Is Christianity a Lie?
The assertion that Christianity is a lie due to failure to adhere to God's commandments is a common critique. However, as we delve into the scriptural context and the significance of the commandments, we find a more nuanced understanding of faith and salvation.
Understanding the Context
The statement, 'For unto me therefore, and to them that are in Christ Jesus, be the glory for ever and ever. Amen. I Cor 1:10,' and the reference to 'I John 2:3-5' and 'Revelation 21:8' raises questions about the true nature of a Christian's relationship with God. It suggests that the lack of conformity to God's commandments could be a sign of deception.
Is any of us able to keep His commands? Pr. Rosebrough poses a powerful question, emphasizing the complexity of the issue. He asserts, "Why do you keep asking the same foolish questions not learning from those who know better? Furthermore, why do you keep citing the very Scriptures that prove you wrong? Can you not read? "
Pr. Rosebrough underscores the importance of context in interpreting Scripture. The theme of context is crucial in understanding the messages of various biblical writers. As he says, the keys to interpreting Scripture are context, context, and context. Context includes the surrounding verses, the original languages, and the cultural context in which the book was written.
Loving God and Keeping His Commandments
John's letters provide a clear directive when he states, 'Now by this we know that we love Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, 'I know Him' and does not keep His commandments is a liar; and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His commandments, he truly loves Him whom he has believed. By this the love of God is perfected in us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as He is, so are we in this world. (1 John 2:3-6)'
This passage emphasizes the importance of keeping God's commandments as a sign of true love and faith. It warns against mere declarations of faith without corresponding behavior. According to this, a true Christian's life should be characterized by a sincere and genuine effort to obey God's commandments as a demonstration of love.
The Epistle of James and the Apostolic Council
The Epistle of James and the first great Church Council in Acts 15 address the question of whether Gentile Christians need to follow the Mosaic ceremonial law. The Council resolved that they do not, indicating that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ, not adherence to the law.
Paul further emphasizes the role of grace in salvation in Ephesians 2:8-9, stating, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God; nor is it the result of works, so that no one may boast.' This increases the importance of faith over works in achieving salvation.
Once saved, believers are expected to live according to the teachings of Christ. Paul quotes the summary of the Mosaic law in Mark 12:31, which includes loving God and loving one's neighbor. This calls on Christians to demonstrate their faith through their actions, rather than just their words. As James says, 'Faith without works is dead. (James 2:20-26)'
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in a Christian's life. It is through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit that believers are transformed, striving to live according to God's commands. This is not an easy task, as humans are inherently sinful. Therefore, the effort to abide by the commandments is a sign of true believers, even if perfection is unattainable.
As John maintains in 1 John 2:6, 'we have come to know Him if we keep His commandments. If someone says, 'I know Him,' but does not keep His commandments, this person is a liar, and the truth is not in them. On the other hand, whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected, to such a degree that we might have full confidence in the day of judgment, because we know that as He is, so are we in this world.' This passage clarifies that true believers are marked by their ongoing efforts to follow God's commands.
In conclusion, the failure to keep God's commandments does not necessarily make Christianity a lie. Instead, it highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the continuous nature of the Christian journey. Faith requires not just belief but also a genuine effort to obey God's commands, reflecting true love and commitment.