Does The Culture Hate Christians? Or Perhaps This Is Just Projection.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Happy Tuesday! Glad to be here and hope you enjoy today's video.

[@mistersmith8962]

Be nice if you commented on the LDS $200+Billion hedgefund antics and SEC fines and the prosperity cult...one helluva rabbit hole though!

[@thegametroll6264]

Another good one brandon. My comment lost your like because I edited some spelling errors lol. Not that I care just thought you should know.

[@carlasmith9093]

I appreciate the depth and nuance you brought to this topic. I really hope some of these content creators you respond to actually listen and reflect on what you said. Also, your tangents are always pertinent and on point! And I love your podcast idea!!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

@@carlasmith9093 Thank you for always being so encouraging, Carla!

[@CheckmateSurvivor]

The "love" sign has some dark origins we are not allowed to talk about.

[@carlasmith9093]

Even as a Christian I thought the Christian persecution complex among North American Christians was ridiculous. I actually felt guilty about how easy my life was compared to what the Bible was telling me it should be.

[@catkittycatcatkittycatcatcat]

that’s the whole point! christians will tell you you’re doing something wrong if you’re not persecuted, which will make you feel guilty, and so most christians will pretend they are persecuted to avoid that guilt

[@moogleborn3132]

I would suggest that many of them actually do recognize the stark discrepancy between their privileged lives and the persecution the Bible promises. I think that fact makes them uncomfortable and insecure with their own salvation, so they work extra hard at identifying "persecution" to alleviate that cognitive dissonance.

[@carlasmith9093]

@move_i_got_this5659 ummm, what do you mean and how do you know that?

[@TonyLambregts]

@carlasmith9093 It's probably related to the psychic powers they get from the Holy Spirit.

[@carlasmith9093]

@@TonyLambregts presumably lol

[@dasbus9834]

If you define yourself exclusively through your faith, then I guess every disagreement is indeed a personal attack. In which case all I can say is, too bad - I still disagree.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

perfect.

[@BeccaYoley]

Right. Ideas have to be open for critique. It's their responsibility to manage their feelings if they've entangled their identity with a specific set of beliefs. But that doesn't mean society isn't allowed to properly analyze the ideas within that belief system.

[@misterdoctor9693]

Couldn't have said it better.

[@MasterSpade]

“Religious apologists complain bitterly that Atheists and Secularists are aggressive and hostile in their criticism of them. I always say: look, when you guys were in charge, you didn’t argue with us, you just burnt us at the stake. Now what we’re doing is, we’re presenting you with some arguments and some challenging questions, and you complain.” - A.C. Grayling

[@MindShift-Brandon]

love that!

[@gregsanich5183]

Where was that exactly? What kingdom allowed the church to carry out executive orders of capital punishment upon its citizens? Any judicial measures were always enforced and implemented by the state, not the church.

[@carlasmith9093]

@gregsanich5183 there wasn't/isn't always separation of church and state. Ever heard of the Holy Roman Empire? The Spanish Inqisition? Jean Calvin's Geneva? The Salem Witch Trials? Present day United States?

[@dantallman5345]

@@gregsanich5183 I think you are splitting hairs somewhat. Separation of church and state is a modern construct, and by modern I mean a transition starting roughly with the Enlightenment. For most of history church and state are just different sides of a coin. Even today the Vatican has its own guard; popes and European bishops had their own armies through much of church history. In the 1209 massacre at Beziers, papal legate and abbot Armand Amalric, reportedly said, “Kill them. The Lord will know his own.” when asked about how to distinguish heretic from Catholic. About 300 Cathars (heretics) had intermingled with 20,000 Catholics at Beziers. Almaric was going about the business of eradicating Catharism for Pope Innocent III. The quote is possibly a reference to 2Tim2:19. Amalric was the direct commander of the troops. The Crusades, the Inquisition, Conquest of the New World and other grim events had church and state helping each other gain wealth and power or influence.

[@gregsanich5183]

@@carlasmith9093 those are all examples of a secular executive authority. Whether or not they reflect or align with the will of the church, the power of those executive actions ultimately rests with the state, not the church. A better example that would have been applicable would be our old friend Henry viii, who broke this cardinal rule and created the church of England. Which is a perfect example that demonstrates exactly why distinct separation of church. & state was critical to the autonomy & sovereignty of the church.

[@weirdwilliam8500]

When there are negative social consequences after you treat people around you how they repeatedly ask you not to treat them, that’s not persecution.

[@jenna2431]

That first blurb is so telling. He says those things about his religion, but doesn't want pushback...and almost IMMEDIATELY goes to pushing back on the ideas of others. They simply will not see the utter derangement of my way is the highway, dont tell me it isn't, and by the way, your religion or lack thereof is totally wrong. It boggles the mind.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

YUP!

[@UlexiteTVStoneLexite]

Yeah. It's just because you are wrong and we are going to tell you you are wrong.

[@Llortnerof]

It was really just "how dare they call me out on my behaviour!"

[@Trekyhunter]

It's a pituitary reaction. People with little to no exposure to different ideologies mentally react the same way one would if they spotted a wild animal. I remember having a similar response when learning about things like solipsism as a kid. Maybe I was fortunate to have exposure at a younger age then most. With some older folks It's like they've had none at all.

[@andrewferg8737]

@@Trekyhunter "a pituitary reaction" --- "observation really is mistaken for explanation. It has the fatal quality of leaving on many minds the impression that they do understand it and everything else” (G.K. Chesterton “The Everlasting Man” 1925)

[@Octoberfurst]

Growing up as an Evangelical Christian I got the whole "We are persecuted by the world" thing a lot. But I never saw any evidence of that in my whole life. Preachers would often say, "The world hates us because we love Christ." But as I became older, I came to realize that when people " hate" Christians, it's usually because we came across as obnoxious, bigoted jerks. It was one of the many reasons that I eventually became an atheist.

[@MetaKnight964]

Except it's true, you'd know that if you bothered to look at history. Also it's you anti-theists who are the bigoted jerks, you hate anyone who simply says they're a Christian.

[@sheluvssmokedupeyes1]

Because if you read your Bible, Jesus even said that we would be persecuted by the world

[@4dojo]

As someone who was a devoted Bible toting, church going, God fearing Christian for 25 years and only and atheist for the last 8 or 9 years, I have realized without a doubt that the general public dislikes atheists more than Christians. I was always proud to tell people that I was a Christian, but as an atheist I try to hide it most of the time because most people that I tell about it get judgemental and even aggressive sometimes.

[@absolstoryoffiction6615]

I've seen both sides. It's not unique to religion and non religions.

[@docmychedelic9153]

I think there’s like one congressman who identifies as atheist. Just saw him in a video a few days ago or would’ve said none. Yet the nones (people who don’t claim a religion) is the highest growing “religious”affiliation. I personally would rather have atheists who logically form morals on their own, than all these religious creeps who claim without religion they’d be murderers and rapists. Especially since their god gives them a “get out of hell free” card or more, as long as they say they’re sorry and keep pushing the “good news”.

[@4dojo]

@TESTCHANNEL-qg8qn Yes. I live in the USA and so I am talking about my experiences in the USA only.

[@sorryifoldcomment8596]

​@TESTCHANNEL-qg8qn What do you mean with your last statement? What is "Brandon's paradigm" in this context? The video is a response to American Christians who are talking about America & American "culture." Brandon does not pretend that it's the same literally everywhere. He's acknowledged that in a few countries it's fair to even say Christians are actually persecuted...but that's not the countries these Christians are discussing. The experiences of atheists & Christians in America are totally relevant (and do not automatically imply that they are universal). The comment is a response to the mention of atheists at 2:45...during which Brandon explicitly states he does not adopt 'the same logic (or "paradigm") but reversed for atheism,' only that the arguments *could* be made, and *could* be made even better.

