COEXIST, Part 2

The second problem with the “COEXIST” bumper sticker is a huge one. The sticker is stating that all religions (Islam, Judaism, Wicca, Taoism, and Christianity are all represented) should COEXIST in peace (which is represented with the letter “O” which has been made into a peace sign).

And while I believe that people of all religions should respect each other and treat each other peacefully, there is a big problem with stating that these religions should, or even can, COEXIST with each other. The problem is that all of these religions are exclusive- claiming that their ‘way’ is the only way to heaven, god, or nirvana. In the end, the all think that they are right, and that everyone else is wrong.

All world religions essentially teach that you must act a certain way, do certain things, and achieve certain levels in order to be “saved” and to achieve the religion’s goal (heaven etc…). Christianity, however, is different. It teaches that there is nothing you can do to be saved and achieve an everlasting relationship with God. Instead it teaches that Jesus (God the Son) came to live the life that you could never live (a life of holiness and perfection unto God), and to die the death that you deserved to die (for your sins on the cross) so that your sins could be forgiven, you could have the righteousness of Christ imparted to you, and you could have eternal life and relationship with God as He restores all things through Christ.

So Christianity, itself, is exclusive- teaching that all other religions and world systems will not lead lead to God. Jesus said,” I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father but through me.” If someone wants to receive salvation, forgiveness of sins, a new life, relationship with God, and eternal life they must put their faith (trust) in the gracious (unmerited favor) gift and finished work of Christ- that’s it.

What does this have to do with the COEXIST bumper sticker? Answer: None of these religions will ultimately COEXIST in peace because they all are impotent to bring about salvation. They will each battle against each other as they try to achieve their exclusive path to enlightenment. They, because Jesus is the only way, will only really COEXIST in hell apart from God because they failed to put their faith in the One who can set them free.

COEXISTence is only temporary as the world awaits the judgment of a holy, righteous, and just God. We as Christians should seek peaceful and respectful relationships with people from all faiths and lovingly find ways to show them the only Way- the Lord Jesus Christ.  Thinking that we can COEXIST forever in peace with all religions is naivety and is rejection of Jesus as being the only way to God and perfection.