3 of 7

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

to how to be perfect on his own.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT, TWO PERSPECTIVES.

Some of the results or products of the practice of Zen are peace, love joy, and self-control, and more. According to the Christian faith, these are "the fruit of the Spirit." "22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23) If Christians could produce that fruit themselves, they would not need the Spirit to help. The Spirit produces that in believers as they grow and learn to walk close to God on a daily basis.

TWO OBJECTS OF MEDITATION.

The object of Christian meditation is to relate to God. The Christian faith is to be a life of continuous relationship with God in a very real and personal way. It is in that relationship that Christians are able to experience an abundant life. Abundance is about quality, and it is a quality for Christians that only God can provide. According to the Scriptures this cannot be accomplished without Him. Zen meditation and Zen in general has no God. Whatever is produced through the practice of Zen is accomplished without God, therefore a Christian could not practice Zen and expect to accomplish anything. With God all things are possible, and without God there is no hope. The Christian life is filled with hope for an afterlife, and an abundant life in the present. Zen has no hope for an afterlife, and there is no God to provide an abundance here on earth. For them any abundance in life has to be produced by them.

I don't believe it is possible for a Christian to practice Christianity and Zen. One has no need for the other. They do not compliment each other. As a matter of fact in many ways they contradict each other.

Learn more about this author, Ernest Smartt.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Exploring Chrisianity and Zen?
We want to hear your view. Write now!