The Reason They Can't Convert

[@BrianHoldsworth]

What have you found has worked to bring people over the finish line? Thanks for your support: brianholdsworth.ca/help

[@annb9029]

I’m still trying to get my Dad to convert he is hard headed

[@BigDaveSolomita]

I found that I’m good at planting the seed but less good at sealing the deal. I have to be content at breaking the counter arguments and sewing the seed and just praying for the person. Don’t be afraid to speak topically, and to share the Christian worldview in normal conversation. Seeing how we approach the world without the pressure of conforming at that exact second can shape how they look at us in the future. Lastly, just know as I’m sure you do that most aren’t going to Heaven and the Holy Spirit is the one responsible to change hearts.

[@naturecalls3465]

@@BigDaveSolomitait is very hard to accept that many more are going to hell when it is family that not listen to reasonable points I make about Christianity.

[@drjanitor3747]

Why convert? Modern “Catholics” deny the dogma of no salvation outside the church so what does it matter.

[@daniellejarvis157]

Getting engaged LOL! I've been engaged twice (married once - still am!), and both guys converted

[@classicalteacher]

I grew up anti-Catholic and earned my undergrad degrees at a very anti-Catholic University in Bible and Music. I persecuted Catholics. My University had unwritten rules that they won't hire Catholics. I taught there. After studying the Bible and music history, I had to convert to Catholicism. Like Saul, I had my Damascus Road experience. I was fired from my job when a student's mother discovered I was Catholic. I lost my family and friends too. It's not easy. In fact, I've struggled for 15 years. I hope for my reward in heaven.

[@Trumblocity]

I'm sorry they did that to you. I hope you can find peace and friendship.

[@iamterico]

I admire you. Courageous. Keep the Faith! I also relate

[@miguelinteriano125]

You will have your reward in heaven for sure 👍 God bless you

[@daniellejarvis157]

To him who much is given, much is required. I am SO happy that you were called to the Church, and pray that my dad (83) gets that call. I'm not sure he would be willing to give up on his pride to submit to God, which breaks my heart. I am truly joyed to the core of my heart to hear that you braved all that to heed the call. Please pray that my dad can be as brave as you have been.

[@MartinvonTours11.11]

Find a new Catholic family at the parish! I was the only Catholic in my family until one brother was at the bottom of his life with so many horrible falls and sins who in his desperation called me up and asked me if he had to be Catholic in order to be saved. I told him, yes, If was perfectly contrite for all his sins, but that it would be easier to be contrite with the help of confession and the Eucharist. He became Catholic and still had many struggles with his sins, but he would go to confession and he did receive Holy Eucharist shortly before he died.

[@WhatIveLearned]

Pop culture has had a lot of influence. It’s funny how Ned Flanders in the Simpsons is the embodiment of “lame” in the show but he’s happiest, fittest and most conscientious character

[@lucidlocomotive2014]

Are you Catholic? I’ve loved your stuff for a while

[@joebaker7368]

I have to say, I’ve followed your channel for years. Hope all is well and can’t wait to see what you’ve been up to.

[@johnchrysostom330]

@WhatIveLearned Wow, you got videos from hundred thousands to million views.

[@marge2225]

Simpsons not scripted by Christians. Just saying.

[@NTNG13]

They also depict Catholic Heaven as a huge party with Jesus there and Protestant Heaven as a sterilyzed and americanized golf club.

[@Hysterically_Accurate]

Remember: Converting people isn't your job. It's the Holy Spirit's job. Your job is to plant seeds.

[@TheAnbyrley]

This 100% is much more effective.

[@luigimrlgaming9484]

Correct.

[@marydumois4242]

The Holy Spirit uses us to convert others. Jesus literally left us the Great Commission. It’s a bit of a cop out to sit around expecting the Holy Spirit not to use us.

[@anglishbookcraft1516]

@@marydumois4242you’re misunderstanding. What he means is if you give the person the information with care and understanding, you can’t make them convert. The truth will have to marinate inside the person until the Holy Ghost either convicts them or they use their free will to reject it

[@luigimrlgaming9484]

@ Yes, but you’ll hit a wall if they’re unwilling to admit they’re wrong or stuck in their own logic.

[@kyoshi5868]

I sometimes attend Mass and wish to be baptized, but fear of opposition from my family and my own laziness prevent me from moving forward. Please pray for me. * I never expected to receive so many responses. Thank you for giving me strength. May God bless you all. ✝

[@freedominion7369]

🙏✝️

[@shouldhavedonebetter]

You've got very little to lose, and much to gain. You might be surprised at your family's response.

[@RinaRomo]

@@shouldhavedonebetter​​⁠​⁠I think you mean you have a lot to lose, I say that in a loving way because not becoming a catholic would mean that they lose out on the fullness of faith, being in communion with Christ, being a child of God and in my opinion that’s losing a lot out of fear. Yes it’s scary to not have those around us agree with us and our belief but isn’t it much scarier if at the end of your life at your judgment you end up separated from God for all eternity due to being scared. That’s a much greater fear, Jesus said to deny ourselves pick up our cross and follow him and that sometimes means losing people around us who don’t share the same views. But we are called to be bold. OP- I am praying for you and I hope you come to know the fullness of being a catholic! 😊

[@nicks.5552]

@kyoshi5868 I don’t envy your dilemma. But even if your conversion is rocky, have hope for healing over time. Who knows, you may even inspire your family to convert!

[@MoliFrancis]

JESUS is our permanent family . We are here with our earth family for short time . Go prepare yourself to meet your Saviour by belonging to the Church HE founded, praying for you ❤

[@tylerwerthmuller2005]

Growing up baptist for 25 years and being confirmed on this last easter was one of the hardest things I've ever done. Eucharist is so good

[@daniellejarvis157]

My friend was raised in an anti-Catholic Baptist family, and she has no regrets about converting, except that her family doesn't know the truth like she does.

[@alessandro.d]

I've beeing praying for the conversion of a Baptist friend, now entirely secularized because of the environment surrounding him (he lives in France and he's under contract for a far-left municipality, the vast majority of his friends aren't practising Catholics at all and One of his siblings has recently been the producer of a gay movie). So you can imagine the pressure that surrounds him. Now he's even scared of wishing me Merry Christmas. I have no idea what else I could do other than praying and fasting. Anyway, I'm afraid it's not going to work even though I brought him to a TLM with me twice (he had done everything the other parishoners did, except taking the Eucharist, with great respect and reverence).

[@maverickandmerciless9437]

​@@alessandro.d first of all, STOP WORRYING. You are doing tremendous things for your future brother in Christ. Yes, he's already here, it just hasn't happened yet. You just haven't trusted Jesus enough, to put you at peace. If you keep praying and fasting, it will happen. If, for some reason, he still doesn't come back, like the prodigal son, then he never intended to follow Jesus. Jesus can't bring him back if he rejects the grace of God.

[@MichaelBet-q1v]

As a life long Catholic I never understood what the Eucharist embodies. I knew it was important and comprehended the words, ".....this is the body of Christ (Novus Ordo)" but never embraced Jesus Christ's presence in the Eucharist. As a person who grew up Roman Catholic and has two college degrees this is an humiliating admission. Today I know Christ is present in the Eucharist: I will never touch the body of Christ with my hands, I will always acknowledge that our Lord and God is there, I will never receive having mortal sin on my conscience, and I will not receive have someone other than a Roman Catholic Priest or priest in communion with the Roman Catholic Church. I'll speculate that a convert like you is a better Catholic than I.

[@patricedenis42]

Very true brother i saw it in France too

[@peaceturtleinfinity]

I was raised Catholic, left the faith and came back. Some people seem to be almost…afraid of me when I proudly stand by my faith. It’s not something I mean to do…it’s strange.

[@brunofuentes7915]

I don't know you but I know I am not afraid of you.😃

[@EspressoMonkey16]

I know what you mean! If you can unapologetically proclaim the faith people are afraid of it

[@Sperminski]

They are not afraid, they just know you're cooked.

[@rokasdobrovolskis]

As if they cannot control you anymore. If you are a real Catholic obviously, not some watered down "cultish" naive individualist protestant.

[@suew4609]

@@brunofuentes7915But, are you afraid of being in the Church Jesus founded for our salvation, which is the Catholic Church? It’s easy to be Protestant or nondenominational, because they just throw out what they don’t like, like divorce. Jesus clearly teaches that divorce is wrong, yet most “Christians” think it’s okay. Not the Catholic Church, though, we practice the same faith that was taught from the beginning.✝️

[@davidademola3770]

I noticed atheists have no problems with Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Judaism, Islam etc. but when it comes to Christianity the demons seethe.

[@annb9029]

Right

[@HannahHarbourDeep]

Hundred percent

[@FakeCrisRealTyranny]

Your statement is falsely totalizing. Richard Dawkins and the late Christopher Hitchens deplored Islam.

[@brendaramzvel8962]

True

[@joeoleary9010]

what egoistic nonsense.

[@PaulCJakubik]

For myself, I have not been given the gift of persuasiveness through talking, my thoughts do not translate into coherent and fluent speech when compared to someone like Brian. I have had to accept that this is not what God has planned for me. Instead, I try to live my faith and bear witness to others through my actions not words.

[@jackieforestieri3010]

I’m the same, and have concluded the same as you!

[@ireneklassen9905]

Actions speak louder. Because actions that don't match your words, are s huge turn off. First act and explain if asked.

