this entire post is pretty amusing. MikeE said he started the topic with the idea in mind of having a semi-serious debate about religions. Most everyone here hasn't posted anything substantially thoughtful or evidential, just opinions.
I personally am a Christian. I grew up in a Unitarian Church my whole life. A Unitarian Church is that in which the people of the congregation believe what they want. Some are muslims, buddhists, quakers, all types.
I became a Christian the summer after 9th grade for a couple of reasons. One, God revealed himself in my life in some major ways. Two, the evidence given for Christ; his life and resurrection, were irrefutable.
I am not going to sit here and preach to you guys either, so chill. As a Christian, it is frustrating to me when people preach without substance, and do it in an offensive way. For all of you that have been annoying, even hurt by Christians, sorry.
For those of you who hate Christians, especially when they try to 'convert' you (man I hate that word), let me try to help you understand why they do so:
1) First off, some may be blind, it is true. In some surveys and polls, 80% of Americans would claim to be Christians, but only 10% are active/knowledgable about their faith. So chances are, some people either dont know what they are talking about, or are over zealous while doing it
2) They think it is the right thing to do. The bible, Jesus, etc all command Christians to spread the good word of God. 'We love because He first loved us.' Anyway, you shouldn't be offended because to them, they are trying to help you, even if you don't think so.
As for other religions, I have studied them all in college and written 15 or 20 page papers on some. All religions are going to have 'flaws' in different people's eyes. The thing about Christianity that is so frustrating to people is that it directly affects them.
Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, they are all created by people who thought they were right. Personally I am %100 confident that what I believe in is right, based on experiences and evidence. But, don't most people who devote their lives to a religion? So, yes, I can't say with certainty that Christianity is true, or any other religion. But, I still have respect for other religions.
Cant remember, but whoever told about her friend always being annoyed by a Christian: that sucks. The Christian is yes, probably taking the wrong angle, but in the end it is because he/she cares.
If anyone has actual questions and not bashing, feel free to ask them and I will do my best to answer them. If you want to make fun of me and be really negative, that's cool too. Peace