[@TheZeroNeonix]

Same. I was told my whole life that the world was ruled by atheists, and that "the world" hated Christians. Then I became an atheist, and I was like, "Oh... Most people are Christians, actually. Even the less religious folk have biases against atheists. So reality is the exact opposite of what I was taught, then?" The persecution complex is so strong, these people can't tell how good they've got it. In America, Christianity is the default. They hold all the political power, and yet they act like they are the underdogs. How are they so deluded?

[@philw6056]

When someone says "Jesus is lord". That's their belief and I even grant that it is their personal truth. But it's not my truth and definitely not an undisputed truth.

[@ratamacue0320]

Calling that "personal truth" is an abuse of the word "truth".

[@theunclejezusshow8260]

Also,Which Jesus? They can't even agree on doctrines

[@toonyandfriends1915]

@@theunclejezusshow8260 Not agreeing on doctrines does not mean most christians don't believe in the trinity. Like that's one of the central doctrines common to the big denominations.

[@UlexiteTVStoneLexite]

I just say he never existed so I don't care

[@toonyandfriends1915]

@@Eric-cj8sb you literally have to do 10 seconds on google to find that what you just said is false.

[@cravenlestat7006]

Who is really being persecuted? I say I don't believe they tell me I deserve to be burned forever

[@lightinferno4490]

False

[@bradypustridactylus488]

Ultimately, it is about reciprocity. Are you demanding respect from others, that you are unwilling to return? Are you holding others to standards of behavior that you feel exempt from? Particularly, do you hold that criticism of your beliefs and opinions must be censured, while the beliefs of your fellowman have no special protection? Denial of the need for reciprocity is part of what we mean by the word “bigot.” If the shoe fits, wear it.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

well put!

[@justice8718]

You don’t make any sense since Christians put themselves and others to the same laws.

[@paulgemme6056]

@@MindShift-Brandon If a man says he has never done wrong/sinned he is a liar, and the truth is not in him. Atheists are haters of the truth (Jesus Christ). Why do atheists hate the truth? Because he tells us the truth, that we are sinners in need of God's Grace and Mercy. Pride keeps a lot of people from believing that. Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

[@Dovahkiin0117]

@@paulgemme6056and pride keeps yall from seeing the obvious pitfalls and contradictions found in the Bible and discord that’s been spread from the faiths of the Abrahamic deity. There’s 7 differences/mistranslations found in genesis 1:1 from ancient Jewish to English. What else has been twisted? His earliest attestation links him to nomadic raiders and his offspring of Christian’s Muslims and Jews have been at each other’s throats figuratively and literally for 2 millennia while subjugating others as well. Yahweh always been a trouble maker

[@soyevquirsefron990]

I don’t think calling someone a bigot or ignorant is dehumanizing. I’ll advocate for everyone’s free speech rights even if I disagree, and I certainly wouldn’t take away rights to life or liberty for bigots. But I hear theists say that everyone else is denying god in our unrighteousness because we want to sin and that this world doesn’t matter because eternity is all that’s important and materialists think human life has no value and that god will sort us out in the afterlife so it doesn’t matter how we get there…. THAT’S dehumanizing

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Agreed!

[@MetaKnight964]

You're a bigot and willfully ignorant and you need to get over yourself. Also those Christians were right as far as I'm concerned. Also look up the definition of dehumanize (what your kind does).

[@justice8718]

Well congrats, you know your terms and services provided by the Jesus Christ of Nazareth. What’s your excuse now?

[@Davie-jx4rh]

@@justice8718why would I need an ‘excuse’ if god exists and is truly loving, he’d understand my unbelief is from a place of skepticism and honesty

[@justice8718]

@@Davie-jx4rh Did your mankind predict the future?

[@chamicels]

My Pentecostal minister said Christians love me despite of being gay. I replied I don't give a damn who they love or not.

[@suicune2001]

"We love you but you're still going to hell. Now, please give us money."

[@Zahaqiel]

@@suicune2001 It's kinda worse than that... "We love you, but unless you follow our rules you're going to hell, and we don't care if following those rules makes your life miserable so long as you shut up about it and pretend it doesn't make you feel miserable. Not pretending it doesn't make you miserable is also going to send you to hell. Part of pretending it doesn't make you miserable also involves giving us money."

[@hamobu]

There is a word where you are putting someone down by being kind. I can't remember what it was. It's like saying: "Well I think you smart and beautiful in your own special way"

[@jonathanyoung8109]

@@hamobupatronizing?

[@hamobu]

@@jonathanyoung8109 I believe it's slightly different than patronizing but maybe I'm wrong.

[@DavidRichardson153]

Theists: "Believe or suffer." Us: [In Dr. Evil voice] "How 'bout 'No'!?"

[@archbishoprichardforceginn9338]

Preyz Gord

[@mirandahotspring4019]

Knock Knock! Me: “Who's there?” “Jesus!” Me: “OK, what do you want?” Jesus: “Let me in.” Me: “Why?” Jesus: “So I can save you.” Me: “Save me from what?” Jesus: “From what I'm going to do to you if you don't let me in.”

[@absolstoryoffiction6615]

​@mirandahotspring4019 Satan: "And they say I'm Evil. I just want worship like my father." Evil: "Ha ha ha ha... I love the humans thinking Satan is me. Especially YHWH, who inevitably serves me by destroying eternal souls of humanity... ... ... The God Hands will enjoy this world."

[@MetaKnight964]

Anti-theist bigotry

[@julietfischer5056]

@@MetaKnight964- Disagreeing with theists is not bigotry.

[@Pharmfresh]

As a former catholic I would be thrilled if you would continue secular Bible study beyond the Protestant canon into the deuterocanonical books and maybe even into the non canonical realm

[@TonyLambregts]

I would really appreciate that also.

[@Febr7]

Except, perhaps, for a superficial overview, I don't think this would be time well spent. In my mind, the best thing about Mindshift's textual analyses is he presents what is written and then his experience of how it's interpreted and the implications to lived life. He would have to research the varied interpretations and implications and it would simply be an academic exercise. Maybe that interests Mindshift, but presenting material outside of his experience would be a very different channel.

[@ReasonQuest]

I think ANY treatment of non-canonical writings of the biblical eras would be fascinating-especially as those writings relate to how the Bible came to be, and why certain non-canonical writings were excluded. As well, the apocrypha would be very interesting for many protestants as well. To me, it all fits under the banner of "It's all manmade."

[@TonyLambregts]

@Febr7 Brandon is an avid reader, and he does his research well. I will not hold it against him if he decides not to do it, but if he does decide to do it, I would welcome his insights.

[@michaelhenry1763]

Yes, yes please. I love the book of Tobit.

[@rikubear6549]

Christians never stop to ask why they may be hated.

[@mirandahotspring4019]

There's no hate like Christian love!

[@wolfofthewest8019]

People who hate Christians never stop to ask why they hate. They just justify their hatred to themselves and think that's the same thing. I stopped being an atheist and converted to Catholicism once I asked myself that question.

[@toastcrunch9387]

@@wolfofthewest8019 cool story bro. We don't need to ask ourselves why we hate people that do nothing but lie and misrepresent everything to push a self serving narrative that only dehumanizes everyone involved. You were never an atheist, don't even bother.

[@Aleiza_49]

​@@wolfofthewest8019I feel sorry for you, hopefully someday you'll regain your intelligence.

