How to do you handle anti statements or actions?

[lestertheemt]

First.........I hope this is in the right place

Earlier in chat some one asked how they could best dispute with an anti LDS group.


It is in my opinion to simply not engage, ignore, walk away, etc. I know that nothing I say will change their minds (as all are entitled to believe what and how they may). I also believe that by giving them the time of day that in some small way I am encouraging the behavior.

Is this the best method? Is there another way and if so what?

[beefche]

I usually just smile and not say anything.

[pam]

I would agree with just walking away.

[Islander]

Originally Posted by lestertheemt

First.........I hope this is in the right place

Earlier in chat some one asked how they could best dispute with an anti LDS group.


It is in my opinion to simply not engage, ignore, walk away, etc. I know that nothing I say will change their minds (as all are entitled to believe what and how they may). I also believe that by giving them the time of day that in some small way I am encouraging the behavior.

Is this the best method? Is there another way and if so what?

Argument and contention are voided of the Spirit of the Lord. It makes little sense to discuss anything with somebody who's convinced "you are wrong" from the outset. It is a futile and unprofitable exercise. Ignoring them and refusing to play their game is the most sensible choice.

[miztrniceguy]

i might simply state they are entitled to their own opinion, as i am. i respect their right t believe anything they want.

[Palerider]

Living here in the Bible Belt...I hear alot of comments...I do walk away but sometimes I have to say something.

[john doe]

Contending with anti's, especially when it happens on their terms, is rarely productive. They have the ability to censor or distort your words to serve their point or purpose. It's generally best when on their turf to just walk away. On a level plane, or even one tilted in your favor, about the only thing you can accomplish is to plainly state your case so that bystanders may see the sense of it. You will still rarely gain an admission of validation from those who contend with you, so you need to weigh the benefits of going down rabbit holes with those who merely are there to fight against the costs of being labeled defensive or offended by their unwillingness to concede your point of view or reasoning as being valid.

[juxtaposed]

any genuine question regarding the gospel wouldn't be able to be misconstrued as being anti anything. as others have noted anytime there is someone ready to bash any particular topic of our belief system don't have any reasonable intention to discuss such topics to come to an amicable conclusion, it's an attempt to tear down and destroy. i don't discuss this stuff with those types of people, just not worth it.

[Obadiah]

I think the response is situational. I think one should let the Spirit guide you as to the course of action to take in any talk dealing with the gospel. Sure, many times, maybe even most of the time you will 'feel' the correct action is to smile and say, 'bless your soul' and walk. But there may be times when confrontation is expected and demanded by God. It is sometimes our responsibility to call a Korihor out by his name. Other times, the Spirit may grasp the 'anti' by the scruff of the neck and help bring about a conversion.

[miztrniceguy]

how about "oooh, Bless yer heart" with a southern drawl.