Sunday, November 26, 2006

One True Religion

"Jesus said that there is one way"

So does that infer that there is one distinctive religion? No! Jesus certainly wasn't endorsing a specific religion or club, he was re-enforcing the fact that God is the gatekeeper and there is no other ways around.

It really disturbs me when I hear religions using this as evidence that their religion is the only ticket. As if their interpretations, practices and beliefs are the one and only accredited terms accepted by the almighty. They might as well keep a club card.

Do we really select religion?
The fact is, many, if not most people are in their respective religions for very simple reasons:
  • parents/family inherited, blood relation
  • limited options in the geography
  • only one which they are really familiar with
With the exception of highly un-ethical religions; nobody can rightfully assert that their religion is superior to others. They can think that their way is better, but when it comes down to practice, the religion is just better or more convenient for them. Even then, an individual might make such claims, but it is highly irresponsible for the religious body to slander another.

Jesus said that he is the only way; live like him, follow his teaches. More generally: love each other, forgive your enemies. These are pretty basic ethical values: treat others as you would have them treat you.

Conversion is good if...
It is invited. If you encounter a lost soul, it is a moral obligation to guide them (or have them guided) towards to the right path. If you were that lost soul, you'd probably invite that. But that opening is the key.
Unless you are inviting other theological beliefs into your life, you shouldn't be barging into theirs.

Conclusion
Don't go telling a Mormon|Muslim|Jew|Protestant|Christian that they should change their life unless you're prepared to understand their beliefs, background and willing to hear why you should potentially renounce your religion. After-all there are Mormon|Muslim|Jew|Protestant|Christian that practice love, kindness and forgiveness of their enemies. Unless I'm willing to accept their Book for a moment, I cannot ask them to accept mine.

Even if you are a theological scholar, you cannot go around denouncing a religion you believe is wrong. Even the most intelligent human is still a human. In so far as someone is living in an ethical manner, you cannot condemn their beliefs or practices.

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