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Reasons why people feel ashamed of Christianity
Christianity, as one of the world’s major religions, has a complex and sometimes controversial history. Throughout the centuries, there have been instances where individuals have felt ashamed of their association with the religion. Understanding the reasons behind this sense of shame can help one understand the challenges and perceptions surrounding 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. Now 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 people of the Roman society; and such 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. More so, 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 of the main reasons why some people, both Christians and non-Christians, feel ashamed of Christianity is the prevalence of hypocrisy and scandals within the church. Jesus Christ said Christians are like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden (Mt 5:14). It means all people are watching our deeds. Therefore, whenever prominent figures in the Christian community act in a way that contradicts the fundamental teachings of the religion, it can evoke profound disappointment and disillusionment among both believers and non-believers. Generally, the shameful and sinful deeds of professing Christians that contradict biblical teachings tarnish the image of the Christian religion and lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment even among those who identify with Christianity.
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. Instances such as the Crusades, the Inquisition, and the persecution of various minority groups that the Catholic Church committed have left deep scars on Christianity. Considering these historical injustices can evoke feelings of shame and unease among contemporary Christians.
4. Doctrinal disagreements
Within Christianity, there exist numerous denominations and theological perspectives, each with its own interpretations of sacred texts and doctrines. This diversity has led to doctrinal disagreements and internal conflict within the faith community. When these disagreements become public or result in division and hostility, it can contribute to a sense of shame and embarrassment among Christians who long for unity and harmony within the faith.
5. Cultural and social stigma
In certain cultural or social contexts, Christianity may carry a stigma or be associated with negative stereotypes. Examples of such stigma and negative stereotypes are that, in some countries, tribes, and cultures, Christianity is viewed as a religion for the unlearned, the weak, the poor, the sick, or people of low social status. This can be particularly challenging for individuals who identify with the faith and seek to live out its principles with integrity. The fear of being judged or marginalized due to one’s Christian identity can lead to feelings of shame, especially in places where the religion is viewed with little or no 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, neither 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 rather incurred Jesus’ wrath 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 leads one to perfection.