I never understand the extremist Christian view. Basically there's the Bible and all. If you don't believe in it, you're going to hell. But how exactly are you supposed to "make" yourself believe something you don't believe?
I think the answer is you're supposed to be so cowed and afraid that you can't even let a disbelieving thought into your head. Which is why most extreme religious people always seem like they're under intense pressure. Which they of course attribute to the "devil" trying to make them doubt.
But suppose you just don't believe in any of that nonsense? Why would a just God, if there is one, fault you for not believing what you can't believe? I could see him faulting you for ACTIONs like killing raping robbing or mis treating your fellow humans (or animals) but belief isn't really under your control.
I think the answer is you're supposed to be so cowed and afraid that you can't even let a disbelieving thought into your head. Which is why most extreme religious people always seem like they're under intense pressure. Which they of course attribute to the "devil" trying to make them doubt.
But suppose you just don't believe in any of that nonsense? Why would a just God, if there is one, fault you for not believing what you can't believe? I could see him faulting you for ACTIONs like killing raping robbing or mis treating your fellow humans (or animals) but belief isn't really under your control.