Can Christianity Save the World?

In many countries of the world, including here in America, there are those who consider this to be a rather arrogant statement. Some of the major objections to Christianity in the West are the historical problems of the Crusades, the Inquisition, and even the Holocaust.

However, we must consider the question of whether these horrible events done in the name of Christianity, were actually Christian?

In other words, were people just using religion as a political tool, or did they genuinely believe they were doing what God required of them?  I personally believe it was both, depending on the event your discussing.  This might be an interesting topic for another time. 

In Western culture where Christianity seems to be growing less and less popular, today it's common for Christians to treat their faith as something personal and private that works for them, but may not be true for others. Therefore, they do not impose their belief system on others.

Call me old fashioned, but that thinking is totally unacceptable. And spiritually, it’s a very dangerous attitude for a believer to develop. 

The scriptures tell us that, “Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven.”  (Matthew 10:32, 33)

Of course, everyone is entitled to believe what they choose. But if you are a Christian, you don't have the luxury of taking a middle-of-the-road approach to how your faith relates to the world. You can't say Christianity is merely a lifestyle choice that has no relation or importance to its surrounding culture. That's simply untrue.

Now, Christianity can be misused. I cannot count the many times someone has brought up some misguided or downright evil event.  But, when true Christianity is biblically lived out in your life, it has the power to transform individuals and societies. 

Here are 4 reasons I’ve borrowed from Tim Keller’s book, “The Reason for God” as to how Christianity can save the world:
1) Christianity has the power to explain the sinful tendencies within the human heart
2) Christianity provides a firm basis for respecting people of other faiths
3) Christians believe that all human beings are made in God's image, and are of equal value (And therefore, worth protection)
4) Christianity alone provides the perfect system for reconciliation back to God through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ

Of course, if all the above statements are true, then Christians should be the most humble, respectful, and merciful people on earth. (Which means we still have a lot of work to do.)  If Christianity is true, then those who follow it cannot claim that it’s just another nice religion. They must believe, with strong conviction, that it can save the world, redeem individual lives, and promote "peace on earth and good will toward men." 

What do you think?  Can Christianity save the world?  Is it the only religion in the world that can do so?

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

 

Please let me know what you think about this post.  And if you have any suggestions for future topics, please contact me at:   lifesjourney1949@gmail.com

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Being Thankful in Difficult Times

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

We gather at this time every year, to reflect on the blessings of God. But in most families, Thanksgiving is less about real gratitude, and more about stuffing your face, watching football, and hanging out with the family.

Now, I'm all in favor of food and time with family, although I’m not much of a football fan.  But this year, let's make Thanksgiving about giving, and about thanks.  Of course, this year many people may have to dig more deeply for some feeling of gratitude.  Some have struggled through a year of unemployment, or the loss of their home for whatever reason.  For others, Thanksgiving is a reminder that they have yet to meet that “special someone” they’ve been searching for, or seeking the answer for why they have had to struggle with an illness.  This year has been marked by pain for so many in the world. 

So how do we summon a feeling of gratitude?  Well, if you're a Christian, the source of your gratitude is not from your circumstances, but something greater.  Paul tells the people of Thessalonica that they should "give thanks in everything."  Why?  Because this is the "will of God in Christ Jesus." 

In other words, followers of Christ believe that every portion of hardship is a gift of grace from the Lord, sent for their growth, blessing, and deeper intimacy with the Almighty.  We believe God is firmly in charge, and though life may be difficult, it all falls under God's sovereign will.  And so we give thanks. 

As Americans, we really have cause for gratitude. Periodically, my wife and I need to be reminded of this.  We so easily get caught up in the desire for more stuff; better clothes, the newest gadgets for our outdoor activities. But then, we remember our travels to third world countries, where we’ve seen real poverty—and real gratitude on the part of Christians living there. 

Perhaps this year, you are the one who is having trouble finding good in your life.  Look no further than Jesus.  He never changes.  Despite everything you might be facing, you can rejoice in Him, and thank Him for His love and care for you.  You can give thanks that He promised to work all things together for good. 

God IS our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble, at all times and in all situations.  Even when nations are in an uproar, and kingdoms crumble. Our God, the Almighty One is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. And because of His constant presence we can all be truly thankful today.

“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.” (Psalm 107:1)

Can God change your life?

God has made it possible for you to know Him and experience an amazing change in your own life.

Discover how you can find peace with God.