Religion vs. faith

Although religion has been the cause of many wars through the ages it has shaped modern society and is something many cling on to, whilst others avoid it completely for reasons such as science or misfortune.

According to the Collins Dictionary, ‘religion’ is a “belief in, worship of, or obedience to a supernatural power or powers considered to be divine or to have control of human destiny by any formal or institutionalised expression of such belief.”

In this day and age religion is mainly represented by the institutionalised rules and regulations, or better yet the dos and don’ts of a particular religious group. This also differs according to religion and denomination. In Christianity, for example, there are Methodists, Anglicans, and Catholics, different norms of worship and interpretation but one religion.

What makes many religions so strong is that their members are strong of faith. They believe firstly in God and the power of God, then grow more and fully through the culture and structure of their religion. Religion also offers a kinship, a belonging and the ‘correct’ way to please God. These are some of the main factors that keep congregations strong and together in faith.

Looking at faith, it is defined as a “strong or unshakeable belief in something, especially without proof or evidence.” This does not refer to any structure, but only to the central belief most people have and their conviction that there is a ‘creator,’ and maker of all things seen and unseen.

This creator is defined by many names, such as God, Elohim, and Allah, with 99 other names representing different attributes.

To have faith only means you need to believe. It exempts you from the traditions and confines of any structure allowing you to pray, worship or acknowledge God in ways you see fit, considering the basic principles which transcend all religions about the treatment of others, selflessness and devotion.

According to Hebrews 11:1-2 in the Christian Bible, “faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.”

Religions structure and formality is not always a bad thing, but it does sometimes cause divisions. Most importantly, however, people should have faith and keep to their beliefs. This will make them all spiritually stronger in their respective religions.

By: Martin George Headger

Also found at: http://www.ujobserver.co.za/Readmorelifestylethree.html