Buddha Vs Jesus
2 Peter 2:1-3 (NLT)
But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves.
Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money.
But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed.
Matthew 7:14-15 (NLT)
But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.
Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.
You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act.
The overall goal of this study is to compare and contrast the wisdom found in Buddhism and Christianity in order to gain a deeper understanding of Christianity and in order to better understand the concepts contained in Buddhism and other similar Eastern religions.
Click on the blue headings below for more information.
Introduction: From Nirvana to the Cross - My Journey in Search of Truth & Wisdom
Concept #1: The Reality of Suffering—Detachment vs. Deliverance
Buddhism teaches that “to live is to suffer”. Jesus tells us to pick up our cross but also gives us life and life abundantly. Buddhists cultivates detachment in order to escape suffering, but Jesus says to give it to Him and He will take care of it. He even says that in our weakness His power is made stronger.
Concept #2: The Root of the Problem—Attachment vs. Sin
Buddhism teaches that attachment is the root cause of all suffering, therefore detachment is the cure. Christianity teaches that our sins and our sinful nature is the root cause of our suffering and only God can truly fix these problems.
Concept #3: The Eightfold Path vs. The Way of Grace
Buddhists believe that following the rules of the 8-fold path will lead to enlightenment. Jesus came to set us free from the law. Israel proved that you cannot perfectly follow the law, and the harder you try the more you will miss the mark of the 2 main commandments: love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your mind, and all your soul, and love others as much as you love yourself. If everyone could do that perfectly, there would never be any need for the law.
Concept #4: Escapism vs. Dominion
Jesus gives us dominion over the earth and the power to live holy, godly lives. Buddhists seek escapism and it is safe to say that they believe if there is a God or gods, it/they are uncaring and impartial toward us.
Concept #5: Mind Renewal—The Battle for Your Thoughts
Buddhism and Christianity use similar but also different methods to achieve mind renewal.
Concept #6: Death and the Afterlife—Cycles vs. Eternity
Buddhists believe in karma and reincarnation. The Bible teaches that we only live once then believers will be judged by God for what they did right and wrong, and unbelievers who rejected Jesus will be judged and then spend eternity in hell for rejecting salvation and a relationship with their creator.
Concept #7: Interconnectedness and the Unseen Realm
Buddhism and Christianity both teach that there is interconnectedness throughout all of creation, but they have different views on what that means regarding the nature of God.
Concept #8: The Meaning of Life—Emptiness vs. Love
Buddhism teaches that all of physical reality is impermanent therefore life does not have any real meaning, except that we should do no evil and aim to only do good so that we can become enlightened and escape all the suffering in the world. Christianity teaches that the meaning of life is love: to love God above all else and to love others as much as we love ourselves.
Outline:
Expansions of the Topics Above
From Nirvana to the Cross - My Journey in Search of Truth & Wisdom
I have always loved wisdom. Like Solomon, who recognized its supreme value and asked God for an understanding heart (1 Kings 3), I make it a practice to ask God for wisdom daily. I stand on the promise in James 1:5, which assures us that if we lack wisdom and ask, God will give it generously.
In my early-to-mid twenties, my search for truth led me to study and practice Buddhism for several years. I was quite lost during that time—a fairly hopeless alcoholic looking for a lifeline. The structure and discipline of Buddhism provided a guide for living that truly helped me navigate those dark years. However, several years later, I encountered Christ. For the sake of knowing Him, I set aside my Buddhist teachings to fully embrace the Gospel.
Comparing the Old with the New
Recently, the Lord has prompted me to revisit those past experiences. He has helped me discern where that ancient ideology contained Godly wisdom and where it missed the mark. This process of comparing Buddhist thought with Christian doctrine has been a fascinating study. I decided to write this book for two primary reasons:
Deeper Discipleship: Comparing different views on any subject creates a more profound understanding. By contrasting these two worldviews, I hope to gain a deeper knowledge of Christianity and become a more effective follower of Christ.
Effective Evangelism: I want to understand other religions so I can better reach their practitioners for Jesus. I am inspired by the Apostle Paul’s approach in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23:
"For though I am free from all, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more... I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. So I do all things for the sake of the gospel..." (LSB)
The Heart of a Scientist
Much of the wisdom I found in Buddhism was based on half-truths, though some clearly mirrored Biblical principles. As someone who practices medicine, I am a scientist at heart. I approach truth objectively; I want the facts, no matter how inconvenient or difficult they may seem at first.
