Why Christianity?: Part 2

We are continuing our reasons for why Christianity should be chosen.

1. Christianity is the one belief that affords assurance of Salvation. This differentiates Christianity from all other religions and belief systems in the world. In the other beliefs, the goal is to, hopefully, work enough to have the good outweigh the bad. But even the most ardent follower of these systems, if they are honest, will admit that they hope they will make eternal bliss but can't be certain.

   A. In Christianity, since we cannot save ourselves, we are dependent on Jesus’ finished work on the cross. Therefore, the work is done for us (John 19:30), and it is in His finished work, we can find assurance of salvation and a promised future of eternal life (John 20:31; 1 John 5:13).

   B. Buddhism believes that one must understand the universe, speak and live in the right way and with the right intentions, and fulfilling the other eight paths of their practice, is one able to get to Heaven. But none of the practicioners can say 100%, “I will make it to Heaven”. Their works may not be good enough.

   C. Confucianism says there must be an appropriate behavior in this life. Since the afterlife itself is unknowable, the focus should be on making this life as good as it can be.

   D. Islam teaches that on top of believing in Allah, and obeying Muhammad, they also can recite prayers, fast, pilgrimage, do good works, all to HOPEFULLY put more weight on their works here.

2. Christianity offers a place of rest for those who are tired, and worn out (Matthew 11:28). This gives to all who are either worn out from trying to work and are exhausted trying to live a better life in order to obtain eternal life a place the tired soul may rest. Jesus says we can come to Him. Unlike the other beliefs, the God of the Christians show these attributes (not all encompassing):

   A. He cares for you as an individual - 1 Peter 5:7

   B. He knows what you are going through - Hebrews 4:14-16

   C. He wants to have a personal relationship with YOU. - 1 John 3:1-3

   D. He provided a way for us to restore a relationship with Him...by dying for us Himself. This shows He WANTS us to be saved. 1 Timothy 2:4. There are a couple notes here. First, God WANTS us to have fellowship with Him, but He does not NEED us. Some forms of Christianity makes God out to be a needy boyfriend type. That is a lie. Second, God provides a way for all to be saved, but He leaves all of us with a free will if we want to come or not.

   E. He loves you. Really, He loves you- John 3:16.

3. Christianity has a foundation, a bedrock, for faith and life. It is called the Bible. The Bible provides the necessary framework we are able to measure all of life with. We can view the world and all that goes on from a position of objective truth, not subjective opinions.

   A. Buddhism, Confucisim, and other Eastern religions have writtings, but they are very abstract, and the historical proof, and validity of these writtings is absent. The Christians Bible is very Objective, providing a foundation we can build our life upon.

   B. The Bible has been proven perfect and accurate in every subject it touches upon. No other book has been put to as much scruitney and yet has still survived these thousands of years.

   C. The supporting evidence for the Bible far surpasses ANY other work of antiquity, including any other religious book. The Bible has a direct History and lineage we are able to follow, study, and understand.