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There are hundreds of millions who believe the Messiah has come. If he did, then it is unfortunately the case that his heroic sacrifice and death have had no effect whatsoever on the very problem his coming might have been expected to address, for history demonstrates, beyond question, that we Christians have been just as dangerous, singly and en masse, as non-Christians.

Steve Allen#7

FaithHistoryMoralityChristianity

About this quote

What does it mean?
If the Messiah came to solve human problems, history shows Christians have been just as dangerous as non-Christians.
In plain terms
Christian history does not show improved behavior compared to non-Christians.
What can you take from it?
Evaluate religious claims by real world outcomes.

Where it applies

  • religious critique
  • historical analysis

Putting it to work

  • measure religion by outcomes

Questions to consider

  • Does religion make people better?
  • How do we judge religious success?

Another view

Many argue religion prevents worse outcomes.

More from Steve Allen

  1. There is not the slightest question but that the God of the Old Testament is a jealous, vengeful God, inflicting not only on the sinful pagans but even on his …

    Permalink to quote #6
  2. The Bible has been interpreted to justify such evil practices as, for example, slavery, the slaughter of prisoners of war, the sadistic murders of women believ…

    Permalink to quote #8
  3. One social evil for which the New Testament is clearly in part responsible is anti-Semitism.

    Permalink to quote #5

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