What Makes Christianity Different From All Other Religions?
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I sat there amazed. My cup of steaming lime, acai, cinnamon tea wafting a lovely scent while I stared at my Bible.
The amazing thing was that I was staring at a genealogy.
Granted, I am one of those nerds who loves to watch “Who Do You Think You Are”, even when I don’t know who the actor is. I love little, historical details that make a huge difference in someone’s life.
And the details of Jesus’ genealogy are far from ordinary.
Seriously – check this out!
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob – the ultimate dysfunctional family!
Judah, who slept with his daughter-in-law thinking she was a prostitute. Really?
Rahab, who was a prostitute.
Ruth, who wasn’t even Jewish. She was a Moabitess
David, who slept with a married woman, who then got pregnant after which David tried to cover it up by killing her husband. Wow. Just wow.
The wife of Uriah the Hitite – the woman who slept with King David.
What a genealogy!
But this is nothing strange at all when you really read the Bible.
All over the Bible we see this same pattern.
Whether its the family line of Abraham, a family filled lies, thievery and cheating or Moses who was so insecure that God had to bring his brother Aaron into the plan to save the Israelites because Moses continually claimed that he was not capable to fulfill God’s call.
How about the Israelites who were continually found to be worshiping other gods, disobedient to God and His prophets, and complained incessantly that it was better in Egypt. No wonder why God said that his wrath burned hot against them!
But it doesn’t stop with the Old Testament.
We read on about the people Jesus chose to be in his inner circle of friends.
While you would think that Almighty God would choose theologians, professors, CEOs, and people of high society to walk with Him everyday, you are surprised to discover that none of these mentioned were called….rather…
Smelly, uncouth fishermen such as Peter, Andrew, James and John
Tax-collector Matthew. Tax collectors were notorious for cheating people. They would tell them that they owed more than they did and then pocket the extra!
Nacionalistic Thaddeus and Judas – who ended up betraying Him.
The proverb says “Beware of the company you keep”, but it is apparent that Jesus didn’t live by this rule. We are amazed because we see further that He rejected the religious rulers while extending a hand to a woman of ill repute. He rebuked the spiritual leaders while eating with thieves.
Why would the King of kings mar His reputation with such people?
Because He saw something in them.
He saw brokenness. Hunger. Thirst.
While the religious people inflated their importance to God, God Himself rejected them and stretched out His hand to those who were filthy, broken, and in need of a Savior.
This picture is why Christianity differs from every other religion. While other religions require their followers to please their god with strict rules and requirements, Almighty God seeks us!
He finds us in the mud….in sin and extends His hand to us….He pulls us out of filth….cleanses us….forgives us….makes us new….and then He USES US!
What amazing grace!
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AWESOME! So true about the character of the people in the bible. People generally think Christians are “perfect”. ha! But that must be God’s gracing shining through! Great post!
Oh yes – that is God’s grace shining through!So amazing!!
I had never thought about Christianity being so different from other religions because of Jesus seeking us – just as we are. You have given me a new insight and another reason to Glorify God! Thank you for your post!
Isn’t that just so amazing???
Beautifully said Ros. Love this post!!
Thanks so much for sharing on this week’s Mom 2 Mom Link Up Party! Hope you join us again soon, Rachael @ Diamonds in the Rough
Thank you so much, Rachael!
He uses us in a great way, that is. haha The Bible has amazing stories! I retell what I’ve read during the day to my husband at night. Of course, my version of the story is the meat of it so not as boring to hear. hehe He really enjoys listening to it and cannot believe the Bible is so interesting. 🙂
What a great practice, Brandi. I love that you retell what you’ve read and meditated on. We should all do that!
I am constantly amazed by His grace and His willingness to use us in His amazing plan.
Oh – me too!! Isn’t it so wonderful???
Hi, Rosilind! I’m stopping by from Grace and Truth this evening. I find this genealogy so encouraging! It’s amazing to see how God uses imperfect people to bring glory to His name! Thanks for sharing with us.
Jen 🙂
It is such a lesson for us…and an encouragement! He isn’t looking for perfect people, just people who are passionate about becoming more like Him!