That relentless search for truth is ultimately what led me to Christ. I reached a point where I was willing to be open-minded enough to consider that His way might be legitimate. While I wasn't always that way, certain life circumstances broke the hardness of my heart, leaving me open to the reality of His life, death, and—praise God—His resurrection. The promise of Matthew 7:7-8 is true: “Seek and you will find.”
Reaching the Lost
My goal is to help other Christians relate to those who are currently lost in "New Age" spirituality or Eastern religions. Many believers struggle to find common ground with a Buddhist. Furthermore, many in the West are increasingly drawn to ideas like reincarnation or pantheism (the idea that God is everything). By understanding the roots of these beliefs, we can become more effective witnesses.
In the following sections, we will examine various Buddhist concepts through the lens of Scripture. We will begin in Section 3 by exploring the very backbone of Buddhism: The Eightfold Path.
Lexical Insights (via BibleStudyTools.com)
Wisdom (Hebrew: Chokmah): In 1 Kings 3, this refers to more than just "intelligence." It is the practical skill of living and the moral discernment to distinguish between good and evil.
Seek (Greek: Zeteo): In Matthew 7, this is in a present imperative tense, meaning "keep on seeking." It implies a persistent, deliberate effort to find something of great value.
Slave/Servant (Greek: Doulos): In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul uses this to describe a person who has given up their own rights to serve the will of another—in this case, for the sake of the Gospel.
Motivational Question:
As you look back on your own journey toward truth, what is one "half-truth" the world offered you that God has since replaced with His complete truth?
Concept #1: The Reality of Suffering—Detachment vs. Deliverance
Two Ways to Face Pain
Buddhism begins with a stark premise: "To live is to suffer." Its solution is the cultivation of detachment—a systematic distancing from desires and emotions to escape the reach of pain.
Jesus, however, offers a different path. He doesn’t tell us to ignore suffering or detach from it; He tells us to "pick up our cross" and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). He acknowledges our pain but promises life "more abundantly" (John 10:10). While the Buddhist seeks to escape suffering through their own effort, the Christian is invited to give their burdens to Christ, finding that in our greatest weakness, His power is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9).
The Danger of the "Robot Mind"
There is a grain of wisdom in detachment. As Christians, we are called to avoid being "attached" to the temporary things of this world and instead store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). However, practicing detachment without Christ is a dangerous tightrope walk.
During my years in Buddhism, I practiced mindfulness and meditation with such intensity that I became a "task-oriented robot." I forced myself to focus only on the task at hand—driving, working, or studying—and pushed out all other thoughts. This did make me efficient, but it had a terrifying side effect: I became cold-hearted. I found that as I detached from "worldly drama," I also detached from empathy. My love for others began to evaporate. Even my own parents appeared "mundane" or like "hindrances" to my goals. I realized I was becoming psychopathic—lacking remorse, empathy, and warmth. When you view people as mere "tasks" or "complications," you lose the ability to fulfill the greatest commandment: to love.
Scripture to Consider:
"We love because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19) Love is not an attachment to be shed; it is a gift from God to be shared.
Motivational Question:
If total focus on a task makes you more "efficient" but less "loving," which version of yourself do you think truly honors the purpose God has for your life?
The Extreme of Self-Denial
The logical end of Buddhist detachment can be extreme. In certain traditions, "self-immolation" (setting oneself on fire) was historically portrayed as a heroic act of enlightenment. The idea is that we must detach from everything—including our own bodies.
This is a deep deception. By labeling all love as "attachment" that leads to suffering, Buddhism risks throwing away the very thing that makes us human. When the going gets tough, a Buddhist might believe they need to "sever the attachment" to their loved ones to find peace. A Christian, empowered by the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), finds that God gives us the love, joy, and peace to endure the suffering without abandoning the people we love.
Scripture to Consider: "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13) Christ calls us to sacrifice for love, not to sacrifice the ability to love.
Motivational Question:
How does knowing that God provides "Peace" as a gift change the way you view the need to "work" for peace through detachment?
Redeeming the Muscle of Focus
Despite the dangers I encountered, I believe there is a "Godly version" of focus that we can reclaim. In our world of constant stimulation and high anxiety, our "focus muscle" has become weak.
The Bible actually encourages a form of mindfulness:
Prayer and Meditation: We are told to "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10).
Soaking in the Word: Taking a few favorite scriptures and truly meditating on them allows God's truth to saturate our minds.
