Religion

Living and Dealing with Non-Christians in a Pluralistic World

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Living and Dealing with Non-Christians in a Pluralistic World

The Meaning of Christianity

Christianity , as the word itself implies , is adherence to Christ . It is the acknowledgment of Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour . Actually , it is more than an acknowledgement but an acceptance . It is a kind acceptance that stems from the volition . It is done willingly - never enforced or imposed upon . Since it is a volitional activity , it

involves a personal commitment

Thus , this defines a Christian according to the above-mentioned - parameters . While it is true that Christians are those who are associated with Christ and his teachings , it must be noted that there are various forms of Christianity all over the world . We have to limit the definition in to come up with definite ways on how to deal with other faith

Even Christianity , as the world sees it , is divided with different dogmas and doctrines . From history , Emperor Constantine 's form of Christianity is different from what the persecuted early believers ' had defended . Roman Catholicism is not the Orthodox faith . Anglican Christianity is not about Lutheranism or Protestantism . One has to know the difference in to set meanings well early on in this . For how others view Christianity is based on the actions or deeds done by its followers . And since this religion is widely dispersed with different denominations , there is confusion - even among unbelievers Non-believers tag Christians as Christians mainly because of their profession of faith and because they do not belong to other any religions

This defines Christianity not merely as subscription to Jesus Christ , but as the acceptance and public acknowledgement of Christ as personal Saviour and Lord . The decision is made on a personal level and faith is practiced publicly . Thus , Christianity for this `s purposes , is limited to the evangelicals ' view . The centrality of the cross and resurrection is very important

As mentioned , non-Christians see Christians on the fact that they don 't belong to any religion . By doing so , they get an impaired view of Christianity as Christ intended it to be . All they knew is that Christians are just Christians who follows the teachings of Christ who celebrate Christmas , Holy Week , Feasts of different saints and who looks to Rome for supreme guidance . Evangelical Christians have to deal with this fact

Why is there a need to acknowledge this fact

It is essential to know other religions ' worldview toward Christianity so Christians would know how to react or even interact with followers of other faiths . Like us , they have their own opinions on other religions too . To understand them , we have to know how they perceive us . To understand is to know , and to know is to see . To see clearly , one has to remove any obstruction . Obstruction may include personal biases personal indifference and reluctance to empathize with others

Taking the First Step

Empathy...