[@kevinrtres]

This is my understanding of Christianity: God created heaven and earth and put mankind in charge of earth. Mankind was in a perfect - sinless relationship with God - and basically destined to live forever - until mankind sinned ( Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden ) and reaped the curse that God promised for their disobedience. God also promised a Saviour at that same time when dealing with their sin. Since then, all of mankind have sinned and fall short of God's glory ( His absolute sinlessness versus their spiritually deadness ) and hence all who sinned deserve the punishment of the eternal lake of fire. The only way out of that eternal lake of fire is to somehow regain an absolutely, completely, totally SINLESS state - so as to be in God's presence forever. BUT, BUT, BUT - once one has sinned there is no way to rid oneself of that burden and be completely sinless again - no amount of good works, no amount of piety, no amount of compassion showed towards one's fellowman, no amount of self-denigration or any other human effort can solve the human sin problem. Only God can. Only the working of the Holy Spirit on the human heart can do that - by giving the human being a spiritual rebirth - so that they can truly believe that Jesus paid the FULL penalty on the cross for their sins and that God will expunge that record of sin and give the sinner a new heart and mind so that the sinner will now want to do God's will instead of the sinner's own will - this is known as repentance. God will impute Christ's RIGHTEOUSNESS ( basically sinlessness ) onto the sinner so that the sinner then gets to have a justified standing before God. That's the only way out for the sinner - via Jesus. That's why Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life - no one comes unto the Father except thru me". It's not about having a better life or having your troubles go away - it's about having peace with God - a peace that only God can give - such that God's wrath is turned away from the one on whom God has had mercy. Only after that has been achieved does the bible say - we have been destined to perform good works. This is why it is clear that what Brian says has no bearing on having peace with God - all his words does not address that issue and the solution to the problem. Note - the sinner is basically at war with God and GOD is the only one who has the power to offer peace. The sinner can try with all his/her might but cannot offer anything to God to placate the wrath that is to come. God has to take the initiative, not the sinner - and God has done so corporally and is now reaching out to sinners individually via the preaching and teaching of others - "how will they believe unless they hear and how will they hear unless someone is sent to preach/proclaim the good news?"

[@kevinrtres]

@@jackieforestieri3010 Are you ashamed of speaking up about what you believe? Whoever is ashamed of Jesus - of that person Jesus will be ashamed in the time of judgement.

[@johannaholmgren8088]

​​@@kevinrtresIt isn't a matter of being ashamed. I struggle as well with speaking about my Faith and although I also do not think I'm an evangelist like Brian Holdsworth and the Apostles and others, I speak when I can no matter how doltish I sound. Even if it is only to defend when someone attacks the Church or its teachings. Usually the Holy Spirit comes through in those times and keeps me from sounding like a complete idiot. Mostly however, I just work on living my Faith. That's quite enough of a statement these days. And many MANY of the early Christians (the ones who were tortured and died for the Faith) did not evangelize as auch. They simply lived as the Church commanded, and when they were accused of being Christians, they refused to recant and then chose death over abandoning the Faith. Actions DO speak louder than words. The Apostles evangelized fir the Church. The Martyrs died for Her.

[@marcelw6045]

It wasn’t until an awful divorce that I started praying the Rosary, something for which my pride had to be destroyed first before I could pray with brokenness to our Mother. And it saved my life.

[@kevinrtres]

This is my understanding of Christianity: God created heaven and earth and put mankind in charge of earth. Mankind was in a perfect - sinless relationship with God - and basically destined to live forever - until mankind sinned ( Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden ) and reaped the curse that God promised for their disobedience. God also promised a Saviour at that same time when dealing with their sin. Since then, all of mankind have sinned and fall short of God's glory ( His absolute sinlessness versus their spiritually deadness ) and hence all who sinned deserve the punishment of the eternal lake of fire. The only way out of that eternal lake of fire is to somehow regain an absolutely, completely, totally SINLESS state - so as to be in God's presence forever. BUT, BUT, BUT - once one has sinned there is no way to rid oneself of that burden and be completely sinless again - no amount of good works, no amount of piety, no amount of compassion showed towards one's fellowman, no amount of self-denigration or any other human effort can solve the human sin problem. Only God can. Only the working of the Holy Spirit on the human heart can do that - by giving the human being a spiritual rebirth - so that they can truly believe that Jesus paid the FULL penalty on the cross for their sins and that God will expunge that record of sin and give the sinner a new heart and mind so that the sinner will now want to do God's will instead of the sinner's own will - this is known as repentance. God will impute Christ's RIGHTEOUSNESS ( basically sinlessness ) onto the sinner so that the sinner then gets to have a justified standing before God. That's the only way out for the sinner - via Jesus. That's why Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life - no one comes unto the Father except thru me". It's not about having a better life or having your troubles go away - it's about having peace with God - a peace that only God can give - such that God's wrath is turned away from the one on whom God has had mercy. Only after that has been achieved does the bible say - we have been destined to perform good works. This is why it is clear that what Brian says has no bearing on having peace with God - all his words does not address that issue and the solution to the problem. Note - the sinner is basically at war with God and GOD is the only one who has the power to offer peace. The sinner can try with all his/her might but cannot offer anything to God to placate the wrath that is to come. God has to take the initiative, not the sinner - and God has done so corporally and is now reaching out to sinners individually via the preaching and teaching of others - "how will they believe unless they hear and how will they hear unless someone is sent to preach/proclaim the good news?"

[@kevinrtres]

Please reconsider exactly what it is that Roman Catholicism represents. For instance consider this - the rosary contains this line: *Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope* Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@ecclesiastes1175]

Why didn't you pray while you were married? People seem to have epiphanies when their lives are ruined. Happy people tend to not convert but broken seem to in droves. Why is that?

[@yoeyyoey8937]

@@kevinrtresIt’s not idolatry. The virgin is a goddess

[@m_d1905]

​@@yoeyyoey8937 No Mary isn't a goddess. She is the Theotokos. She is revered in heaven and on earth. Catholics do not worship Mary.

[@khatack]

That final step is incredibly difficult. I speak from experience. You don't do something like profess your faith in a living God that died on a cross for your sins lightly. Many Christians take their beliefs for granted but very few actually recognize the gravity of their beliefs.

[@jessehermann7266]

How few?

[@FourthExile]

@@jessehermann7266obviously hard to pinpoint but yes many are Christian in name only. You have to actually do the will of God rather than pay lip service to him. Lip service is easy, many people to easy things, few do hard things. Mt 7:13-14.

[@an8790]

It's so irrational and contrary to our culture. I had a hard time with the last part too. I prayed for confirmation, I declared that I was ready to beilive fully, I had a realization that Jesus was God, and later an intense dream which were more of a vision, where he showed himself, the night after the realization. I came to christianity from realizing, in meditation, that God was a deliberate, caring and personal God, and that existence had deep meaning, that it isn't meaningless (a popular new age beilief).

[@joekey8464]

Jesus: "If you love me keep my commandments" Obeying God is difficult for most people, its a narrow road, not a wide and an easy road to travel.

[@khatack]

@@jessehermann7266 like, three and a half', give or take ^^

[@Catholiclady3]

My family just gets defensive when I talk to them about it, but I openly live my faith in front of them. Now I just pray and wait for God to work.

[@alisterrebelo9013]

Coming from a Jewish family?

[@patricedenis42]

Your family is more willing to accept the fact if you are lesbian, bisexual or trans but have a real issue if you become christian. What a wonderful world . Keep fighting and pray for strength. Brother in christian from France , same fight same faith.stay strong sister

[@kevinrtres]

Maybe they believe that praying to Mary is idolatry and they don't want to partake of that? The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@alisterrebelo9013]

@@kevinrtres The peace of Christ be with you. 1- Mary is the Queen of Heaven, Revelation 12:1-5. This reflects the historical fact that the Queen of Israel is the King's mother, not his wife, 1 Kings 2:19, 1 Kings 15:13. 2- The statement is, Mother of: - Mercy, - our life, - our sweetness, - our hope In each case, Mercy = our life = our sweetness = our hope = Jesus. Mary is not deified, but it a false accusation. Denying that Mary is the mother of Jesus, where Jesus is Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope, is a denial of His Incarnation into flesh.

[@alad5926]

@@alisterrebelo9013 The person you're replying to has been posting this same thing over and over in the comments. I'm afraid your excellent explanation is in vain. He or she is not interested in discussion, just in agressively trolling Catholics...

[@paulus809]

i will be the first catholic in my family for generations. Jesus loves me, so i dont care what any human thinks.

[@alisterrebelo9013]

I pray the Holy Spirit seals your conviction and may you finish the race!

[@JohnnyGambit]

I pray for your journey! He most certainly does 👏

[@kevinrtres]

How about thinking for yourself, then??? Read the bible and if anything that the Roman Catholic church advocates doesn't square up with it, then ditch it. The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@alisterrebelo9013]

@@kevinrtres The peace of Christ be with you. 1- Mary is the Queen of Heaven, Revelation 12:1-5. This reflects the historical fact that the Queen of Israel is the King's mother, not his wife, 1 Kings 2:19, 1 Kings 15:13. 2- The statement is, Mother of: - Mercy, - our life, - our sweetness, - our hope In each case, Mercy = our life = our sweetness = our hope = Jesus. Mary is not deified, but it a false accusation. Denying that Mary is the mother of Jesus, where Jesus is Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope, is a denial of His Incarnation into flesh.

[@palsenka5755]

@@alisterrebelo9013 well said , thank you

[@carakerr4081]

I have been a Christian for 11 years a prayer warrior. This year I reverted to the Catholic Church and for the first time the people I’m praying for to convert are opening to me. I think it’s because now I am receiving the Sacraments and just living my faith and letting Mother Mary and Jesus convict my loved ones hearts to draw them back To the Church. As a Protestant I was not receiving the Sacraments and my faith was not as attractive to non believers. I pray daily 3 rosaries for the conversion of the whole world to the Catholic Church thank you and God bless you 🙏

[@tonimilstead5089]

Good for you! God bless you 🙏🙏

[@rebeccadanvers884]

You nailed it. Faith is a gift, prayer is an essential tool.

