Introduction

Christianity is seen by some as a narrow and mostly irrelevant belief system. Why? The Christian Church at one point in history was sought out for knowledge of reality. The Church was taken seriously by the wider culture. In many circles, that is no longer true. Let’s see how some people responded to today’s question: Is Christianity too narrow?

Video 1: Pulse of the World: Christianity And Culture

Christianity is often criticized for being exclusive in an increasingly inclusive world. Do you think Christianity is too narrow? We asked people around the world this question and captured their perspectives on film. Watch what others have to say about Christianity.

Questions to Consider and Discuss

• Did you identify with anyone’s expressed views in the film? If so, who and what resonated with you?
• What do you think about the statistic that “nearly half of all US adults believe it doesn’t matter what religious faith you follow because they all teach the same lessons”?

Video 2: The Curiosity Collective: Is Christianity Too Narrow?

The Curiosity Collective is a collection of subject matter experts discussing the question “Is Christianity too narrow?” It displays the various questions, struggles, and perspectives of these individuals regarding this session’s topic. See what they have to say and discuss it.

Questions to Consider and Discuss

• In what ways can you identify with any of the stories in The Curiosity Collective? What did you find intriguing or compelling?
• Does the media represent Christianity accurately? Do Christians represent Christianity accurately?
• In the video, Corey suggests, “When people say that all religions are the same, that sounds really humble and tolerant.” Why does he go on to say that those claims are actually exclusive?
• How have people used religion for good? For bad?
• What are some examples of situations in which most people believe that narrow ideas are good?
• What exclusive claims do you hold? Do you allow yourself to be vulnerable when discussing your views with others?

Scripture Focus

In Jeremiah 29:4–11, God calls his people to be present in their city in a way that enables it to flourish, while remaining focused on God. “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7).

• What are some practical ways you can seek the peace and prosperity of your city?
• How might these actions contribute to the common good in the world?

WRAP UP

Many people would insist that it’s intolerant or “ignorant to say that Christianity is the only right religion.” But, in the end, it might be best to admit that we’re all exclusivists. All of us make exclusive claims about most things—religion included. Yet the challenge seems to be finding a tone of gentleness in the midst of conversation and even disagreement.

In Jeremiah 29:4–11, God calls his people to be present in their city in a way that enables it to flourish, while remaining focused on God. “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7). In other words, the God of the Bible commands his people to be gracious and charitable toward all people—including those who do not share the same faith.

• Is it possible to have an honest yet graceful dialog about important matters like faith?

Explore More on Christianity And Culture

The following resources are designed for deeper exploration of the topics of Christianity and culture.

Videos
Do Christians Represent Christ?
Who Did Jesus Claim To Be?

Articles
What Is Christianity?
Is Truth Relative?

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Mud and the Masterpiece, John Burke
But Don’t All Religions Lead To God?, Michael Green

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