In this modern age of enlightenment, have we identified the 'essence' of religion so we can say all religions are essentially the same?
Twice or more each year, primarily during the Christmas and Easter seasons, mainstream television networks air a variety of documentaries formed around a cadre of academics who explain that all religions and all Gods are essentially the same. This claim is based on the observation that it is difficult to identify a religion which advocates: (1) stealing from, double-crossing or murdering persons who treat you with kindness; (2) abusing children, elderly, sick or disabled; (3) admiring selfishness; or (4) some other pitiless, ruthless or merciless behavior. Because no religion advocates these kinds of behaviors, the experts conclude all religions must be essentially the same! This astounding product of superior 21st century human intellect might have come as a surprise to Elijah and might even have rendered his challenge to the prophets of Baal and Asherah completely unnecessary (1 Kings 18:20-40)!
But can we actually reduce the major religions to a lowest common denominator, perhaps “The universal fatherhood of God and the universal brotherhood of man?” At their core, are all religions really teaching the same thing even though their outward trappings may differ? Do all religious roads, though they differ in route, ultimately arrive at the same mountain top?
The core beliefs of Christianity are listed below. Unless you can identify another religion which shares these beliefs, the answer to these questions is “no.”
What about those who have never heard of Jesus Christ and know nothing about the core beliefs of Christianity? Can such persons respond to the grace of God that brings salvation? Consider the tax collector in Luke 18:10-14. This man knew nothing about Jesus or the substitutionary atonement yet to come. Nevertheless, he demonstrated confession of sin, remorse in his heart, a desire to repent, faith in God and the intention of obedience. He responded to what God had written on his heart. The thief on the cross had a similar experience (Luke 23:39-43). Salvation from the consequences of sin does not require head knowledge. It requires a contrite, penitent, humble, forgiving and merciful heart willing to confess sin, feel remorse, repent, believe in God and seek obedience.
Although classical logic represents the truth of God and sound reason is the foundation of the Christian faith, the objective is purity of heart.
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