[@rikubear6549]

@@wolfofthewest8019 i dont hate christians i just hate what they do....hate the sin not the person.....o wait

[@Kattlarv]

To me, my big issue is that basically: If someone tells me they are a cultist: They are telling me that they endorse evil, immoral child graping deaf cultists. As: *Most* of the time, they deny that. BUT: Then make excuses for a pastor that "made a mistake" or similar. Most of them are just massive hypocrites that demands you look the other way when *they* do bad things.

[@suicune2001]

"Jeffrey Dahmer would go to heaven if he repented on his death bed. But you, a good person who tries to not harm others and help as much as possible, are going to hell because you didn't believe in MY deity as the one true deity. Not because we have any evidence of that but because we said so."

[@Kattlarv]

@@suicune2001 Not to mention: Going by THEIR own book: He did *nothing* wrong. (Assuming the victims weren't chrsitan) People join cults to be evil and immoral. They don't quit them to do so. Since theirs come with a free excuse book.

[@njhoepner]

@@suicune2001 Because christianity has nothing at all to do with morality - despite the arrogant claims, despite all their demands to control everyone else, despite all their wailing about how other people live their lives - in the christian religion one's conduct has precisely nothing to do with one's eternal destiny.

[@justice8718]

@@suicune2001 Not a single human is good unless his name is Jesus. The wickedness of the obvious doesn’t remove your crimes in the hidden. Without God, who will open his gates of heaven? Cause your hands can’t do it.

[@suicune2001]

@@justice8718 You should read Matthew 15 again. lol. Jesus was far from kind.

[@jacksonstacy8962]

Brandon, you’ve definitely leveled up your game in the last year! You were a great orator to begin with, but you’ve gotten so incredibly articulate. Love it and feel so encouraged by it!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you for that compliment! That's very kind to hear. 200 videos of putting yourself out there as a talking head really can count as good practice.

[@DannyS177]

My parents are the type of Christians who don't know any atheists, except for me. The other day, my mom thought I was out of earshot and she was talking to one of her friends about a time that she got pulled over by a cop. She said that the cop must have been an atheist because there is no way that a Christian cop would have given her a ticket.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

its so freaking sad

[@blossom357]

I feel like athletes are pretty common, at least in the US. You can even get scholarships for being an athlete. I would be surprised if you're truly the only one your parents know.

[@DannyS177]

@@blossom357 Sorry, I am dyslexic, it was a misspelling that got autocorrected. "Athletes" now correctly reads as "atheist." I hope that clears things up.

[@michaelhenry1763]

Oh, I love it. It’s so funny

[@michaelhenry1763]

@@DannyS177 oh, I thought you were making a different sort of social commentary . No problem.

[@belkyhernandez8281]

As a non religious person the discovery that religious people think having a feeling is the same thing as knowing or is an accurate way to interpret reality is wild. I thought people were talking metaphorically.

[@andrewferg8737]

"religious people think having a feeling is the same thing as knowing" ---- see also: Treece, Patricia "A Man for Others: Maximilian Kolbe the Saint of Auschwitz" HarperCollins, 1982 Lemaître, Georges. “The beginning of the world from the point of view of quantum theory”, Nature, Vol. 127, 1931

[@belkyhernandez8281]

@@andrewferg8737 I am fascinated and terrified. This explains so many things in the public discourse.

[@julietfischer5056]

Plenty of woo-woo believers have the same mentality. "I feel that this is true, and my feeling is just as valid and accurate---even more so---than your science."

[@andrewferg8737]

​@@julietfischer5056 Plenty of woo-woo believers have the same mentality. "I feel that this is true, and my feeling is just as valid and accurate---even more so---than your science."--- There is no conceivable reality in which 'there is no truth' is a valid statement. Veritas non subsistens esse non potest, ergo deus veritas est. Deus veritas est ergo non potest esse non. Spaghetti Monsters need not apply.

[@andrewferg8737]

@@julietfischer5056 "your science" --- “A little natural philosophy inclineth man’s mind to atheism; but depth in natural philosophy bringeth men’s minds about to religion” (Francis Bacon “Of Atheism” d. 1626) “There is enough light for those who desire to see, and enough obscurity for those who have a contrary disposition” (Blaise Pascal “Pensées” d. 1662) "I pray while I am engaged at my work in the laboratory… Science brings men nearer to God” (Louis Pasteur d. 1895) “There is no conflict between science and religion” (Georges Lemaître d. 1966, NY Times 1933) “I have never been able to dismiss the content of religious thinking simply as a stage in human consciousness which we have superseded, as a part which we can dispense with in the future... for I have never been able to doubt the truth of what they are pointing to.” (Werner Heisenberg “Scientific and Religious Truth” Cross Currents Vol. 24, No. 4 Winter 1975, pp. 463-473)

[@archbishoprichardforceginn9338]

Recognizing Indoctrination is not Hateful, it's Frustrating ,especially after being in it for 40plus years and escaping 12years ago

[@LarryLarpwell]

thought provoking, there is no christian persecution in america, the idea there is seems laughable.

[@bluester7177]

They aren't in most places, but they don't talk about when they do the persecution, where Christianity is majority it can persecute other religions, I'm Brazilian and we have African diasporic religions and some Christians destroy their congregations places and offers, sometimes beat the people and say they have demons, in places where Christianity is the minority it is sometimes persecuted, it's more about power than anything else.

[@Noxthedunmer]

It's frustrating when Christians have a mindset like this. I'm a pagan and i get more negative backlash for my beliefs now than i ever did as a Christian. And the negative backlash comes from Christians not atheist or other religions.

[@kevanharris2737]

From what I can tell, anything you talk about will be very interesting and enlightening. Expand, expand...we'll be there with you.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much!

[@TonyLambregts]

Yup.

[@theresemalmberg955]

Had an interesting conversation earlier today where one of my luncheon companions was talking about her grandson's going to church. Apparently one parent is an atheist--gasp!--and the other is a Christian. The Christian parent allegedly told the teen you can try going to church and if you don't like it you can try another one, but you WILL go to church. Everyone thought how wonderful it was that the boy was being given a choice, "if you find you don't like it, you can stop going." I opened my big mouth and said, But he really ISN'T being given a choice. Because what if HIS choice is not to go to any church at all? What if HIS choice is "I'm not even interested in trying it?" That's not an option. YOU WILL GO. That is not choice, that is coercion. It only appears as choice because he's being told he doesn't have to stick with it if he doesn't want to. But what if that part isn't true either? YOU WILL GO. I said I do not believe in religious compulsion of any kind. Well! you are right, that is forcing religion on the kid, but he still has to try it. Why? Because someone else wants him to? And what about the atheist parent? Well, they are staying in the background. In other words, the atheist parent has not forbidden the kid to attend church, has not tried to interfere in any way but the kid still is not allowed to make his own decision on the matter--he can only go along with what the Christian parent wants. I said that is not right, that is NOT choice when the only choice you have is to go along with THEIR choice. And by the way, what's wrong with being an atheist? I don't think I won any prizes for popularity at that table today.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

its an incredibly frustrating thing to hear. These poor kids! But small improvements. That non choice is still way more choice than I had lol.

[@theresemalmberg955]

@@MindShift-Brandon Me too. It reminds me of a little rhyme my mother used to sing: Mother, may I go out to swim? Yes, my darling daughter. Hang your clothes on the hickory limb, but don't go near the water." When I told her that kind of permission doesn't make sense, especially when going around naked could get you in trouble, she would say, "that is just the point." It's just a convoluted way of saying no. Well, then, why not just say no, why give the illusion of choice? She never did have a good answer for that one.

[@KravMagoo]

Parents also tell their kids they have to take music lessons...which many hate...but after a certain number of years, when they have mastered their instrument, they choose to make playing their profession. Nearly always, they thank their parents for forcing them to stick with practicing even though they hated it at the time.

