1. Question: If God is so great then why is the Bible packed with horrific stories about death and destruction? Why, for example, did God advocate the killing of the innocent and the slavement of men?
Answer: It is true, the Bible--especially the Old Testament--is not a book for a reader with a weak stomach. The mistake that readers make is two-fold: People think that the Almighty is always peaceful and loving. Not so. God is also a jeaslous God who does not tolerate sin. Throughout the Old Testament, God had manifested his anger on more than a few occasions. The same will be true for the future. Jesus first came as the lamb. On his second advent, he will come as the lion. It is then that the lion will pass judgement and wrath to those who rejected His call. If this doesn't fit the way you see God, adjust your thinking...don't adjust God.
Most people also underestimate the role of Israel. Throughout the Old Testament God would go to great lengths to protect His people physically, economically, and spiritually. Throughout history, many men, women, and children have suffered for Israel's sake.
2. Question: Isn't it true that a person's religious beliefs depends on where they were born?
Answer: The Bible is clear that ALL men are given the choice on whether or not to accept Him. Despite location and customs, a person is bequeathed from God enought light to make that decision.
By the time the Apostle Paul was martyred the gospel had taken root on three continents. Since then, thousands of men have spent their entire lives crossing the globe to spread the word. With the advent of the printed word, satellites, and the internet, NO one has an excuse.
3. Question: Isn't the Bible full of contradictions?
Answer: Bible contradictions are usually the result of man's ignorance. Some are minor details that is no way compromise the major tenets of Christianity. Besides, if every detail or story in the four Gospels, for example, were exactly the same, nay sayers would doubt its validity even more.
4. Question: Why does bad things happen to good people, especially children?
Answer: Although it's hard to understand even for believers, God allows Satan dominion over this world. Bad things happen to everyone. Why God choices to intervene on one occasion and not another is perplexing. Believers accept the fact, however, that all things are done-- or are allowed to be done -- for a reason. Believers also know that this life is very short-- the Bible describes it as a "vapor"-- and that heaven should be our true focus.
5. Question: Why should I join ranks with the judgemental hyprocrites that call themselves Christian?
Answer: It's true, many so-called Christians don't always behave like the Bible instructs. Living the Christian life is not always easy. Staying on the right path and doing God's will is something that demands my constant focus. Jesus should be our example and focus, not the actions of others. Don't let the behavior of others spoil God's plan for you.