Relevance of Christian Faith in the Modern World

Is talking about Christian faith still relevant? The question is pertinent, especially in today's diverse and secular world. To answer, let us dive into the importance and impact of the Christian faith in modern times.

No, Christian Faith is Not Irrelevant

Arguably, ‘Yes, Christian faith is still very relevant'

Believers are taught that faith comes through hearing the Word of God. This means that those seeking insight into Christian beliefs and the message of salvation need to hear the gospel to embrace it (Romans 10:17). It's important to note, however, that the Bible doesn't instruct believers to force others to believe. Instead, it encourages a readiness to answer questions about faith with respect and meekness, as written in 1 Peter 3:15.

‘Until we find a more effective solution to the problem of sin in every human heart than the forgiveness which God gives in Jesus Christ'

Undeniably, the forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ is effective and unparalleled. If something touches you or someone you know deeply, it is relevant. Christianity, with around 2 billion followers, is one of the largest religions in the world, affecting approximately 25% of people globally (around 1 in 4) each day, thus making its impact undeniable.

The Humble Beginnings of Christianity

The history of Christianity is as fascinating as it is brief. It began with humble beginnings, growing through the faith and actions of a few individuals. The birth of John the Baptist and Jesus, followed by Jesus' ministry, marked the early stages (approximately 6-30 years of obscurity to 3 years of active ministry).

After John baptized Jesus, Jesus returned with 6 disciples and held large open-air meetings. The crowds grew significantly as people were drawn by Jesus' teachings and miracles. One notable event was the feeding of the 5,000, which likely gathered about 15,000 people (5,000 men plus women and children).

The journey culminated with Jesus' betrayal, trial, death, resurrection, and ascension into heaven. His teachings and actions paved the way for the church's mission. Pentecost marked a significant event as the Holy Spirit filled the believers with boldness, leading to the rapid spread of the gospel (Acts 2:1-41).

Why Christian Faith Remains Relevant Today

The first-century Christians often ventured into the unknown, sharing their faith with those who had never heard of Jesus or Christianity. Similarly, today, Christian dialogue remains relevant, especially among those who seek meaningful answers to life's questions.

‘Preach the gospel to every creature’ and ‘make disciples of all nations’ are instructions given by Jesus to his Apostles, indicating the continuous relevance of Christian teachings (Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:19).

Furthermore, with every passing day, the relevance of Christian faith increases as society continues to grapple with complex ethical and moral issues. The Christian perspective offers a unique and valuable viewpoint on these topics.

In conclusion, while the manner and context of sharing Christian faith may evolve, its relevance remains crucial. As the world faces challenges and seeks meaningful answers, Christian teachings continue to provide a foundational framework for many.