The Case for Christ

Just finished reading a book called The Case for Christ. It was written by Lee Strobel. In case you haven't heard of him, Strobel was an atheist and a high profile journalist for the Chicago Tribune. He went on an almost 2 year investigative journey to discover who this Jesus Christ was. Was he real or was he a myth? Strobel did historical research, interviewed theologians as well as clergy, philosophers, and psychologists. 

After the evidence was all in, he prayed to the Lord God to receive Jesus as his savior and lord. Strobel included a lot of specific insight and evidence obtained from his investigations. I found it to be a "good read" and have an unusual perspective in seeking answers to spiritual questions. By the way, Strobel has written several more books in the Christian apologetic genre. The Case for Christ has been out for a while. Angie found it for me in the Fayetteville library. Thanks, dear.. 

Here is a short excerpt from the book that I found quite profound:

Other religions are based on people doing something to earn the favor of God. They must perform good deeds, chant the right words,use a Tibetan prayer wheel, go through a series of reincarnations, or faithfully follow other religious drills. 

By contrast, Christianity is based on what, according to the Bible, Christ has already done on the cross. According to the Bible, nobody can do anything to earn God's favor; rather Jesus offers forgiveness and eternal life as a gift. 

Imagine two college frat houses. The first has a strict set of rules and allows in only people who have earned their membership. You have to accomplish something, get top grades, or measure up to a long list of requirements to qualify. No matter how hard they try, a lot of people just won't make the cut. They'll be excluded. That's what every other religion is like, because they're all based on the system of people doing something to earn God's approval. 

But the other house throws its door wide open and says,"Anybody who wants membership is invited inside! Rich or poor, black or white, honor student or rebel, we would love to include you. All you need to get in is to accept this invitation." That, according to the Bible, is what Christianity is like. 

Is Christ being offensive when he says that he is the only way to God? Judging by the number of people who are offended, you'd better believe it! Is Christ being exclusive? That's a different question. What do you think? 

Have a blessed day,
Georgesmile emoticon