Could faith in God be an excuse not to care?

Question

Has anyone ever thought that the beleif that "God is in control of everything, and has a plan for us all" has been used as an excuse for people not to try to change the world? The beleif that everything happens as a part of God's great plan leaves you with the beleif that we are not in control, and whatever happens does so as a part of God's purpose for that individual. I know that in my past experience of being a very hardcore Christian, I would look at global warming as just part of God's plan, and wouldn't worry about it because one day Jesus will come back and make the Earth new anyway, therefore it was not a matter that concerned me. The same as for the people suffering in the world, the children dying from abuse, the people being raped, the homeless, I saw it as part of God's plan for those people, & knew that he needed them to go through these things for some higher purpose. Does anyone feel that the main concern of Christians is merely to bring in more Christians?

Having come out of religion and looking in on it, I see that the majority are concerned mostly with bringing more people to the faith. When I try to talk to them (mainly my parents) about global warming, and war, and eating healthier, things like that, they have little concern because they beleive this world and these bodies are only temporary dwelling places. Curious about others thoughts.

Answer 1

I understand what you are saying. Unfortunately, I think you are confusing the Christian faith with what you see being demonstrated by some of those who profess to be a part of it. There are soooo many misguided Christians and churches in our world (and that shouldn't surprise because we all have a corrupt/selfish human nature). The Christian faith isn't about "bringing in more Christians". It isn't about creating rules and regulations. Rather, its about our relationship with God and our neighbor. Do we fault God because the world is a screwed up place? Who makes it that way? Wars, poverty, famine...those are things that are a reflection of our own selfish nature. God wants us to learn the kind of love that he exhibits for us. God "grieves" over the problems you mentioned. But rather than simply eliminate all those things by fiat, he allows us free will and an opportunity to learn & grow. God is love. He sent Christ as the ultimate model of that love. Love, compassion, and mercy should be what we as Christians are all about. That is the life that God wishes to transform in us. You are right.. People tend to get complacent and apathetic about what is truly important. This doesn't necessarily mean they're "bad", it simply points out that we as humans easily lose our focus and priorities...

Answer 2

Its a question of faith.Also of showing our faith,As a christian it is our goal to imitate Christ and to grow closer to him.
The bad things that happen to people isn't because God is in control we have free will to do what we choose to do.Our desicions bring about rape,abuse and all of the suffering in the world.It happens in rebellion to God's plan, Their are innocent people that get harmed in the way.That is what makes them teribble sins cause not only is the sinner hurting himself he is makimg someone else suffer.
God leaves control in our hands, his only wish is that we take the straight and narrow path.It is because of us the world is how it is.Someplaces and some people are full of goodness and grace while other places and people are foul and wretched.If God were really in control don't you think that he would keep a tighter grip so there wouldn't be so many teribble acts.