[@Steven_DunbarSL]

​@@KravMagooWhat is the point you are making with this comment?

[@KravMagoo]

@@Steven_DunbarSL Being forced to do something isn't inherently evil.

[@deb6252]

The persecution complex is absolutely ridiculous. And. You have covered all the bases and even the nuances. As always, so clear and straight forward. Thank you a million times. "Speaking for the creator", thinking you know the mind of God and can tell everyone else how to live. Literalism and moralism at its finest.

[@christophergibson7155]

No. It is rather speaking with the Creator. "God into all the world and preach the gospel" (Mark 16:15) "For “who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ." (1 Corinthians 2:16)

[@IndigoViolet7]

This is so spot on. Married to a SDA for 16 years has really made me question the way of life of fearing everyone and everything all the time, helping set me on the path to deconversion that I'm on now. SDA's not only believe they will be persecuted, but that it will be all other Christians that will do it. Catholics and Protestants will join hands in an unholy union and go after the Adventists because they refuse to worship on Sunday and keep Saturday instead. Ex-Adventists will be among the worst persecutors. It's persecution paranoia at its absolute worst, results in them fearing and suspecting everyone in the world, particularly all their believing brethren of other denominations, of being their future enemies. Not to mention prior best friends or family who have fallen away from the faith. Adventist "sermons" focus way more on the coming "Sunday Laws" and following persecution than they do Jesus. It is sick and insane. Thanks for helping show that all levels of this can have negative effects. Getting to live with it on steroids up close helped open my eyes and you are helping to put it into a coherent argument that makes so much sense. Thanks once again!

[@TheWickedWizardOfOz1]

Okay, I've never heard of this. SDAs believe that other christian denominations will make laws demanding that church be worshipped on sundays? I have a baptist background, and that idea makes me smile. The baptists believe that worshipping at all will become illegal in the future - we aren't going to force the SDAs to worship with us when we're too busy fighting against the government trying to wipe *us* out.

[@greenleaf239]

Most of the Christians I meet seem to be friendly, "nice" people. But I do have a problem with their wanting a metaphysical system to be true in which I am punished forever just because I don't believe what they believe. I'm not sure that makes them bad, but maybe lacking integrity, or cognitively dissonant.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Well put!

[@nickguy8037]

Mob mentality… most Christians are nice when they are being individual people. They are only horrible when they are being a group of Christians.

[@roderickcortez138]

I'm sorry but if you think that someone deserves to burn in hell because they don't believe in something that they've never seen, that is mental illness.

[@peterwallis4288]

So, your idea of truth is based on what you want?

[@nickguy8037]

@@peterwallis4288 no… our idea of what makes a decent person includes, if you believe in a god who condemns people to eternal punishment, you should not see him as something worthy of worship and definitely not as something worthy of nor representing love.

[@mvfusion]

Most of the time, when I'm listening to a Christian speak, all they are doing is devaluing me.

[@tylertucker2608]

“Learned covert narcissism” is especially self fulfilling, when there are such a large number of possible submissives out there. Learned, because the narcissist has a set of guidelines to follow in order to call out his/her submissive. Covert, because the narcissist has to put on his “armor” in order to call out his/her submissive, allowing them to hide behind a structured assault. Narcissism, because the submissive will never/can never know more about the subject matter than the narcissist.

[@Shadowkitty360]

While I don't mind podcasts and would love to listen to you talk with other people, I hope we don't lose hearing your own thoughts in solo videos (even solo podcasts). I often subscribe to channels because I like the host and can get annoyed if a channel gives so much airtime to other people, that I don't really get to hear the hosts fleshed out thoughts anymore. I think having a good balance of the two types of content is a great idea and will let us all explore new and exciting content. And who knows. Maybe we will like the new content better! I would also still love more general philosophy videos if you are still interested in making that content as well. It's nice of you to ask for our input! Ultimately, you should be happy with the channel you are making no mater what. Keep doing you because you are awesome!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much for all these thoughts and the support!

[@donaldnumbskull9745]

From this side of the Atlantic, it looks as if US culture is extraordinarily tolerant towards Christians. (And Christian's, too.)

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Indeed it is

[@SteelSquishy]

Unfortunately.

[@Febr7]

Some recent polling has around 70% of the US population identifying as Christian and higher than that in government. If there is legitimate "Christian" persecution, it's among Christians. Denominational persecution might be more accurate term.

[@LeggoMyTailyPo]

I don't hate them. I hate how they look down on me and treat me as less than. I have no problem calling them out on it. But at the end of the day if you are going to treat me that way because i don't believe what you do. Then you are the one hating me and i have a human right to defend myself against that. But the best point if the video. Thank god that most Christians don't actually follow the bible. Love your videos, so much to unpack. If my disbelief equils hate, that is a logical phalicy. I don't believe in Santa Claus. So by their standards i must not believe in santa claus because i hate santa claus. I have a lot of cognitive dissonance understanding how you are makeing that kind of connection. How can i, and why would i, hate something I don't even believe exists. Even the practise doesn't always bother me. Back to the Santa Claus thing. I don't believe in santa but i don't hate the practice of Christmas. I like presents too. Now if people still practised the Krampus part of Christmas. I might dislike being beaten by thorns and then shoved into a basket. I would still like the presents side of it. But i would not like the being beaten by switches part of it. But that still wouldn't make me hate Santa claus, just the krampus. Im glad that they took that part of christmas off the books.

[@59master60]

Well said friend

[@MindShift-Brandon]

I hear that, but again I think it comes down to individuals. Many Christians do exactly as you say, and not liking them is more than justified, but saying something like all secular people hate and dehumanize Christians is just such an insane statement. Again, you didnt say this, just brining in the video.

[@Kattlarv]

Not to mention: A LOT of cultists are fake nice. They start off all "bless you!" but if you haven't converted within a few weeks, they instantly turn on you and start being nasty.

[@davidb7180]

I live in the Bible Belt and I've never experienced hate from Christians for being Atheist. I've had some seriously long conversations with them and it never came down to " Well, you are going to Hell" and they storm off. My neighbors are Christians and they know I'm atheist. They don't exclude me from anything and vise-versa. I'm sure there are 'Those" kinds of people out there... I just haven't run into them here in SC.

[@paulgemme6056]

@@59master60 Unbelief is the only reason souls go to hell. Rejection of the truth (Jesus Christ). Unbelief is the opposite of faith. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

[@maggienewton8518]

I think adding broader topics podcasts is a good idea. Religion doesn't exist in a vacuum so pulling out to give a larger context of what it is to be human, how we think, how are values are chosen and affect us...all necessary elements in religious analysis. I hope you still keep the more focused videos on christianity as well since I see that a large part of your audience benefits from these as they face deconversion. Pretty exciting stuff, Brandon!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks for the great input, Maggie!

[@DLB-m3g]

I like what you are saying, Maggie.

[@maggienewton8518]

@@DLB-m3g thanks :)

[@Jon45678]

Agree 100%

[@annaikonocampbell]

Excited for the podcast!!!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks!

[@gayesthusky2177]

I’m so sick of these professional victims

[@njhoepner]

"Someone said 'happy holidays' to me instead of 'merry christmas'! I'm so persecuted!!" Yeah

[@lilykitty111]

And of course the Christians offended don't care about the fact that this country is supposed to have freedom of religion or that Jews and other people have rights and could be offended by being wished "merry christmas."

