, decide by Grace to be Written in The Book of Life, or be Blotted out of The Book of Life.
And while we should decide the Book of Life purely for altruistic reasons; it is good to take The Divine Revelation's Word for it; that those who are Written out of The Book of Life no longer can revel in pleasures of narcissism. They can even look in the mirror and when looking away, immediately forget what they look like. So they can't remember us or hurting us for sadistic pleasure, since The Lord God Almighty would make it painful for them. But since, by definition cut off from the Rivers of The Waters of Life; they only have their own egos and selfishness to live on. Lonely, lethargic in their own choice of despair, forever and ever.
___The Holy Bible is full of examples of exhorting to 'choose life,' by the ways of God so it will go well with a person. So please, please, please! Choose Life.
Thank you. May Jesus bless you
Thanks. Prof. Matt.
Awesome video. Thanks so much!
For all those atheists commenting here- I feel you! So here is something interesting for yall since you've all equally asked for evidence, I'd say Christianity has more than enough of it..but for starters let me share this one fact - all the apostles of Christ were most brutally and cruelly (and I cant say this enough) persecuted and assasinated all cus of their preaching of the good news..they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity but they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses. And like I read somewhere (John Piper, I guess) it's not that the apostles were just willing to die for a lie but for the TRUTH, yes they were willing to even die for it!! This one fact is itself very convicting for most atheists and agnostics (from my previous experience) since it does stir up something within..atleast it ignites the desire to research or read up further on such matters..
And also like a Saint (forgot the name) once mentioned that "yes, it's difficult to believe in a Father up in heaven but it's not that difficult to believe in Jesus Christ " - truely Our Only Lord, God and Saviour! God bless!
"Joy is never rooted in a 'not'." Me, unless some other philosopher has said the same. And feel free to object to it since the saying is still in the works.
For example, let's say that you're having a good time with friends or family: your joy doesn't come from NOT being lonely or the activity you're partaking in NOT going terribly, your joy comes from having company and enjoying your time. There's a difference between the two.
I think the same can be said about these life questions. Being dead is, well, NOT being alive, and death is something people commonly don't look forward to. We, as Christians, can find joy in death. Rather than NOT being alive, our spiritual life continues forever in Heaven. We find a continuation, rather than an end.
Thank you
It leads atheists to say that believing in God is merely a "placebo" to numb the pain of living without a purpose
We atheists can make our own purposes. We don't need a dictator or a slave-master to assign a 'purpose' to us.
Of course, that's not why I'm an atheist. I'm an atheist because no theist has ever given me even *one piece of good evidence* that a god exists - _any_ god.
Oh, I am not Christian because anybody proved it to me, but because God himself did it. Hopefully you get to see it someday
+Diana
Interesting. So, what methodology did you use to separate reality from delusion and wishful-thinking? After all, we _know_ that they exist. How did you determine that it was actually a god, let alone a _particular_ god, rather than just something you really, really _wanted_ to believe?
Also, are you saying that you _don't_ come from a Christian background? None of your relatives are Christian, then? You weren't taught Christianity as a child?
It's a remarkable fact (well, remarkable if a god actually exists, at least) that the _overwhelming_ majority of faith-based people worldwide just believe in whatever religion and whatever god or gods they were taught to believe as children. As I say, that's just a fact. There _are_ converts - in _every_ direction - but they're relatively rare.
By stilling our mind through prayer and meditation we come to know God.
@@Bill_Garthright you live hence God exists. You make yourself god but how can you be god if you didn't create this world? Too much pride dude but do you.
Love those icons in the background. Theotokos, Christ, St. Augustine, St. George... what are the other 2?
To me, these questions only make sense within Christianity or others forms of monotheism (such as Judaism or Islam). I couldn't think of answers to any of these questions without being a Catholic. I've often wondered how do my Atheist friends answer these very important questions. I guess if you were an Agnostic you could answer some if not all of these questions, but not as an Atheist, in my humble opinion. These are questions I struggle to answer daily to be honest and it's only my faith in God that keeps me together, even if I don't know the answers to: 1) Where do I come from? 2)Why am I here? 3)Who am I? 4)How should I live? and 5) Where am I going? I believe we could have a video for each topic #askmattfradd which would give answers to each of these questions from a Catholic point of view which would be really helpful.
