Interfaith

The term "interfaith" does not appear explicitly in the Bible, as it is a modern concept that describes the coexistence and dialogue between different religious traditions. However, the Bible addresses themes of religious diversity and the interactions between different faiths, particularly in the context of Israel's relationship with surrounding nations. For instance, in the Old Testament, God often commands the Israelites to remain distinct from other nations and their practices (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This reflects a strong emphasis on monotheism and the worship of Yahweh alone, highlighting concerns about the influence of foreign religions and idolatry.In the New Testament, the concept of evangelism and the spread of the gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20) can be seen as an early form of interfaith engagement. The Apostle Paul, particularly in Acts 17:22-34, engages with Athenian philosophers and acknowledges their religious practices while proclaiming the truth of the Christian faith. This illustrates an openness to dialogue with other belief systems, albeit with a clear intent to share and affirm the Christian message. Thus, while the Bible does not advocate for interfaith as understood today, it does present a framework for engaging with diverse beliefs, emphasizing both the call to uphold one’s faith and the mission to reach out to others.