The question of whether Christianity is “true” arises in light of the existence of other religions, some of which make the claim to be “the only true religion.” We must first investigate the meaning of “true religion” before we can offer a response.
The first would be the veracity of a religion’s claims. The fundamental tenets of Christianity are [that humans have become corrupted], that there is a God, and [that He created the cosmos]. These are presented as true facts rather than myths or morality tales. Therefore, Christianity is untrue if such assertions are untrue.
However, there’s more. Christianity is more than a recitation of verifiable historical facts. Since Jesus Christ is the only Savior who can reconcile us to God, it is a relationship based on trust. John 14:6 is one example of how the Christian faith claims to be the only path to salvation. Therefore, Christianity is false if salvation is possible through means other than trust in Jesus Christ.
It’s also necessary for us to clarify what “Christianity” means. We are certain to find mistakes or downright lies if we take at face value everything that any Christian has ever said. Christians are fallible, after all. Since the Bible’s teachings form the foundation of Christianity, we must limit our discussion to them.
Source of information
The Bible is a Christian’s ultimate source of knowledge about God and the world. According to John 17:17 and Revelation 21:5, this book—or rather, this compilation of books—claims to contain the truth. As a result, it is vital to ascertain whether [the Bible is trustworthy and “true.” Examining your surroundings to determine if the biblical story aligns with your own everyday experiences is one way to “check.” Are there any good reasons to believe that this universe was created rather than existing on its own? Do people really end up becoming sinful, as the Bible claims, based on the way they behave? Does the worldview found in the Bible make sense?
Verifying the accuracy of the historical details in the Bible is another potential “check.” There are a lot of them, and since there aren’t many additional sources concerning events that occurred thousands of years ago, we are unable to locate external evidence for all of these facts. Let us consider the most remarkable instance involving Jesus Himself: according to the Bible, Jesus Christ was crucified and rose from the dead three days later. That seems a bit unbelievable. And yet, the biblical account is accurate based on [strong external evidence]! There are plenty such examples, this being only one. The Bible is, in fact, [a trustworthy and dependable information source.]
Truth, trust and faith
The Bible also stresses, however, that bare facts alone won’t convince us of the truth. We humans are sinful, which means among other things that we are blinded from the truth. Therefore, we need God’s Holy Spirit to guide us: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13, 1 Corinthians 2:12–13, Ephesians 1:16-18).
There are so many claims in the Bible that can’t be proved or disproved by archaeological research or other sources — take for example the promise that “for those who love God all things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). I personally believe this to be true. I even experienced some examples where I could see God’s provision in my personal life or in the lives of people around me. But I can’t ‘prove’ this in a scientific way.
My conviction stems from my confidence and trust in the God who made this promise. In the end, we only have limited knowledge since “we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). (1 Corinthians 13:12). Our relationship with God, our Father, is the foundation of our worldview. This isn’t blind faith, though. Acts 26:25 states that it is supported by “true and rational words.” One reason to believe God’s promises for the future is the numerous prophecies and promises found in the Bible that have already come to pass. Continue reading about this at these three places.
Regarding the assertion that redemption is exclusively possible through the Christian faith, kindly refer to Is there salvation in other religions?.
Try it yourself
Trying Christianity for yourself is the greatest method to determine if it is “true.” Read the Bible and beg God to send his Holy Spirit to enlighten you if you are seeking the truth. You will be able to understand because of him. In keeping with his promise, Jesus said in John 8:31–32, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and the truth will set you free.”