[@brunofuentes7915]

Praying the rosary to who? To God?🤔

[@WineSippingCowboy]

You were always Christian ✝️. By definition, the Catholic is the first Christian. Welcome 🙏

[@Antonia_D]

Excellent! The FULL daily Rosary brings miracles!

[@RealMJSr]

I am a cradle Catholic that turned atheist (fairly militant) for 15 years and recently went back to Christ. Went to confession last year and then mass on Christmas Eve. Not everyone is completely lost.

[@carakerr4081]

Praise God!

[@bethanyrose2023]

Amen.

[@Velakowitz]

Sir Roger Scruton helped me on the way and journey to becoming Catholic. His writings on aesthetics were very important for me.

[@jacobhayes4085]

Any specific works you’d recommend?

[@christendomempire5657]

Though this is the same guy that made the ignorant comment saying the church is the enemy of Art.

[@roblemeire9441]

@@jacobhayes4085 Beauty, Culture Counts, The Soul of the World.

[@BrianHoldsworth]

Me too!

[@AliciatheCho]

@@roblemeire9441His writings on beauty absolutely paved the way to my conversion.

[@09bamasky]

I’m a psychotherapist and have studied human nature, development, and the nature of change for several decades. One of the worst things a therapist can do is to disclose to their patient an opinion (though, this is inevitable) in the hopes of persuading them. Firstly, this way into insight comes at an enormous cost: that of discovering something on one’s own, and coming to such a discovery in a way that is deeply-rooted and won’t just as quickly be lost (think of the parable of the seeds that fall on rocky ground?). Secondly, as was mentioned in the video, people have well-established defenses. Until you thoroughly understand those defenses, and learn how to work with them, you’ll likely never get anywhere. I’m also a cradle Catholic who left the Church in the 90s . . . but reverted and caught fire for Christ (in 2023!). Converting others is an extremely sensitive and difficult matter. I hope to bring the gifts God has graced me with to be a good evangelist, in time. In the meantime, I am so thankful for channels like this one, for helping to illuminate the truth and draw all of us closer to His face!

[@missys7823]

I was an ex Mormon that married a Catholic. It took me 7 years to convert, even after I realized he was right. For whatever reason, I didn't have faith.

[@FranzBazar]

You could state it more simply, it just comes down to PRIDE. The first and worst Sin. This is exemplified by Jordan Peterson better than almost anyone else. That guy is so enamored with his own brain, and so consumed with pride that it blinds him and prevents him from converting even when he’s seen miraculous recovery with his wife after all her Catholic prayers!

[@brunofuentes7915]

The nerve to assume that someone recovered because "catholic prayers". After all catholic doctrine is full of assumptions.

[@jackieo8693]

I'm sure if she keeps praying for him, he will eventually be humble.

[@ad6417]

Excellent point. He's a textbook cerebral narcissist and there are others like him roaming around Catholic Tradition.

[@cyano741]

The way you speak of others, whom you know nothing of, I will pray for you instead. Be careful with what you utter, as it affects you, not him. That mans path is his own. Why are you all so eager to condemn people you do not pray for. The way you speak of him, it is as if you pray for his downfall. That is heartbreaking, for you, not him. He will meet his maker where he is, all of us will. So will you. Be careful.

[@albertfuertes2794]

Simple: because Catholicism needs to be lived, not just understood.

[@kimfleury]

I try. But I'm not going to live someone else's false idea of what Catholicism requires. Fake or misguided conversions are fruitless. Living a lie because it's what someone thinks is what it means to be Catholic is just ridiculous.

[@maxlewis234]

I do this as an atheist, I feel in tune with theists of a similar nature and feel no need to hash out our intellectual disagreements. It simply doesn’t matter if faith is about a way of life than it really doesn’t matter what god is does it?

[@jacksoncastelino04]

​@@maxlewis234I do not agree with You

[@SimpleFluorescence]

​@@maxlewis234Not exactly. For instance, if you were a single person who said to a married friend "oh yeah, intellectually I'm where you're at. I read a lot so I get the sacrifice of marriage, I totally understand your ups and downs intellectually, I comprehend the struggles 100%. So I don't really need to yoke myself to someone to feel it." Mightn't you maybe say that that person is lacking something of the *essence* of marriage? That they are actually deficient in a major way, despite having all wisdom and expertise? It's like that with Christ. He wants a relationship, not merely an assent of the will or some kind of gnosis. Far from being a trivial part of faith, I think you'll find that this is often the hardest part for people to accept.

[@HoldFast-r7g]

​@maxlewis234 true, we'll never entirely appreciate and understand what God is, it's often easier to know what God is not than what God is. He's not an old grey bearded man in the sky sitting on a cloud. That artistic image has done much harm to people's perceptions. Look up Leah Lebresco conversion story, a forner atheist blogger that converted. She found her way to God via the study of logic and virtue.

[@PaxAlotin]

*The best way to 'convert' someone - is to lead by example* Christ noted that when it comes to faith - there are two types of prayer --- those who prayer publicly - making a big scene - while others - pray in the quiet of their room. These two approaches reflect two ways of spreading the word of God - one - outwardly loud & the other inwardly quiet and peaceful. It is rare for a person to accept both styles. Each has their place - with each drawing in people of similar feeling - producing converts that follow along a similar path. As Christ said - there are many rooms in my father's kingdom.

[@john-paulgies4313]

"Take heed that you do not your justice before men, to be seen by them: otherwise you shall not have a reward of your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 6:1) "You are the light of the world. A city seated on a mountain cannot be hid. ...So let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (5:14-16)

[@an8790]

One thing I noticed in my own life, is that when I overcame the fear of others judgement, I wasn't called to be brave as much as I had in mind after that. I expected to be someone outspoken and bold, daring, but I am usually not given the chance. And I have come to realize that what was important was the transformation on the inside, of my spiritual character. I am not a gifted public speaker, I am not very good at debates, but am called to do his will through my talents. I, however, never lie about what I believe, but I think it's important to remember that things such as what you speak of, leading by example, is also a way. Become successful at anything through God, and people will eventually scratch their heads and try to piece together your ideology. Artists aren't called to speak about God in front of great halls, but to channel Gods beauty to the canvas.

[@chipcook5346]

Yes. In our world, that is the appropriate way. It's obnoxious and counter productive to do the street preach routine I was taught as a child. Never once have I seen that ancient routine work -- thought I am certain it does in the right circumstances. But I will say that I tend to announce that I am not just Christian, but Catholic, rather readily since I moved to a seriously Protestant part of the country. It's not a dare dare. It's a dare to conceive of Catholics as people, as Christians who are not hostile to their Evangelicalness.

[@kevinrtres]

"Faith comes by hearing. How will they HEAR unless someone preaches/teaches...how will they preach/teach unless they are SENT?"

[@AmoGus-wq6ve]

@@kevinrtres already done hearing. My "faith" came by fear of hell/damnation, so when it was annulled so was faith

[@Chamindo7]

I very rarely support anything financially I see on KZbin. You have absolutely been worth the monthly donation. Thank you for helping me as a new Catholic. Deus Vult

[@ColePyle]

This dude is gonna go places he's a top notch creator.

[@brunofuentes7915]

Either heaven or hell could be one of those places😂

[@MichaelBet-q1v]

Feel like I'm taking a college course whenever listen to him speak

[@hexahexametermeter]

He's a hack.

[@Unmatched44]

Getting baptised this april as a cathoilc. Started being a Jesus enjoyer when i was in middle school after leaving hinduism. I can wait to eat the bread that is his flesh. I have craved it my whole life.

[@RitaGatton]

Congratulations!

[@suew4609]

That’s wonderful! So happy for you!❤✝️

[@guest4888]

God bless you! Welcome home!

[@stephenhoggarth3012]

Without God’s divine intervention, we are unable and unwilling to come to Him, to turn away from sin. His gifts of grace and faith enable us to live our lives to God’s glory. Praise God, because he sustains our faith and keeps us from falling!

[@brianbridges8124]

Faith is what you use when you do not have sufficient evidence unfortunately. That aspect of christianity is what makes it indistinguishable from.a false religion that realizes it falls short on its extraordinary claims and so encourages people to stop using their critical thining and questioning and just bow down and go along with it anyway. There is so.ething so incredibly sinister about that aspect of religion to me. If God wants to actually give me so.ething sufficient I'll be here waiting 7 days a week 24 hours a day. The ball is in his court.ive called out many times for him to answer and its been many decades.

[@ninjason57]

Sounds like calvinist predeterministic nonsense. God has already divinely intervened with Jesus. Jesus said he would draw all people to him if he's lifted up. God desires all people to repent and be saved. Atonement might be limited, but not because God decides to save some and not others. People choose to reject God.

[@amyblount4332]

Yes…we have to invite Him in. God is a Gentleman and knocks at the door. 🕊🎄🙏🏻

[@BigDaveSolomita]

In my case, I came out of the military full of hate and hate for God. It was when my oldest daughter was born that I realized I had to change. She was a mirror and I hated what I saw. I needed to be the father that she deserved but that wasn’t going to come from within me. It was a “God, what I’m doing isn’t working. This is on you now”. To gush a bit, since I came back to the Catholic faith, my son who is six wants to go to mass every day.