[@quaidrowan]

Christianity is resilient. Jesus said that everyone would hate him and his followers. So they can say the most outrageous, hateful, vile things and when people react to them in the way they deserve, they can both play the victim AND the victor - "see, its just like Jesus said, we're doing it right, we're winning because the world hates us!" When you are IN the belief system it is a completely closed circuit that self-reinforces at every turn. But in the real world, I mean, I live in Southern CA. Not LA county, but still. And I still have to hear, everywhere I go - "have a blessed day!" and see signs everywhere that say "prayer changes things." They own the culture here.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

100%!

[@andrewferg8737]

"When you are IN the belief system it is a completely closed circuit that self-reinforces at every turn."--- Indeed. Soviet Union deaths --- 61,911,000 Nazis genocide--- 20,946,000 Maoist China deaths - 80,000,000 Abortions per day --- 200,000

[@CB66941]

In Malaysia over here, even as Christians here hear the rhetoric stated by Muslim political leaders, many Christians here still adhere to values of unity and solidarity, even including Muslims who criticize their religious leaders. Ironically I heard more antilgbt preaching than I did against Islam in Malaysia. As for a rhetoric Christians use, being able to predict what people will say about your religion doesn't make you right. That Christian's projection by claiming he is being dehumanized, while believing in a system of separating believers and non believers is so ironic. I really have to ask who is being dehumanized, when one believes all go to the same fate, while the other believes in deserving eternal torment. Like shit man imagine Putin claiming Russophobia because the world doesn't like what he's doing to Ukraine. Oh, wait...

[@tahllaz]

Keep thinking podcast I’m all in brother let’s go 👊🏿👊🏿💪🏿

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you!

[@floccinaucinihilipilifications]

I would definitely watch listen to this & a podcast expanding outside the scope of this channel. Just don’t burn out… for your own sake. Peace

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you!

[@merbst]

Prophet of Zod has made a great series of videos on Christian Persecution Complex, with a specific case study of anayzing the words of the pastor of his former church.

[@misterdoctor9693]

I was harassed about my church attendance at work and when I left finally left the religion I had wages stolen by my boss (one of the church leaders). That's the closest I've been to persecution. Thanks Jesus.

[@Dr.Tongue-ih9md]

Why hate someone who is minding their own business and not harming others? If they are harming others - then act against that harm, there's no benefit in hatred toward the person as a whole - in fact, it may be counterproductive. The hated person will dig in their heels, and then communication will decrease.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

well said.

[@scottharrison812]

For some reason a joke comes to mind (given that we are looking at religious persecution complexes - and aggressive responses here): What do you get if you cross a JW with a Hell’s Angel? Someone who knocks on your door and tells YOU to f¢!k off.

[@redraven_the]

1) For sure I will come along! 😀 2) a) yep, l like the idea b) yes, I would be interested in additional / other directions as well c) I don't think there would be a problem with using your developed presence as MindShift to simply evolve further and branch out to more topical width. But for I know nothing about youtube I think there is a technical-tactical component that might be important for answering this question properly

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much!

[@EinsamPibroch278]

6:15 They are that hateful, it's just that some of them just don't say the quiet part out loud. Anymore. Just cracking open a History Book will tell you what they have done to the World. You're too soft on them.

[@clemstevenson]

Given the judgemental aspect of Christianity, it wouldn't surprise me if some people were openly hostile to Christians. As an atheist, I have no logical reason to condemn people, via divine law quotes. I have no evidence-backed reason to believe in heaven, or in hell. Nobody of any faith is going to be judged guilty, because nobody can be judged guilty.

[@wolfofthewest8019]

Nihilism is not the cool, edgy and rational stance you think it is.

[@margotpreston]

That’s not what nihilism is mate.

[@wolfofthewest8019]

@@margotpreston *_nihilism:_* the rejection of all religious and moral principles, in the belief that life is meaningless. Clem has left absolutely no room for any moral principles, only moral opinions. If nobody can be judged guilty, then all that is left is tyranny. Put a murderer in jail? Tyranny, because you are not upholding justice, you are simply imposing your (entirely baseless) opinion that murder is wrong on someone who believes that murder is right.

[@christophergibson7155]

That is incorrect. Jesus spoke much about judgment. Righteous judgment. (John 7:24) Also He said, "For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth-those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation." (John 5:26-29) "He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him- the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." (John 12:48) It is clear...judgment is based in the truth of the Word of God.

[@brightargyle8950]

The christian persecution complex always struck me as a bizarre paradox, they WANT to feel it because Jesus said its a good thing while at the same time complaining about how awful it is. Make up your bloody mind! It's so confusing and frustrating. It's kinda like believing that someone's death and ascent to heaven is the best thing in the world but nobody is celebrating it like that's what actually happens. People SAY it, but I've never felt like they actually believed it. The christian persecution complex always made me think of a child that's confused and doesn't really know what they want. Edit: spelling

[@Jon45678]

They have to check the Being Persecuted box because the Bible basically says if you are a true Christian you will be persecuted. It validates their walk. It’s kind of difficult in the Christian-friendly West, so they have to take extra steps to make it happen (like making videos saying how they are persecuted to invite more persecution).

[@paulgemme6056]

@@Jon45678 Unbelief is the only reason souls go to hell. Rejection of the truth (Jesus Christ). Unbelief is the opposite of faith. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

[@Jon45678]

@@paulgemme6056 If you really think about that it makes no sense. Someone gets sent to a lake of fire to be tortured forever because they were not convinced that a 2000 year old book that portrays a supposed loving God as a genocidal deity, who only showed up in the Old Testament and is basically absent now while supposedly Satan runs rampant and has free reign to deceive and enslave people. If you take the Christian glasses off, it looks really ridiculous. These things gnaw at Christians but they are afraid to consider them, thinking that the devil is trying to deceive them. So they spend their whole lives suppressing the gnawing, living for the afterlife and wondering if they are really saved most of the time.

[@ChinonsoNnadozie]

​@@paulgemme6056it is not by force to believe in your god but you Christians preach it as such as you don't believe in God? Will he leave you alone nope,hell fire for you.this is what we mean and when a person does not want to hear it you degrade that person as. Sinful, ignorant,evil and wrong. 2) why does your god want to be pleased by us ? I thought he needed nothing from us?

[@healthyselfwithkristi7459]

I think the world needs to hear you so I am excited that you are branching out into other platforms and areas! I am happy you’re keeping the KZbin as I find it easier to access for myself anyway. As far as the name, if you went with something like you said, “Keep Thinking,” it’s more descriptive and withdraw a larger crowd, perhaps. Charge on! 🥰

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks, Kristi!

[@DanniGadfly]

