Interfaith dialogue

'Interfaith dialogue' is gaining in popularity, with people of all religions gathering together to talk and discuss matters of religion...

This page is an overview of our view of interfaith dialogue. The tabs on the left address a number of interfaith movements - this is not to endorse them but to expose their activities, allowing their own words to show the danger they pose to free and open discussion and debate on issues of faith.

How should Christians approach this matter?

We are concerned about formal 'interfaith dialogue' initiatives, because they undermine the ability of Christians to plainly speak the truth about Christianity - or to speak honestly about their concerns regarding other faiths that may be represented in such groups.

Christianity claims to have the truth - that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and that He is the only way to God the Father, as He said in John 14:6. If Christians engage in 'interfaith dialogue' with Muslims or Hindus or Jews, etc it is very difficult, in fact often impossible, to continue to proclaim the superiority of Christianity and the need to turn to Christ for salvation.

If one actually starts evangelising those of other faiths at such meetings, because one believes they need to know Jesus Christ, one soon finds that such expressions of faith are not welcomed.

Thus we believe that belonging to formal interfaith networks and organisations leads to a compromise of the Christian faith.

Engaging with people of other faiths and none
That does not mean we don't engage personally with people of other faiths or none. Quite the opposite. Christians need to be engaging with with all people on these matters and have an answer and a defence for their faith as they discuss matters of faith and life.

Open debate with people of other faiths
We also encourage open and vigorous debate between Christians and people of all other religions.

We all need to be able to openly present our beliefs and discuss and criticise the beliefs of others. Paul gives Christians an example to follow in Acts 17 - where he went into the synagogue and into the marketplace to discuss his faith with others. He was then taken to Mars Hill and the Areopagus, where he presented the gospel clearly and referred to the beliefs of his hearers, in particular the Epicureans and Stoics.

Working on issues
At times people of varying religions may oppose particular legislation being proposed by governments. At such times and on individual issues, we can work with others. However it should not be under a religious or interfaith banner. We believe it is best for organisations to make their own presentations on such matters rather than combining with other religions, or other groups, to make a statement.

Coalitions
Salt Shakers has been involved in forming a number of 'Coalitions' with all sorts of groups on a variety of issues. The difference between these 'Coalitions' and 'interfaith' groups is that they are set up with a specific issue in mind - and then people and organisations who agree with us/the Coalition on that issue are invited to join the Coalition.

For instance the Community Coalition for a Drug-free Societywas set up to oppose the introduction of drug injecting rooms in Victoria. Certain Christians and non-Christians could agree on such an aim and work together.
The Coalition for Free Speech was set up to work for the repeal of the religious sections of Victoria's Racial and Religious Tolerance Act.
CADOA, the Coalition Against the Decriminalisation Of Abortion, was set up in 2006 with one aim - to stop the legalising of abortion in Victoria.

None of these were specifically 'religious' groupings.

Interfaith Movements
The tabs on the left explore various interfaith movements, from local 'Interfaith Networks' to the Parliament of the World's Religions.

As already stated, we see such groups as unnecessary and counter productive to reaching people with the Good News of the Gospel. Our links and explanations are not there to promote them but for the purpose of exposing who they are and allowing their own words to show the danger they pose to free and open 'dialogue' or discussion and debate on issues of faith.