So, I hope the last poll on here generated some synapses to fire - or misfire as the case may be. I can't even remember what prompted this question in my head although I am sure that it had something to do with the impending Thanksgiving experience. So, the question: Who is performing the greater deed: the atheist who gives all or the Christian who gives all? I had some interesting comments both on my facebook page and in email. However, with only 8 total votes, it is difficult to tell how most people feel on this - especially since the results went 50/50. So, I'll just cut right to my opinion...
This might surprise you but I vote Atheist is making the greater sacrifice. Why? When a Christian, let's use me as an example, gives something up for someone else or the 'greater good,' I am expecting some kind of reward for this act - whether in this life or the next. Perhaps 'expecting' is the wrong word since it implies selfishness. Having the knowledge that God will bless me for what I have done gives extra motivation, I suppose. However, the Atheist, has no hope of reward, if he has true intentions. The only intention is to make the world a better place. He does not expect a blessing from a Being in any way, shape, or form in return for his kindly deed.
So, let's add a twist: If you, as a Christian, knew that there was nothing in it for you, that there was NO blessing or reward here, there or anywhere... would you still be willing to make the same sacrifice? Something to think about...
7 comments:
I have to admit when I first saw your poll question there was a bit of eye-rolling, and maybe a remark or two about the lameness of the options for the question posed. Then I read your post, and I have to say I am enlightened. You make a valid point (and I honestly didn't think there could be one.) I have heard direct comments from people within the church after taking a meal in to someone or doing some other kind of service - that at least they knew somewhere along the line they would be rewarded for that service or kind deed.
So thank you for shedding a thoughtful light on this topic!
(and I promise no more eye-rolling:D)
When I do service it never crosses my mind that I will be rewarded. I do it because I know it's the right thing to do and God wants me to do it. That's enough for me.
Honestly, I voted Christian for reasons I either can't remember anymore or never fully formulated, but I'll do my best to remember. While I admit that an Atheist doing good for the sake of doing good is a good thing, but because of the lack of Divine Guidance, what the atheist thinks is the Right Thing To Do can change. If he does what is truly right, it's almost a coincidence (although not entirely because we all have the Light of Christ). I've seen some strange -and some truly horrible- conclusions drawn from supposedly "smart" atheists. Also, if Faith without Works is dead, wouldn't Works without Faith be equally fruitless?
Of course, this is all based on a larger picture. I suppose a singular instance of service might be judged differently.
I was thinking the same exact way you were. I really in my heart completely believe that I would still do it. With or with out a greater reward.
I think that everyone would like to think that they think that way but when a difficult sacrifice is required, it is sometimes easier to stomach with a big fat pile of blessings waiting for you at the end. I would like to think that I am that self-sacrificing as well, however, I know that at times, I am not. Sometimes I need that reassurance that there will be something greater than moving a neighbor out of their filthy home with garbage bags instead of boxes (just as an example of an unidentified time of my life). I love the discussion on this issue... Keep it up y'all! Thanks for your time! :-)
I hadn't really considered it in the context of a huge sacrifice. In thinking about it I decided that my feelings are pretty much the same.
However, if say, we were asked to give our cars, or house, or all our money, I would be definitely be reluctant but I think my thought processes would be along the lines of: If Heavenly Father wants us to do this then I know it will all work out and we'll be okay.
Is that the same thing? There is definitely a difference in attitude between this response and the one you gave. Was the implied selfishness of your response meant to be literal or merely an overstatement?
Now, just to play devil's advocate... Doesn't the statement of "it will all work out and we'll be okay" imply the expectation of blessings?
In all honesty, I believe the sacrifice is worthy with or without the knowledge of blessings. In answer to your previous comment, I believe that even the Atheist is going to be blessed for their sacrifice, whether they recognize the blessing or confess the reality of the Savior or not. I don't believe that 'works without faith is dead.' For example: on the subject of tithing, the Lord says, "prove me herewith." I interpret that as God giving us a challenge. Even if you don't believe me, try it and see if I don't bless you. I am also reminded of a scripture in the New Testament: A man comes to Jesus and asks him what he should to to gain eternal life. The Savior then gives him a PPI and asks him if he is following all of the commandments. The man says yes and adds, "What lack I yet?" Jesus then tells him that he needed to sell all he had, give it to the poor, and follow him and he would receive treasure in heaven. "But the young man...went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions." (Matt 19) At the end of the chapter in verse 29, Jesus explains the reward for selfless acts. Since I've already written a novel here, I'll let you look it up. :) Thanks again.
I mentioned that in the 3rd paragraph of my last post. It might be the same, but the attitude is different. I think you're right though, even if we are reluctant, we will see the good fruits of our labors. But does the Atheist?
I think what it comes down to is that the service only benefits the atheist if it is the start of, or a part of the journey back to God. I don't think all the good deeds in the world will help you in the end if you continue to turn your back on God.
So assuming the atheist does good deeds and over time has a change of heart then his deeds are just as beneficial as those of a life-long Christian.
Once again, I can't help but argue from an eternal perspective. To go back to a singular instance of service I still think it would benefit the Christan more because he has the eternal perspective to learn and grow from the experience. He recognizes the opportunity to give Charity which is the pure love of Christ to those in need. However, I think attitude plays a part in the degree to which the experience is internalized. At worst, the Christian still knows it's the right thing to do, I think.
The atheist is doing it because it's a nice thing to do. Without an eternal perspective, the opportunity for growth is lessened, I think. (Unless, of course, it ultimately leads to God)
I can't remember the exact words of your poll. If we're talking about who benefits more, that's my answer. However, if we're talking about receiving blessings specifically for that service, I think God would bless both equally. The only way this is even a fair comparison is if the Christian and the Atheist are equally selfless. Both will have the opportunity to see the good fruits of their labors. What they do after that will show who benefits more.
Whew! Sorry that was so long.
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