Torch, Fall 2006

T here are Muslims, Jews, and Christians in the Middle East. They all believe in the same God, don’t they? Why can’t they get along?” The speaker, an atheist, could not understand why religions that seem to be so closely aligned in belief would not be drawn to friendship and collaboration. The worldview perspective, however, helps us understand why this will never happen. The three theistic religions jammed together in a small geographic area form a critical mass that generates chain reactions of hatred and violence. In other words, just believing in God is not enough. The similarities are obvious. All three religions hold to a belief in a personal God who created the world and revealed his character and will in scriptures. The three religions agree that every person is ultimately responsible to God and will be judged by him for their beliefs, choices, and actions in this life. Of course, they disagree as to what the authoritative scriptures are, but there is a great deal of overlap. The major similarities stop here. The differences, combined with political and historical conflicts, set the stage for today’s violence and uncertainties. How each religion faces off against the others provides some insights. 4 TORCH / Fall 2006 “ There are Muslims, Jews, and Christians in the Middle East. They all believe in the same God, don’t they? Why can’t they get along? ” A Clash of Worldviews BY William BROWN, Ph.d. “