Should Christians be interested in other religions? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Yes for the following reasons. Man has lived with his trials and burdens, his doubts and questions, including the enigma of death. Religious feelings have been expressed in many different ways as people have turned to God or their gods, seeking blessings and solace. Religion also tries to address the great questions: Why are we here? How should we live? What does the future hold for mankind? People react vehemently in matters of religion. Religion is very personal—virtually from birth religious or ethical ideas are implanted in our mind by our parents and relatives. As a consequence, we usually follow the religious ideals of our parents and grandparents. Religion has become almost a matter of family tradition. The result is that in many cases others have chosen our religion for us. It has simply been a matter of where we were born and when. With the wide diversity of religious expression that has developed around the world, it is educational and mind broadening to understand what others believe. Understanding one another’s viewpoint can lead to more meaningful communication and conversation between people of different faiths. Perhaps, too, it may dissipate some of the hatred in the world that is based on religious differences. The ancient Jewish law stated: “You shall not hate your kinsfolk in your heart. Reprove your kinsman but incur no guilt because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against your countrymen. Love your fellow as yourself: I am the LORD [Jehovah].” (Leviticus 19:17, 18, Ta) The Founder of Christianity stated: “But I say to you who are listening, Continue to love your enemies, to do good to those hating you, . . . and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind toward the unthankful and wicked.” (Luke 6:27, 35) Under the heading “She That Is To Be Examined,” the Qur’ān states a similar principle (surah 60:7, MMP): “It may be that Allāh will bring about friendship between you and those of them whom you hold as enemies. And Allāh is Powerful; and Allāh is Forgiving, Merciful.”

Answer 2

Yes, for several reasons. The two most prevalent would have to be:
1) If you take the time to learn about other religions, you understand what they believe and when you meet people of that religion, you will know what things you may do that might be offensive to them.

2) (Kind of a joke, but mostly serious) If you learn about other religions, you can call them on things when they make fun of your religion. (For example, I knew someone who met an Orthodox Jew, who tormented him and Christianity for changing the Sabbath to Sunday. So it was Saturday, and he meets him in a hotel, and he asks the guy "Sir, how many steps have you taken today" and the guy just blushed and said "More than I should have." ) It can be a good tool when you are talking to others about your own religion.

Answer 3

Yes people of all religions should know about others, educate themselves to know more about other religions, to be more accepting but also because how can you know that you are upon the truth with the religion you are following if you know nothing about other religions.

Answer 4

I am LDS - mormon - and I think it is important to study all religions because I think all of them have some good to offer.
I try to learn about other's beliefs even if they aren't the same as mine. I believe everyone has the right to believe how and in who they want.