Working in Community as a Christian Among People of Different Belief Systems

Navigating a world brimming with diverse philosophies and beliefs can be both challenging and fulfilling. As Christians, how do we engage meaningfully within such a variety of thought?

Firstly, it's essential to recognise the vast spectrum of philosophies and thoughts on life. Every individual, regardless of their religious affiliation, brings a unique perspective shaped by their cultural, social, and personal experiences. We are creatures of our environment, produced by nature but molded by nurture.?

Therefore ideas on life vary. This challenges the Christian to learn to listen, understand, and appreciate the depth and breadth of human thought.

Religions of the World

Our global community is home to many world religions. According to recent statistics, approximately 31% of the world's population identifies as Christians [1]. But there are a large number of different faiths, thoughts, and dogmas. Rituals and doctrines differ among them.

However, one common thread that binds them is love, compassion, and a shared quest for spiritual fulfillment.

Christianity: Approximately 31%

Islam: Approximately 24%

Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: Approximately 16%

Hinduism: Approximately 15%

Buddhism: Approximately 7%

Folk religions: Approximately 5%

Other religions (including Sikhism, Baha'i, Jainism, Shintoism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism): Approximately 1%

Judaism: Approximately 0.2%

Spiritism: Less than 0.2%

Indigenous and other: Less than 0.1%

Families, communities, schools, and churches often face situations where interactions along faith boundaries are necessary.

Have you ever had to go to someone’s christening at another church denomination? It’s similar when thinking about mingling in other religious spaces.?

Jamaica and faith

In Jamaica, we have people coming from the African tradition called Maroons (who were slaves who won their freedom by treaty with the British Empire). We also have several people in the Rastafarian community who intertwine in our culture giving a cornucopia of artistry or inspiring popular music.

Hindus and Buddhists have vibrant festivals. Muslims and Jews have the fasting and feasting seasons of Ramadan and Passover. Each has different ways they raise children, think about their spirituality, and commemorate blessings of babies, birthdays, marriages, and funerals. However, Christians make up the largest number in the population in terms of belief systems.

Love and mutual respect among all these is a path to peace. Our shared humanity should unite us but often tends to divide.

We have more to unite than divide

I’ve had disagreements with others due to differences in ideologies. I’ve found that what tends to broach the peace is to remind people of community, and mutual love.

We also all have similar basic needs for improved welfare, the growth and legacy of our children, clean water, good food, adequate health care, and purpose as productive citizens. Why not concentrate on that instead of being disagreeable and antagonistic?

The world in the 21st century is just as dynamic as during the time after Pentecost (1st century). Acts Chapters 1-2, allow us to understand how the first believers initially grew the church and then built a community while trying to work together [2, 3].?

How we can learn from the 1st-century church

The early Christians exemplified unity in diversity. They worshipped as one, broke bread together, and provided mutual support. Despite the persecutions, they strived to alert people of varied thoughts and religions about Christ.

This should inspire us to do the same. Extending our time, talent, and treasure in collaborations and cooperation within our churches, schools, and living communities is a must.

Navigating a multicultural and multi-faith world as a Christian requires authenticity and determination to build bridges while destroying negative thinking and tensions.

When we actively engage in our communities and provide mutual respect through Christ's teachings, we can contribute positively to our shared journey in this beautiful place called planet Earth.

References:

1. "The Changing Global Religious Landscape," Pew Research Center. April 2017

2. The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc

3.? The Holy Bible, King James Version, KJV Copyright 1611, 1769

4. Images Courtesy of Pexels.com and Pixabay.com

About Me:

Joneil J. Alcock is a digital marketer and writer currently studying to be a lay pastor. He is also the producer of The Overcomers Series.