Funny that. I have met quite a few atheists who have been amongst some of the most unpleasant individuals I have ever met and many fundamentalists the most warmest and down to earth people I've met, which was part of what drew me into the church. Otherwise, I may never have made such a decision. I certainly wasn't born into it. I think however, that those seeking to find fault with the "opposition" will do so and conveniently forget the faults of those on their own side, whilst being hyper alert to the faults of those who are not. We've seen that on this very forum.

Yes I have certainly met some Christians who have been a poor example of Christ, and that was offputting to me and not something that ever encouraged me to come to God. Though, in hindsight, I had a bible and could have learned straight from Christ, rather than seeking an excuse by picking out 'bad christians' to put myself in the "clear".

However, there are many who are a wonderful example. I don't consider Christians out there telling people what they want to hear, watering down Christ's strong words, editing aspects of the gospel, tickling ears of their friends, or shutting up about Christ wonderful examples. They too could be considered "Christians" in quotes only. And I myself have come under that catagory more times than I care to admit. It is not easy at all to be strong and faithful to the word.

However, they will be much more liked by those who cannot stand fundamentalists It's far more comfortable to have "Christians" in quotes, than the real deal who both practise the gentleness, humility and kindness of Christ, but also reveal the reality of sin and consequences (of which is loathed by many). It is a rare thing to reach such a state, as most of us fail to be truly Christ-like. But efforts do not go unnoticed by God.

Christ said that we would be hated by the world, just as He was. The fundamentalists are typically the most hated and criticised of anybody and this should come as no surprise. In fact, one should probaby expect it. If Christ went through it, should we expect any better than He?

Whilst we're on this topic, One should also not forget the institutions/organisations out there offering constant help to their fellow man (free), that are Christian based. It is all to convenient for people on a mission to putdown fundamentalists to forget so much of the good, which far outweighs the "bad".

And many truly Christian people have been a big reason why I managed to survive my years of torment and sickness without taking my own life. Prayer, faith, and sheer determination did much for my survival and has for many people. I have friends who are not fundamentalists whom I have a lot of feeling for. But it is not always easy when things get onto certain topics and I feel the free and easy way they proclaim their worldly ideas, but somehow it's never ok for me to express the Christian ideas. Suddenly the atmosphere changes and it all becomes very very uncomfortable.

So basically we're supposed to shut up and go along with the world? Or do we do as Christ did and tell it like it is, regardless? Because the world does not go along with Christ and even He told us that the road to Heaven is narrow and few who are who follow it.