[@DavidGBlair]

What is the military doing to indoctrinate young people now? My own son came out of the USAF with the hatred you describe. Very scary for the future of the country

[@RitaGatton]

Congratulations!

[@michaelirish1445]

The Irony of actually following Buddhism (authentically) is the respect for life that is very similar, to Christianity, but most Western "Buddists" have a misty eyed, feel good, ingnorant following of that Religion, they are no more Buddist than a Catholic that goes to Mass only on Christmas day. By the way it is a Religion, not just a philosophy, if you disagree don't ask a Priest, ask a Buddist Monk. The Point is if the West knew what Buddhism stood for I think it would be attacked by the west similar to how the Christian religion is attacked.

[@juanittaariassuarez3517]

What makes you say that? What does buddism stand for?

[@savinggift158]

Buddhism leads to quiet dispair

[@Tetradepodmelontea]

Buddha did told "A man without religion does not differ from animal". Though he did not see his path as equal term as religion. For him, religion was social and cultural ways of doing thing the right way, Dhamma. Respect elders, men, brahmans(he was very critical for brahmans, almost anticlerical and for women , very red pill actually. He based his views on monastic life rather on being free from care for family and not to obey wives wishes for comfortable life, rather than nobility and beauty of own man's chastity. He saw true brahmans as someone's who actually spiritual and non violent.

[@chrisxdeboy]

Nietzsche had a point about Buddhism.

[@michaelnewsham1412]

Having lived in Taiwan for 35 years, and other countries in East Asia before that, and having many friends and relatives who are Buddhists , yea, many 'philosophical' Westerners pick out the 'good parts' and ignore the rest'. However, one problem is that Christianity is a religion based on historical events. You can believe in Buddhism without having to believe in miraculous happenings about Buddha and other Buddhist figures (though many do!); belief in at least the Resurrection is required in Christianity.

[@charlesdoca7145]

I have a good friend who is an atheist and I pray for his conversion daily when I pray the Rosary. I also pray for a Catholic friend who needs his eyes opened to the sinfulness of abortion and homosexuality.

[@kevinrtres]

The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@rokasdobrovolskis]

He is not a Catholic then. It's not a label or a stick on your forehead.

[@Mexican_Jedi]

@@kevinrtres Mary is sinless.

In other words, to be converted to Catholicism. The Pope needs it too.

[@bookishbrendan8875]

I never formally entered until this past Fall, and I’m now set to be confirmed and baptized come Easter. But I’ve been wanting to be for the better part of five years. Only reason I didn’t sooner is because my wife was always antagonistic towards religion. We are now in the middle of a divorce, and as hard as that is, I now can freely pursue it. Everything happens for a reason.

[@rosaliemarshall9640]

Oh dear. Divorce is especially a problem in the RCC; far less accepting than in the wider culture. On the other hand, if you didn't marry in the Church it'll be easier to marry as a Catholic if you want to marry again. That's because the RCC doesn't recognize other marriages, in a theological sense.

[@rosaliemarshall9640]

I hope it all goes well for you.

[@bookishbrendan8875]

@@rosaliemarshall9640 As it should be. Divorce is horrible. My priest, however, said I can apply for Pauline Privilege, given that both my ex-wife and I were atheists and unbaptized when we married.

[@FigaroHey]

@@rosaliemarshall9640 Oriiginal poster, ignore this person's comment. She clearly does not know Church teaching about the validity and even sacramentality of marriages between non-Catholics. Whoever is instructing you in the faith should be able to clear up what your status is (whether the Church sees your marriage as valid or not). Two baptized Christians have a real marriage in the eyes of the Catholic Church. If you were NOT baptized but were married to a baptized Catholic whom you are now divorcing - there's a special rule about your status once you are baptized. If you were unbaptized and your spouse was unbaptized, there's nothing at all to worry about: as far as the Church is concerned, that's basically the same as living together. The ONLY thing you need to concern yourself about is if the previous marriage would be viewed by the Church as a SACRAMENT either at the time you married or de facto after you are baptized. Ask a well-informed priest.

[@theresamc4578]

@@rosaliemarshall9640 A legal divorce is no problem for the RCC. The RCC recognizes marriage in other faiths. It is so serious about marriage that it does not allow a remarriage of a Catholic if there was no impediment to the validity of the first marriage. That is what a church annulment is for. Remarriage without an annulment is considered a sinful choice and causes disunion with the Church. Divorce is not the problem.

[@emilywallace9043]

I have something of a push back. When you speak of losing friends because of your faith I think that’s a valid concern. However, I had a friend who converted away from Catholicism to Orthodoxy and I still wish her well but we are no longer friends. I’m sure from her perspective it’s because of her new faith, but from my perspective she just stopped caring about me the person and cared more about proving me wrong. She argued with me on everything, even topics we agreed on. To the point that I just don’t know how to talk to her anymore. Having experienced this I wonder how many who convert to Christianity act in a similar way and when their friends fade away they adopt a kind of martyr mentality about, without considering that they hurt the people they loved somehow. I think sometimes in our zeal we can actually push people further away.

[@AliciatheCho]

That unfortunate. The righteousness can be a spiritual trap for the newly converted. I wonder if she wasn’t as confident in her conversion as she wanted and proving you wrong was an attempt to reassure herself.

[@m_d1905]

That's a fair question. It probably happens often.

[@michaels4255]

If your social life revolves around your local parish community, obviously that will become your main social circle. It is mathematical. Some people do indeed get "dropped" from their former social network because of their new faith, but people can also drift apart for entirely benign reasons.

[@brain1fluff]

It happens with everyone, on every topic. Someone starts a new diet, exercise program, a new philosophy, they go on and on about it. That person is trying to ingrain an idea within them that isn't quite second nature yet. All the world is seen with this new lens. When they have spent more time with their new way of life, and it's become part of them, they'll calm down.

[@racheljames7]

I have noticed this trend amongst the Orthodox. They tend to be very arrogant and are just out to poach Catholics into their denomination, not because they believenits good for the person, but because they want to see score points. Not all Orthodox, but too many.

[@YaakovGewargis]

While I understand Brian’s point about some people not being ready to convert, it’s not for us to decide whether they can or will convert. Matters of the heart and faith ultimately belong to God. Our role is to share the truth and trust that God will work in His own time and way. I wouldn’t go so far as to say they can’t. It’s not for you, me, or anyone else to decide that. Conversion is a deeply personal and spiritual journey, and who’s to say what someone may encounter or how their heart might change over time? Let’s leave room for hope and grace-after all, transformation is often unexpected. Suggest changing the title to something like, "Why We Shouldn't Decide Who Can or Can't Convert"

[@TheTradDadShow]

Keep praying rosaries for them everyone

[@joshuarivera2422]

And this is why i will never comvert. Better to just say pray to Jesus for them.

[@joshcap03]

​@@joshuarivera2422 try it out. The Lord is so good. I'm praying for you ❤

[@jacksoncastelino04]

This Is why I will Pray​@@joshuarivera2422

@@joshuarivera2422 When you pray the rosary Catholics are praying to Jesus.

[@kevinrtres]

The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@friedawells6860]

I really relate to what Brian said about the quality of friendships after converting and meeting friends who love for love's sake. The mentality of the world is very transactional. It came as a shock to me after I converted that I could be loved simply for who I am (a person created in God's image) regardless of what I have to offer others. I can still hardly believe it, but it's true, and it brings so much peace. It also creates space in my heart to love others regardless of if they can do anything for me.

[@gusjeazer]

I am becoming Catholic right now, coming from Protestantism. I get some opposition, but I don't care. I fell in love with the catholic church. My culture is pretty agnostic and even atheist. Being part of the Catholic church helps me being strong in Christianity, because if they come to me arguing against my faith, they are arguing against all of the church, they are arguing against Jesus himself, and his body. And when they do, I don't have to defend my own views, I defend Jesus, and his body. And I have all the resources of the church, all the community on my side. Because I don't just believe Christianity, I am a Catholic. That's who I am.

[@kevinrtres]

Seems like you fell in love with the ROMAN Catholic Church!!!! Not the WORD of God! The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@rokasdobrovolskis]

❤

[@lellachu1682]

​@@kevinrtres You dishonor Christ by using His Mother to slander His Catholic Church. We are assured by Scripture that Mary is indeed Queen of Heaven. Jesus is the king of Israel and the heavenly king of the universe. The Davidic tradition of Israel recognized the mother of the king as the queen mother of Israel, the Gebirah. Scripture reveals that Mary interceded in Jesus' first miracle at the Wedding at Cana despite it not being His time. Revelation 12 reveals, "A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head... She gave birth to a son, a male child, who “will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.”

[@MMC-jp1gl]

"Humility is Fear of the Lord and Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom" says the Psalmist. Lost ALL my friends when I converted to Traditional Catholicism. Have been alone in my blood family for years in this and hope that my chronic illness will be the venue for their conversion. God bless~

[@ramiroofaragon9323]

I'm as Protestant as they come, and although I hold major doctrinal differences from any Roman Catholic, I applaud Brian for being an unabashed Christian in a secular age. God bless you, good sir. I truly pray for believers like you. Especially in these times. 💛💫✝

[@oldgreg6977]

Come home 🙏

[@TheConfusername]

@@oldgreg6977 While I'm sure your wish is kindly meant, I suspect he is "home" already. God calls different people in different ways to do his will.

[@kylelay6858]

What are the doctrinal differences? Legit question.

[@JuliexSteadman]

@@kylelay6858 they have a different idea of how to be born again i believe... i think it is by belonging to the catholic church, its not how protistants perceive it... they believe that mary is sinless and that we can pray to her and she can mediate between us and Jesus, but Jesus is our high priest.. there is nothing in scripture to say that mary is our mediator...