+The Sinnoh
I suppose that you were _raised_ Catholic? Indoctrinating little children is what keeps religions going.
You do recognize that you'd almost certainly be a Muslim today if you were _raised_ Muslim, right? Worldwide, religious people _overwhelmingly_ believe in whatever religion and whatever god or gods they were taught to believe as children. That's just a fact. There are converts - in every direction - but they're relatively rare.
Anyway, I'm an atheist, and I don't find those questions to be important at all. You "struggle to answer [them] daily"? That's just astonishing. It sounds like Catholicism has really done a number on you! I'm sorry.
And the fact that you think you need to believe in -leprechauns- a god in order to keep it together,... well, again, I'm sorry about that.
Personally, I can't imagine how _anyone_ could still be a Catholic after the child rape scandals. If that doesn't bother you, what would?
Bill Garthright
Yes, I was raised Catholic and wouldn't have chosen it any other way because it's made me the person that I am today. You call it indoctrinating, I call it passing on religious values and morals from one generation to another. When you grow up as an adult, you're anyway free to choose which religion you wish to believe in, if any at all. There are literally hundreds of thousands of cases where children have changed their religious beliefs upon becoming adults. This is so true of my country for example which is supposedly Catholic and well the vast majority, there is an exponentially increasing number of converts to other religions including Atheism.
I am realistic and know had I been born in an Islamic country I'd probably be Muslim, which is fine by me. Either way, I would come to know of God because His moral laws (not killing, not stealing, not committing adultery) are written in all human hearts.
Yes, I don't have all the answers as surprising as that might sound. I'm a young adult male still trying to figure out the answers to these questions. I'm sure even you have had to answer them at one stage of your life. Why is it so astonishing that I have difficulty in answering these questions? I'm an imperfect, flawed human who doesn't know all the answers or else I might as well be a divine being. That's part of why I'm here to figure out the answers to these questions, I don't see how being Catholic should have any influence on that, as it affects all humans.
Yes, I can admit that I don't have the capacity enough to keep it all together without a God in my life. It's how I feel and something I've personally tried myself - tried living without a God and then contrasted it to living life with a God. And in my humble experience, life without a God was confusing, aimless and a mess *for me* . I'm not saying that this is the case for anybody else. So yes, I need God in my life to keep it all together.
There's more to being Catholic than the children sex scandals. Yes, they were abominable and atrocious acts against the most innocent members of society but they were perpetrated by a "handful" (in comparison) of Catholic priests and bishops. You can't go around blaming the other 99% for what the 1% bad did. Otherwise according to that logic, all Germans deserve to die or be tortured for what they or their parents did to the Jews in the Holocaust. You can't go blaming the whole for what a portion did. The Catholic church is made up of a billion people, and I'm certain without a doubt the staggering majority found these crimes to be an abomination. So, I apologize if I did it earlier in my post but please don't generalize.
Great video! 😃
Steel-manning 101
#askmattfrad you always talk about how God is commanding you to be the person that you desire to be, so once we understand some of those desires how do you go forward? Can you give some tips on beings patient and open to God’s will?
I'd like to hear a Catholic perspective on the nature of human consciousness and its relationship to an omniscient Creator. (I am a Theist with a lot of questions on this subject)
If God by His omniscience knows all and sees all, shouldn't that also mean that God experiences all things as well? (For example in the book of Isaiah it is written concerning Christ: in all our afflictions, He was afflicted) The only way this makes sense to me is if God is consciousness, which would explain how God has two natures. Can God be conscious of being Himself and being us at the same exact time? I don't see why not. It would explain so much. The trinity, apotheosis, etc.
Also explains why God's name is I AM (Exodus 3:14) which functions as both a noun and a verb.
Christ has two natures, one of them being God. And if the church of Christ is the body of Christ, then that means everyone in the Catholic Church IS Christ and thus also has two natures?
