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Theology => Apologetics => Topic started by: Symphony on October 20, 2003, 08:47:18 PM



Title: Double Whammy
Post by: Symphony on October 20, 2003, 08:47:18 PM

Is there any one thing that distinguishes Christianity from all other religions or faiths, and that at the same time condemns all other religions or faiths?

And, are the words for this, "Double Whammy", inappropriate and, is the word "condemn" here, too strong?


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: nChrist on October 21, 2003, 04:57:09 AM

Is there any one thing that distinguishes Christianity from all other religions or faiths, and that at the same time condemns all other religions or faiths?

And, are the words for this, "Double Whammy", inappropriate and, is the word "condemn" here, too strong?

Oklahoma Howdy to Symphony,

Maybe the words would have to be chosen appropriately for the setting and circumstances.

John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

This is one of my favorite Scriptures. I think it also answers this question. Without Jesus Christ, a person is lost and condemned. Jesus Christ is the Lord of Lords, the Son of God, and our Saviour. Any religion or faith without Jesus Christ as the CORE is false. Jesus Christ is obviously the CORE of the Gospel of God's Grace. If any man teach any other gospel, let him be accursed.

Love In Christ,
Tom


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: Whitehorse on October 25, 2003, 07:02:47 PM

Is there any one thing that distinguishes Christianity from all other religions or faiths, and that at the same time condemns all other religions or faiths?

And, are the words for this, "Double Whammy", inappropriate and, is the word "condemn" here, too strong?

Christianity is the only religion that makes atonement for sin. Judaism is the root, of course, but the sacrifices cannot atone, only point to the messiah that has been rejected in Judaism.

Whether the words are too strong depends on how they are used; if they are used in full affirmation of God's exclusivity and His judgment of all these other religions, of course not. God does condemn all other religions. It would only be too strong if it is meant in a way that diminishes God's glory, but of course you wouldn't use it that way.


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: Symphony on October 25, 2003, 07:53:23 PM

Hmmm, thank you, bep.  And Whitehorse.


I was more thinking of a sort of comparative reasoning.

That is, to compare what others might generally offer, as to what Jesus Christ, or the "good news", the Gospel, offers--in real terms(as opposed to just pronouncements--although those are important, of course).

I.e., "why" does what we believe make it "the way, the truth, and the life...", rather than simply because I--or anyone--said it?


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: nChrist on October 25, 2003, 11:20:44 PM

Hmmm, thank you, bep.  And Whitehorse.


I was more thinking of a sort of comparative reasoning.

That is, to compare what others might generally offer, as to what Jesus Christ, or the "good news", the Gospel, offers--in real terms(as opposed to just pronouncements--although those are important, of course).

I.e., "why" does what we believe make it "the way, the truth, and the life...", rather than simply because I--or anyone--said it?


Oklahoma Howdy to Symphony,

I think that I understand what you are saying. Most worship of false (g)ods involves sacrifice of some sort by the followers. In the case of Christianity, Jesus Christ (VERY GOD) sacrificed HIMSELF for HIS children. I think this contrast is dramatic, CHRIST HIMSELF is the SACRIFICE so others might be saved. You can carry the contrast further with the analogy of GRACE, LOVE, AND GIFT.

In Christ,
Tom


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: Tamara on October 26, 2003, 07:49:53 AM
What Tom said is true Symphony.  We offer no sacrifice as the very Son of God sacrificied His life for us.  From there on, in faith, we walk with the Holy Spirit who guides and teaches us.  We need no statues or images.  And have no need to be reminded of Him through these items.  He is in our heart.  His laws are engraved on our hearts.  We serve a living God.

Love..Tamara.


Title: Re:Double Whammy
Post by: WhitehorseToo on October 26, 2003, 10:54:49 PM
Well, I'm still struggling to understand what you're looking for; but I do have a pamphlet on comparative religions published by Moody press. It's called The Spirit of Truth and The Spirit of Error, and it gives the basic doctrines of Christian Science, Spiritualism, Jehovah's witness, Armstrongism, Mormonism, Easter Mysticism, The Way International, Unity, and Unification Church. It is quite long; this might be a good resource.

Here's a link I found to to Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara-they have this one and apparently there's a sequel to it, too. I don't know if they charge anything; maybe email and ask. Otherwise let me know and I'll get you the information any way I can. Also, if you can fill me in about what you're looking for, I can try to help, too.

http://www.calvarychapelsb.com/truth_error.html

Is there anything we can help with in the meantime?