[@bakters]

@@JuliexSteadman I'm an atheist, but I think the Catholics are correct here. If you treat scripture seriously, mother Mary had to be sinless, because Jesus did not baptize her. Regarding mediation, it's just a consequence of a broader concept of communio sanctorum. The protestants consider it restricted to only living members of the church, before that it used to mean all the members of the church. Which kinda makes sense, if you believe in immortal soul. That's the logic of it, as far as I understand it, but do your own research.

[@richardbethencourt1083]

What kind of gift you have! This episode is just so in point. So much we are told to share the truth, but opening friendships and community to people is key in every case. Thank you!

[@afterlate8866]

You are right. Humility is the first and every step. It helps us leave our false ‘self’ behind and truly BE ourself as we were intended to be from the very beginning - not as we become, walking through the valley of darkness. It requires constant prayer and making ourself aware of the constant occasions during the day when self-love wants to take over.

[@HannahHarbourDeep]

I try to be an example as others have said. I used to be a secular progressive so I know that trying to convert is a waste of time. How to get people to understand the limitations of humanism. I have a hard enough time trying to make sure my own Church doesn’t try and make the Christian faith into a type of social work.

[@RitaGatton]

You could speak to the leaders of your church and tell them what you would like for the church to emphasize.

[@annakau1]

I fully went back to Catholicism after I heard Jesus voice clear and audible talking to me through the Eucharistic host. He is Real and Catholicism is the Real Church.

[@brunofuentes7915]

Jesus is real. Jesus is the Word of God, not a piece of bread. Jesus Christ is the true bread of life. Bread is not Jesus Christ.

[@TranscendentII]

​@brunofuentes7915 Jesus shared bread with his disciples at the last supper, pay attention to what He said while doing it: "Take and eat: this is my body" Matthew 26:26. Jesus is present in the Eucharist and Scripture supports this.

[@PaulDo22]

@@brunofuentes7915 Jesus is God made man. He is NOT a book that you worship.

[@JuliexSteadman]

..do you read your bible...

[@PaulDo22]

​@@JuliexSteadmanDid the early Christians "read the Bible"?

[@vivacristorey4363]

One thing I would say is that people are convinced differently depending on temperament and personality. Those who are very introspective are more likely to take religion seriously. It does not make others less proud. The introspective show their pride in other ways, such as being like the Pharisees. I am speaking generally.

[@marygr8064]

Based on the wide range of comments here, I’m more convinced that faith and being Catholic is an act of grace from God. We should invite our family and friends to a full knowledge of Our Lord Jesus through direct action and how we live our lives. But, in the end, it’s God’s call through the power of the Holy Spirit.

[@FSR431]

The current pope has a great aversion when anyone brings up proselytization or conversion to the faith. The entire Catholic Church and all faith in Christ from the time of the apostles is built on conversion. One great step the Church must take is to go back to preaching the eschatological reality of faith and life.

[@elizabethsheplermusic]

So beautiful!! 🙏🏾♥️🙏🏾The Pearl of Great Price is worth every suffering, loss and sacrifice!! (For anyone who is on the fence!) Being Catholic is pRiCeLeSS!!

[@טמוציןבורגיגין]

I don’t think a man in the moral caliber of Dr. Peterson or Murray would stay away from Catholicism, or any other religion, out of fear or embarrassment.

[@cyano741]

The amount of judgement that man gets from Catholics, or people of faith, is not tarnishing his soul, but theirs. The fact that they can't see it hurts them, not him, is baffling. I can only see love for God emanating from that man. Every step he takes towards God is a well thought out and truly sincere one. He is careful not to say or do something that would offend Got out of insincerity. If that is not love and humility, than what is. A lot of human beings can learn something from the way he walks towards grace.

[@jamesorrock8897]

Repentance - the hardest thing you can do in this life but the best thing a person can do here on earth before dying. 😮

[@wordsmithington8270]

Thanks!

[@chommie5350]

I know Jordan converted in his mind.... But he's putting out there that he's fencing because he is being used by God to speak to non converts because they will listen to him instead of an already converted Christian.... God works in mysterious ways.

[@Nora-ky5bt]

I thought that might be the case. Makes sense

[@caomunistadoggo4129]

nice thought

[@katierebeccajackson]

I agree.

[@JenniferMiller-sx1xn]

Jordan confessed Jesus is God. Look it up. His wife recently was confirmed. So I don’t know why he’s being spoken about here .

[@jamesonrocho8359]

Thank you for all you do it really speaks to my heart as someone who came to the Church in my 20s and find it hard to stay faithful to our Church in these times. You are a blessing. May God Bless you.

[@speggeri90]

I’m a scandinavian Lutheran Christian, but I have big respect for the Catholic Church. Edit. What Brian said about his old friends is very familiar. I also lost basically all of my old friends after I converted and stood proud as a Christian and joined the Church. Like Brian mentioned; you feel like these so called friends seem so conditional and restrictive, you are accepted as long as you perform in a particular manner, and you feel like they could just quickly turn on you if you change and face your eyes to Christ in heaven. I didn’t personally have any conversations or arguments, no insults or outright hostility. Just silence and avoidance. But i’ve never been more alive and actually happy, and I was born again in Christ Jesus already many years ago. God bless you all.

[@Grandlett]

If you're a Lutheran you're not in The Church but just a church started by a man

[@philsdon8932]

When it hit me, (suddenly) that I was reverting back to Catholicism, I gulped. Holy Moley! I would no longer have the respect of friends or even my children. It's lonely, but worth it. Scary? You betcha.

[@AliciatheCho]

I’m also struggling with this as someone who was agnostic before becoming Christian.

[@MomJeansReads]

I’m struggling with conversion myself. ❤

[@brotherandrew3393]

The reasons are ignorance, pride or cowardice. Sometimes all three of it.

[@FigaroHey]

And very often, the unwillingness to give up sin. But usually people who don't want to give up sin won't even have an honest or intelligent conversation with you. They will just be abusive, rude, belligerent and insulting or try to get as far away from you as possible if they don't dare treat you with open contempt and hatred (for example, if they are your employee or student or there's some inhibition because you're in the numeric majority in a group).

[@Thatoneguy-pu8ty]

*Knowledge of Scripture

[@owenfavro1619]

I gave up the RCC when I was 13 yo right after I was 'confirmed', in '72 I found Jesus in a Pentacostal church in California and in the Navy and I have never ever considered going back, interestingly, when I returned home after being discharged I had many fruitful conversations with my then still RCC relatives, I am happy to say that the majority of my relatives have converted to some form of 'Christian' denomination, Praise His Name

[@minimaxmiaandme.4971]

Catholic is where it is at......such a rich, beautiful history and practice. Convert from the Anglican faith 5 years ago......best decision of my life.

[@williammcmillan7502]

Few are chosen, so few are called. One must first be chosen in order to hear the call.

[@reinedire7872]

Well said. I think a big problem for a lot of people is intellectual pride. They see sense in the ideas that extend from the faith, but they have a heck of a time taking that final leap toward actual faith.

[@tylermabey3828]

Definitely agree. Its something I've struggled with myself and occasionally still struggle with; I often have to remind myself that my so called intelligence isn't that great and it doesn't compare to God's in any way shape or form. When you have been taught atheism for most of your life, (especially with how they teach against religion now) it can be very hard to break a lot of those habits and take that final step. But personally I've found some comfort in knowing theres a plan for me and to just keep taking steps forward however big or small, and I think thats the biggest help for those people struggling. Keep encouraging them with small steps and eventually the big step wont be so big.

[@stpierreorama]

While I can appreciate Christianity as a source of wisdom, morality, psychological and symbolic truth which leads to strength, resilience and a deeper meaning I also think of it as a bit of an ideological totalitarian belief system which has contempt for other cultures, religions and ideologies. It’s a bit of a tribal totalitarian religion. I just have a hard time accepting that the entire world should be one religion. It’s hard for me not to think different cultures should have their own mythologies and theologies.

[@tylermabey3828]

@ I see where you're coming from but let me see if I can show you a different perspective. For this example we're going to assume that Christianity is true. (Again for the sake of the example, so you see the Christian perspective) Christians believe that God created everything. So God created all the peoples of the Earth. The righteous are given salvation and eternal life, whereas the unrighteous are cast into Hell. The Christian requirement for Salvation is repentance and true Faith and Belief in Jesus Christ, that he died on the cross to pay for our sins and then rose again from the dead 3 days later. It ultimately comes down to Christians want the whole world to be Christian so that everyone may be saved and enter into New Life and Salvation with Jesus Christ, so that they may escape the eternal torture of Hell. This example is simplified a bit but I think its a decent representation of the main goal of Christianity which is to spread the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ and how he paid the ultimate price so that we may be redeemed. Hope this helps to give you a new outlook on Christianity and I encourage you to investigate it further. God bless!

[@maxlewis234]

@@stpierreoramayeah I feel the same, if we can agree on the same feelings without agreeing on some complete concept of a creator entity, should it really matter? It seems like there is an idea that you should accept what I accept because if you feel the same at all you should take some leap of faith, but without giving a good enough reason why it really matters

[@stpierreorama]

@@maxlewis234 one of the things Jordan Peterson said that changed the way I think is something like, “Belief in god is not mindless adherence to a set of semantic principles, it’s letting the spirit of truth and meaning reside within you” I also think of the quote from someone that goes like, “Blessed are those who seek truth, beware those who think they’ve found it” The thing is it seems most people who say they’re open to different religions and want to learn from them all typically don’t dive deep into any of them to gain its true essence. And those who dive deep into one religion don’t bother to learn in depth about other religions. It’s important to be able to learn to a degree where you can actually empathize with adherents way of thinking before going and criticizing it or having contempt for it. Most have a natural bias to their culture and religion/mythology and we have been tribal for most of human existence. It’s why it’s so dangerous to be part of an ideology that claims to have the one and only truth. We need to find a way to convert contempt into compassion while still unapologetically preserving our respective cultures. A balance that is idealistic but why not reach for it?

