We Need to Talk, Pt. 4 “Pluralism”
What is Pluralism anyway? Is it the freedom to practice your religion? Is it the acceptance that all religions lead to God? Or that they all work in their own way? Or does it have something to do with all those Christian denominations out there? Confusion often begins the discussion about pluralism and leads to unhelpful conclusions. Let’s dig into this topic and what the Bible has to say about it this week!
Pluralism, most simply defined, is accepting the validity of others practicing different religions. This means it is more than mere co-existence or tolerance. Pluralism encourages a mutual interaction, learning, and valuing of other religions.
What does the Bible have to say about the validity of other religions?
Anchor Texts:
Jeremiah 10:1-5 ESVUK - This text in Jeremiah describes what other “gods” are - powerless wood carvings.
Exodus 20:1-5 ESVUK - This text in the Law forbids the manufacture or worship of images of any diety.
Isaiah 44:6 ESVUK - This text in Isaiah makes it clear that there is no other god besides Yahweh - that there are not gods behind the idols people make.
Do other religions work to get us to the one true God - Yahweh?
John 14:6 ESVUK - Jesus claims exclusive connection and access with Yahweh.
Acts 4:11-12 ESVUK - Apostolic teaching affirms that the crucified and resurrected King Jesus is the only person who can save humans.
Questions to Ponder:
Pastor Nate talked about the different goals of religions. In your words, what is the goal (or goals) of Christianity?
What can we learn from other religions? Or what should we try to learn about other religions?
Read Acts 17:16-31. Here we get an example of an apostle interacting with those of other religions. What can we learn from what Paul says here? Are there patterns we could imitate in our own lives?
In light of our sermon and your discussions today, how might you respond to a friend who tells you that “all paths lead to God”?
The Theme in Video:
What is the goal of Christianity? Believers follow Jesus who offers us “eternal life.” So what is that? Let’s watch this video to help us find out.
The Theme in Song:
This song’s chorus highlights the key themes of our scripture passages today - the Triune God is the only god who lives, the only god who saves, the only one who can give life and healing now and forever.