Does Your Choice of Religion Matter?

When we shop for food, we enjoy having many fruits and vegetables to pick from. In a clothing store, we like seeing a wide range of styles and colours so we can find what fits us best. Some choices—like the flavour of ice cream or the colour of a shirt—reflect personal tastes. Others, like the food we eat or the company we keep, shape our health and happiness. But religion sits somewhere deeper. Is our belief system just a personal matter, or does it shape our future and well-being?

We see countless faiths around us. In many places, people are free to follow any religion or leave the one they grew up with. In the United States, surveys show that 80% of people think more than one religion leads to salvation, and about 20% say they have changed their religion as adults. In Brazil, studies reveal that almost a quarter of people have switched their faith.

In earlier times, people fiercely debated which beliefs were right or wrong. Now, many say it makes no difference which faith we follow. But does this belief hold up? Could our choice of religion change our lives?

When we shop, we want to know where our food comes from. Similarly, it’s wise to ask how different religions began. The Bible helps us find the answers.

How Do New Faiths Begin?

Long before Jesus, a ruler named Jeroboam in Israel started a new belief system. He governed the northern part of Israel and wanted to keep people loyal to him. The Bible says—

“The king took counsel and made two golden calves and said to the people, ‘It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here is your God, O Israel.’” (1 Kings 12:28)

Jeroboam used religion to pull people away from worshipping in Jerusalem. His system lasted for centuries and brought disaster to millions when God held Israel accountable! His faith was a tool for gaining power. Many state religions began the same way—to give rulers more control.

Years later, Paul warned believers about those who would twist the truth for their own gain. He said—

“I know that after my going away oppressive wolves will enter in among you and will not treat the flock with tenderness, and from among you yourselves men will rise and speak twisted things to draw away the disciples after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30)

Some leaders create new faiths because they crave attention and influence. Many churches have split repeatedly for this reason.

Who Gains From Religion?

Sometimes, faiths change or form to please crowds. The Economist once described large churches in America as businesses focused on satisfying their members. These places often feature videos, drama, and lively music. Some leaders claim they can help people live wealthy, problem-free lives.

Critics say these churches feel more like entertainment or self-help companies, yet their growth shows they attract people. The report explains that mixing business with faith has brought huge success.

Even religions that seem less commercial can end up chasing trends. Paul also wrote—

“There will be a period of time when they will not put up with the healthful teaching, but, in accord with their own desires, they will accumulate teachers for themselves to have their ears tickled; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, whereas they will be turned aside to false stories.” (2 Timothy 4:3, 4)

Because so many faiths began for political gain, fame, or popularity—not to please God—it’s no surprise that religion is linked to child abuse, fraud, war, and even terrorism. Often, what appears holy hides something false. How can we recognise what is real and avoid being misled?

[Footnote]

Many faiths began from the search for money, power, status, or public approval—not from a desire to serve God.