[@gracelovesme-r3j]

If remaining 'friends' with a person depends on what religion a person follows, then needless to say, any such friendship is not worth having. Why should it matter what faith a friend happens to be? Friendship is with the person, not their religion.

[@challengable]

I eventually renounced my Episcopalian roots ,(back to 1610), and joined the true Church. First, I was in AA extensively. A Catholic priest helped the founders start AA. One of their sayings is But for the Grace of God, there go I. Personally, this is the primary reason I joined, His Grace alone. Therefore, I tell my fellow humans about the only true Church with the faith that it is not my witness that will convince lost souls, but His Grace.

[@magdaw3123]

how do you know that it went back to 1610?

[@challengable]

@@magdaw3123 family ancestors lived in Jamestown, Va.

[@Frank-f1i9l]

He's saying his own roots in Episcopalianism/Anglicanism, presumably through his family line, go back to 1610.​@@magdaw3123

[@RitaGatton]

Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

[@challengable]

@@magdaw3123 ancestors lived in Jamestown Va

[@parler8698]

I used to mock Christians. Now, I am one and I'm loud about it. God truly humbled me.

[@AzureSymbiote]

Fear and pride are the primary reasons. Accepting the faith means accepting they've been wrong all along.

[@migueldejesus5945]

Love this one because it wasn’t about Protestants vs Catholic vs Orthodox, but about what it costs to submit and follow Christ and what He offers once you stop your ‘rebellion’ and surrender to the king of the universe. Good message

[@catholicguy1073]

I agree with much of what you said. It’s only in a technical term that I am a revert to the faith. In truth I consider myself more of a convert because I was more or less Agnostic for 15+ years

[@crazyb1ch]

For me, family is more important than anything else. It wouldn't matter what God could give me in the after life. If I have to walk away from my family, all of it becomes worthless.

[@tianamenezes7548]

Pride. It's not so much about atonement for the sins in their past as much as it is about the difficulty of submitting to the authority of the church for their future. Someone like Jordan Peterson, who has built his career on analyzing society and finding the meaning to things on his own, will not be convinced easily that the magesterium has more wisdom than him. That's why only an apparition from our lady or Jesus will seal the deal.

[@alisterrebelo9013]

Jesus, Tammy and the Rosary.

[@erlendgars]

I returned to faith last year, after I did not find an explaination of the resurrection last year and found a kind of revelation through prayer. At that moment I wholeheartedly believed that this story and religion is true. Which made me realize that it would have to change my life in so many ways, and will change my ultimate destiny on life on earth. It was very daring. I have met a lot of people through church that I appreciate, but I have also lost connection with others. This also leads to doubt, and I still have some issues with the religion. At the end of the day my end hope is worth more, and with this we continue to develop in faith. But it is understandable that people feel scared of going out of their comfortzone.

[@jpenaflower6595]

It may be hard, but when the truth is in your face, converting is the only smart thing

[@LisaKnobel]

I find that surrender is the stumbling block. They can not imagine a world where they don't have complete control. I had a friend who's life was falling apart due to addiction. And, he thought it was fun to entertain demons. He would say he believes in Jesus and then in the next sentence say that Jesus was a magician. But, when I would mention surrender, he would lose it. That was a bridge too far. Eventually, i figured out that I was just entertainment for his demons. I have lost touch with him and pray the Lord Jesus gives to Jerry whatever the Blessed Virgin Mary is asking for him.

[@swordofthelord7104]

Have you seen Fr. Paul Murray's video entitled "What is that Knocking? Poetry, Beauty, and the Shock of Grace - Fr. Paul Murray OP"? Supremely beautiful! I love the description of Christ's "dew wet hair". Let Him in!!!

[@jrpmclane8115]

Thanks Brian. There is nothing more genuine than when you have walked the talk yourself. Much food for thought, keep up the great work, it is so needed in our ‘woke’ society. God bless.

[@jingleheimerschmidt326]

I tried to convert to Catholicism, but was effectively blocked by my wifes divorce that she went through years before I met her with an abusive ex husband. As part of the church's annulment process, they would have to reach out to that man and my wife refuses to allow that to happen. She is protestant but was supportive of me becoming Catholic because she saw the changes it made in me, up until this point anyway. I had absolutely nothing to do with that divorce or her ex-husband, but because of that I cannot enter the church. On the outside I have been supportive and patient and understanding, but on the inside I am devastated and torn apart. This meant so much to me, and if I had known what telling them about that was going to set in motion I would never have said anything at all. None of it involved me, so I shouldn't have involved the church.

[@SeekersTavern...]

Fully agree. I've been thinking this for a while now, the intellect can take you to many different places, it's just power. It's your will that decides how it's going to be used. It's totally virtues like humility, desire for truth, hope, faith, love etc that actually get you to the truth, it's not intelligence. That's why almost no one changes their mind during debates, no matter how smart they are.

[@williammcenaney1331]

Sir Roger Scruton, my favorite political philosopher, converted from atheism to Anglican. He said he needed to choose between Anglicanism and Catholicism. He even joked that Anglicanism lets people believe anything, and nothing. Naturally, I don't know why he didn't become A Catholic. But his thoughts suggested it was partly because his conservatism helped attract him to England's State religion, Anglicanism. If you're like me, you love opera and other kinds of high culture. If you love them, please consider reading Culture Counts and An Intelligent Person's Guide to Moidern Culture.

[@roblemeire9441]

Nevertheless, to my taste, Scruton always kept a distance. It seemed like a joke. And I'm a big fan of Scruton.

[@williammcenaney1331]

@@roblemeire9441 Maybe he was like Mortimer Adler, who said he didn't want the duties that come with Catholicism or maybe Christianity in general. But I remember seeing a photo showing Sir Roger playing his church's organ. That reminds me of disappointing news, though I wonder why. I'm an opera buff who gave up popular culture years ago. Anna Netrebko, the famous soprano, sang le loveliest rendition of Andrew Lloyd Weber's Pie Jesu I've heard. So, it pained me to know she was an atheist. A musician can sing or play well enough to make listeners cry when to the performers, music making may be only a technical skill. That makes me hope Sir Rogeer played devoutly.

[@AliciatheCho]

Scruton was the man. Thanks for the book recommendations.

[@williammcenaney1331]

@@AliciatheCho You're welcome. I hope you'll enjoy them if you find Tim for them.

[@jillnovak5359]

I totally agree. I'm listening to tan books podcast on the confessions and it took Augustine a long time to finally finally let go to his concupiscence and say yes to God fully. I am a convert and I do recognize the reality of having to not be concerned with what others think when making the decision to enter the church.

[@feartheghus]

You speak of pride as a reason that people fail to convert, or the fear of social and material consequences. You have on your thumbnail people like Jordan Peterson and Douglas Murray, neither of whom have reason to fear material and social losses. I don’t understand your point and had clicked on this video hoping for a poignant message I hadn’t heard before about the difficulty in bringing in people like them, as my own qualms have nothing to do with a social worry or anything like that either. Instead we got a very simple statement that people don’t like to do costly things, which is true but also self evident and not relevant to the figures shown in the thumbnail, instead being relevant to many average people in a way that has been discussed a thousand times already and was simple to understand the first time

[@mayhereign7873]

"Live a good life. If there are gods and they are just, then they will not care how devout you have been, but will welcome you based on the virtues you have lived by. If there are gods and they are unjust, then you should not want to worship them. If there are no gods, then you will be gone, but will have lived a noble life that will live on in the memories of your loved ones." -- Marcus Aurelius

[@lwittrock1]

With regard to Pen Galette, he made that comment to push off Christian’s because he wasn’t interested. It’s the old “Christians are hypocrites” argument to not believe. He knows the truth and now we need to continue to pray for Pens salvation.

[@smoothsketch]

Pen sounded like he was patronizing, with Pen presenting himself as wise and recognizing the Chrsitian meant well but Pen pats them on the head and sends them on their way, as they are not as wise or sophisticated as Pen to know better

[@MommaCaitlin]

Brian, I have always appreciated your discourse and your honesty. Thank you!

[@samthemacman]

I am an Evangelical Reformed Protestant. As gracious as your engagement is, your belief system is false and you proclaim a false gospel. This presentation in effect is one of the blind leading the blind. The last thing any atheist needs is Roman Catholicism.

[@vivacristorey4363]

I don't entirely agree with the sentiment from the magician you mentioned. The reason is because society just doesn't work like that. There are many people drinking themselves to death. I care not just about those doing so who I know personally, but even the ones that I have never met. Some people are good at bringing up these subjects and others are not. That is why St Paul said that we are all members of the body of Christ - not one being better than the other, but each necessary. But I do agree that we should do something to care for them. This can be done by praying for the conversions and by supporting Catholic evangelical ministries. I am not choleric or charismatic. I am a shy melancholic introvert who is extremely socially awkward. That doesn't mean that I don't care about the souls of others.

[@DaBigArmyDude]

You have Sir Roger Scruton in the thumbnail, he was Anglican. We need to separate forms of non-Catholic Christians from people who aren’t Christian at all (Jordan Peterson, et al).