The difference is the Object of our focus. Buddhist meditation focuses on the self or on emptiness. Christian meditation focuses on the Creator and His wonderful works. One leads to a cold, robotic state; the other leads to a warm, vibrant heart that is both highly focused and deeply compassionate.
Scripture to Consider:
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night..." (Joshua 1:8)
Motivational Question:
What is one specific promise from God that you could "soak in" for five minutes today to strengthen your focus on Him?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Suffering (Greek: Thlipsis): Used in the New Testament to mean pressure, oppression, or affliction. It isn't something to be "detached" from, but something Christ overcomes.
Be Still (Hebrew: Raphah): Used in Psalm 46:10, it literally means to "sink down," to let go, or to cease striving. It is a surrender to God’s presence, not an emptying of the mind.
Meditation (Hebrew: Hagah): Often used in the Psalms, it means to mutter, ponder, or "chew on" something—like a lion growling over its food. It is an active engagement with God’s Word.
Kindness/Love (Greek: Chrestotes): Part of the Fruit of the Spirit; it refers to a "mellow" goodness that is the opposite of the "terse, cold-hearted" state I experienced in my detachment.
Concept #2: The Root of the Problem—Attachment vs. Sin
Identifying the Cause
Buddhism identifies attachment to impermanent things as the root cause of all human suffering. Therefore, the "cure" is total detachment. Christianity, however, digs deeper. It teaches that the root cause of our suffering is our sinful nature—our rebellion and separation from a holy God. While Buddhism suggests we can "fix" ourselves through mental discipline, Christianity teaches that only God can provide the cure through His grace and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The "Treasure" Trap
There is a subtle overlap here that can be confusing. Jesus does warn us not to be "attached" to the temporary things of this world. In Matthew 6:19-21, He tells us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. But there is a vital difference:
The Buddhist detaches from the world to find emptiness and escape pain.
The Christian detaches from worldly idols to find fullness in God’s love.
Without Christ, aiming for total detachment is a "tricky" and dangerous path. I found that as I tried to escape the "drama" of the world, I began to see other people as mere hindrances to my spiritual goals. I was becoming a task-oriented robot.
Scripture to Consider:
"We love because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19) If we detach from the source of love (God), we eventually lose the ability to love others.
Motivational Question:
If the goal of your spiritual life is "peace," do you want a peace that comes from being empty of feelings, or a peace that comes from being filled with God’s presence?
The Descent into the "Psychopathic" Mind
As I practiced the Eightfold Path—focusing with total intensity on every task, like driving or studying—I became incredibly efficient but highly antisocial. I was losing my empathy and remorse. I fit the definition of psychopathy: a state of impaired empathy where other people's feelings simply appear as "unnecessary complications."
Intense meditation leading to a "cold-hearted, task-oriented robot" state is a known phenomenon in Buddhism.
While Buddhism strives for compassion (Karuna), many practitioners—especially in the West—fall into what is called "Spiritual Bypassing" or "Stone-like Equanimity." This is where a person becomes so detached that they lose human empathy.
I realized that by trying to get rid of my "attachments," I was actually getting rid of my compassion. I was becoming cold, terse, and harsh. Even my own parents started to seem "mundane" to me. I had an epiphany that I was becoming a danger to those around me because I simply stopped caring. I believe God gave me that realization to lead me back to Him. He showed me that I could keep the "muscle" of focus I had developed, but I needed to point it toward loving people instead of ignoring them.
Scripture to Consider:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness..." (Galatians 5:22-23) These are active, warm qualities—the exact opposite of a cold, robotic mind.
Motivational Question:
In your daily tasks, are you focusing on "getting it done" at the expense of the people around you, or can you see the people as the priority?
Redeeming the Focus: Meditating on the Creator
Focus is a muscle. In our world of high anxiety and constant digital stimulation, most of us have very "weak" focus. Buddhism offers mindfulness, but Christianity offers something even wiser: Holy Meditation.
Instead of meditating on "nothingness" to achieve detachment, we can meditate on the Everything-ness of God.
Be Still: "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). This isn't about emptying your mind; it's about quieting the noise so you can recognize His authority.
Active Reflection: I love to stand or sit and simply focus on how amazing God is and the wonderful things He has done in my life. I take specific scriptures and "soak" in them.
This type of focus doesn't make you a cold robot; it makes you a warm, vibrant human being who is both efficient and deeply loving.
Scripture to Consider:
"I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways." (Psalm 119:15)
Motivational Question:
What is one "wonderful thing" God has done for you recently that you can spend five minutes focusing on today?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Sin (Greek: Hamartia): Literally "to miss the mark." Christianity sees suffering as a result of missing God's standard, not just being "attached" to things.
