Religion is a substantial notion that exists in our society today. The question is, do we actually need religion? Is religion a necessity in modern society?
Many would argue that without religion, society would convey notions of: corruption, immorality, ruthlessness, and would thus disintegrate. Hence religion is conveyed to be based upon principles of fairness and morality it could be said. Consequently, this follows through to the worship of a deity for providing us with certain moral aspects. Though this statement clearly proves a contradiction with relation to a religious doctrine. Due to the fact that notions of morality differ among religious groups. Thus the concept of religion is flawed to a certain extent in providing core values, and the notion of a supreme being is too abstract and meaningless.
More so, it is quite feasible that as rational individuals, we can conclude from logic: which potential choices/decisions are beneficial and which are not. We do not need a doctrine to tell us what we can and cannot do. To illustrate: why should we abstain from consuming a certain type of animal, all in the name of God? Thus it leads to the concept of God being a mere omnipotent dictator, rather than a being that loves all. Further does this not contradict the value of morality yet again? Is it equitable to abstain from certain products shall we say, when others die in poverty for such a privilege?
In my view, it could be said that in the past; religious doctrine acted as a means to an end for unifying individuals together under a set of common rules. Those that disobeyed were often shunned upon by the community they belonged too, further they faced constant fear of being punished by a supernatural being for disobedience to the doctrine. But through the ages, society has developed rapidly and the need for religion has withered away. Especially considering the developments in Law and Order and the drift away from Religion, by Law and Order becoming independent and rational, with regards to maintaining and developing a society towards achieving the greater good for all.
Ask yourself: How different would your life actually be without following a certain religious doctrine? It doesn’t matter if you’re: Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist or Atheist! At the end of the day we all follow basic principles, which are associated around creating and maintaining a wealthy lifestyle for ourselves. To achieve this, it involves integration with all types of individuals, regardless of the race, ethnicity, or religion an individual may be.
I cannot think of a positive virtue with regards to the necessity of religious doctrine in modern society?
If religion does not make a difference it is because most people do not follow their religion. The Bible speaks about \”pure religion\” hinting that some are not pure. While it is true to say that there are some common doctrines in all religions many religions have no set of rules hence its \”followers\” do whatever they please yet clinging to the name of Jesus etc. It is because of that that religion seems meaningless. Religion is not a bad thing IF it is pure and is followed. Religion is not just a set of rules. It is a way of life. Would there not be less crime EVEN IF more people pretended to follow their religion which in some form or fashion says \”Thou shalt not steal\” \”Thou shalt not kill\” \”Honor your mother and father\”? It is the indifference to the claims of God on us that makes the religious present to the world a religion that does not make a difference. It ought not to be so.
Just to clarify something I said concerning the fact that many religions have not set of beliefs to follow. For instance, while the Bible has a detailed set of beliefs to follow, ask people from most Christians what they believe and they will tell you that they believe in Jesus. They cannot tell you what Jesus’ beliefs and rules are only that they believe in Jesus. They see Jesus as Savior but not as Lord and Master. They feel that He must not tell them how to live their lives. Ask their pastor what their religion says to follow and he has no clear blueprint to give you although his Bible clearly has one. All he will tell you is simply believe Jesus. So they see Jesus’ name as more important than His instructions.
Psa. 138:2 says “…. thou [God] hast magnified thy word above all thy name.”
So let us then follow God’s Word.