Absolutely great philosophy as always Brandon. I've been thinking that your presence and brand would suit a podcast format for awhile now. In regards to you changing your podcast name I think that's a good idea for a few reasons. 1. If you're aiming for flexibility then continuing the mindshift brand might not allow that much as your branding here conveys something a bit more specific. A new brand for your podcast even if it only slightly diverges still opens you yp for the potentiality of diversification. 2. In mindshift for the most part the format is typically you conversing. A podcast format especially if you'll have guests or something of thag nature frequently could be confusing for someone who likes your current format of just hearing you mostly. 3. Your interests (psychology, philosophy, etc.) are great in that they're broad and narrow enough to go in any direction. Meaning you can discuss a new subject in philosophy thay interests you and it have nothing to do with what the mindshift brand has going on thus leading to diversification. 4. This podcast approach may work better as a dual funnel strategy thus expanding both. Whereas having the podcast merely be an extension of the channel more or less just gives it the same punching power of the channel. If you were to slightly rebrand the podcast you'd have a lot more potential to acceleratw both ventures. For one you'd be going into this new podcast with a bit more of a fanbase than many podcasters start with which is a great boon. But also it allows you to sort of take up more real estate in a sense. And with more real estate means more opportunity in every direction. This also means the load on you to have to create in depth quality content would also be lessened as your guest would be holding up the conversational burden with you and also funneling things into other people's work. 5. If you change the branding up a bit it could lead to your work being shared more which as I said funnels back to your channel ans vice versa. People like me with relatives that I think could hear your work and at least become more aware of new and interesting perspectives before I even explained atheism would make the overall spectrum of your content more palatable. As it stands this channel is a philosophical tour de force. It would likely only attract argumentative theists and atheists who already are motivated towards your claims however. While I'm sure you've managed to actually teach many Christians the irony is by being palatable via a podcast you open up your doors to more than just Christians who may or may not be doubting. You would be providing insulation to various people who just aren't religious who have the potential of being prayed upon by the religion and that brings me to my last and most important point. 6. Up until now you're strategy of defense is the best offense has been phenomenal. Your logic has been great and your takedowns have also been great. But since you know psychology you know that logic is one of the worst persuading tools. (Trust me I'm a logician myself) Logic almost always takes a backseat to rhetoric especially when people are trained that way by their religion. I digress what this new podcast could allow you to do is allow people to simply ingratiate in your presence without necessarily feeling like their beliefs are threatened. This has many benefits but for mainly it means that when they inevitably funnel down to Mindshift they'll be significantly more receptive to your logic. That's mainly all I wanted to say. You do amazing philosophy!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Amazing feedback. Thanks for so much to think on!

[@themuffins4]

Hey this is Anna who did the interview with Tim from Harmonic Aithiest!... I love the idea of a podcast and you expanding your channel more! I would listen to every episode! Personally I think you should keep it on mind shift because the entire process and experience is a mind shift and as your channel expands into different realms that would perfectly encapsulate the mind shift journey.

[@kathrynyoung3362]

I love your podcast plans! Looking forward to all that is to come. I’m also interested in philosophy and psychology etc.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Perfect, thanks so much!

[@k.atiebug]

Keep thinking! ⚛️ I love all of the ideas you talked about today! Can't wait!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much!

[@meshimichelle-if3tg]

Mindshift and Keep Thinking sounds like a great idea.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you!

[@marilynnpetit3570]

Yup

[@dmitrykup8867]

Thanks for another Tuesday takedown, these videos are definitely my favourites :3 It always amazes me that Christians don't only see the persecution everywhere, but also are so unhappy with it. First, their own Bible teaches them that they're blessed when they're persecuted (as you mentioned in the video). Second, they have such a great opportunity to prove that they've been transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit showing love towards their persecutors, but they miss this opportunity and blame them instead! I remember the day when I was reading a book and there was a story told by the Dalai Lama about Chinese invasion of Tibet. I was astonished when the Dalai Lama said that he felt compassion for Chinese invaders. He said sth like: "They did much harm to the people from my country, but we still should try to feel compassion for them cause they actually did harm to themselves too". Such a perspective was mind-blowing for me. I've never heard anything like this from a Christian. So much for loving your enemies. As for the podcast, I think it's a great idea! It'd be nice to discuss other topics apart from Christianity. I also hope that the Dissecting the Divine series will also come back soon.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you for these thoughts and feedback!

[@miguelatkinson]

@dmitrykup8867 in line with budhhist teachings

[@LadyhawksLairDotCom]

I'm glad people like you still engage the religious. So much damage was done to me in the name of religion that I get angry very quickly. I was brainwashed and abused in every imaginable way. I'm actually surprised I've recovered as much as I have. Occasionally, I still have an online argument with some deluded Christian. Today, a Catholic told me I'd become possessed by demons if I participated in a Buddhist ritual. I don't like being a jerk, even to those who invite it, but damn. I really slipped with this guy...kinda let him have it. Part of me feels bad; another part of me feels like I defended that little girl who was betrayed by people like this wacko. For my own sanity and for the sake of positive discourse, I need to force myself back into retirement and leave this conversation to those who are less damaged. It's hard to be kind to people who harmed you and _still_ don't get it.

[@I-am-bruno]

One thing I noticed when talking to xtians, they don't know what "dehumanizing" means.

[@christophergibson7155]

Dehumanizing is the term a sinner uses when knowing that a true born again Christian has told them they have broken God's moral law, the 10 commandments like everyone else, and are under the condemnation and wrath of Almighty God. (John 3:18 & John 3:36) That is why everyone desperately needs the Savior Jesus Christ to save and rescue them from all their sin.

[@I-am-bruno]

@@christophergibson7155 dehumanizing (oxford) - depriving a person or group of a positive human qualities

[@christophergibson7155]

@@I-am-bruno And the gospel brings the "good news" that the lost and blind sinner so needs to hear to be saved and rescued from their helpless and hopeless condition of sin. So, Jesus brings true "humanization" back to the a person' s life.

[@I-am-bruno]

@@christophergibson7155 I don't need your "humanization." I don't believe in your "saving". Keep your jsus to yourself. No preaching. Let me be.

[@christophergibson7155]

@@I-am-bruno If you don't appreciate my comments, then you can just move on to the next one. And if I desire to be blessed of The Lord, I do not take your counsel. (Psalm 1:1) Jesus is your only hope of salvation.

[@_BlackSummer]

Willful ignorance it’s still ignorance. And before any Christian addresses the secular world they have to first address the members of their cult. They have to FIRST ADDRESS what’s coming from their religion , not what they chose to see, not the bubble of their own church or fellowship circle no! You have to address the individual that tarnish the integrity/message of your religion. They should make you angrier than the secular worlds critiquing … they are misconstruing your message…. And by the way which message is the correct one again? I’ll wait.

[@hamobu]

My favorite quote is from George W. Bush: "Too often, we judge other groups by their worst examples - while judging ourselves by our best intentions. And this has strained our bonds of understanding and common purpose." I decided to re-examine my biases and think of Christians that I actually met. Here in Boston, Christians tend to be fairly liberal. Every other church has a rainbow flag and a BLM sign.

[@stevewebber707]

Very true. Extrapolating from a single example, to paint an entire group, is incredibly dangerous. Especially as the bad examples stand out so often. One large scale example I can think of for liberal vs conservative stances is the Methodist church. Sure a major percentage of churches left because the denomination didn't take a hard core ant-gay stance. But that means there are a lot of Methodist churches pushing back hard against bigotry. Personally I think much of that is personal beliefs feeding into religious ones. Since churches located in liberal areas are much more likely to be liberal churches. And Christianity can be interpreted in so very many ways.

[@emoryogglethorp8180]

The man was objectively evil, but at least he had good speech writers LOL

[@wolfofthewest8019]

@@stevewebber707 What's amusing is that if you know the actual origins of the word "bigot," then you would know that the Methodist churches you describe as "pushing back hard against bigotry" are in fact the bigots. See, the term "bigot" was coined by French Catholic priests from Paris to describe the Christians of Normandy, a region of France settled by Norse raiders with a distinctly Germanic character. These people had been Christianized, but were _unchurched_ and had weird, often heretical ideas of what it means to be Christian that were _products of the local culture._ They believed that the Christ and the Church held these weird culturally specific ideas as true, and would get offended when the educated priests from Paris tried to explain correct theology to them. They would declare that these peculiar beliefs of theirs were "By God!" But because they had this Germanic character, what they _actually_ said was "Bi Gott!" or "bigot!" These Methodist churches that have embraced the LGBTQ+ movement are bigots in this sense -- they have conflated humanism, liberalism, and modern leftist politics with Christian teaching. Of course, the Evangelicals aren't any better. For example, any Evangelical can assure you that the Bible calls on women to be homemakers, and it does. Most of them are unaware that Proverbs 31:10-31 actually describes a Biblical homemaker and she...earns money in the market, owns her own property, and manages her own investments. Oops! Turns out Evangelicals have their own bigotry, having conflated the 1950s Madison Avenue ideal of a the housewife -- a vapid, glossy eyed model that exists to stare lovingly at products you can buy -- with the Biblical homemaker.