Attachment/Desire (Pali/Sanskrit: Tanha): In Buddhism, this refers to the "thirst" or craving that leads to suffering.
Empathy/Compassion (Greek: Splagchnizomai): A deep, visceral "gut feeling" of care for others. This is the quality that the "robotic" mindset of extreme detachment eventually destroys.
To Meditate (Hebrew: Siach): Used in Psalm 119:15, it means to converse with oneself or with God, to ponder, or to complain/lament—it is a deeply emotional and relational form of thinking, not a cold or detached one.
Concept #3: The Eightfold Path vs. The Way of Grace
The Eightfold Path: A System of Rules
Buddhists follow the Eightfold Path as a roadmap to enlightenment. It is divided into three pillars: Ethics (how you act), Meditation (how you train your mind), and Wisdom (how you view reality).
The Eight Rules of the Path:
Right Action: Behaving skillfully and not harming others.
Right Speech: Speaking only what is true and helpful.
Right Livelihood: Earning a living without causing suffering.
Right Mindfulness: Constant awareness of self and others’ emotions.
Right Effort: Cultivating "effortless effort" and letting go of outcomes.
Right Concentration: Developing deep, unwavering focus on the moment.
Right View: Remembering that every action has a spiritual consequence.
Right Intention: Staying committed to the Buddhist path above all else.
The "Effortless Effort" Trap
One of the most attractive concepts in this list is "effortless effort" (#5). It teaches you to do your work without struggling, overthinking, or obsessing over the results. There is practical wisdom here: when we try too hard or over-analyze, we often "screw things up."
However, even "effortless effort" is still a form of human effort. Christianity offers something deeper. In Christ, we don't just "let go of outcomes"—we trust them to a Heavenly Father. We move from being "workers" trying to follow a path to being "sons and daughters" who have access to the promises of the Most High. We don’t have to strive for a peaceful state of mind; we inherit it through our relationship with God.
Scripture to Consider:
"For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:30)
Motivational Question:
If you stopped "striving" to be a good person and started "resting" in the fact that you are already loved by God, how would that change your stress levels today?
The Law vs. The Spirit
The biggest contrast is how we deal with the "Law." Israel proved over centuries that it is impossible for humans to follow a set of rules perfectly. The harder we strive to adhere to a "path" or a "law," the more we often "miss the mark" of the two greatest commandments:
Loving God with all your heart, mind, and soul.
Loving others as yourself.
If perfect love were possible for us to achieve on our own, rules and laws would be unnecessary. But because we are fallen, the "Path" eventually becomes a burden. Jesus came to set us free from the weight of legalism. While the Buddhist is busy checking off the "Right" actions and "Right" intentions, the Christian is being transformed from the inside out by the Holy Spirit.
Scripture to Consider:
"But now we have been released from the Law, having died to that by which we were bound, so that we serve in newness of the Spirit and not in oldness of the letter." (Romans 7:6)
Motivational Question:
When you fail to live up to a standard, is your first instinct to "work harder" (the Path) or to "turn back to God" (Grace)?
The Enlightenment of the Cross
While the Buddhist seeks "enlightenment" to escape suffering, the Christian is "enlightened" by Jesus to see their true need for a Savior. We don't just need a better "view" (#7) or better "concentration" (#6); we need a new heart.
The wisdom of the Eightfold Path can help you focus, but only the Wisdom of God can save you. By moving from the "Rules of the Path" to the "Relationship with the Father," we find a focus that is fueled by love rather than a robotic adherence to a system.
Scripture to Consider:
"I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." (John 8:12)
Motivational Question:
Which of the "Eightfold" rules have you found most difficult to follow in your own strength, and how might God's grace take that weight off your shoulders?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Enlighten (Greek: Photizo): To bring to light, to make see, or to shed rays upon. Jesus doesn't just give us "knowledge"; He illuminates our very nature.
To Miss the Mark (Greek: Hamartano): This is the common word for "to sin." In the context of the Law, it means failing to hit the bullseye of God's perfect standard of love.
Effort/Labor (Greek: Kopiao): Used in Matthew 11:28 ("Come to me all who labor"), it refers to growing weary or tired from over-exertion. Jesus offers rest from this specific kind of religious "labor."
The Law (Hebrew: Torah): While it means "instruction" or "direction," in the New Testament (Greek: Nomos), it often refers to a system of works that one tries to fulfill to be right with God.
