Though? Over the last 100 years, the behavioral sciences have improved SOMEWHAT.
In any case, I'm professionally interested in the many neglected moments where even the Bible itself seems to describe and advocate the application of the experimental method to religion and God. Especially Dan. 1.4-15 KJE, and 1 Kings 18.20-40.
Obviously Christians did not take those parts of the Bible very seriously. But what if they had? Then, some hint, Christianity would usefully implode.
More than a decade ago, there was an article on this in "Skeptic"; an atheist magazine.
In the very interesting Bible examples above, it was claimed that science had, in several cases, scientifically proved that Judaism and Christianity can control great physical powers, miracles. But? Modern science demands that we periodically re-do old experiments, to see if they were accurate. To see if we can "replicate" them, and confirm them ...or not.
And of course, if we do that, then we quickly show that the old promises of physical miracles were flatly false.
So? I find it very useful to quote those two examples above, and others, to Christians. To show them that Christianity eventually ... demolishes itself.
Ultimately, the Bible didn't finally support faith: it ultimately demanded that we question, examine all the claims of Christianity, with real, genuine experimental method. And if Christianity today fails those experiments? Then, amazingly, the Bible itself demands that Christians acknowledge the failure of their religion.
In Dan. 1.4-15 KJE. And 1Kings 18.20-40, especially.
Maybe we aren't supposed to "test" - or better translated, "tempt" - fate, by very rash deeds. But amazingly, the Bible itself did allow and even command believers to begin the careful scientific testing of Christian assertions, promises of miracles, spirits.
"Put me to the test" says God; "test everything," added St. Paul. And in that way, discover your old religion, Christianity, is "false." A false prophet; a "false Christ."
In the end, the Bible usefully cancels itself.
So some atheists have decided to write some articles and books on this.
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