If Christianity is true, why has so much evil been done in the name of Christ?The question of evil being done in the name of Christ is a question of consistency (I’ll explain what that means in a moment). This question can be resolved by showing that such acts in no way invalidate the gospel.First, the question itself seems to imply that Christianity is false on the basis that evil atrocities have been committed in Christ’s name. Well, there’s no reason why we can’t turn the argument around and claim that Christianity must be true on the basis that so much good has been done in the name of Christ. After all, think of the countless hospitals, schools, universities, and even relief programs that have been instituted as a direct result of people acting in the name of Christ.Also, it is interesting to note that this contention was long ago anticipated by Jesus, who proclaimed that his disciples are to be recognized by their fruits (John 15:8). To immediately classify as Christian those who are responsible for instigating atrocities is to beg the question of who Christ’s disciples are in the first place. Jesus Himself stated that not everyone who calls Him Lord is saved (Matt. 7:21-23). He obviously meant that not everyone who says “I am a Christian” is in fact a follower of Jesus Christ.It is also important to point out that those who use this type of argument fail to understand that the reliability of Christianity does not rest on the imperfect works of sinful men but, rather, rests on the perfection of Jesus Christ alone (Heb. 7:26; 1 Pet. 2:22). The fact that sins are committed by professing Christians only proves what the Bible declares — namely, that no one is righteous (Rom. 3:10), and that we’re all in need of a Savior (1 John 3:4-5). Remember, Christians are not saved because they are righteous but, rather, God made Jesus who had no sin to become the sin offering, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor. 5:20). If you want to receive more information on how you too can receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord, do not hesitate to call or write. Since he created you and knows exactly what you are designed to be — when He becomes Lord and Saviour of your life, your life will truly take on the meaning, purpose, and direction it was intended to have.On evil committed in the name of Christ, that’s the CRI Perspective. I’m Hank Hanegraaff.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATIONFor more information on this topic see R. C. Sproul’s Reason to Believe (Zondervan) (SB839/$8). This resource is available through CRI. For shipping and handling information, please call CRI or refer to our Resource Listing. To place a credit card order, call toll-free (888) 7000-CRI. To receive a free copy of our Resource Listing, fax us at (714) 887-8299 or write us with your request at P.O. Box 8500, Charlotte, NC 28271.