Concept #4: Escapism vs. Dominion
The Goal: Escape or Authority?
One of the most profound differences between these two worldviews is their goal for the human experience.
Buddhist Escapism: Buddhism often seeks a way to "exit" the cycle of suffering. If there is a divine power, it is viewed as impartial or uncaring. The goal is to escape the world’s reach.
Christian Dominion: In contrast, God has given us dominion—authority and stewardship—over the earth (Genesis 1:28). We aren't called to escape the world, but to live holy, godly lives that transform it.
As a child of God, you have more resources than the heir to the world’s greatest fortune. Through faith, we have access to the "faithful promises" of God, which serve as our armor and protection (Psalm 91:4).
Power vs. Principles
Buddhism contains "half-truths" and helpful ideas, but it lacks Power. During my years exploring Buddhism, Hinduism, and New Age practices like astrology and crystals, I was searching for spiritual power to change my life. I found focus and improved meditation, but I remained a slave to my bondages.
I was a slave to nicotine for 18 years. No amount of "Right Mindfulness" or "Effortless Effort" could break that chain. It wasn't until I became a Christian and realized that my body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) that things changed.
When I realized my addiction was grieving God, my heart broke. I cried out to Jesus—not as a "teacher," but as a Deliverer. In His name, the cravings were lifted, and I have been free for over 5 years. No other religion can do this because only Jesus is the "Chainbreaker."
Scripture to Consider:
"He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" (Romans 8:32)
Motivational Question:
If you truly believed you had the "Dominion" of a child of God, what is the first "chain" or habit you would ask Jesus to help you break today?
Operating in "Faith-Filled" Effort
While the Buddhist practices "effortless effort" to stay calm, the Christian operates in Faith. We don't just "let go" of outcomes; we trust in a God who wants to give us everything we need according to His will (Mark 11:23-24, John 14:14).
The 8-fold path is a set of rules; Christianity is the Power of God. Many Christians fail to operate in this power, but it is available to everyone who believes. God doesn't just want us to have "peaceful thoughts"; He wants us set free from all oppression and healed in our bodies and minds.
Scripture to Consider:
"For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power." (1 Corinthians 4:20)
Motivational Question:
Is there an area of your life where you have been trying to use "logic" or "rules" to fix a problem that actually requires the "Power of God"?
Summary: The Only Way
The Eightfold Path has some practical benefits for the mind, but it is ultimately a ladder that never reaches heaven. Christianity provides the only way to the Father, the only source of true deliverance, and the only power that can make a person "superhuman" by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Scripture to Consider:
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'" (John 14:6)
Motivational Question:
Looking at the "Power" you’ve experienced in Christ vs. the "Wisdom" you found in other paths, how can you share your story this week with someone who is still searching?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Dominion (Hebrew: Radah): Used in Genesis, it means to rule, to have mastery, or to take responsibility for. It is an active, governing role.
Temple (Greek: Naos): In 1 Corinthians 6:19, this refers to the "Inner Sanctuary"—the most holy place where God’s presence dwells. It’s not just a building, but a sacred residence.
Power (Greek: Dunamis): Where we get the word "dynamite." It refers to miraculous power, ability, and strength. This is what Jesus provides that the "Path" cannot.
Deliver/Chainbreaker (Greek: Rhoumai): To rescue, to deliver, or to draw to oneself out of danger. This describes Jesus’ active role in breaking addictions.
Concept #5: Mind Renewal—The Battle for Your Thoughts
The Untrained Mind
About 20 years ago, my mind was a mess. I was struggling with alcohol and crippled by anxiety. I turned to Buddhism and Transcendental Meditation (TM) to find a "restful alertness"—a way to quiet the noise and focus on my studies.
Training the mind is like training an unruly dog. At first, it refuses to obey. But through consistent work, you can teach it to stay focused. In TM, I used mantras—words or phrases repeated to reprogram the brain. For example, to beat a fear of public speaking, I would tell myself, "I am relaxed and people love to hear what I have to say." This is a powerful psychological tool, but I eventually discovered that while it helped me manage my thoughts, it couldn't truly transform my nature.
The Power of Biblical Meditation
The Bible also commands us to meditate, but with a different source of power. Psalm 1:2-3 promises that those who meditate on God's Word day and night will be like trees planted by rivers, bearing fruit and prospering in all they do.