[@paulgemme6056]

@@wolfofthewest8019 Unbelief is the only reason souls go to hell. Rejection of the truth (Jesus Christ). Unbelief is the opposite of faith. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

[@tonynixonmavely9753]

Would definitely appreciate the podcast

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks!

[@PianoRevisited]

I love the idea of your branching out into other areas such as philosophy, or anything else you think would be relevant and interesting. Sort of like what Jordan Peterson does. Having guests on would be great too. I'd really enjoy that. You definitely have the knack for it and a very organized, logical and rational way of thinking. Please keep all this available on KZbin in addition to any other venues so those of us who don't do podcasts can still participate. Looking forward to the expanded MindShift !

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you so much!

[@PaleLady]

Yes! Please do a podcast! Your brain and conversations with others would be a shame not to share! How I see it, you've dedicated a lot of time and effort into deconverting and putting down harmful ideas, I'd love to hear more about the helpful and healthy ideas you've added to your life. P.s. as someone who has always been told to "stop thinking about all the things we don’t have an answer for" it feels encouraging to hear you say "Keep Thinking"

[@MindShift-Brandon]

What a lovely comment all the way around. thank you so much!

[@26beegee]

The series are a good foundation. New people can always go back and listen to them but, it is natural as you and the channel grow and mature in you knowledge about the history of religions in the near east and even remote parts of the world you would want to explore philosophy, geology, anthropology and psychology. Religions are intertwined with every aspect of human history and the development of cultures. Expansion into conversations and education on all of those topics are valuable, interesting and necessary! Keep growing and expanding your topics!! Love it! 💕

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks for all the understanding and support!

[@altyrrell3088]

A lot of things happen to people that can be misinterpreted as personal, both positive and negative. This misinterpretation can support a belief in persecution.

[@Eric-lw5yq]

The two smartest people that I know are both Christians they are my cousins who are very devout Lutheran. They are two of the kindest people I know and I cannot think of a single reason to hate or ridicule them. They both have a very nuanced and in my opinion christ-centered interpretation of the Bible. I wish more Christians were like them

[@tzakman8697]

Why do we view fundies and zelots negative? they only tell us if we dont believe what they believe we will suffer for all eternity.

[@tylertucker2608]

It may be true. If there is an after life, and we are all stuck there together, we may have to listen to them tell us what they believe for all eternity. Suffering

[@Raenafyn]

When those fundies and zealots are in positions of power to suppress anything they don't agree with and make their beliefs into law, then they're a pretty big problem for everybody.

[@rochelebierhalspereira7106]

I remember worrying bc I wasn't persecuted, even though as a woman I dressed like a traditional xtian (hair, long dresses, no make up/jewellery). I told people about my faith when they asked, and always refused participating in anything secular, and yet all non-believers acted like I was their favourite person. The fact is, in my heart I secretly abhorred all the bigotry that was taught to me, and treated everyone with love and respect that way I understood god to want me to. A loving, polite and respectful person will be welcomed everywhere, regardless of their quirks and weird beliefs

[@simonkoster]

Disaggreeing wih them _is_ hating them. Right, should have waited to the end (or around 16:40) you got there too.

[@harveywabbit9541]

The right to impose their nonsense on others = freedom of religion.

[@wolfofthewest8019]

"Disagreeing with them is hating them." Yet, transphobia and homophobia are both defined as hatred and you will be accused of one or the other if you have rational disagreements with the political and cultural agenda of either group. Disagreeing with them is hating them.

[@marvelsomething1952]

Clicked on this by accident but I had a good time! Might sub.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Lol! I might just be thankful.

[@wearloga]

I love the idea of the podcast and am happy to hear you'll also upload it on KZbin. I don't have a preference whether or not it will be part of Mindshift, or under a different brand. However, from what I've heard, YT's algorithm doesn't play well with diversifying, so maybe a new brand and possibly a new channel would be beneficial? But that's just based of what I've heard from other creators in the past, so some nuance might have gotten lost along the way, or the info might be outdated. Regardless, looking forward to the first show.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you!

[@curiousnerdkitteh]

Looking forward to the podcast! Exciting!

[@ZenWithKen]

I find it odd that when Christianity breaks the church, state boundary and there are complaints, that it's see as persecution. That having an opinion on their religion is persecution. That the changing attitude towards their (all) religion is persecution. Perhaps it's a sign that it's time their (all) religion to go. That humanity has outgrown it's usefulness.

[@smarmar400]

Your tangent @18:45 about the Muslims having an equally strong adherence to their beliefs as you do explains the question I've had with every strongly religious person that I've met: Knowing that there are millions of others who believe that their god is the Truth as strongly as you believe that yours is, how can you NOT question your own system of beliefs and think "maybe what I believe is not the Truth after all..."? Pure faith leads to pure blindness.

[@kalabash72]

Maybe they experienced some persecution on a personal level. The problem is that people take anecdotal evidence and then look for ways to further support what they personally experienced. They then perceive this as truth

[@actionpoker7C2H]

Love the idea! Looking forward to it.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thank you!

[@roninwandering]

You do you, we'll be here. We aren't going to bail on you over some changes.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much!

[@roninwandering]

@@MindShift-Brandon Thank you. You put a lot of work in for everyone.

[@janviksne]

Yes! This is what i was hoping for - you covering topics outside of Christianity, so that we can see your beautiful logic and attitude in action in other areas like philosophy, your takes on difficult subjects etc, and of course debates or conversations. And I can easily see you doing this under Mindshift as it's such a great name in general. But Keep Thinking is also a fantastic one, in line with the idea of your podcast

[@MindShift-Brandon]

so kind, thanks for this!

[@lyleneander2100]

I'm not hateful, just bored by fundamentalist Christians whose conversations are dull and monocoloured and overly earnest and judgemental. I avoid them rather than be rude or unkind. This guy is projecting.

[@lyleneander2100]

@@davidrexford586 sorry, but I have no idea what you are saying. What are you asking?

[@n.c.1201]

1.) I love the idea to move your videos to audio. In the brief 3 years in a church I was annoyed that my church avoided angels and demons and the nephelim so I ended up finding the late Dr. Michael Heiser who I really admire! It was his website I would binge his audios ♡ 2.) Yes, I would like it if you were to venture out from specific Christianity BECAUSE the idea is tugging at you and it's your passion that drives this channel (IMO). Best wishes in your home life and KZbin life.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

thanks so much for this kindness!

[@LeolaTheElf]

Projection is so annoying

[@renaissancegamer2329]

Great video, sir. I’m excited for any content you mentioned. I just want to expand my knowledge/understanding and grow!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Love that! Thanks

[@michaelbell3181]

I was that idiot!

[@BeccaYoley]

Congratulations on the Mindshift!

[@michaelbell3181]

@@BeccaYoley Well me, I subscribed

[@BeccaYoley]

@@michaelbell3181 Great!😀

[@DundaMifflin]

Does he really catch that much shade from being a christian? I doubt it.

[@a.b.2405]

Probably just his tik tok comments.

[@istvansipos9940]

when you can lie about magic, you can lie about the type and amount of criticism you get.

[@sarahshelton3345]

A) Yes! B) Yes! C) Keep Thinking and MindShift are both awesome. I can’t decide which I like more.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Ha! Thanks so much, Sarah!

[@WayneGolding]

I wholeheartedly agree with expanding your content. You have already made many significant points about the veracity of the bible. I look forward to your future videos about other subjects.

