The Abundance of Religion
Throughout history countless religions have sprung up in an attempt to give credit to and worship a higher being. History reveals to us time and time again that mankind has always had a passion—a burning desire—to discover, serve, and worship that higher being. This truth becomes obvious by studying history and discovering that forms of religion existed long before the beginning of recorded history. Recorded history is simply the result of producing written accounts of important dates, events, and knowledge.
Written records of religious beliefs have been discovered as far back as the Sumerian Empire, the civilization that is widely believed to be the oldest among the human race. Remnants that have been discovered from the Sumerian Empire indicate that this civilization had already established major institutions such as a government, an economy, and religion before its written language. Since references to religion can be found in the oldest written records, we know that religion has to predate written history because religious beliefs could not have been documented unless the institution of religion was already established.
Religion is Evident in all Societies
In fact, religious ideologies can be found in virtually every civilization that has existed. Even today, as we live amid the greatest technological revolution mankind has ever known, religion is still a powerful influence. Although civilizations vastly differ from one another in form of government, culture, language, and values, it is fascinating to note the one similarity— the common denominator—among the civilizations. The one bond that links all people together has been the continual need to establish and maintain some sort of religion. Religion is evident in all societies, both ancient and modern.
Religion, a Powerful Influence
Religion has also been one of the most powerful influences upon billions of people, and it has dramatically transformed countless lives. Religion has reformed nations, justified wars, influenced governments, established codes of right and wrong and has been the moral and ethical guide to the decisions many people have made throughout history.
Ordinary and powerful people alike have used religious doctrines to make decisions. Even today, in the twenty-first century, the presence of religion can be seen all throughout our world, whether we are heavily involved or not; just take a look around and notice that most nations have a national religion. Despite the modernization that technology brings, nations still incorporate religion into governments, judicial systems, and basic decision-making processes. This may not be the case in America anymore, but it certainly continues to happen elsewhere.
Even though the ancient world has slowly transformed into the modern world, religion has left its mark on virtually every society that has come into existence—and will continue to do so, until the end of the age.
Throughout the Right blog, the Facebook Fanpage, Twitter, and my book The Quest for The Absolute Truth I will share information on the various religions, religion’s (specifically Christianity) impact in America, the challenges Christianity faces, and some solutions. Please join the conversation.