When we take a Scripture and use it like a "divine mantra," we aren't just using positive thinking—we are saturating our minds with the Living Word of God. Positive thinking can change your mood, but God’s Word is "alive and active" (Hebrews 4:12). It doesn't just help you ignore anxiety; it replaces anxiety with a peace that surpasses understanding.
Scripture to Consider:
"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." (Romans 12:2, NLT)
Motivational Question:
If your mind is like an "untrained dog," what is one specific Scripture you can use as a "leash" to bring your thoughts back to God today?
Taking Thoughts Captive
In Buddhism, mindfulness is about observing your thoughts without judging them. In Christianity, mindfulness is about taking thoughts captive.
2 Corinthians 10:5 says we are to "take every thought captive to obey Christ." This is the ultimate form of mindfulness! When a negative or fearful thought arises, we don't just watch it float by. we grab it, judge it against the knowledge of God, and force it to bow to the truth of Scripture. As the great evangelist Smith Wigglesworth said: "I am not moved by what I see. I am not moved by what I feel. I am moved by what I believe."
Feelings are temporary and often deceptive. Our beliefs—anchored in the Word—are what move mountains. Even science recognizes this through the "placebo effect," which demonstrates the physical power of belief. Imagine how much more powerful that belief is when it is placed in the Creator of the universe!
Scripture to Consider:
"Whatever is true, whatever is honorable... whatever is pure... think about these things." (Philippians 4:8)
Motivational Question:
When you feel a negative emotion rising, do you allow it to move you, or do you stop to ask: "What does God have to say about this feeling?"
The Result of a Renewed Mind
The goal of Christian mind renewal isn't just a quiet brain; it’s a transformed life. Meditation in Buddhism helped me not to think about my anxieties as much, but it never stopped them from coming. God’s Word, however, changed the very landscape of my heart.
When trouble comes now, I want Scripture to be the first thing that surfaces. That is where true peace, encouragement, and the faith to see miracles come from.
Scripture to Consider:
"All things are possible for one who believes." (Mark 9:23)
Motivational Question:
What "lofty opinion" or negative thought has been bothering you this week, and what Scripture can you use to "destroy" that argument right now?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Renewing (Greek: Anakainosis): In Romans 12:2, this means a complete renovation. It’s not just a "repair" of your old thoughts, but making the mind entirely new and different.
Captive (Greek: Aichmalotizo): To lead away into captivity at spear-point. It describes a military-grade takeover of your thoughts.
Meditate (Hebrew: Hagah): As mentioned before, it means to "mutter" or "chew." When we meditate on the Word, we are spiritually digesting God’s truth until it becomes part of us.
Believe/Faith (Greek: Pisteuo): To have a sustained confidence and trust. In Mark 9:23, it implies a total reliance on God's ability rather than our own feelings.
Concept #6: Death and the Afterlife—Cycles vs. Eternity
Karma and the Ladder of Reincarnation
In the Buddhist worldview, life is a cycle. They believe in Karma—the law of cause and effect—and Reincarnation. According to this belief, your actions in this life determine your "promotion" or "demotion" in the next. If you follow the Eightfold Path, you might return as a higher being; if you live poorly, you return as something lower.
This creates a heavy burden of performance. You are constantly trying to "earn" a better future life. However, reincarnation faces a major logical hurdle: Memory. If we have lived thousands of lives, why do we not remember them? While there is some anecdotal "evidence" for past lives, it remains scientifically unproven and often contradictory.
The Biblical Reality: One Life, One Appointment
The Bible offers a very different—and much more urgent—perspective. It teaches that we do not get "do-overs" through multiple lives. Instead, we are given one life to make a choice that echoes forever.
Scripture to Consider:
"And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment..." (Hebrews 9:27, ESV)
This "one life" model is supported by a growing body of evidence from well-documented Near-Death Experiences (NDEs). Thousands of people from various cultures have reported consistent encounters with a singular afterlife—one that points to a personal God and a final destination, rather than a return to earth in a different body.
Motivational Question:
If you knew for certain that this was your only life on earth, how would that change the priority you place on your relationship with God today?
Reward vs. Rejection
Christianity also teaches that our actions have consequences, but the "Why" is entirely different.
For the Believer: We are not working to be "promoted" to a new life. Instead, we are judged for our works to receive eternal rewards in heaven. Our entry into heaven is a free gift which we recieve by believing and following Jesus, but our rewards here and now and eternally are based on our faithfulness.
For the Unbeliever: The tragedy of the afterlife is not being "demoted" to a lower animal; it is the rejection of a relationship. If a person rejects Jesus, they are rejecting God’s only provision for forgiveness.
