The cost for Christianity
Introduction
The great cost of Christianity is clearly described in this captivating book by Tom Holland. I have found an incredible source of information and I intend to continue reading as the Blinkist gave me a quick summary of the book. “Whether or not you believe that Jesus was the son of God, Christianity has probably touched your life in some way. This religion has been an incredible force in shaping the world.”[1]
As ancient international relations went, no love was lost between the Athenians and the Persians. The Athenians viewed the Persians as brutal, bloodthirsty barbarians.[2]
They were horrified by Persian methods of execution – in particular, the gruesome practice of crucifixion. A criminal was attached to a stake, with nails driven through his feet and hands, and then he was left to expire while crowds jeered.[3]
Holland shared a detailed description of the brutal punishment meant for criminals. Jesus and his followers were to face brutal death as well, which was a costly process to establish Christianity, a religion like no other that continues to attract multitudes of people from all over the world.
Paul was traveling to Damascus when he suddenly saw a blinding light. To him, it could only be one thing: a sign that Jesus was indeed the son of God. Paul would devote the rest of his life to spreading the news despite the danger – and even physical punishment – of promoting a new religion. The only thing that mattered, Paul wrote time and time again to scholars in cities around the Mediterranean, was love.[4]
Paul finds the courage and strength to continue his ministry even inside the prison walls one would wonder where such zeal and courage to face the most challenging trials. The answer is clear as he explains, it is love and selfless love.
Nothing new under the sun
Originally, he said he supported Christian ideas. But by 1933, Hitler began to see Christianity as a challenge to his totalitarian mission. He thought Germans would never fulfill their racial destiny while adhering to Christian compassion. As Nazi power spread throughout Europe, Christians had a choice to make. Would they go along with the Nazi program of exterminating the Jews and other so-called “undesirables?” Or would they adhere to their Christian values and stand up against evil? There was no universal answer.[5]
The timing of this book was correct; Easter has just been around the corner, and Christians and nonChristians alike have been celebrating the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
This week also kicks off the genocide commemoration for the Tutsi in Rwanda. During this commemoration time, wounds and traumas of the Genocide from 30 years ago are visible again as the people of Rwanda continue to pledge Never Again to the Genocide.
Conclusion
Like in many other challenging world events, as seen in recent history, God has brought excellent results from whatever challenges we go through. Look at Christianity today and what people have endured, yet Christianity is powerful and attracts many new believers.
[1] Tom Holland, “Dominion,” accessed April 7, 2024, https://www.blinkist.com/en/nc/reader/dominion-en.
[2] Tom Holland.
[3] Tom Holland.
[4] Tom Holland.
[5] Tom Holland.
About the Author
Jean de Dieu Ndahiriwe
Jean de Dieu Ndahiriwe is a Clinical Correctional Chaplain and former Child Refugee from War-torn Rwanda. A member of the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team, Jean is passionate about Servant Leadership and looks forward to seeing more leaders that inspire Lasting Peace and Justice for all, especially "the least of these".8 responses to “The cost for Christianity”
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Hey JDD…Holland describes the Nazi regime as one that operates completely devoid of Christian influence at the height of its expressions. In your perspective, would the Genocide in Rwanda be a similar example? I appreciate you bringing this to our attention. I admit that I do not know as much about it or the motivations of those who would carry out such horrible acts.
Hi Chad thanks for your comment,
Unfortunately, the Interahamwe (the militias that led the slaughter in Rwanda) killed while chanting that God had given them permission to kill the Tutsi (victims). Not very from their role model, Adolf Hitler.
Jean de,
I appreciate your post and most of all your heart and love for people. What strikes me most about your post is that you have guarded your heart and brought fourth excellent points.
Well done brother!
Greg, thanks for your kind comment.
God is good and with his help we can do what is impossible on our own. Keep up the good work brother.
Jean,
I always look forward to your posts. I enjoyed that you juxtapose historical events, such as Nazi Germany’s persecution of Christians and the commemoration of the Rwandan genocide, to underscore the enduring relevance of Christianity in facing evil and adversity. I love hearing your perspective.
Daron,
Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate walking alongside you. Looking forward to learning more from Dr. Daron.
I appreciated your insights throughout Hollands book! Thank you for providing such a great look as his work. I always look forward to what you have to say and lean in to learn something new!
Thanks Alana,
I learned a lot from you as well. May God expand your ministry beyond any borders for his glory.
Thanks for your comment.