Hi, Antonio! When we speak of God, we mean one being - God - with three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Trinity). God doesn't have two natures, Jesus does. Jesus is fully human (has body and soul) and fully God (He is the second person of the Holy Trinity - God the Son), but those natures are distinct and it does not follow God has a human nature; God has only divine nature. The Church is not Christ's body in a literal sense, but in a mystical one. Although I'd say even if it was literal, it still wouldn't make anyone suddenly have two natures, because body is an attribute of human nature. I hope this helps :)
6:02 best moment ever. the irony is, it made me laugh
Steven Hawkins probably feels differently about being an atheist now....just saying! Great video👍
+Vicky
I strongly doubt it.
I mean, do you have even *one piece of good evidence* that your god actually exists?
Vicky Rogers
_'Steven Hawkins probably feels differently about being an atheist now'_
Its comments like this that remind me how sick, nasty and perverted religion is.
how about what is the cause of all the things in universe?
+Andoniana
Um,... who are you asking? That doesn't seem to be a reply to either comment here.
Did you accidentally reply to the wrong thread?
Bill Garthright what evidence do you have that God does not exist? I have my beliefs so no need to try and convince you...or Steven Hawkins.
John 17:3. The meaning of life.
Cardona showed this to me
I'm not an atheist because I want to be. I'm an atheist because I want the truth of the universe. Unfortunately atheism comes with the territory.
even in the church it's survival of the fittest - God has left me wanting. I am a wretch and can barely live with myself/ Everything is meaningless and absurd. Halleluiah!
As an atheist, and as a human being, the entire concept of “I” can only apply to the present tense. Every metabolic interaction of my body and every experience in my perception constantly changes who “I” am. By the time I finish answering who I am, I’ll really no longer be identical to the person I was when I started answering.
The application of this understanding is that I am fluid, constantly changing, never fully settled until I cease to be. Even my understanding of this concept is open to change.
Dogmatic? Please.
Hey there.
I just wanted to point out that Matt and most other Christians and anyone else who believes metaphysics would disagree with you. What you say would be true by materialist standards i.e. the idea that we are only physical beings and our body is all that there is to us. However, if one accepts the metaphysical idea of the soul then 'you' persist despite changes in your physical body. That is not to say that our physical body isn't an integral part of who we are as human beings. Our souls are not the entirety of who we are.
Catholic philosophical thought says we are soul-body (form-matter) composites. The idea is that in as much as we change there is continuity between who we are from one second to the next. It's not that the old you evaporates and is replaced by a brand new you that just pops into existence millisecond by millisecond. The soul is what facilitates that continuity even as you change. The result is that you are different but you are still you.
I think this sort of hinges on the fact that the verb 'to be' is used to indicate both accidents and substances. For example, 'the dog is old' indicates something accidental about the dog i.e. its age. But, 'it is a dog' indicates something about the substance of the thing of which you are speaking i.e. what it is. The old dog is old and a dog but one of these things is a more substantial part of what it is than the other.. This is probably not the most eloquent explanation but I hope it helps you have an idea of how other people think about these things.
Kyle James I can speak on the metaphysical without the need to reduce it to material terms, even though I accept it is reducible to material terms.
There are many orders of magnitude that operate on separate principles and given our complete inability to apply materialistic physics to predict subjective states, it is utterly irrelevant to pretend that specific conclusions can be drawn about such concepts.
There’s literally nothing in the traditional context of spirituality that is any more amazing or mysterious than in a spirituality from a materialist perspective.
In fact, it’s probably more amazing and mysterious that subatomic particles could combine and interact in such a way as to provide a foundation for who we are, why we want, what we share.
From where I’m standing,, those who insist the metaphysical cannot be rooted in the material tend to have a metric fuckton of dogma that comes along with their assertions. 😀
Well, my understanding is that metaphysics was developed because there were things (such as my continued existence as me despite changes in my physical body) that seemed to defy explanation without conceding some existence 'beyond the physical'. Does that mean that given what we now know about the material world we can't go back and try to reduce the metaphysical to the physical? I don't think I know enough to have an informed opinion on that, but the one priest with whom I've had a conversation about this seemed to think that doing just that would leave unsolved the mysteries that metaphysics was invented to solve in the first place and you kind of end up back at square one. (Again, I don't know enough to actually evaluate that statement.)
I think I would have to disagree with you on what is awe-inspiring. I'm currently a chemical engineering student at MIT and contemplating God's love for us in dying on the cross inspires me a lot more than any of the stuff I've studied in school. (That is not to say that stuff doesn't inspire awe in its own way; it's just that in my opinion it's chalk to cheese.)
