Why is Christianity So Controversial?

Most assume the dispute of Christianity is due to the restricted views and inability to tolerate alternate points of view. Some view those who claim this title as fanatics or religious zealots. Some are more accepting as long as they are not “proselytize” or criticized for their beliefs or choices.

The topic of Christianity may stir such emotional upheaval to the point of provoking some to hostile rebukes and actually seeking ways to furtively or openly retaliate, by sending hate emails, going to websites that promote the Christian faith with the intent to, instigate, to spam or even hacking them to sabotage them.

Getting to the true issues

So what is the root provoking such intense rebuff?

Admittedly people may express personal tirades spurred by the scares of their past or current experiences. Some even act with retaliation against those who they feel have trapped or challenged them.

But one other word comes to mind that should be seriously considered… FEAR.

Before you shut me down, consider the varied dynamics of the word fear.

Fear is a strong word that in itself immediately conjures a negative emotional response.

Our reaction is usually to cover our fears by hiding from them, trying to avoid them or blatant retaliation. Sound familiar?...

But why would Fear be used in the context of conflict over Christianity?

The pressure of being forced to do or face something, and it appears your back is against the wall, you feel trapped and sometimes unwilling or unprepared to make a decision because its too hard or may change things that seem best left alone can. You fear making the wrong choice, making a change or loosing someone or something. You fear it may be too painful or others may be upset or hurt.

Why should I have to choose?

Christianity rocks the boat!

And most people, as do I, get motion sickness and don’t want anything to disturb my balance.

If an extensive pole were done, most people will admit adamantly that change is undesired. If a pole were done on peoples willingness to consider other faiths or change their traditional view of faith, it is easily assessed that most would find it undesirable to discuss, face or consider. Yet, each of us unknowingly choose every day. We choose to acknowledge or ignore or abstain from our faith in our actions, our thoughts, our choices.

Every man chooses whether they realize it or not.

So, what would happen if you faced every part of your life with your guard up and an unwillingness to expand or experience change for fear of what might happen?

Most none Christians assume being a Christian is boring and restricts the possibility of a life of excitement and joy and action a challenge is offered.

Assuredly Christians will experience lows and excruciating hurts as does everyone (that was never a promise of avoidance) but these lessons of intense growth and sustaining grace propel you to great summits and unbelievable peace.

I explore the world with new perspective; experience some fantastic challenges that would have been out of the question in my past. And rather than avoiding conflict or change, face them, sometimes even with caution or discretion but without incarcerating fear.

Who’s In Control?

The other part of fear that is most unchallenging is relenting to the release of control.

Men particularly have such a natural instinct to grip fiercely and relentlessly to control. The thought of something or someone else is mastering it for them is unthinkable, even threatening.

This one area makes a man instinctively tighten his hands into fits poised for battle. And battle they do. Society now promotes the power of control as entitlement to dominate, to overpower, to rule. And if you don’t have it, you are weak, you don’t matter, you are considered inferior.

Christianity, the unlimited gift.

Christianity teaches just the opposite. Those who are meek, who relent their will and control over to God and the Holy Spirit are counted as His children. They gain His inheritance. What is the inheritance… eternal life, peace, hope, joy both here and now and in eternity. When it’s all said and done, and you’ve gained all the right acallades, the best toys and riches, the position and status, then what?

Christianity will forever remain controversial as long as there is good and evil. As long as there are choices. But that’s true with any faith.

So, why is it more so than with other faiths?

The one point that brings it all to the forefront, One God and One Son.

Acceptance of the One True God has always been and will always be man’s pivotal choice. And to accept the unlimited gift of Jesus Christ as His Son, the only choice for eternity with Him.
No matter what is written on this topic, some will automatically shut down from the very mention of it.

The controversy will always remain.

Cast your VOTE in the POLE below.