Ultimately, hell is the final destination for those who have chosen to live without God on earth. God respects that choice, allowing them to spend eternity apart from Him. It doesn't matter how "good" a person tries to be; without the "Chainbreaker" (Jesus) to bridge the gap caused by our sins, we cannot enter the presence of a Holy God.
Scripture to Consider:
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
Motivational Question:
When you think about the afterlife, are you more focused on "being good enough" or on "knowing the One who is good"?
The Hope of Heaven
Buddhism seeks an end to the cycle (Nirvana/Extinction). Christianity seeks a Beginning—an eternal life of joy, purpose, and relationship in the presence of our Creator. We don't want to be "extinguished"; we want to be fully alive!
By choosing Christ, we move from the exhaustion of trying to "earn" a better reincarnation to the peace of knowing our eternal home is secure.
Scripture to Consider:
"And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son." (1 John 5:11)
Motivational Question:
What is one "eternal reward" you are looking forward to most when you finally see Jesus face to face?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Judgment (Greek: Krisis): In Hebrews 9:27, this refers to a legal decision or a verdict. It is the moment where the truth of a person’s life and their relationship with Christ is revealed.
Appointed (Greek: Apokeimai): To be reserved, laid up, or "on the books." It implies that death is a fixed appointment for every human being that cannot be escaped or repeated.
Eternal (Greek: Aionios): This refers to something that is without end—everlasting. Unlike the "cycles" of reincarnation, the biblical afterlife is a permanent state.
Reward (Greek: Misthos): Used in the context of heaven, it means wages or a recompense for service. It’s not about earning salvation, but being honored for how we served the Father.
Concept #7: Interconnectedness and the Unseen Realm
Is Everything "God"?
Buddhism teaches that all of reality is interconnected. New age buddhism takes this a step further by believing that everything is part of God, and therefore, we are all "gods" who will eventually merge back into a collective consciousness.
But this leads to a major logical problem: If we are all part of a "Greater Consciousness," shouldn't we all intuitively know how to be good? Why would we need a difficult set of rules like the Eightfold Path to teach us morals? If we were already "god," we wouldn't be so inherently selfish.
The Standard of Holiness
Christianity offers a different view. It teaches that while we were created in God’s image, we are not God. Because of our sinful nature, even our "best" efforts are like "filthy rags" compared to a perfectly holy God (Isaiah 64:6). To put it bluntly: the "best" human being on earth is morally closer to a criminal than they are to a God who has never had a single evil thought in all of eternity.
The big difference is how we bridge that gap:
Buddhism tries to bridge it through rules and self-effort.
Christianity relies on the sacrifice of Jesus and the help of the Holy Spirit.
Many Christians make the mistake of relying on their "good works" to get to heaven, forgetting that God is a Person who wants a relationship, not a judge just looking at a checklist.
Scripture to Consider:
"For in Him we live and move and have our being..." (Acts 17:28)
Motivational Question:
Do you view God as a distant "force" you have to please with rules, or as a "Father" you want to know personally?
The Science of the Creator: Quantum Mechanics
I have always been fascinated by science, and modern physics actually points toward the truths found in the Bible. Quantum mechanics—the science behind the world’s most powerful computers—shows us that at the most basic level, the universe is deeply mysterious.
Experiments show that light actually seems to be "aware" of when it is being watched. It can change its behavior based on our awareness of it. The Bible tells us that "God is light" (1 John 1:5). Since electrons (the basic units of light) are in every single atom, it appears that God has literally placed a part of His "light" into the fabric of everything.
This explains how God can be "everywhere" and know "everything." As the Bible says, apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Even the placebo effect—where the body heals itself simply because a person believes it will—shows that God has built the power of belief into the "operating system" of all humans, whether they are Christians or not.
Scripture to Consider:
"[God] makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:45)
Motivational Question:
How does it change your view of the world to know that the very atoms in your body are held together by the "Light" of God?
The Holy Spirit: God in Person
While Buddhism correctly sensed that everything is interconnected, they missed the most important part. They discovered that "Light" (God) is in everything, but they didn't know how to have a personal relationship with that Light.
God's "general" presence is in all things, but the Holy Spirit is a specific, personal gift given only to those who believe in Jesus.
The "general" presence of God allows for things like the placebo effect.
The "Holy Spirit" presence allows for miracles, prophecy, and supernatural transformation.