My opposition isn't so much dogmatic as much as it is a matter of my intuition. So if all human experience including the spiritual can be reduced to just a series of chemical reactions and neural impulses in the brain, one of the questions that naturally follows is the following. What if one procured a brain and was able to excite it in just the right way could one really say that brain is remembering, sensing, experiencing or feeling something in the way a human does? Or better yet, if one setup a neural network which mimics all the electrical signals in the brain is that network alive having a human spirit? There are a lot of similar philosophical questions people are asking about AI. My intuition say no. None of these things is the same as a human with a soul and spirit. These things are not reducible to material terms.
Of course, you don't have to accept that. But those are my thoughts.
Kyle James My point is that neither classical metaphysical concepts nor physics provides any answer that a discerning individual can consider both factual and utilitarian concerning the big questions.
We could be playbacks of a recorded consciousness. We could be the dream of a god. We may have completely wrong ideas about what “I” really is.
I’m pretty sure the mysteries and problems remain no matter what.
One question that I will offer up is this: if it turns out that metaphysics are entirely deterministic and can one day be predicted through knowledge of initial conditions... wow, I can only imagine what kinds of impact it would have on our outlooks to have such knowledge, to know that someone else has those predictions or to have them ourselves.
I guess some monotheists who believe in an omniscient god contemplate a similar thing.
robtbo I’m not sure that being a discerning individual means that you have to be an extreme skeptic. A healthy dose of skepticism is good; we should definitely be asking questions about the world and about the ideas we receive about the world. However, I do believe that we can accept as fact things that cannot be proven with complete rigor and by rational means. I don’t think it’s foolish to do so either. At least in my experience I can accept things as true even when they don’t make complete sense to me. The standard of truth isn’t our ability to prove it rigorously, but it is simply that it is true. Now, I guess the question is: how can you accept something as true without rigorous proof of its truth?
This probably has to do with my faith in the end. I find myself convinced of the truth of Catholicism and of the existence of God who exists ‘beyond the physical’. I really can’t explain the mechanics of this to you. This faith in itself is a gift from God and I thank Him for it. So I agree with you that mystery still remains. But as Christians we come to terms with that as opposed to struggling against it.
I understand you don’t accept these things as true but I honestly hope you can one day for in them and in Him are peace, joy, hope and love.
It was nice chatting with you. God bless you and I’ll be praying for you.
i appreciate this video, but i think you should replace "atheism" with "nihilism" or at least "mechanical world view"
i used to be an atheist, but i never believed i was a mere chance. because my world view was a hindu "dramatic" world view. i didn't believe in the supernatural, but i thought i exist because i am existence itself. i come from nothingness, i'm here to dance with life, and i'm going to turn into an ever increasing complex and beautiful music of life and light!
i'm pagan now, but i still love all my christian European brothers :)
Yes or yes? I did not directly share my original emotional viewpoint because it is heartbreaking to watch someone dim their fire for a select few. Especially since I was second guessing myself. Imagine if Matt Walsh of Dailywire toned down himself just because I sometimes do not like to follow his abrasive tone but agree with much of his information. He certainly would not reach the people he is called to reach.
kobe rowe has a ketamine addiction
Okay, so this might be messy but we r not here by 'chance'. Natural selection is not random. But yes, evolution explains how humans have evolved to what we r now. I'm sure most of u who accept science agrees with this.
As for the meaning of life- there is no objective purpose. But that doesn't mean u can't give urself a subjective one- nor does that mean it should have any less meaning. We r here- we have one life- u might as well enjoy it. U can claim an objective purpose however there is no evidence to back it so whatever u believe to be the objective purpose is really just ur subjective thinking.
I would love for there to be a heaven. But it's wishful thinking. As far as we know- u do only get one life. So enjoy this one rather than preparing for the next non existent one. Don't waste ur time with this religious crap- unless u actually enjoy it then be my guest. But don't do it out of fear.
Why does the Church not deny the beast?
LOL this is lit
Who are you, William Lane Craig??!
Wishing something is true [a meaning to life outside of the natural] does not make it true.
