What about other religions

There are many who would blame much of the division and strife in this world on religion. So why should we even consider seeking to become an active follower of any world faith? It is true that many wars and conflicts are often depicted as a struggle between people of different faiths, but faith identity is often more of a convenient peg on which to hang the blame, than the genuine cause of such things.

No-one can deny that people have initiated and fought wars in the name of religion, but those who are serious about faith, are more often those who advocate peace. In the world today there are many examples of people of different faiths coming together to share common interests, and in particular standing together against conflict, war and injustice.

Christianity is rooted in personal freedom and not religious regulation, and Christians would stand against anyone who seeks to force or compel someone to follow any faith, including their own. Christians pursue and advocate their faith not because they wish to put down or ridicule others, but because they have discovered a living and life-changing realty that they naturally want to share with others.

It is important not to confuse Christianity with being squeezed into the mould of any particular culture of behaviour pattern. The Christian Church exists in every continent in our world, and gives expression to shared truths in ways that reflect the culture and heritage of local people. That includes protecting the right of others to choose to believe something different.

Introduction

Where does the Church fit in?