Interacting With People of Other Religions

 

As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love and truth to everyone we meet — not just to those who share our beliefs. In today’s diverse world, it’s common to encounter people of many different religions no matter where you are. How should Christians respond? How do we interact with people of different religions? The answer lies in Scripture and the example of Christ. 

1. Remember Every Person is Made in the Image of God

Genesis 1:27 reminds us that every person is created in the image of God. Regardless of their religious beliefs, each individual carries inherent dignity and worth. This truth should be the foundation of every interaction we have with anyone, but it should especially be true for those we meet who do not share our faith because it can be easy for us to immediately see them differently. We must treat others with the respect and kindness that comes from recognizing their God-given value.

2. Listen Well and Ask Questions

Proverbs 18:13 warns against answering before listening (something I think too many people do too often). In conversations with those of different faiths, it’s important to listen respectfully. That will give you the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions. Asking thoughtful questions not only shows respect but also helps you better understand where someone is coming from. Listening builds bridges, not walls. Asking questions makes connections and allows for sharing that otherwise wouldn’t be available to you.

3. Speak the Truth in Love

We are called to be witnesses of the truth of the Gospel (Acts 1:8), but Scripture also urges us to speak the truth “in love” (Ephesians 4:15). Sharing your faith should never be about winning arguments or proving someone wrong. Instead, it should be an overflow of love — offering the hope you have found in Christ, while honoring the freedom God has given each person to seek and respond. We aren’t always going to agree with everyone, and that is especially true of those who follow different religious convictions. But, speaking the truth in love is necessary in order to show the proper respect and grace even though we disagree religiously.

4. Trust the Work of the Holy Spirit

Remember that transformation is God’s work, not ours. Our role is to plant seeds, show love, and speak truth when the Spirit leads. 1 Corinthians 3:6 says, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth (CSB).” Trust that God is at work, even when you cannot see immediate results. Our only job is to present the gospel, then we must sit back and trust that God will go to work and do his part. 

Final Thoughts

Interacting with people of other religions is not about confrontation; it’s about connection. It’s about being faithful to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) while embodying the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-40). We are ambassadors of Christ, not lawyers meant to argue on his behalf. We should be bearers of His love, grace, and truth to all people, and that certainly includes those we disagree with.

Let’s be known for the way we love, just as Jesus said: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35, CSB).