John, an atheist living in the real world :)
I enjoy you Matt Fradd, but I always think that arguing for God, because without God life is depressing is not terribly convincing. I'm a converted atheist. These sorts of arguments never meant much to me. After all, just because you want a thing to be true doesn't create the fact. It's a good launching point for a more in depth argument, but by itself it proves nothing.
Diane Druck , one thing that is true about you and me is by the time I read your comment I don't know if you're still alive, and the same is true for me if you're reading my comment. I hope that is enough for you to consider the possibility of God's existence, because you and I will both eventually die and we cannot argue convincingly against that.
I said I was a converted atheist. That means I used to not believe in God, but have since been convinced to the contrary. I was merely pointing out that wanting something to be true does not make it true. I.e. - God and heaven are lovely ideas, but that doesn't mean they exist. Matt Fradd is a student of philosophy. I'm sure he can find an argument without the obvious emotional fallacy. I've heard extremely convincing arguments for the existence of God by Bishop Robert Barron and Trent Horn if you're stuck.
First
Thanks Matt, the athiest answers to these questions remind me of a Douglas Adams novel, hilariously pathetic
God is Purpose of life. For to be tested to see what kind of person we are and on what level we are. Are those who take from them self and give to others even when they don't have, same as those who say I wish everyone good but never actually do nothing live selfish life's just for their own enjoyment, easaly judge other and turn their head when they see racism, suppression and evil or are even the ones who cause it. When you are asked Purpose of life and you don't know the straight forward grounded answer you should seriously get worried. Turn to God while you can life ends in a blink of an eye is really enjment the purpose? God who send down old testament, Bible and Quran tells us it's all one religion read just read and see don't let people who don't know the answer to purpose of life tell you what purpose of life is!!!
EUGHHHHH This video is at ""666"" Likes. SKETCHY
Settled Entropy I'm glad I helped move it up then...
daviecrocket fromzim Ahaha your right lol😉
Five questions we all ask? I don't think I asked these questions (although I probably _should_ have asked the fourth one, when I was considering my major in college!).
Where did I come from? My parents, of course.
Why am I here? My parents had sex. Duh!
Who am I? You're probably not asking for my name, I'm guessing, but... what _are_ you asking? At any rate, I'm a moving target. I'm not the same person I was yesterday.
How should I live? Um,... caring about the truth and about other people? Again, I'm not quite sure what that question is even asking.
Where am I going? Nowhere. Right now, I'm just sitting here. :)
If you're asking where I'm going after I die, I'll probably go the same place the flame goes when you pinch out a candle. But I don't have a "dogmatic" belief about that. I just see no reason to think that I won't be dead after I die.
_"If atheism is true, we have dogmatic answers to these questions."_
Do we? First of all, atheism is just the lack of belief in a god or god, so I don't know how you can even use the phrase "if atheism is true." Atheism isn't a truth claim.
Second, atheism has no dogma, so how can it have "dogmatic answers"? The fact is, atheists have no beliefs in common, necessarily, so... no, atheists have no "dogmatic answers" to these or any other questions.
_"You might disagree with me there."_
Yes. Here's the problem. You're answering those questions _for atheists._ But you're not an atheist yourself, so what do _you_ know about it? Even I wouldn't answer those questions for other atheists, _and I'm an atheist!_
Sorry, but I think the entire foundation of your video is foolish. Silly, even. If you want to know what an atheist thinks - _an_ atheist, since none of us can speak for the others - ask one.
Meanwhile, I'll keep asking Christians (and other theists) for *one piece of good evidence* that your god actually exists. Or *one piece of good evidence* that _any_ of the magic stories in the Bible actually happened. As long as I continue to get not even _one_ piece of good evidence that Christian claims are true, I'm not going to believe them.
PS. Obviously, I don't take those "Five Super Important Questions" very seriously. I really wouldn't describe them as "super important" myself! Admittedly, I might not know what you're even asking about most of them.
Bill Garthright, have noticed that you keep repeating how theists have just become theists due to their religious upbringing or because of - sans critical thinking etc. But I'd like to inform you however that that is not the case majority of the times..pls do research further into this topic cus you need to be entirely sure of something before you announce it out loud or you'll simply appear ignorant to those who are well read on such matters..a suggestion for starters would be to read up on saints' life stories or just other ordinary theists' stories..most of us weren't born just believing in Theism..personally I know of so many theists (through reading and from personal life) who've gone through the whole interesting journey from atheism to agnosticism to theism and sometimes even back and forth again and again until eventually standing strong on this rock (theism) again with solid arguments for it (again only after looking at the truth from all possible angles, I must add).
