Forgiveness And Redemption Found In Christian Faith

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” (Ephesians 1:7)

I remember as a child when items made in Japan were considered cheap and unreliable. However, the quality of Japanese products greatly improved as quality circles evolved in the Japanese culture in the 1960’s. In fact, Japan became known for outstanding quality and reliability. But recent revelations about Toyota and Nissan automobiles point out that quality control we thought was still in place is no longer evident. Even though most of these cars are manufactured in the United States, the Japanese culture still influences the manufacturing process.

Recent news reports about Toyotas and Nissans are driving consumers back into showrooms where the Big Three automobiles are being sold. Ironically, quality improvements with automobiles produced by the Big Three, particularly Ford and Chevrolet, have impressed American automobile buyers. Toyota’s demise points to the fact that American automobile manufacturers have quality products that now rival any competition. It’s the reason Ford Motor Company profits are soaring. We are also beginning to see gains in some divisions of General Motors.

News likes this emphasizes the fact that the only constant in our world is change. Aren’t you glad that basic Christian principles never change? The same things we were told about the Bible as a child are still true today. Advances in technology and education have not changed the core values on which our faith rests today.

But the world’s view of Christianity has changed. Christian values are constantly under challenge by an increasing secular society that subscribes to a secular worldview. In other words, values change as society changes. It’s exactly why assisted suicide has been legalized in some countries.

Recently, Fox News commentator Brit Hume ran amuck of the secular worldview when he commented on the Tiger Woods situation. Hume encouraged Woods to turn to Christianity for the forgiveness he really needs citing that it is the only religion where redemption and forgiveness can be found.

“I don’t think that faith offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith,” Hume said. “So my message to Tiger would be, ‘Tiger turn to the Christian faith and you can make a total recovery and be a great example to the world.’”

Tom Shales of the Washington Post reacted and advanced one of the core principles of the secular worldview. “If Hume wants to do the satellite-age equivalent of going door-to-door and spreading what he considers the gospel, he should do it on his own time, not try to cross-pollinate religion and journalism and use Fox facilities to do it.”

What Britt Hume or Tom Shales say is really not the point. What is important is what the Bible says about such matters. The truth is the world’s view of right or wrong may change, but what Jesus said will never change. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John14:6)