What are the advantages in being Christian?

[Zzyzx]

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What are the advantages in being Christian?

Besides the promise of gaining admission to heaven, are there any unique advantages offered by Christianity that are not equally available elsewhere without religious requirements?

[Flail]

For Christians suffering gains meaning, the sting of death is lessened by the hope of a future life,

Once convinced wrote:

True there is that. Not to mention the comfort of believing that God has everything under control. However I see those things as false hopes now.

To me it would be a great disadvantage to put 'God' in control of anything whatsoever. If there is a 'God' he can choose or not choose control regardless. In addition, from my experience, putting someone else in control of situations lessons my attentiveness and effort.

If I am driving in the city, I find I rarely get lost or miss directions if I am with children or by myself. If I am with a trusted adult however, I might get lost because I am relying on them. I pay less attention because I know I have a 'guide'. Recent studies have shown that intersections where traffic control devices are removed have less accidents than was previously the case. The theory is that absent the guidance and control of traffic signs and signals we become more attentive and aware and rely on our own mental processes. We obviously have to relinquish control on occassion but typically these choices are evidence based and not blind faith situations.

. Studies have also shown that, at least in western societies, theist live longer, healthier and happier lives than their non-theist counterparts.

Once convinced wrote:

If this is true, I think you'll find it's because they live a healthier life style. I,e things like smoking, drugs, excessive alcohol consumption and all that sort of thing is frowned upon within Christian sects. So you can't attribute that to Christianity.

I don't think Christians live healthier life styles, do you have any stats on this? Do Christians live longer because of Christianity or are there other unrelated factors.