Embracing Reality with Brutal Honesty
The Practicality of Christianity
Embracing Reality with Brutal Honesty
The Practicality of Christianity
Christianity often faces misinterpretations and misconceptions, one of which paints it as a means to deny the harsh realities of life. However, at its core, Christianity promotes an unfiltered understanding of the world around us. Let us explore this claim and understand how Christianity calls for brutal honesty in perceiving life.
The Realism of The Bible
From the very beginning, the Bible does not shy away from portraying the stark realities of human existence. The Book of Genesis narrates the first sin committed by Adam and Eve, resulting in their exile from the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:23-24). The Book of Job offers an intimate look into human suffering and the quest for answers. Such accounts are testament to the fact that the Bible does not gloss over the complexities of human existence but rather delves deep into them.
Jesus Christ: The Embodiment of Truth
Jesus Christ was the epitome of facing reality head-on. He did not avoid the challenges of His time but actively confronted them. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and ministered to the marginalized. Most importantly, he acknowledged human frailty and sin but offered redemption and grace. As mentioned in the Book of John, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32).
The Acknowledgment of Suffering
Christianity does not advocate for a life free of challenges. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often wrote about hardships. In the Second Letter to the Corinthians, he speaks of his tribulations, "Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned..." (2 Corinthians 11:24-25). Such accounts highlight that Christianity does not turn a blind eye to suffering but rather acknowledges it as an integral part of the human experience.
A Call to Face Reality
The Christian faith calls its followers to be proactive in addressing the realities of life. Christians are urged to be "salt of the earth" and "light of the world" (Matthew 5:13-14), indicating an active role in bettering society. The emphasis is not on avoidance but engagement.
Hope Amidst Reality
While Christianity does not shy away from the realities of life, it offers hope amidst them. The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as a powerful testimony to victory over death and adversity. As noted in the Book of Romans, "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?" (Romans 8:35). Such verses underline the enduring hope that Christianity offers, even when confronted with brutal realities.
Conclusion
Christianity does not propagate a denial of reality. Instead, it promotes a comprehensive understanding of it, urging its followers to face challenges head-on, fortified by faith and guided by scripture. Through the teachings of the Bible and the life of Jesus Christ, Christians are equipped to navigate the intricacies of life with resilience and hope.
At the youth deco last night, one of the men was talking about the examples of Joseph, Daniel and David as young men. One thing he pointed out was what hardships they went through. And he made me think of how often we, whether grown or children, will say “it’s not fair”!
When we look at the Bible, it shows that life’s not always fair! And there is no way we should it expect it to be fair!