again so you say, but as you note the guy has already been disrespected, yeh? Iow pauls deal about
when in Rome was not really absorbed, maybe? So it's at least quite possible that the response was as insensitive as the initial proselytization? Dont get me wrong, i dont mean like every time or whatever, but in cases where the "NB" is so obv sending out Dont vibes i mean wth is the "Christian" even thinking, iyo?[/QUOTE]
Apologies for not being clear, the typical exchange I referred to in OP wasn't a pushy type of proselytization, but rather any comment with a hint of believer perspective - triggers a hateful attack by non-believers. And in the setting of a secular forum it's usually a pile on by many NB's.
Thinking more about this thread has led me to some helpful scripture, for example;
1 Peter 3:15-16 ESV / 132 helpful votes
But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
Romans 14:1 ESV / 78 helpful votes
As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.
Acts 19:9 ESV / 51 helpful votes
But when some became stubborn and continued in unbelief, speaking evil of the Way before the congregation, he withdrew from them and took the disciples with him, reasoning daily in the hall of Tyrannus.
2 Timothy 3:16 ESV / 42 helpful votes
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
John 13:34-35 ESV / 32 helpful votes
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
2 Timothy 4:2 ESV / 31 helpful votes
Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
2 Timothy 2:14 ESV / 30 helpful votes
Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.
Acts 18:28 ESV / 14 helpful votes
For he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.
Titus 3:10 ESV / 12 helpful votes
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him,
Proverbs 29:1-27 ESV / 5 helpful votes
He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.
Proverbs 26:12-16 ESV / 5 helpful votes
Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Proverbs 23:9-11 ESV / 5 helpful votes
Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the good sense of your words.
The best guidance I think is from Jesus himself as many times when challenged he simply spoke the truth then moved on to let it soak in to those listening.