Christian faith heart of true morality
In an Oct. 13 letter, Robert B. Morgan of Elburn asserted that a belief in God is not necessary for morality, that religion has done more harm than good for society and that religion is only an "invention of man used to control power and resources."
"Religion" is not the same thing as the Christian faith. Religion covers everything from Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam to voodoo, witchcraft and Satanism. I would agree with many of the criticisms against this type of religion.
The real thing is faith in God and Jesus Christ, and the truths given us in the Bible. Christians realize that all of us are imperfect and in need of his grace, but his word reveals the perfect plan of God for mankind. Thus, it is the only basis of true morality.
Morality is formed from some sort of standard whether we realize it or not. It will be from a Judeo-Christian, biblical basis or it will be derived from some other source. Christians base our moral values on the scripture and therefore, must stand against abortion, sexual immorality, and a host of other sins.
As to the history of Christianity, yes, there have been abuses in the "name of religion." Yet there has been far more good than bad. An honest look will show that most schools, hospitals and benevolent institutions were started by the church.
Critics are always ready to point out those who are caught in some sort of church scandal. But again these represent only a small portion of believers, while the majority, though not perfect, are sincere, caring people of high character and integrity who simply want our nation to get back to a standard of decency that we somehow lost along the way.
As to the assertion that religion is just a fantasy, this is simply the stock answer for those who don't want to face the reality that there is a God to whom we must one day answer.
Our nation is in the mess it's in because in recent years we have turned our backs on God and the Bible.
Michael Poole
South Elgin