THE BIG 6
Christianity: the problem or the solution?
Tadhg’s Story: CHRISTIANITY
Christianity: the problem or the solution?
“I like your Christ. I don’t like your Christians.” Those words of Gandhi have been shared many times through the years to highlight the problem of religious hypocrisy (even if, apparently, he didn’t actually say it!)
Yet the sentiment behind it is a common one. There is no shortage of people who claim the name ‘Christian’ who provide the worst possible advertisement. They lack even the tiniest glimmer of compassion for those in need; they condemn others for their ‘sin’ even as they indulge their own vices. The scathing verdict of Jesus on this is just as relevant today as ever “I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” (Matthew 7:23).
Here in Ireland we know all too well how religious figures have been able to use their position and influence to prey on some of the most vulnerable. We know too how religious institutions have closed ranks and covered up truly unspeakable acts. If that is what Christianity is all about, who in their right mind would want anything to do with it?
It needs to be noted that there’s a clear difference between those who are followers of Jesus and those who only claim to be. Genuine Christianity results in compassion, humility, and a commitment to stand up and speak out against evil. Those who claim to follow Christ without actually becoming like him are imposters who will have to answer for their hypocrisy and for how they have caused people to turn from the truth.
Yet counterfeit Christians don’t invalidate real Christianity any more than a counterfeit note invalidates the money in your wallet. Real Christianity has always been a force for good as the followers of Christ respond to the staggering love God has shown them by showing something of that love to the people around them.
Jesus Christ promises to judge those imposters who claim to be his followers but are merely living an act. Don’t let frauds con you into writing off the real thing. Take time to investigate Jesus himself and see how he really changes people.
