I came across an article on FoxNews that references a new study concerning the motivations for altruistic behavior. The title of the piece, "Guilt, Not Religion, Makes People Do Good," indicates the secular orientation of both the researchers and the writer of the article. In my opinion, neither of them has "experienced" the altruistic feelings that come with a maturing faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior that is the ultimate hallmark of His followers.
The article points to guilt, or fear of a "watching" authority, as the real motivators for altruism. I can see that such motivations might arise out of many religions or out of secular perceptions of religion. Catholicism comes to mind -- especially with the emphasis on penitence and repentance. It stresses doing good as a path of atonement for sinful behavior. It is not the only "christian" religious organization that promotes such behavior -- either overtly, or through the subtleties of its teaching. In fact, many evangelical churches are guilty as well because of inadvertent messages in their teachings.
I would contend however, that true followers of Jesus, those who live by the power of the indwelling of His Spirit, experience a life-changing process that creates in them a changed nature that includes a true desire to serve others -- not out of guilt, not out of a desire to emulate Jesus -- but, a true desire to do good for others. I know, because I have experienced it.
There is only one way to change this world for the better. That way is through the life-changing belief in Jesus as Savior and the desire to have Him enter into your life and change you so that you might live according to His will. It is the rejection of a self-serving lifestyle for the gain of new life that is everlasting.
John 3:16 -- "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him would not perish, but have eternal life."
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