Expert: Clint - 1/25/2011

Question
I'm not sure if you have been asked before so forgive me in advance, but my parents are deeply religious. (I'm 17) My father is in a fact a pentecostal pastor. Seeing as how you were once baptist and both denominations are close in most doctrines, I figured you would be the best to answer problem. My father has always been very "oppressive" in terms of being exposed to other views. I am, despite his attempts at censorships, an atheist primarily because of the lack of rationality or evidence for Christianity and the irregularities in the Bible. Anyway, I used to regularly take part in something called Socratic Society at my high school. We debate and discuss ideas and philosophies. He's informed me that I'm no longer allowed to go. This has been the tipping point in our relationship. Not only is simply discussing ideas that may or may not be contrary to Christian doctrine not a sin or prohibited according to the Bible, but his reason is that he doesn't want me to learn anything that could be contrary to his beliefs. How is this reasonable? If his beliefs are so bullet-proof and directly from God, why fear any debate. He apparently has all the answers. I made alot of friends through this club and its a highlight of my week. I've learned alot through it. Moreso that anything I've learned in church the past couple of years. What should I do?

Answer
You're 17 years old and that makes you an independently minded adult. Are you afraid that speaking your mind will get you kicked out of the house? If so then that's not much of a supportive family but, do as you must to survive. One of the worst things about religion, after war and murder, is how it can easily separate flesh and blood family from one another. Not much of a divine belief if you ask me. Those who can't see this, IMHO, are delusional scared little sheep easily influenced into unspeakable immoral actions justified by an unknown overlord who commands it through a single man (or woman). Why does such an all powerful deity make his presence and rules known only through those of the cloth and not to all of mankind? Any ways...

If you'll get kicked out then don't go and wait till your on your own to do as you wish. Otherwise, do go but be more kind than your father and let him be the aggressor, maybe he'll see the error of his ways or finally just love you for yourself beyond indifferences. At 17 you can't be told what to do or not do, but he can kick you out too. Then again, if you have a way to support yourself, let him kick you out. You must survive and if it means giving up something you want then that is what you must, for now. Welcome to adulthood, think and act responsibly and good luck.