What Everyone Knows About, But Nobody Can Do.

Have Christians got exclusive knowledge about right and wrong? I think even a quick look at other religions and philosophies (even atheism) would suggest that we all share many beliefs about moral behaviour. Studies show that even babies react when they witness unfair or hurtful actions. So if all people have a knowledge of right and wrong, what difference does Christianity make? There are many answers to that, but here is just one.

Despite their knowledge about right and wrong, people often act unethically in order to get by, or to gain an advantage. No one except Jesus avoided this. However, Christian faith can improve the ability to carry out moral decisions. How does this happen? Well, "...faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1 NIV). We grow to believe that God will take care of our needs, safety, and purpose, which enables us to live with less fear*. And each time we experience God's provision of these things, our faith is reinforced. This enables Christians to rely more on God and less on themselves over time, and as a result to act with less fear and selfishness than they did before. 

*So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NIV

Rejection Hurts

It is frightening to think of God rejecting people, so upsetting that I believe it causes people to question the concept of a God 'like that'. We don't want it to be true that people we know and care about, perhaps even ourselves, may not go to heaven. So, some people react against the concept of heaven. Others react against the concept that a loving God could do this, either rejecting that definition of God, or belief in God at all. Frances de Sales said "God does not deprive us of His love; we deprive Him of our cooperation. God would never reject me if I had not first rejected his love." God does not force people to love back, He gives us free will, and some choose to reject Him. In fact, it is more fascinating to me that God is willing to accept all of us. If you were God, would you offer acceptance to EVERYONE, as He does? In fact, would you associate with humans at all if you were so far beyond them in EVERY way? Fascinating, and lucky for us that He does!*
* 2 Peter 3:9b (NIV) "Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."