What about other religions? What sets Jesus apart?

In the first century, those who would later be known as Christians weren’t called by that name, and their religious gatherings differed from today’s concept of church. They were simply known as “followers of the way,” emphasizing Jesus as the sole path to salvation. Some argue that the fundamental principles of human conduct align across all the world’s religions which can cause confusion as to how religions differ. While there may be some shared principles, a closer look at the life and teachings of Jesus reveal that he is unique among the major world religions: Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, etc.

Every religion has to have something to say about Jesus.

Let’s begin with Jesus, whom Paul referred to as the “chief cornerstone” of our faith. If Christianity centers around Jesus, it’s essential to know how other religions view Him. In Christian theology, belief in Jesus as the Son of God who lived, died, and was resurrected is fundamental. However, other religions hold different perspectives. In Judaism, Jesus is not considered the Son of God. He is believed to have lived and died without resurrection. In Islam, Jesus is respected as a teacher and prophet, but not divine. He is thought to have ascended to heaven without experiencing death. In Buddhism, Jesus is seen as an enlightened and holy figure with valuable teachings, but not the Son of God. Most Buddhists believe he lived and died without resurrection, but instead either being reborn or reaching Nirvana. In Hinduism, opinions vary, with some considering Jesus a god (but not The Son of God and without unique divinity). Like Buddhism, Hindu’s do not believe in Jesus’ resurrection, but many believe he attained Moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of life. While each of these religions respect Jesus and his teachings as that of a virtuous man, “followers of the way" distinguish themselves by believing in Jesus as the Son of God who lived, died, and resurrected.

The afterlife and the source of salvation.

Judaism has a wide variety of beliefs about the afterlife, but generally believe in an ultimate heaven and hell. Islam believes in the concept of paradise and hell after you die. Buddhism aims for enlightenment and liberation after a life of finding purpose in suffering. Hinduism popularized the ideas of karma and reincarnation. While you might see similarities between these religions and “the way”, it’s important to note that the source of salvation is completely different. Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism all believe that it is our actions and morality, not our specific beliefs that determine our fate. This raises the question of how good one’s actions or morality must be to attain a favorable judgment? In short, we don’t really have an answer and no other religion has ever been able to clearly define this for their believers. However, the way of Jesus is different. As outlined in Ephesians 2:8, it is “by faith through grace.” Unlike other religions, it doesn’t hinge on good deeds, moral conduct, speech, or intentions. Instead, salvation is attained through believing in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, the Son of God.

While many more differences exist, this overview can equip you to engage in discussions with your inquisitive kid/student seeking to understand the distinctions between other major religions and Jesus.

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