the problem with modern christianity | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Community

The Problem With Modern Christianity

far from love

400
The Problem With Modern Christianity

In pop-culture today, there's a certain, commonly negative, stigma held toward the church as a whole. I've heard many misconceptions varying from "hate-preaching" to "condescending" to "bible-thumping" to "hypocrites" to "judgemental" and so on. While I want to say none of these misconceptions are true, because they shouldn't be, there's a reason they exist. Far too many people who are far too loud have forgotten what it's really all about.

I think we can collectively agree as a human race that there are too many problems in this world. There are also far too many problems surrounding the idea of "religion," which is where part of the problem with modern Christianity lies. Loud "Christians" have created the impression that this life is about following rules instead of following the person who is Jesus Christ. We were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) to have a relationship with the one who created us and whose image we were made to reflect. The commandments set out for us are there for our best interest, set in order for us to truly be out her living our best lives. They are not commandments to put us in a box, but rather guidelines to set us free from the chains formed by sin that bind us.

Somewhere in the heat of the war between Heaven and Earth, many Christians have lost sight of what Jesus sets as the greatest commandment: love God above all else and love others as yourself (Matthew 22:36-40). The world is judgemental enough outside of Jesus, why must people bring it in an create a misconception about Him and what He preached? When all is said and done and we get to the judgment seat, all sin is counted the same. So as beautifully put in Matthew 7:3, "why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but fail to notice the beam in your own eye?" We are instructed not to judge or be hypocritical toward our brothers and sisters because well, who are we to condescend others when we rack up enough of our own sin daily? We all fall short, at least I know I do. Coming face to face with that single reality is, I believe, a major key to dropping the "holier than thou" front and bringing people to Christ not through hate, but with the unconditional love of our Father.

Don't get me wrong, it is beyond important to preach the gospel truth and bring people to a point of redemption. It is the great commission set in Jesus' last moments on Earth (Matthew 26:16-20). The problem lies in the execution when entire bodies hold signs reading "you're going to hell," "God hates gays," and other variations of hate. The problem lies in twisted verses that portray a lie. The problem lies in people bringing others down more than lifting them up. The problem lies in spitting on a spark with great potential through hateful words instead of helping it become a flame through encouragement. When you see signs of death-holding words or hear condescending/condemning statements or anything else of that nature, please know Christianity in its true practice is not a religion based on hate, it is a relationship with a Father based on eternal, unconditional, redemptive love.

To my non-believing brothers and sisters: I apologize for the hate you have received. You are loved.

To my believing brothers and sisters: take a moment to remember where God brought you from, love from your new heart.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

15745
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

6774
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4996
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4391
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments