Interfaith Movements

Through “interfaith dialogue” we can often gain greater understanding and useful insight into the beliefs of those of other religious persuasions; by building these bridges we are able to relate to them and so share the gospel effectively.

Sometimes the sole purpose of the coming together of the various religious adherents is looking for common ground that will give them a foothold for combating the problems of humanity and society with the focus on love and 'doing the right thing'. Humanitarian good works are eternally beneficial if

United in a common goal

they earn a hearing for the gospel. Unfortunately, for the sake of not causing offence there is seldom any importance given to the core issue of sin and the need to be in right standing with God, or presenting Jesus who claimed to be the only solution when He said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (Jn 14:6). The truth of God will naturally bring a division between those who hold to His teachings and those who don’t (Mt 10:34; Jn 8:31).

While the initial desire and intentions to work together can be honourable, unless there is a good understanding with healthy and robust guidelines established there may be a breakdown in the outworking and longevity of such joint ventures. Normally one group will take more prominence and bring their beliefs to bear on the others resulting in friction.

As Christians our commission from Jesus is to make disciples for His Kingdom (Mt 28:19). Do not allow others to divert you from this task or compromise on the requirement of the message to repent and believe the gospel (Mk 1:15).