Is Christianity Too Narrow in Our Culture?

Is Christianity Too Narrow in Our Culture?

Wrestling with this question is important.  How can the God of the universe only give one way for His children to be forgiven of their sins.  Who in their right mind would believe that there is only one option to eternity?  God would never be that narrow minded, would He?  And all these Christians who believe in this narrow way to heaven can sometimes be so judgmental.  Why is that?

As I personally wrestle with this question, it helps me respond from a Biblical perspective in bridging the gap between belief and unbelief.  "In Jeremiah 29:4–11, God calls his people to be present in their city in a way that enables it to flourish, while remaining focused on God. “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7). In other words, the God of the Bible commands his people to be gracious and charitable toward all people—including those who do not share the same faith. Is it possible to have an honest yet graceful dialog about important matters like faith?"  (Explore God Discussion Guide)

I sure hope that it is possible.  The hope of honest dialogue drives people to answer the difficult questions in life, like the one on topic for this week.  As we explore God, we begin to realize that He is the creator of life and everything in life.  We also see that there is evil in this life that can destroy and kill.  There must be a redeemer to intercede for man, to combat the darkness of the world - thus steps in Jesus Christ - the perfect sacrifice for our sins and the evil of this world. (John 3:16)  The reality lies in scripture where Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, the life and no one comes to the Father except by me" (John 14:6)  So yes, from a biblical perspective, the way to Christianity is narrow, but I believe that is not too narrow for our culture today.  I believe it is the answer to our culture today.

Read this perspective.  "Christianity is seen by some as a narrow and mostly irrelevant belief system within our culture. Why? The Christian Church at one point in history was sought out for knowledge of reality. The Church was taken seriously by the wider culture. In many circles, that is no longer true." (Explore God Discussion Guide)  And why is the church not taken seriously?  Why has our culture strayed away from the belief in a God who loves them and gave His only Son to redeem the world?  Simple - we have taken our eyes off Yahweh - the God of the Old Testament and the risen Savior of the New Testament.  Our culture focuses on everything else except the truth of God's word, and because of this, we we are drifting further away from the foundation of biblical truth.

My encouragement for you as you read this and struggle through this question, is to not build a wall - but a bridge between belief and unbelief.  Ask and allow God to show you if Christianity is too narrow and ask God to reveal the answer to you.

What are some practical ways you can seek the peace and prosperity of your city? How might these actions contribute to the common good in the world? If you keep a journal, take some time to note your responses there.