Analytical Essay: Is Christianity A Peaceful Religion?

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Christianity is the biggest religion in the world based on the number of members, with 2.2 billion (32% of world population) people globally claiming to follow the religion.[1] However, as this is the case it Christianity should be analysed to make sure that it is peaceful; if a third of the world’s population believe it, it is important that they are not violent or unjust because of their religion.

There are many reasons to think that Christianity is a peaceful religion. Jesus himself said to his disciples: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called Sons of God".[2] Throughout the stories of the Bible Jesus is often seen to promote peace, saving the life of a woman who would have been stoned to death[3], encouraging people to not live a life of violence[4], and discouraged violence, even when it was being used by others to defend him.[5] These features from the new testament seem to clearly state that Christianity does support peace and does not support violence. The Quaker and Mennonite branches of Christianity are complete pacifists, believing completely in Jesus’ quote of: “If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”[6][7] Although these are a minority of Christians[8], it still shows that the holy book that Christians believe in teaches peace. …show more content…

He is seen to be hypocritical at several times in the Bible and it therefore could be argued that Christians may follow Jesus’ example (as he is supposedly a form of God) than his word. If Jesus does not do what he says and is hypocritical, people may be led to a less peaceful way of lie, contrary to Jesus’ teachings at a glance. One example of Jesus’ hypocrisy is when he said that his enemies would be condemned (to hell) despite saying earlier to love enemies[9]. Telling someone that they are going to be suffering for the rest of eternity as they are your enemy cannot be classed as loving

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