[@jessehermann7266]

Well scrutton chose race and culture over religion. Which can be a major problem

[@MichaelBet-q1v]

I understand you statement but isn't it better that a person convert to some sort of Christianity rather than not believe at all? Couldn't accepting some type of Christian faith be a step toward Catholicism? Or maybe religion works like a light switch that we either belong or we do not.

[@jessehermann7266]

@MichaelBet-q1v yeah I think you're right only God truly knows our hearts. But I think the best place to be is the catholic faith. The sacraments are very important

[@stephenbailey9969]

Very well presented. When Paul went before the rulers of his day, he didn't speak in the abstract. He talked about his own personal experience, making the gospel real. Every believer has a personal testimony to give. One hopes that our actions and our words are united to give glory to Christ.

[@RishPanjeetJr]

This all especially hits home for Muslims/ex-muslims. It can be intensely dangerous for them to walk away from Islam; those that do would back up your sentiments 100%.

[@FigaroHey]

I'm currently instructing a man from an extreme Muslim country where it's a crime to become Christian. He's very intelligent, personable, has respect for the good of his cultural traditions, but is quite articulate about the short-comings both of Islam and the evangelical Christian group he originally became part of (they couldn't answer his honest questions from the Bible and asked him to leave because their inability to answer was undermining the 'faith' of the others in the church!). This man is very impressive on so many levels (just on the moral side, the Muslims I've taught have been astounding and a great example to Catholics who are too lax about confession and sin). We have great conversations... and then at some point the conversation wanders to the consequences of what he's doing, of what would happen to him if the secret police from his country found out about his actions in this country (not naming the country for his safety). It's hard to absorb the fact that we will be able to take pictures of the other people being baptized and welcomed into the Church when he is, but not him, that we won't be able to put his name or picture on our FB page or website to celebrate his baptism because it could put his life in danger, but even more, the lives of his relatives in his home country. This is a lovely man; married to a Catholic, a doting father, highly qualified in his career, great sense of humor, truly cultured, intelligent and well-read, hard-working and an asset to the small, rural community where he lives with his family. And there's this shadow of knowing that as long as he holds citizenship in his country of birth, he could be put in jail or even killed if he ever goes back or they find out that he is married to a Christian and let his child be baptized - and was baptized himself. He can't give up his citizenship and become a citizen of this country, as he'd have to go back to his country to do it and abandoning the country would be counted as treason, and if any information was revealed about his wife being a Christian, he'd be killed. Awareness of his danger hits me like a punch to the chest whenever it comes up. How many cradle Catholics would take that much risk? It's not a risk you take for a crutch or a soothing myth or a load of nonsense - something that atheists cannot address honestly. If you could lose your LIFE or endanger the lives of your loved ones, and you are not insane or evil, and you convert anyway, there's only one explanation: you're convinced it's true and worth the risk.

[@konberner170]

So if everyone is in dire danger from following the "wrong" religion, then everyone should be constantly pushing other people to covert to the one they think is "right"? Sounds like an amazingly compassionate and practical approach to religion.

[@williamreymond2669]

My opinion about Jordan Peterson, for what it is worth, is that he fulfills the same role that C.S. Lewis did evangelically for Catholics as an Anglican, as a spy deep in enemy territory, in Peterson's case he is our agnostic spy deep inside the land of atheism. What was Lewis' opinion of his position relative to Catholicism?? What is Peterson's opinion of his position? Somebody could ask him, but as far as I can tell he is doing more good for the Catholic faith on the outside than on the inside. Look, J.P. has been very close to death several times in recent years so it's not like he is plunging recklessly forward heedless of his ultimate end. Maybe we should let him be himself for a while and let Tammy do her gentle work on him.

[@garyspencer-salt4336]

Agree

[@SimpleFluorescence]

This is the fairest take I've heard from the right of JBP. Many of us are quick to call him a grifter for his regular cribbing of Scripture to use as a scaffold for his secular (and liberal) worldview, but he does serve a useful purpose. And I don't mean to instrumentalize him; I genuinely hope he finds Truth for the sake of his soul. In the meantime, if there are young men on the fence about religiosity or traditionalism, let them be led by JBP towards us.

[@EspressoMonkey16]

I hope you guys are right about him. I've come to see him more as a wolf in sheep's clothing since he started working for Ben Shapiro

[@alisterrebelo9013]

​@@EspressoMonkey16I've come to faith in Catholicism from Atheism thanks most to JBP. I've been his fan since his cave dwelling days when Bill C16 was just off the ground, got his books went to his shows when he visited Australia. Trust Jesus, the Rosary and Tammy's faith.

[@williamreymond2669]

@@EspressoMonkey16 Thanks for the reply. One thing is certain about J.P. he is scrupulously honest - and funny - that indicates good moral character. I've been relistening to his original Psychology of the Bible series that he recorded back in 2017 which has absolutely blown open my understanding of the Scriptures and has really deepened my understanding of both the Bible my faith - love it. On the other hand I have noticed, and maybe this is what you are picking up on, he is a bit different since his illness, when was it that he disappeared for a year? 2019? 2020? Since his illness he seems to have been more combative, though he could always be a little sharp-tongued, and a little less well regulated, and can't quite pull of the amazing feats of linguistic prestidigitation of his pre Benzodiazepine self.

[@pambeals3254]

Brian, one of your best and most insightful videos. Continued grace in our Lord Jesus Christ!

[@southpawhammer8644]

The word that should be used is witnessing. The majority of Christians understand the meaning, and it's not hard to explain to those who don't. Tell people about the work that Jesus did in your life, that's not too bad. It does get a little clunky when you try to explain all the sacraments and dogmas, but that can come later.

[@BriscoJr.]

I love that you're evangelizing in a way that beckons and welcomes people into the body of believers, but also that they know up-front that there is a cost to discipleship. If people won't trade everything they have for everything Christ offers us, either they don't understand Jesus or they don't understand themselves yet. We all have people that we're praying will get there.

[@bonbondurjdr6553]

The issue with Peterson is that he won't convert and then make up a whole different philosophy about Christianity. That bothers me greatly.

[@LegitimateMan]

It’s hard to be humble

[@bonbondurjdr6553]

@@LegitimateMan what do you mean? :3

[@SimpleFluorescence]

​​@@bonbondurjdr6553 He means that JBP struggles with pride, as many of us do. Perhaps his celebrity and renown make this hard, or perhaps his paymasters incentivize his intellectual pride for their sake, but whatever the cause, JBP exhibits a lot of the same symptoms of people who won't convert due to pressures (real or perceived) from others in their life.

[@mden2490]

Peterson is a good man and has helped many come back to the Church. Though I believe he over analyzes the words of gospel, and always tries to over intellectualize everything. Do you really think God would make it this difficult to understand the gospels and follow him. Peterson has an ongoing internal struggle that he is dealing with, and it’s called faith. He seems to have the reason part, but he just can’t seem to let go and allow faith to lead the way.

[@Catholicity-uw2yb]

If Catholics and Protestants stopped spending so much time and energy arguing with each other and hating each other and devoted themselves to actually living the life of Christ, loving and serving their neighbor, the whole world would be converted. The actual teaching of Jesus is hardly ever discussed and seems completely irrelevant to these KZbin “stars”.

[@slanz1]

You have to submit wholly to God. It’s hard to give yourself up. To really do what Christ wants. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow me. Satan promotes self over God. Faith gives us the freedom to allow ourselves into Christs mission.

[@elizabethsheplermusic]

“It’s hard to give yourself up”!!🔥🔥🔥

[@skevosmavros]

Perhaps it never occurred to you that the "common ground" you found with your interlocutors was either: . Not enough to embrace the parts of your religion they find unbelievable/immoral, or . Just being polite during conversation.

[@buglepong]

its the church. there is too much cultural baggage.

[@pastorjackmac]

The Big gap in all this talk of conversion is leaving out the spiritual component. We are all spiritual beings. And we exist in a spiritual milieu. So we are not just rational beings making choices. We are spiritual beings encountering God, an eternal, infinite being. Our choice is not just a change in philosophy, or worldview, it is an embrace and surrender to the Almighty and a transformation the Bible calls New Birth. In effect you become a new creation in a new spirit

[@williamf.buckleyjr3227]

Our's is NOT to reason and ponder and rationalize why OTHERS "cannot convert"!! Ours, is to HOLD ONTO THE ONE SACRAMENT that our Blessed Lord gave us that we are invited to have over and over and over again: Confession. His healing through Confession will reach those who we, His children, may never have considered!!

[@AudaciousBean]

"Can't" is an interesting word substitution for "won't"

[@laranjoeric]

I was raised Roman Catholic. I am now a catholic. No reason to go back. There is one true church made up of all born again believers regardless of were they fellowship with other believers. I follow Jesus Christ. He alone is the Way the Truth the Life. God bless.

[@bethanyrose2023]

How can you follow Jesus when you are not part of His body. His Church. The Church he gave us.

