Why is Christianity Crucial to the Western World?
Dr. Os Guinness
We find ourselves in an extraordinary situation. Our western world is in decline because we are a cut-flower civilization. And if you look at many of the important things in the west – a high view of truth, a high view of human dignity, and a high view of freedom, of equality, of justice – all of these need roots, but they’ve been cut off. Of course, they are rooted in the scriptures.
The Old and the New Testament say human dignity because we are made in the image of God. We are image bearers.
So in a time of western crisis, followers of Jesus – along with our Jewish friends – we are the champions, we are the defenders of these great truths which have made our civilization.
Clearly there are certain fields where we need leadership. We need political leadership. The nation needs a Lincoln-like character to lead it. But you look at the world of the universities, the world of the press, the media, journalism, entertainment, those are some of the culture-shaping, ideas-forming sectors of society, and we certainly need more followers of Jesus in those areas.
Instead of being on the back foot, defensive, always thinking we are staving off things, we should be on the offensive, proud and grateful to be the bearer of these great truths which are at the heart of the gospel, which is the best news ever.
The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Regent University.