The Holy Spirit is God living in person inside the believer. This is why Christians can pray and see the impossible happen—it isn't our own "god-power," it is the Spirit of the Living God working through us.
Scripture to Consider:
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you..." (Acts 1:8)
Motivational Question:
Are you settling for the "general" presence of God in your life, or are you seeking the "Personal Power" of the Holy Spirit today?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Interconnectedness/Being (Greek: Esmen): In Acts 17:28, this means "we are." It suggests our very existence is derived from and sustained by God.
Filthy Rags (Hebrew: Iddah): In Isaiah 64:6, this refers to something used and discarded—it emphasizes how far our "goodness" falls short of God’s absolute purity.
Light (Greek: Phos): Used both scientifically and spiritually. In the Bible, it represents truth, holiness, and the very nature of God’s glory.
Spirit (Hebrew: Ruach / Greek: Pneuma): Means "breath" or "wind." It is the invisible, powerful force of God that brings life and performs miracles.
Concept #8: The Meaning of Life—Emptiness vs. Love
The Illusion of Meaning
Buddhism teaches that physical reality is impermanent. The first Buddha, Gautama, taught that everything which comes into existence will eventually pass away. Because of this, life is seen as a self-created illusion with no inherent meaning. The goal is to drop labels like "I" and "mine" to achieve a state of emptiness.
But if nothing has inherent meaning, life becomes a cold, empty void. You can become "enlightened" to the point where nothing bothers you—I reached a stage where I was so detached that a loud noise behind me wouldn't even cause me to flinch. I was "chill," but I was also empty. I had no love. To a Buddhist, love is often just another "attachment," and other people’s needs are seen as unnecessary complications.
The Standard of Love
Christianity teaches that the meaning of life is Relationship. Everything is based on love—loving God above all else and loving others as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Life without love is totally meaningless, yet that is exactly where the "rules" of Buddhism lead.
Buddhism offers "half-truths"—fancy spiritual ideas that look appealing to truth-seekers. But at their best, they lead only to a limited wisdom; at their worst, they lead to a spiritual vacuum. Jesus doesn't lead us to emptiness; He leads us to life and life abundantly (John 10:10).
Motivational Question:
Would you rather have a "peace" that comes from feeling nothing, or a "peace" that comes from being deeply loved by your Creator?
The "Enlightenment" Paradox
Buddhism claims that if you follow the Eightfold Path and gain enough "positive karma," you can achieve Enlightenment—the realization of your "god-like" potential.
But here is the problem: If so many people have reached enlightenment, why don't we see them walking around performing great miracles like Jesus did? If you realized you were "part of the Creator," you should be like Neo in The Matrix—realizing the rules don't apply to you and doing the impossible.
While practitioners of Eastern religions often claim Jesus was just another "enlightened teacher," Jesus Himself disagreed. He taught that we are not God; He called us "sheep" and Himself the "Good Shepherd." He stated clearly that He is the only way to the Father.
Scripture to Consider:
"I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
Motivational Question:
If "enlightenment" doesn't produce the power to heal the sick or change lives, is it a reality or just another illusion?
The Source of True Power
The reason "enlightened" people cannot perform miracles like Jesus is simple: Jesus is the Creator, and He will not share His glory or power to back up false claims. He does, however, share His power with those who believe in His name.
History is filled with thousands of verified miracles—events that are naturally impossible. If even one miracle has ever truly happened, we know for a fact that God exists. Jesus is the only "Chainbreaker" who can offer not just ideas, but the actual power to be delivered and healed.
I spent years as an enemy of God, stubbornly refusing to accept Jesus. But He never gave up on me. My search finally paid off when I found Him (or rather, He found me). Finding Jesus has been the best thing that could have ever happened to me and my family.
Scripture to Consider:
"And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:13)
Motivational Question:
What is holding you back from searching for God with all your heart today?
Greek and Hebrew Study Notes
Meaning/Purpose (Hebrew: Chephets): Often translated as "delight" or "pleasure." In the biblical view, our purpose is tied to what God delights in—relationship and love.
Abundantly (Greek: Perissos): In John 10:10, this means "exceedingly," "beyond measure," or "more than a person could ever expect." It is the opposite of Buddhist emptiness.
Shepherd (Greek: Poimēn): A protector and provider. Unlike a "teacher" who just gives a path, a shepherd takes personal responsibility for the life and safety of the sheep.
Search/Seek (Hebrew: Darash): In Jeremiah 29:13, this means to tread a path, to frequent a place, or to consult. It implies a persistent, active pursuit.
