Since the late 90s, I’ve extensively debated religion on various platforms such as alt-discuss groups, AOL chats, and bulletin boards, in a time before “social media” existed. Back then, I was not only a non-believer but also capable of constructing a compelling argument against the existence of Jesus as a historical figure. Similar to Saul/Paul, I would ridicule Christians. It is important to note that I was not raised in a religious family.
Today, there are numerous social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok Live, with an abundance of TikTok lives in particular. Additionally, there is a noticeable rise in the number of self-proclaimed atheists who repeatedly pose the same question: “Why should I believe in the Christian God when there are 4000+ religions worldwide? Why should I have faith in the Bible?” This question may be presented in various manners, ranging from genuine curiosity to pure sarcasm or even outright animosity. Personally, I find the statement “I only believe in one less God than you do!” quite endearing. It possesses a certain charm, almost akin to poetry.
So I will just cut to the chase and I will summarize and then elaborate on the 5 reasons why the Christian God is the true God. The purpose of this is a quick response to those who ask the question, and what prompted this blog. I can simply direct them to my website instead of being constricted in a comment section.
- It’s the most popular religion on Earth.
- It’s not based on something that itself was created
- It’s the most scrutinized religion bar none.
- It did not originate from one single source.
- What do you get out of it?
Now, let’s delve into each reason and build upon the reasons from my other blog post Proof God Exists.
- How many people consider themselves a part of said religion?
The number of believers does not necessarily prove anything, but it can indicate the authenticity of something. If only a small tribal group on some small island follows it, then it is unlikely to appeal to a wider audience. After thousands of years, it should have gained global recognition, no? It’s that simple.
- Does this religion involve the worship of something that is itself a part of creation?
Does the religion worship a deity with an eagle head or an elephant-like form with multiple arms, or perhaps a turtle, cat, cow, or even the Sun? I have no doubts about dismissing such a religion since these entities cannot have emerged spontaneously. I aspire to discover the ultimate source. I can confidently dismiss numerous religions based on this viewpoint, including Hinduism from India and Nepal, as well as Zoroastrianism, ancient Greek, and Egyptian religion. I doubt the validity of religions that worship deities resembling animals, mythical creatures, or celestial objects. I am determined to uncover the ultimate origin and truth. Based on this perspective, I can confidently reject various religions.
- Does it come from a single source?
There is a popular religion centered on the teachings of a man who claimed to have had a vision in a cave. I have no personal problem with followers of this faith, but the teachings of an individual alone do not convince me about various aspects, such as the afterlife. Interestingly, there are versions of Christianity that also revolve around a single figure who received a divine vision and solely based on that, require loyalty. I politely decline. I can also confidently reject many religions. If I have to rely on someone’s word alone, I immediately lose interest and stop investigating it.
Christianity offers multiple witnesses for the events documented in the Bible. Every aspect of our faith is supported by witnesses or the fulfillment of prophecies. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Paul provides a roster of individuals who witnessed the resurrected Jesus. These witnesses include the Apostle Peter, James (Jesus’ brother), and notably, a gathering of over 500 individuals simultaneously. In fact, The only debate worth noting is whether Jesus somehow survived the crucifixion, which would nullify the faith. According to a consensus of historians, a man named Jesus who lived where the Bible claims was most certainly Crucified. It’s history. As credible as any history book in any public school.
There are 5 key ancient and non-Christian sources:
- Josephus
- Tacitus
- Lucian
- Mara Bar-Serapion
- Talmud
As Habermas and Licona point out 1) the data on the crucifixion is strongly evidenced and 2) even non-believing historians accept it. The skeptical New Testament scholar John Dominic Crossan is typical of historians where he states that Jesus “was crucified is as sure as anything historical can ever be.
https://renew.org/the-historical-evidence-for-the-death-burial-and-resurrection-of-jesus-evidence-for-easter-part-3/
The Bible repeatedly encourages us to seek knowledge, study, and avoid being cast out due to ignorance. Therefore, Christianity does not advocate blind belief or submission to mere human words. As a result, I identify as a Christian because the Bible does not compel me to have blind faith or follow the words of any single individual.
In fact if the bible in any way said you have to blindly believe, then I never would have become a Christian. Proverbs 18:15 Proverbs 15:14 Hosea 4:6 NIV Ephesians 1:17 NIV 2 Timothy 2:15
- Does it survive the test of time and scrutiny?
Can you name another text that has faced extensive scrutiny, debate, and protest like Christianity and still remained credible? People have attempted to disprove the Bible and argued that Jesus is a derivative story based on ancient deities, but many years ago, a website created by “king David” effectively refuted every supposed deity that Jesus was allegedly copied from. Unfortunately, that website no longer exists, but there are numerous others that address this issue. (Try the wayback machine for old dead links). I have even come across a web-based database dedicated to exposing contradictions in the bible, but a counter database was created to discuss each alleged error. The rabbit hole of debate seems to continue endlessly.
There are Ted Talks, books, movies, TV shows, endless documentaries both positive and negative. Nothing on earth has been torn apart as much as the Bible and the bottom line is the argument goes on WITHOUT disproving the events of the bible.
Also, No other religion faces such frequent attacks. It makes me wonder why there are so many assaults on something that is deemed merely a myth or a fictional story. Why do people spend so much time on something they believe is made up?
- What does being a part of this religion offer you?
What’s the catch? What’s in it for me?
Choosing my destiny is easy. The Bible does not impose any obligations. Believing grants me the gift of eternal life. This is reiterated multiple times. If I do not believe and reject the faith, I die when my time comes. Despite what some prominent Christian leaders may say, the Bible does not teach that nonbelievers or those who live a life of evil and sin will be tormented in an eternal inferno. This notion lacks logic, as experiencing pain and torture requires being alive. Rest assured, God did not create us to torture us for disobeying. In fact, the idea is foolish and raises unnecessary questions. God is not complex.
The Bible does not condemn sinners, non-believers, or evil-doers to eternal torture. Not a single verse can be provided that states this. This idea likely originates from distortions by individuals and preachers seeking financial support from their congregation.
For further reference: https://becomingchristians.com/2017/08/21/5-surprising-biblical-proofs-that-god-will-not-burn-people-forever-in-hell/
https://www.thinkersbiblestudies.com/no-burn-in-hell-forever
https://time.com/5822598/jesus-really-said-heaven-hell/
There’s actually hundreds of sources that flat out debunk the hellfire preaching that some churches have abused to scare their flock into the pews and into their wallets.
So the major point to consider is, if you are a non-believer, who doesn’t believe in heaven or hell or even an afterlife of any kind… well, you will get exactly what you expect when you die. You’ll be dead.
What do I gain? If my faith is true, I will receive eternal life in paradise, possibly on a new Earth. If I am incorrect, I will die without knowledge of my mistake. However, I have also lived my life striving to do what is right towards my fellow humans, guided by the love that Jesus taught. Perhaps I have even influenced some individuals. Whose worldview requires further scrutiny? Yours or mine?
