Christians and World Religions

This will be in in-depth study of the major world religions.  The individual lessons are profiles - specifically covering Animism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Marxism, the New Age movement, Secularism, Shinto, and Taoism.  They will contain historical information on the religion, its major tenets, excellent comparison/contrast charts with Christian beliefs, plus a section on specific tips for sensitive, intelligent evangelism.

The book closes with a discussion on the exclusive claims of Jesus Christ.  It focuses on preparing Christians to respond to those who challenge the exclusivity of the Christian faith and who suggest that all religions are equally valid ways to God. The strategy presented includes (1) using the authority of Scripture contained in the Holy Bible; (2) understanding what the common objections and questions are; and (3) evaluating the basis for someone’s concept of “truth” – recognizing the “Truth Claims” of other religions and knowing where they break down.

Other resources for this class will include The Holy Bible and other books currently in the Saint Andrews library on World Religions, The World’s Great Religions (TIME LIFE New York.1957), the World of Allah pictorial reference by David Douglas Duncan (Houghton Mifflin. 1982), 31 Days of Prayer for the Muslims of India (Karnataka Missions Network) et al and a pocket guide to major world religions.

OVERALL PURPOSE
To prepare ourselves as Christians living in challenging times to interact with sensitivity and understanding with people coming from different spiritual backgrounds without compromising our beliefs or forsaking our commission to share the gospel.

THIS FALL’S TOPIC
Cultural and religious diversity is the mark of every large city today. The mission field has literally come to us! This class on World Religions focuses on the history and basic beliefs, truth claims and practices of the major non-Christian religions and compares them with the biblical doctrines of Christianity. It also offers clear pointers on witnessing to those of another faith, teaching us how to respectfully communicate the uniqueness of Christianity and how the love of Jesus fulfills the needs of every soul.

STYLE OF CLASS
Combination lecture and small group discussion. Questions are encouraged. A moderate amount of reading in the primary text is expected between classes.

PREREQUISITE
None. This is a second World Religions class offering that provides more detailed information and evangelism strategies than could be presented in the shorter summer overview class.

BOOK
The Illustrated Guide to World Religions, Dean Halverson, General Editor. The Holy Bible, other church library books, and handouts will be used as supplemental resources.

LEADER
Cathey Lane