Why do you believe the religion you do?

Question

I have found through my study of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism, that out of the four, only Buddhism does not preach violence. I also have found, that most people of faith, have not even read their holy books. They only hear passages from priests or rabbis. So my thought is that the majority of people simply believe what their parents, or mentors believe. So i ask can you give me another explanation as to why you believe in your particular faith.

Answer 1

Your point is well taken. I'm an agnostic, and have constructed a proof that my position is logical. Furthermore, it can also be proved that believing in any religion is NOT logical. That's all I need.

Answer 2

My parents didn't have any faith when I was born. They only brought me to a church when I started school because some other people pressured them. I was always interested in learning about everything. Drove my father crazy with my 'what's this? what's that? and why?' One day I asked a group of kids what each one believed and was very impressed by one particular girl who gave a much more substantial answer than the vague ones that the others gave.

I later became interested in the fields of psychology, sociology, and anthropology... more of 'what do you believe?' And I studied comparative religions. I then went deeper into Judaism, Christianity and its history, and Islam. Jesus is the only one who sets an example and teaches the concept of unconditional and merciful love, loving to such a great extent as to die in our stead,, and to reward those who perservere in this Love with heaven. All other religions teach that sinners must be punished. Now I know that some Christians do preach the wrath of God, but that is their problem, and I'm sorry if they confuse poeple.. it is necessary to study for one's self and not just figure that any particular person is giving a perfect interpretation of what Jesus taught.

Then I had a series of personal experiences that have convinced me without any doubt,, that the Trinity is real, Father , Son and Holy Spirit.

Now you asked for personal explanations of my faith,, and this is not meant to argue,,, but to share my own experience.

Answer 3

When I gave my heart to Christ it was the spirit of God that I felt in my heart that drew me to him. I could feel his presence all around me. For me it wasn't just saying well I believe in the Lord Jesus because my mother told me too, it was a tugging on my heart that wasn't lifted until I knelt at an alter of prayer and poured my heart out to him and asked his forgiveness of my sins. I felt like a new person when I got to my feet. I have been a christian for over thirty years and have read my bible through several times from front to back and continue to read it daily. Jesus if the first thing I think of in time of joy or sorrow. He is the one I can turn to when I feel that I can't talk to anyone else. He lifts my burdens and eases my sorrows. When I walk into church I feel like this is where I belong, My heart is comforted. It's really hard to describe the joy he has brought into my life. I know he's real, I feel his presence every day. That is the only reason I come to this site, I enjoy sharing my joy with others and maybe being of some help to someone. I don't judge people here like I've seen some do, I think the christian way is to be a light and pray for them if you think they are wrong. This is what God has spoken to my heart to do, so I do it. May God Bless you and keep you.

Answer 4

For a better perspective on Christianity, read St John of the Cross and Meister Eckhart. 'Belonging to the Universe' is also a good read (2 Jesuits talking with Fritjof Capra). I liked the Christianity that came through in the title character of the book, 'Father Joe'. That said, you're right - most believe in what they've been taught. And it becomes so ingrained into their identity and worldview that to question it is very fear-inducing. That's why discovery and searching need to be done slowly and compassionately.

Answer 5

I am a Christian. I was raised in a Lutheran church and switched to a non-denominational Christian church as an adult. I am an intelligent person who wouldn't simply believe (or have faith) in something unseen without proof under normal circumstances. I have felt the presence of God in my church and in times of need. I have been baptized by the Holy Spirit. I have witnessed and received the healing powers of the Lord. I believe in the Lord with all my heart.

I don't understand why you say that Christianity "preaches" violence. Jesus was the role model of Christian behavior and He said the greatest command was to love each other.

Answer 6

dude what u need 2 do is get jesus in ur heart in the bible the 1st commament have no other gods before me! I just got baptized about a month ago and its the greastst feeling ever it is like i never have t walk again cause jesus said when u saw only 1 pair of foot print is was i who was caring who read up on it www.biblegetaway.com

Answer 7

I believe what I do because I sought it and once found, fit very well. I was brought up Catholic, and spent a long time non theist, then I realized what was missing. I believe what I do because it is proven to me, but more important than that, I know that what I believe is good for me. And even that has been proven, on a personal level.
Blessed Be.

Answer 8

My faith is not based on what I have been taught by my parents...it is based on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ..I have seen too many things that He has done, in my own life and in the lives of others, to ever doubt Him.

Answer 9

I took comparative religions in college and at that time I agreed with you. Since that time I had a change of heart, it was nothing anyone said or did but I suddenly was drawn to God, Jesus and the Bible.
Now I'm a christian.
Good luck on your search but don't shut any possibility out.
God Bless!!

Answer 10

i am a christian, my parents are too, but thats not the reason i am! i tried many other religions and i found christianity to be the most biblical based religion. i read my bible all the time and even though my parents are the same religion doesn't mean that thats why i am it too!