[@Pilgrimofhope7]

Great video and so very true. The philosophy of Christianity and the personal relationship are different. Both important. I remember my first small steps to be public about my faith in Jesus they were scary but looking back they’re just nothing compared to what I’ve gained. Each small step, strengthened me, despite the things I lost, eventually I just went all in and said I’m not gonna hide you anymore Jesus. I’m gonna be bold, I can’t live any other way. I don’t care what others think of me. Praise God 🙏 to all who might be in the same place have no fear he is with you ❤

[@ZyroZoro]

I'm an atheist, but I wish God existed. I've been drawn to Catholicism for a year now, and I find it to be beautiful. I just don't think it's true. I wouldn't suffer the same loss of relationships that's talked about in this video. There's only one person I know who might have a problem with it. So that's not an obstacle for me. I really value the truth, I think it's the most important thing, and if I found out Catholicism was true then I would definitely change my life. A Catholic in the comments of a different KZbin video suggested to me a couple months ago that I pray the Rosary. I went to the Catholic church in my neighborhood two days ago to ask them for a rosary. (I didn't want to go during the Christmas season since I knew they were busy.) They gave me one and showed me how to pray it. So I've prayed it, and I really meant it. I've also said normal prayers to the God that I don't think exists in hopes that I'm wrong and am shown the truth. But those prayers haven't worked, and praying the Rosary hasn't worked yet either. I'm an extremely logical, analytical person. In my self-assessment I believe that the arguments really are what's the problem for me because I already want it to be true and find it to be beautiful. But feelings and emotions are not a reliable pathway to truth. I can't convert just because I want it to be so. I don't know what else to do. I'm open to suggestions. I believe I've gone way above and beyond what can be reasonably expected of me, especially as an atheist. You don't normally see atheists praying. I'm about ready to give up on this endeavor. I've heard Christians say faith is a gift from God, so maybe God just doesn't want me to have it.

[@FigaroHey]

This is interesting, because I have been teaching converts to Catholicism for about 14 years now, and the FIRST thing I begin with is this little speech: "There is no reason to believe anything unless it is TRUE. I will never tell you just to believe something blindly. EVERYTHING the Catholic Church teaches can be explained in such a way as to make it accessible to your intellect. If there is EVER a moment when you say, 'Wait, that just doesn't make sense to me,' then you stop me, and I will explain it another way, and we will NOT move on until your reason has been satisfied that what I am saying makes sense. If at any point, you are convinced that no explanation will ever make sense of it - walk away. If you get to the end of this course and any part of your intellect is telling you, 'These concepts are just nonsense; they don't make sense; my brain cannot accept these things as true' - then DON'T enter the Church." It does NOT mean that there are things about God that we can REDUCE to simple, human logic. It is that things like the Trinitarian nature of God, for example, CAN (and have been) be explained in ways that make you say, 'Oh, if you think of it that way, I can see how it's something you can believe.' I also teach them that there are two kind of mysteries: the mystery that we solve (like a math problem or a scientific question or a Sherlock Holmes mystery) using our senses and our intelligence to sift the physical evidence or demonstrate with physical objects (like we learnt addition as children); and there are mysteries that we LIVE - like the mystery of our relationships to other people (where, exactly, IS your 'relationship' to a person you love? Can you design a scientific experiment that will make me 'believe in' and 'know' your relationship and your love the same way I can believe in and know a scientific fact by following the steps of an experiment?). There are many mysteries that we live - being male or female, a marriage, love for someone, our experience of beauty, the existence of truth, the universal desire for justice - that we cannot in any way 'prove' by some scientific experiment. We know these things because we know them; we LIVE them: we live the desire for love; we live the desire for justice; all of our science is based on the assumption - from experience - that objective truth exists and we can find out the truth about something (but can never find absolute truth itself in any laboratory). Truth, love, justice, beauty - we can't prove these things exist; we simply know they do because are LIVED MYSTERIES. It is the same in a relationship with God as it is in a relationship with your spouse. Nobody can do an experiment to prove - and to KNOW the way you KNOW - the existence of a true, intimate and loving bond between you and your spouse. And I cannot do an experiment to prove to you the existence of a true, intimate and loving bond between me and God. I live it; I don't explain it or prove it. I live it - and you can't become part of it, no matter how much I may tell you about it. I LIVE it, and the only way you can 'know' my lived relationship with God is real, is by believing my testimony and my behavior. Likewise, if you are married, all the certificates in the world won't prove to me that you have an intimate, loving bond with your spouse. I just have to BELIEVE that you do, based on your testimony and behavior. It's YOUR lived MYSTERY, and you can't transfer 'knowledge' of that to another person the way you can demonstrate a math problem and transfer that knowledge to another person's mind. The Catholic religion is the MOST RATIONAL religion you will ever encounter. I'd suggest reading the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (unless you're really into reading 'hard' books like philosophy and such - then you might go for the complete Catholic Catechism). You won't find anything there saying, 'We know this doesn't make sense, but just accept it on blind faith.' Every single thing that the Church believes and teaches can be explained rationally. Take it from someone who has taught people coming out of atheism, Islam, Protestantism and from countries where God is never mentioned at all and isn't even 'on the radar'; people who are engineers and biologists who have lived 30 years of adult life believing firmly that the only 'real' things are physical things (they never stopped to think that if that's true, then truth exists, and truth has no physical existence). The ONE thing they all have in common is an adult intellectual capacity to understand and grasp reasonable concepts. And so I teach them from reason long before we even crack open a Bible. If you want to start with a 'soft' introduction to why you should believe that God is real, try Mere Christianity by CS Lewis. It's an easy read, and is a way of opening yourself to the reasonableness of faith in God.

[@vipermustang42]

I may not be the right person or present the best argument. But consider how Emperor Nero killed Christians, for fun. Many Christians died because they of strongly held convictions. They believe them so strongly that they were willing to die for them. Even throughout the centuries afterwards, many people die due to these beliefs still today. Right now, there's been videos of people being baptized in Iran. I repeat, Iran!! There are many such examples of Christians dying and for their faith, more so than any other religion, besides the perhaps Jews. The difference being choice over blood, if that makes sense. So at least, one logical argument to consider is how many Christians died, gruesomly as well, and how Christanity still grew and hasn't died. See how Christians are still mocked in some instances and seen as foolish, yet all other religions seem to get a pass. If you consider this, I think it help you come step closer to the Lord. And as Paul said when it comes to Christ, to die is gain. Those who died gruesome deaths knew what they gained was worth so much more.

[@richardounjian9270]

You need to go to Adoration. Most parishes offer it. Leave your phone in the car! Go and kneel before our Lord. Don't sit, kneel the whole time. You may see some people sitting. That's not for you at this time. Tell Jesus what's on your mind like you did in your comments. Be brutally honest. Then tell Him what you want. When you're done QUIET YOUR MIND and just wait patiently. You may have to go several times. Don't rush it. If you are sincere you will get a response. It won't be a roar but, a whisper in your mind or ear. Note of caution: You want Adoration only. Not Adoration and Benediction because that's too ceremonial for right now. You need silent time with Jesus with no distractions. Focus your attention on Jesus. Don't be looking around at the Church. That's a distraction. It might help to Google Eucharistic Adoration before you go so you know what to expect. Any questions, let me know. God bless

[@kevinrtres]

This is my understanding of Christianity: God created heaven and earth and put mankind in charge of earth. Mankind was in a perfect - sinless relationship with God - and basically destined to live forever - until mankind sinned ( Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden ) and reaped the curse that God promised for their disobedience. God also promised a Saviour at that same time when dealing with their sin. Since then, all of mankind have sinned and fall short of God's glory ( His absolute sinlessness versus their spiritually deadness ) and hence all who sinned deserve the punishment of the eternal lake of fire. The only way out of that eternal lake of fire is to somehow regain an absolutely, completely, totally SINLESS state - so as to be in God's presence forever. BUT, BUT, BUT - once one has sinned there is no way to rid oneself of that burden and be completely sinless again - no amount of good works, no amount of piety, no amount of compassion showed towards one's fellowman, no amount of self-denigration or any other human effort can solve the human sin problem. Only God can. Only the working of the Holy Spirit on the human heart can do that - by giving the human being a spiritual rebirth - so that they can truly believe that Jesus paid the FULL penalty on the cross for their sins and that God will expunge that record of sin and give the sinner a new heart and mind so that the sinner will now want to do God's will instead of the sinner's own will - this is known as repentance. God will impute Christ's RIGHTEOUSNESS ( basically sinlessness ) onto the sinner so that the sinner then gets to have a justified standing before God. That's the only way out for the sinner - via Jesus. That's why Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life - no one comes unto the Father except thru me". It's not about having a better life or having your troubles go away - it's about having peace with God - a peace that only God can give - such that God's wrath is turned away from the one on whom God has had mercy. Only after that has been achieved does the bible say - we have been destined to perform good works. This is why it is clear that what Brian says has no bearing on having peace with God - all his words does not address that issue and the solution to the problem. Note - the sinner is basically at war with God and GOD is the only one who has the power to offer peace. The sinner can try with all his/her might but cannot offer anything to God to placate the wrath that is to come. God has to take the initiative, not the sinner - and God has done so corporally and is now reaching out to sinners individually via the preaching and teaching of others - "how will they believe unless they hear and how will they hear unless someone is sent to preach/proclaim the good news?"

[@kevinrtres]

I'd say to just be careful about Catholicism. Carefully weigh up their claim to have equal authority or even MORE authority than the bible itself. If the ROMAN Catholic church tells you to hold to a tradition - just how will you evaluate that tradition to know that it is true - unless you have a solid, unchanging source to refer to? The rosary contains this line: **Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope** Jesus alone is King - there is no "queen" in heaven. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ===>>> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *the Father of mercies and God of all comfort* Deuteronomy 30:20 ===>>> God is our life - Colossians 3:4 ====>>>> Jesus is our life Psalm 62 and Psalm 46 ====>>>> God ALONE is our hope. Isaiah 42:1-4 ======>>> Our hope is in Jesus' name and in His name ONLY. Let that sink in Catholics. *Mary is deified in this line - anyone praying it is committing idolatry*

[@danielobrien189]

One might also think it prideful, to believe that no one could see the same evidence as you, and yet come to a different conclusion.