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Is Christianity the only way? Do all world religions have common traits? Such questions have always troubled people of the past and present.
If we truthfully examine the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ, it is clear that He claimed not only to be God, but also to be the only path to heaven. His teachings alone stand as the most significant apologetic tool for Christians to share the faith. Notably, His seven “I am” statements affirmed His deity, which is why the Pharisees accused Him of blasphemy.
Christ’s teachings leave no room for relativism. We either follow the Jesus of Scripture or not.
Outside of Jesus’ direct teachings, the book of 1 Peter serves as a powerful lesson on how Christians should never shy away from their faith and hope: “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).
While Christians are called to live peaceful and quiet lives (a common theme taught by Peter and Paul), we also understand that living in a fallen world and fulfilling the Great Commission is not always an easy task. Missionary work is not only encouraged but expected, and this often results in heated engagements.
Faithfulness to Christ has always required courage. The early church understood this, as did the Reformers. So must we.
Secular society has no special care for the teachings of Christ or the religion of Christianity. In our current times, it is blatantly obvious that the teachings of the Lord are not only under attack worldwide, but are often sought to be eliminated. From removing prayer and the Ten Commandments in courtrooms to efforts aimed at eliminating “In God We Trust” from government buildings and military aircraft, the faith has been attacked, even within the United States.
Even more troubling is that many of these attacks come from those who claim Christianity but have delivered a gospel that is foreign to traditional biblical faith. Once one leaves the comfort of the Scriptures, there has always been a red flag. Sadly, many churches today have abandoned the Bible and emphasized a spiritualism that often ignores the teachings of Christ and combines them with other religious figures from a variety of faiths.
When the gospel is diluted and ignored, truth is lost, and souls are left without hope.
Christians cannot sit idly by when their faith is ridiculed and made irrelevant. Jesus ordered the Great Commission and loyalty to Him, not occasionally, but daily (Luke 9:23–24).
Contending for the faith in a growing secular, non-religious society is of great importance. How do Christians faithfully, safely, and respectfully contend for the faith? First, we must not retreat from controversy. Learning from past failures, such as the reaction to the Scopes Trial in the 1920s, where many Christians abandoned public debate, we should be familiar with our theology, thoroughly understand the Bible, and be prepared to defend the teachings of Christianity.
Most importantly, we must stand firm in our faith and boldly proclaim that Christianity has shaped the very history of the United States. History matters, and its connection to biblical faith is undeniable and telling.
Having a Christian worldview provides answers to life’s most troubling questions and problems. Do you faithfully remain loyal to Christ, His teachings, and the Word of God? Does Christianity shape every decision in your life? If so, you are contending for the faith.
