Peter,

I didn't say anything about your individual, particular experience. Please keep that in mind.

And I have talked with many people who have "deconverted" from Christianity or who are going through major doubts for various reasons. I've lost count of the number. So my observations are not based on thin air.

But regardless of what you think of my motives, knowledge, etc... I did acknowledge in my article that "the world of Christianity is full of sin, strife, and scandal" and "no group should be above criticism or accountability."

There is a lot of toxicity in religion - not just in Christianity. I acknowledge that.

I also said: "Those who abuse, mistreat, exploit, and violate others should be called out and held accountable." And... in follow-up comments, I said that I welcome people who have had negative experiences with Christianity to speak out.

I'm not trying to shut anyone down.

The main points I'm trying to make is all of us should stay away from bigotry and hate -- that includes both Christians and non-Christians.

Unfortunately, I see a LOT of anti-Christian bigotry on Medium.

And I'm encouraging people to understand there's a difference between disagreement and abuse. That just because someone doesn't like, agree with, or relate with a particular point of view... that has no bearing on the truth claim itself. I can be offended by someone...even hurt by someone (emotionaly speaking)...and I can be wrong.

Feelings and emotions don't determine truth.

Truth claims must be evaluated critically - not emotionally.

I'm NOT saying you personally are guilty of ANY of this. I'm just explaining my article.

And finally, I'm making the point that, when it comes to those truth claims...specifically, the truth claims of Christianity.... people should strive to fully understand those claims before rejecting them.

If people don't share my Christian faith or my beliefs, that's okay. I leave that between that person and God. It's not my place or purpose or desire to try to force anything on anyone.

And I care about people - all people, regardless of what they believe.

All the very best to you!

-Brian