New Reminders: The Purpose of Religion

Young people who have been forced to go to church and Sunday school and required to “suffer” through a year or more of confirmation classes can be forgiven for thinking that the purpose of religion is to control people, themselves in particular.  This is not to dismiss the youngsters who are sincere in their professions of faith, but pastors, in many denominations, have complained for decades about the fact that soon after confirmation, teens tend to disappear from church attendance.  One pastor described it as suffering from PRSD (post-religious-stress disorder). 

Researchers and scholars who have studied religions in general have concluded that “The purpose of religion ideally serves several functions.  It gives meaning and purpose to life, reinforces social unity and stability, serves as an agent of social control, promotes psychological and physical well-being, and may motivate people to work for positive social change.” The teens referred to above would probably say “See, it is to control people!”

It is true that every known religious tradition has some form of the golden rule, urging its followers to treat others as they would like to be treated.  Most have tenants that outline what its members ought not do.  For example, Buddhism lists five precepts: Refrain from taking life (Do not kill any living being); Refrain from taking what is not given. (Do not steal); Refrain from the misuse of the senses. (Do not seek too much sensual pleasure); Refrain from wrong speech. (Do not speak unkindly or dishonestly) and Refrain from intoxicants that cloud the mind.  These echo the Judeo/Christian Ten Commandments.  Other religious groups have their own sets of “do nots”.

Religion can also be a source of comfort and guidance.  It can provide a purpose for living as well as a basis for moral behaviors and the assurance that life is worth living.  For most people, it provides a sense of community and connection to tradition.  Some research even suggests that it may positively affect health.  But the most important purpose of many religions is to provide a hope of salvation and a life after death.  There are many variations in the origins and practices of religious traditions and many variations in religious philosophies.  The important thing we all need to remember is that even though we are free to believe that the beliefs we claim constitute the only true religion, we must respect others’ interpretations of the truth as they see it, but be ready to share our faith with anyone who will listen.  1 Timothy 2:4 says that “God our Savior wants everyone to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.”