[@Mr.PeabodyTheSkeptic]

'Are you Christian and what do you do for a living' are the 2 things Texans ask when they first meet a new person. US culture special pleads for christianity.

[@bluester7177]

I think that's pretty common everywhere in the American continent, I'm Brazilian and even in LGBTQIA+ groups I'm the odd one out about God, I don't know a single person other than myself who doesn't believe and I'm in 16 million people state, everywhere is people asking which church you go to, they don't need to ask if you're a Christian because they just assume, 90% of this country is.

[@jon.skeptischism]

Great vid Brandon. To answer your questions at the end, hell yes yes and yes. I’ll listen to the podcast regardless of what it’s called, but def recommend leveraging to some degree the brand you’ve already established as opposed to starting from scratch. Really excited for it!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks so much, Jon!

[@SlyPearTree]

I'm okay with a podcast format (if on youtube) but not if it's in the form of a call in show, those I generally do not like.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

Thanks for the feedback. This would be longerform conversations/interviews with others

[@TonyLambregts]

​@MindShift-Brandon long-form videos would affect the algorithm and ya gotta respect the algorithm. Second channel for long videos. punchy videos that highlight portions of the most interesting parts on this channel. That's my advice.

[@Shadowkitty360]

I also do not like call in shows

[@Drby_]

Love the open ended podcast idea, love the name KEEP THINKING. Iconic haha

[@happybeejv]

Here is the plan: We get a time machine and go back to the time of alexander the great and we bring the ruling class of the levant to the azores 10 years earlier Step two we have a council of 12 daoist monks and 12 platonists and 12 scholars in proto indo european reconstructionist language and mythology, and 12 hasidic quantum idealists redact and amend the torah and tanakh, Step three, after the ten years end we bring them all back to where they came from

[@sordidknifeparty]

I said something like this to you several months back when your channel was first starting, but I'm really impressed with how smooth and natural your delivery is. Out of curiosity, and I understand if you don't want to share, but how much of your talk do you have scripted out, or do you just do the whole thing off the cuff? It's just unusual to see someone who is this informative and simultaneously delivers the information so naturally. So glad to see your channel still growing!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

So kind. Thank you! I dont script anything ever. For Tuesdays, I turn the camera on and talk, but thats not to say i dont have to edit out a lot. For Thursday and Sunday i gather notes and research and make myself an outline. I wish i could script but its just too time consuming

[@archapmangcmg]

I'd add that there's 2 types of ignorant people. The first doesn't know something (or a lot of things, depending on the exact situation). The second ignores knowledge. They're told that the road is one-way, that evolution doesn't mean one animal giving birth to a new species, that the universe is very old, that the Bible instructs people on how to own slaves or get away with particular violence against women. You show them. And they refuse to acknowledge it. They ignore it. I have little problem with the first category and they're often a lot of fun when you get to share something cool, like bringing them into your hobbies or favourite music. The second group cause problems. One of them nearly ran me off the road today because he ignored my car was in the lane and he felt entitled to push in, even to the point of causing an accident. Others embrace conspiracies of all sorts, preferring the feeling of being special over accepting facts, like Flerfers.

[@archapmangcmg]

@TheMahayanist they also can’t learn if they think they know enough. “Yeah, I don’t know biology but who cares? Evolution is still stupid and wrong” They can be aware that they don’t know something but refuse to learn anything. Like William Lane Craig and his lying about cosmology. He was in a debate with an actual cosmologist telling him he’s wrong on cosmology but Craig persists in saying the same lies years later. So much for Craig and Reasonable Faith!

[@andrewferg8737]

"the Bible instructs people on..." --- As a youth, I happened upon my older sister's medical textbook one day. The volume was opened, much to my horror and dismay, to a full-color plate depicting a facial avulsion. I began flipping through the book questioning within myself what on earth it was that my sister had been reading all this time. Later of course, I came to learn the purpose of that text, and my sister's noble aspirations in studying it so assiduously. I had, of course, confused description with prescription.

[@ameziaarchard8487]

Atleast with the first one I can sit down and explain it to them. It's the second ones who are willfully ignorant that really anger me because you have been given the knowledge and you chose to ignore it

[@archapmangcmg]

@@andrewferg8737 Leviticus 25:44-46 is a prescription. And so is the one where the man who violates a woman must marry her for life. The Bible is more horrific than any medical text.

[@andrewferg8737]

@@ameziaarchard8487 "I can sit down and explain it to them"--- To what "it" do you refer?

[@blessedloaf6199]

It's a lot harder to claim to be a non-christian in the bible belt than vice versa. People assume by default I'm a believer and have a ton of questions to try and re-convert me. I usually do a 1- 2 combo with Rev. 3: 15-16 and then tell them not to "waste their pearls on swine". That doesn't mean I hate them, but a lot of folks don't want to have their viewpoints challenged and I'm not trying to lose a job/home/life over it. 😂

[@BillZBubb]

Let’s be clear. If there is any persecution of Christians, it’s not because you believe what you believe or disagree with what I believe. It’s because you act how you act. That could be anything from affecting a superior attitude to restricting my activities.

[@ChinonsoNnadozie]

How do we act? Not subscribing to your beliefs and not worshipping your god

[@abigailwren1741]

I feel like a "yes man" here, but I like your idea just the way you phrased it. I would enjoy having a podcast from you that explores those other topics that you're interested in, and I feel that naming it the Keep Thinking podcast keeps it close enough to your branding that we know it's you, but we will anticipate slightly different content. I'd listen to it!

[@MindShift-Brandon]

thanks for this feedback!

[@thing1thing2themediamaniac43]

One or the things I never liked about The Christian Faith is how much it amd The Bible stresses Christian Persecution, Suffering, and even Martyrdom. In fact when ever my Church would spotlight Christian Suffering by spotlighting Personal Histories of Christian Converts or Missionaries who were being Persecuted and even violently martyred in other countries It was meant to be inspiring But it always made me angry and depressed and it would stress me out about the possibility of going thru it myself.

[@Queenread82]

I like “Keep Thinking” podcast. Mindshift is familiar but keep thinking is your sign-off and so, familiar to those who follow. Keep thinking is broader though, so you could spin it off into a more diverse program and occasionally cross pollinate (some might fit both) or just plugged them both like Seth Andrews does with his two podcasts. I’d listen, I have a curious brain.

[@ReasonQuest]

John 16 :33 says “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” In my 45 years of Christianity I was told that if I WASN'T experiencing persecution then I wasn't doing Christianity right. Therefore, these dudes should be reveling in the perceived persecution they have to endure (endure... haha).

[@jackalsgate1146]

• Everyone of us is responsible for writing his own book, a personal philosophy, that is kept within us and that's where it should remain. • Any religion or personal philosophy that intentionally, and outwardly, sets itself up above all others is dangerous.

[@RiannaNicole]

This sort of thing is what I’ve been loosely been dabbling with, over most of the last 10 years, and getting a more mature and articulate grip on, so thanks for sharing that with us Brandon. In regards to the podcast, I am interested in hearing about a conversation with you and others, especially with your current one that you mentioned with the PhD person, and going over Ecclesiastes (had to pull out my Bible to get the spelling, because man is that a word). I think other topics, especially the sociology (study of social impacts and cultures) and the psychology can really tie in, since religion really does influence nearly every culture, even outside of predominantly Christian ones like the west. I think we’d be rather good friends, if I knew you irl, and could sit down and have a drink, as I’ve enjoyed your content that I’ve watched so far, and are interested and well versed in a lot of similar topics I find myself in. You’re doing well Brandon, and thanks for continuing to show up.

[@MindShift-Brandon]

So kind and helpful. Thank you!