GHANDHI’S DISAPPOINTMENT WITH CHRISTIANITY

While attending a university in London, Mahatma Gandhi became almost convinced that the Christian religion was the one true, supernatural religion in the world. Upon graduation, and still seeking evidence that would make him a committed Christian, young Gandhi accepted employment in East Africa and for seven months lived in the home of a family who were members of an evangelical Christian church. As soon as he discovered that fact he decided that would be the place to find the evidence he sought.

But as the months passed and he saw the casualness of their attitude toward the cause of God, heard them complain when they were called upon to make sacrifice for the kingdom of God, and sensed their general religious apathy, Gandhi’s interest turned to disappointment. He said in his heart, “No, it is not the one true, supernatural religion I had hoped to find. A good religion, but just one more of the many religions of the world.”

– Evangelical Illustration

[Reproduced with permission from Encylopedia of 7700 Illustrations, by Paul Lee Tan,Assurance Publishers, Rockville, MD, 1984. #3235]

[Editor’s note: Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) was brought up a Hindu, which he remained throughout his life. He attracted world attention as the peace-loving leader of non-violent movements in India and Africa. He identified with the people, personally leading gatherings of tens of thousands, and was key to leading the country of India to independence from the British in 1947.]

This material is published by the Faith Committee of the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Reproduction and Adaptation is encouraged.