Photo by Daniel Dale
At first glance, Christianity might seem to be just another ancient religion, based on events that took place and beliefs that were formulated 2,000 years ago. Yet, a closer look will show that Christianity answers the basic questions of human existence in ways that ring true in any era.
“Where did I come from?” Like many religions and scientific inquiries, Christianity confronts the question of origins. But the Judeo-Christian Creator is a living person and a loving parent, not just a First Cause or a Big Bang.
“Why am I here?” Everyone needs a sense of purpose in life. The search for significance drives many people to success seminars, self-help books, and analysts’ couches. Christianity offers significance, teaching that people were created to love and serve God, to please and enjoy Him. In fact, Christians are blessed with “spiritual gifts”-abilities that function in concert with the abilities of other Christians to build up the church and honor God. Every Christian has a unique role within God’s kingdom.
“What’s wrong with our world?” The problem of evil is as relevant as your local newspaper. Where is the war this week? Afghanistan? Iraq? Central Africa? From drive-by shootings to insider trading, crime continues. Jails are full. Even the most enlightened, civilized cultures aren’t immune to violence, deception, and corruption. Some philosophers proclaim that people are basically good, but it’s clear that something has gone haywire. Christians call it sin. Contrary to popular belief, we have a built-in tendency to do the wrong thing, and we need a Savior to turn us around.
“How can we all just get along?” Let’s put away the headlines and talk about our own lives. Civil wars around the globe aren’t all that different from the uncivil behavior in our own homes. How can people get along with people, especially when they’re being so unlovable? Jesus gave us a model of servanthood, of non-retaliation, of forgiveness. Through the Holy Spirit, He provides the power His people need to follow His example.
All too often, Christians have made their faith seem musty, hanging on to customs and language from past generations. But Jesus talked about His message as “new wine” that needs new containers to hold it. The Gospel is good news. There’s no question that it’s good, but it’s also news-and as relevant as anything we’ll see in the headlines or encounter in our daily lives.
Here are other Frequently Asked Questions and how the Bible answers them.
Mike Mobley
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