I Wouldn’t Want a God Like That

Every once in a while, I run into a true atheist, but more often it’s someone who says they don’t believe in God, but haven’t completely rejected the idea of a “higher being.” (An Agnostic)

One of the first questions I ask them is this, “Please describe to me the god you don’t believe in.” This question almost always surprises them, so I give them some time to respond.

Generally, they will describe some personal experience with a Christian, or group of Christians who did not act very Christ-like. Or they, or a loved one asked God to heal a mother, father or sibling and he didn’t, deeply disappointing them. They may even point out “obvious” flaws in the Bible, or the church’s sinful treatment of people. “I wouldn’t want a god like that,” They say as if we mortals can ignore the true God, without terrible consequences.

When they’ve finished their stories, I’ll often agree with them. “That’s good news to me. I don’t believe in that kind of God either.” Trust me, no one can leave a statement like that go. They will always ask you to explain. Now you have a God ordained opportunity to explain the gospel to someone who just invited you to do so!