And since you've also asked for evidence, I'd say Christianity has more than enough of it..but let me start with the basics..here's something interesting for you- all the apostles of Christ were most brutally and cruelly (and I cant say this enough) persecuted and assasinated all cus of their preaching of the good news..they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity but they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses. And like I read somewhere (John Piper, I guess) it's not that the apostles were just willing to die for a lie but for the TRUTH, yes they were willing to even die for it!! And like a Saint (forgot the name) once mentioned that " it's difficult to believe in a Father up in heaven but it's not that difficult to believe in Jesus Christ " - truely Our Only Lord, God and Saviour! God bless!
Winnie
_most of us weren't born just believing in Theism_
Every Christian I've ever known - _every_ Christian, without exception - was raised in a majority Christian society and in an at least nominally Christian household. Now, yes, some weren't from particularly devout families, but they all celebrated Christmas, they all believed in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, and when asked about 'God,' they all just _assumed_ it was the Christian god, because that's what they'd been taught as children.
And if you look at religious beliefs across the world, you don't find Christians and Muslims and Hindus scattered evenly around the world, not at all. There's a reason why Afghanistan is 98% Muslim, while the Bahamas are 96% Christian and India is 80% Hindu. Believing in magic might be more or less uniform, but _which_ magic belief system normally depends on what you were raised as a child to believe.
_I know of so many theists (through reading and from personal life) who've gone through the whole interesting journey from atheism to agnosticism to theism_
First of all, my point still holds, since those people almost always return to the religion they were taught to believe as children. It's far less common that they switch to a completely different one.
Second, I'd be skeptical of claims like that, unless you know for sure that it's true. It's very popular among Christians these days to be a "former atheist." Lots of Christians make that claim, and some of them might even be telling the truth. But certainly not all of them.
When it comes to books, it's even worse. Books of Christian apologetics - like Lee Strobel's _The Case for Christ,_ for example, or Josh McDowell's _Evidence that Demands a Verdict_ - are written by Christians specifically for a Christian audience. Since Christians like to believe that the authors were atheists, that's what they say in these books. The whole point, after all, if to sell books to Christians, and Christians _like_ thinking that their arguments are good enough to convince people who don't already believe their claims.
None of this would matter, anyway, if you actually had evidence backing up your beliefs. But it's pretty obvious what's going on when you don't. (And if you don't want to believe that about your _own_ religion, try sampling Muslim videos on RUclips! They make the same kinds of arguments you guys do, only they make them for the religion _they_ were taught to believe as children.)
What about you? Are you the exception here, then? It's possible, though not especially likely. What religion were _you_ taught to believe as a child? Did you have no Christian friends and family members at all?
_they could've escaped death if they were willing to renounce Christianity_
Evidence? So far, that's just a very, very vague claim.
Name one. Name *one.* Who was it? What did he witness for himself? How do you know that? When was he killed? How do you know that? How was he killed? How do you know that? Could he have escaped death if he'd been willing to renounce Christianity? How do you know that? Vague claims aren't going to do it. Where is your _evidence?_
Keep in mind that countless people have gone to their deaths rather than renounce _other_ religions, too. Heck, Muslims are notorious for their suicide bombers. Does that mean _their_ religion must be true, since they _are_ willing to die for their religion?
The fact is, even if that were true, all it would mean is that some people are willing to die for what they believe. So what? We've seen this happen with pretty much _every_ religion. Does that mean they're _all_ true?
But you haven't demonstrated that it _is_ true. All you've done is make a claim - and a very vague claim at that.
_they didn't cus they were the actual first hand eye witnesses_
You can _claim_ that the donkey in the manger was the first eyewitness, but unless you've got evidence that your claim is true, why would I believe it? I'm sure that this is what you've been taught all your life, but I'm more concerned about whether or not it's _true._ That's why I'm asking for evidence.
