Reasons why people feel ashamed of Christianity
Christianity is one of the world’s major religions, and it has a complicated and sometimes controversial history. Over the centuries, some people have felt embarrassed about their ties to the religion. When we understand why this shame exists, it can help clarify the challenges and views related to Christianity.
1. Its humble origin
Christianity as a religion had a humble beginning, just like its founder, Jesus Christ Himself. When Jesus was gone and the disciples were left to continue His ministry, they went about winning people of their kind, common people. Christianity appealed to the hearts of the poor, the needy, the sick, etc., and such joined the faith in their numbers. Also, at the time of its beginning, Christianity was abhorred and persecuted by the Jewish religious and political system. Because of its humble beginning, coupled with hatred and persecution, Christianity lost favor in the eyes of many Jews, for they were ashamed to believe in the gospel and become part of this downtrodden cult; hence their belief.
When Christianity spread abroad to reach the heart of the Roman Empire, it won the love, attention, and devotion of slaves and other common Roman citizens, and such people came in their numbers to join the faith. Once again, its humble beginning became a stumbling block to the affluent and those of high status, for they felt ashamed to believe and join the church, which was nothing more than the meeting of the poor, slaves, and others of low social status. Also, those of high society who heard the gospel and accepted Jesus were ashamed to profess their faith publicly because of public disapproval, ridicule, and persecution.
2. Hypocrisy and scandals
One main reason some people, both Christians and non-Christians, feel ashamed of Christianity is the presence of hypocrisy and scandals in the church. Jesus Christ said Christians are like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden (Mt 5:14). This means everyone is watching our actions. When prominent figures in the Christian community behave in ways that go against the core teachings of the religion, it can cause deep disappointment and disillusionment among both believers and non-believers. Generally, the shameful actions of professing Christians that contradict biblical teachings damage the reputation of Christianity and lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment, even among those who identify as Christians.
3. Historical injustices
The history of Christianity is not without its share of dark chapters, including periods of oppression, violence, and exploitation carried out in the name of the religion. Though the founder of Christianity himself was a non-violent leader and reformist, some who professed to be his followers, driven by excess power and ambition, committed atrocities in his name. Events like the Crusades, the Inquisition, and the persecution of various minority groups that the Catholic Church committed have left deep scars on Christianity. When one considers these historical injustices, it can stir feelings of shame and discomfort among modern Christians.
4. Doctrinal disagreements
Christianity contains numerous denominations and theological views, each with its own interpretations of sacred texts and beliefs. This variety has caused doctrinal disagreements and internal conflict within the faith community. When these disagreements become public or lead to division and hostility, they can contribute to feelings of shame and embarrassment among Christians who desire unity and harmony in their faith.
5. Cultural and social stigma
In some cultural or social settings, Christianity can carry a stigma or be linked to negative stereotypes. For instance, in certain countries, tribes, and cultures, people may see Christianity as a religion for those who are uneducated, weak, poor, sick, or of low social status. This can create difficulties for individuals who identify with the faith and try to practice its principles honestly. The worry about being judged or excluded because of their Christian identity can cause feelings of shame, especially in places where the religion is held in low regard.
Is it justified to be ashamed of Christianity?
Though the world of unbelievers might entertain many reasons to be ashamed of Christianity, we Christians have no cause to be ashamed of our own religion because being ashamed of identifying yourself and living as a Christian is tantamount to being ashamed of Christ, which will be detrimental to our eternal life. It is written, “For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels.” (Lu 9:26)
Jesus, who owns Christianity, did no evil nor taught us to do evil. He taught non-violent messages of salvation, moral uprightness, and peace. He never sent anyone to do violence or abuse others, nor does he approve of any violence or evil done in the name of Christianity. Those who attacked, killed, and looted in the name of Christianity incurred Jesus’ wrath rather than his approval. Therefore, Christians ought to be proud of our Savior and the Christian faith.
Conclusion
The complex nature of Christianity’s history, internal dynamics, and external perceptions can give rise to various reasons why individuals might feel ashamed of their association with the faith. However, Christianity itself was founded on higher moral principles of holiness, and it is ever infallible. Christians ought not to be ashamed wherever they find themselves but should walk in the principles of their religion, which lead one to perfection.