How much should we learn about other religions?
One fascinating facet of humanity is how many different religions we have. And for every religion there are people who are sincerely convinced that it’s the truth.
While I doubt anyone would argue that Christians should remain wholly ignorant of the beliefs of other religions, I do wonder what your approach is to learning about other religions.
How much should we learn about other religions?
If you are a questioner (as I am), I should learn about them to answer my questions: CAN a religion be true? If so, which one? Why should I assume the religion I was born into is the right one when I don’t expect others to be born into the right one? What evidence is there for any religion? etc.
If you live in a culture of diverse religions, I should also learn so I can have real conversations with others. Religion reveals something more culturally personal to people. And if you understand that part of their culture they are more likely to trust you. This is what love often looks like. Mutual learning. Mutual respect. A human friend gained for the journey to point out your pitfalls as he allows you to point out his…
I’m reminded of Don Richardson’s “redemptive analogy” – in almost every belief system, there’s something that resonates with the Gospel. But you have to find it first, and build relationships along the way.
Learning more about and respecting the religion of others builds respect and credence for our own. According to James 1:27 “A religion that is pure and stainless in the sight of God the Father is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.”
This tells me that how we find God is secondary in importance to the works He expects us to do. True religion comes from doing good, not following a specified ritual or methodology.
Religion is what you do! Being a Christian is in your heart!It is who you are when you become a new creature God tells us to “…forsake not to assemble ourselves.” Assembly is for the worship and service to others, I think people get caught up in religion, and forget to just worship God! There is no particular “way” in spirit and truth in the worship of God. Yes we need order in the assembly, but that should not overshadow true worship! I don’t have time to learn religion, I just need to know how are you worshiping God!