Bill Garthright, don't always deny or invalidate others' personal experiences..the religious are religious because of their personal experiences with the supernatural and have experienced miracles that just cannot be explained using intellect or reason, esp the incomprehensible ones..this is where faith comes in..and there are many many of such cases that I know of (but you wouldn't believe it anyway cus you dont know them personally anyway) and this has helped me see the other side..the supernatural! Sometimes all it takes to have an inner shift into faith is either when we ourselves undergo such inexplicable, out of this world kind of experiences or when we have a beloved one or S.O who undergoes such..
Now for evidence based reading materials for the intellectual atheists, I know of these - try to look into the Shroud of turin research project, G.K. Chesterton's The Everlasting Man, "Paul Faber, Surgeon" by George MacDonald, The screwtape letters, The Pilgrim's regress and I dont have enough faith to be an atheist.
+Winnie
_the religious are religious because of their personal experiences with the supernatural_
Nonsense! Most are religious because that's what they were taught to believe as children. Of course, religions have carrots and sticks. If you believe, you get to live in magic Disneyland after you die, right? And if you don't, you're tortured for eternity in a lake of fire?
The problem with "personal experiences" is that they're indistinguishable from delusion and wishful-thinking - even in theory (which is why religious people nearly always have "personal experiences" which line up with whatever fairy tales they were taught to believe as children).
Evidence is how we distinguish reality from delusion and wishful-thinking. And since I _care_ about the truth of my beliefs, that's why I'm evidence-based. If you don't care about the truth of _your_ beliefs, if you just want to believe what you want to believe, then faith-based thinking will suit you fine. But it does _not_ suit me!
_Now for evidence based reading materials_
I don't want "evidence based reading materials," because... well, quite frankly, it's because I don't believe you. If you expect me to take you seriously, I'm going to need a sample, at least. Do you have *one piece of good evidence* that your god actually exists? Or maybe *one piece of good evidence* that _any_ of the magic stories in the Bible actually happened?
If not, why should I even take your claims seriously? Why should I waste even more of my time reading your favorite books? I've talked to theists before (most, but not all, Christian). They _all_ want to send me somewhere else to have _someone_ else preach at me. Funny, isn't it?
I ask them all the same thing I've asked you, for just *one* sample of that supposed evidence that you _claim_ to have (but seem to be unable or unwilling to actually say what it _is_ ). If you won't give me *one piece of good evidence* - I _don't_ want a Gish Gallop of vague claims - that your religious beliefs are true, why should I take your claims seriously?
Bill Garthright, the only way a faithful can explain 'evidence' to you is through their own life miracles. But since you won't buy into any of that, that's the reason why the faithful like us keep throwing at you references to other informations provided by scientists or theologians or archaeologists or historians etc (there are even many such non-Christian sources too and I quote that specially). Physical evidence is probably mostly seen in the case of the Shroud of Turin. It's a mystery that still hasn't been completely unraveled or might I dare say even a miracle to all those super brains that collectively set out to decoding it's mysterious elements but couldn't. There's a limitation to how much of such discussions one could have on RUclips about all of this..It's really only upto you to satisfy your hunger for the real truth of the matter, whether that is that all of this is a fake or not..but ultimately you know what would make all the difference? If even atheists had that complete surety regarding the real truth of all these matters.
What is the reason God exists? Why does God exist rather than not? If no one made him, are you not forced to dogmatically accept that he is the product of random chance? After all, you believe he exists for no reason with no cause. You believe the “why” question is silly and doesn’t apply. God just is. Because he happens to be. For no reason. With no cause of any kind; no maker, designer, parent, anything. Not even any process. And you believe that the chances of his existence were in fact completely equal to the chances of his non-existence, because you don’t believe that there existed any additional factors in reality to push the odds for existence in favor. You also don’t believe that God can have any purpose. No objective. Who could possibly have given him one? (Well, he could give himself one, as atheists give their life their purpose too, but we were dogmatically going to accept that they can’t have a purpose). If we need an external creator to bestow an objective and a purpose onto us, who did that to God, and if no one did, as you believe, then is his existence meaningless and purposeless and without objective?
Btw, some atheists (like youtuber philhellenes) would answer the first questions “I came from the stars” and “I am the purest light made solid”. And they'd be right. Scientifically speaking.