Christianity is a crutch
Generalization: a broad statement or an idea that applies to a group of people or things.
While generalizations are not entirely true or false, they can be strong or weak. When it comes to generalizing, there are exceptions. Such is the nature of generalizing. For example, it’s easier to train a dog than a cat. Yes, in general, but there are some dogs who are obstinate and out of control, while some cats can actually be trained.
So, while generalizations may help us make sense of the world on a superficial level, they may also be problematic.
You see, generalizations may actually stifle healthy thinking and discourse which may lead to greater understanding.
In addition, generalizing may be utilized as a tool to simply dismiss or denigrate another’s position while dismissing a deeper or more important issue. Such is the case with the objection we tackle in this post.
Christianity is a crutch!
Karl Marx, author of The Communist Manifesto, said, “Religion is the opiate of the masses.” Critics such as Marx have charged that religion is an invention designed for people incapable of coping with life’s pressures.
Sigmund Freud, the renowned Austrian psychiatrist, had this to say about religious beliefs: “They are illusions, fulfillments of the oldest, strongest, and most urgent wishes of mankind… As we already know; the terrifying impression of helplessness in childhood aroused the need for protection—for protection through love—which was provided by the father…. Thus, the benevolent rule of divine providence allays our fear of the dangers of life.”
Some critics who resonate with the phrase “Christianity is a crutch,” like Marx, Freud, and perhaps someone you may know, opine that they don’t need this type of emotional comfort, as though the concept somehow falsifies Christianity. Such individuals often claim superiority because they’re strong enough to face life without a “crutch.” To suggest non-religious people don’t need a crutch is misleading. Dependence on drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, money, power, other people, and material possessions reveals some people’s need for a crutch. As one theologian notes: “Atheism—the belief that there is no God—can become a crutch for those addicted to a lifestyle contrary to God’s standards of morality.”
Rather than being weak, believers are strong—not because they depend on themselves, but because they depend on Jesus.
Everyone needs assistance. The question is, “What will you lean on?” Christianity provides what atheism or other religions never can—spiritual fulfillment, peace, and forgiveness, and eternal life.
We can philosophize and interact over this concept with the person who brings this charge. But ultimately,
whether Christianity is a crutch or not for people really isn’t the issue. The issue is whether Christianity is true!
I hope you’re beginning to notice a pattern in how I’m addressing objections and questions. The pattern is this: address the specific objection or question, yet always attempt to distill the discussion down to Jesus, making the gospel the issue.
Regarding the “crutch” complaint, again—the issue should not be the Christian, but Christ. He is the issue.
It’s a very simple strategy to remember. You see, it’s easy to take shots at the Christian because we all have our issues. Such is the stain of sin. But Christianity is ultimately about who Jesus is and what He has done for mankind! He has overcome sin and death through his sacrifice on the cross and resurrection.
Former atheist Daniel Rodger, who wrote an excellent article tackling this objection in an article entitled “Is Christianity a Psychological Crutch?,” put it well, stating:
“The truth of the matter is that Jesus never offered a crutch, only a cross; it wasn’t a call to be a better person with high self-esteem or a plan to help us scrape through our existence. It was a call to acknowledge that the forgiveness we all seek is to be found in him by following him onto the cross.”
To the person bringing this charge, our challenge to them can be: “Regardless of whether Christianity is a crutch, what if Christianity is true? Are you willing to find out?”
May God grant us wisdom and discernment to bring words “aptly spoken” with gentleness and respect, as we answer – focusing on Christ.
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound” (Isaiah 61:1).